For summer family photos in New York, the deciding factor is heat. In July and August a studio session keeps faces fresh and kids happy at any hour of the day, while an outdoor session can look beautiful if you are willing to go very early in the morning or in the last hour before sunset. Here is how to choose, and how to dress for either.
What NYC summer heat does to a photo session
Summer in the city is humid, and July and August afternoons regularly climb into the high 80s and 90s. That shows up in photos in ways people don't expect:
- Shine and sweat. Foreheads glisten, makeup slides, and light shirts show damp patches within minutes.
- Squinting. Midday sun is high and hard, which means narrowed eyes and dark shadows under brows.
- Melting toddlers. Little kids hit their limit fast in the heat. A happy two-year-old can turn into a crying one in ten minutes on a sunny lawn.
- Frizz. Humidity undoes a morning's worth of hair styling by the time you get to the park.
- The commute. Even if the session location is shaded, getting there on a hot subway platform or through traffic takes a toll before the first photo.
None of this makes summer photos impossible. It just means planning around it.
Why the studio wins most summer days
Indoors, out of the sun, the session works at any time that suits your family. That is the biggest advantage. You can book a 10 am slot between breakfast and a nap, or an early afternoon when outdoor light would be at its harshest.
A few other reasons to like a studio in summer:
- Consistent light from the first frame to the last, so every photo in the gallery matches.
- Any set you want. A classic backdrop works all year, and birthday or milestone sets don't depend on the season.
- Two looks in one hour. Many family sessions include two sets or backdrops, so a casual summer outfit and a dressier one both fit.
- No sunscreen shine on kids' faces.
When outdoor golden hour is worth it
Many photographers on Book Holiday Photos also shoot outdoors, and in summer it can be lovely, if you plan the timing carefully. The window is early or late:
- Early morning. Starting right after sunrise means cooler air, soft light and quieter parks. It is a commitment with small kids, but early risers often handle it well.
- The last hour before sunset. Warm, golden, flattering light. In New York the sun sets around 8:30 pm at the end of June and closer to 7:30 pm by the end of August, so an evening session usually runs past dinner and into bedtime.
Our guide to outdoor family photos in NYC explains when outdoor sessions make sense and when to steer back to the studio. For one of the most popular spots, see Central Park family photos. Park rules, permits and hours change, so check current NYC Parks guidance before you pick a location.
Summer also brings thunderstorms that arrive fast in the late afternoon. If the forecast turns, read our rainy day plan B for what to do next, and check the photographer's weather and rescheduling terms on their profile.
Quick decision guide
Choose the studio if:
- You have a baby or toddler.
- You need a specific daytime slot.
- Anyone in the family gets uncomfortable in heat.
- You want a consistent, classic look you can frame.
Choose outdoor if:
- Your kids are a bit older and can handle an early start or a late evening.
- You want grass, trees or the city skyline as part of the photo.
- You are flexible about rescheduling around the weather.
What to wear for summer family photos
Summer outfits should be light, breathable and simple.
- Fabrics: linen, cotton and chambray. Avoid polyester, which shows sweat and traps heat.
- Colors: white, cream, light blue, sage, soft coral or sand. A white and chambray family looks fresh in the studio and outdoors.
- Patterns: one small, simple print at most, such as a gingham dress or a light floral on one person.
- Skip: neon, big logos, very thin straps that show tan lines, and anything that wrinkles badly after a train ride.
- Shoes: clean sneakers, simple sandals, or bare feet for little ones.
- Spares: bring an extra top for each kid. Popsicles and juice boxes happen.
A practical tip: try to avoid a sunburn in the week before your session. Red shoulders and strap lines are hard to hide in sleeveless outfits.
Our family photo outfit guide goes further on coordinating a family.
Summer ideas for the studio
You can still make a studio session feel like summer:
- Bring props from home: sun hats, a beach ball, a small bucket and spade.
- Bare feet and rolled-up linen pants on everyone.
- A family picnic on the floor with a blanket from home and a bowl of strawberries.
- Kids "jumping waves" off the edge of the set, photographed mid-air.
Quick answers
Is a studio comfortable in summer?
Yes. Sessions are indoors, out of the sun, and a good photographer paces them with breaks so nobody overheats.
What time is best for outdoor summer photos?
The hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset. Midday light in summer is harsh, and the heat is hard on kids.
What happens if it storms on an outdoor session day?
Tell your photographer as soon as the forecast changes and work out the options together. Terms for weather rescheduling vary by photographer, so check the profile first.
Find your photographer
For most families with young kids, a studio is the easiest summer choice, so browse family photographers in New York City and Long Island. If golden hour outside is what you want, pick one who lists outdoor sessions on their profile.