The Best Times to Capture Genuine Family Photos in Minnesota
Whether you are new to living in beautiful Minnesota or you are looking at booking your first family photo session, you may be wondering when is the best time to capture these precious memories around different Minnesota’s seasons.
There are a few things to consider before deciding when to plan out your session. Do you have a favorite color scheme? Whether you like Greens and Flowers or Browns and vibrant reds and yellows there is a time that will suit you best.
Outdoor portraits in Minnesota are best Scheduled between May and October. That is just a 6 month window. It is possible to do photos before and after this window, but Minnesota tends to offer a lot of mud and leafless trees outside of this window. You can also opt for winter/snowy portraits but this is best scheduled for December through March. Winters in Minnesota can get very cold so make sure you bundle up!
A guide on what to expect from MN weather.
Spring (April to June): Spring offers blooming flowers and fresh greenery, making it a beautiful time for outdoor photos. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers.
Summer (June to August): Summer provides warm weather and lush landscapes, ideal for outdoor sessions. Early morning or late afternoon sessions are recommended to avoid the harsh midday sun and heat.
Fall (September to November): Fall is a popular time for portraits due to the stunning fall foliage. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a picturesque backdrop. Early to mid-fall is best before the leaves fall and temperatures drop.
Winter (December to February): Winter sessions can be magical with snow-covered landscapes. Ensure everyone is dressed warmly, and consider shorter sessions to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.
Time of Day:
- Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset are known as the golden hours. The lighting is soft and warm, providing a flattering and natural glow for portraits.
- Midday: Avoid midday sessions if possible, as the sun is directly overhead, causing harsh shadows and squinting. If midday is the only option, look for shaded areas or use reflectors/diffusers.
- Overcast Days: Cloudy days provide soft, diffused light, which is great for portraits. The clouds act as a natural diffuser, reducing harsh shadows and glare.
Nicole Hollenkamp is a Portrait and Wedding photographer that has been serving Minnesota for over 10 years. She specializes in Newborn and Maternity Photography and Mentors other photographers in Business and Photography. Nicole is a mother to 5 kiddos, she homeschools and homesteads. She lives on a little farm filled with goats, chickens, ducks, guineas, dogs and cats. She often has farm fresh eggs, goats milk and goat milk products, and even goats for sale. You can follow their little farm here.
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