What are Priority Dates for Family Photography

I am always talking about how you need to book in advance to get priority dates. You might be wondering, “what are priority dates?” “What makes one dates better than another when booking a family photography session?” “Aren’t all dates the same?" The short answer: absolutely not. With over a decade of family portrait experience under my belt, I can assure you that some dates are premium compared to others.

First Pro Tip:  Lock in those weekday dates.

Traditionally families always try to book weekends. But, they shouldn’t. Why? Well, for starters, weekends are crazy busy – locations are packed, parking lots are full, and trails are swarming with weekend hikers. And, I do not know about your family, but my kids have lots of activities on the weekends. On the rare weekend we do no already have plans - I like to actually relax. Of course, if you book a weekend, you will still get great shots, but if you want that VIP treatment (easy parking, full access to locations) - midweek is where it's at.

Second Pro Tip: Book earlier in the season.

Part of my job as a photographer is chasing the sun. At some point I became the expert on where that sun is going to set and when (I even have an app on my phone that tracks the sun as it moves throughout the sky). And what I can tell you is the light is better earlier in the season!

What do I mean by that? As we enter into fall, the sun starts setting sooner each day AND that can clash with work schedules and kiddo activities. Fall becomes the season we count down towards the darkest days of the entire year.

Can you do family photography later in the fall? Absolutely! But in my book, priority dates and times are all about those relaxed, early fall vibes – less rushing to get pictures before the sunsets, more relaxation, more enjoyment.

Third Pro Tip: Y’all it’s Colorado - the weather is better early in the season.

Colorado is beautiful in the summer and early fall. The trees are full of leaves, the flowers are blooming, the deer join us for photographs a lot of the time. For families late summer and early fall are the best times to get kiddos out into those scenic locations. The later into the season the more likely it will be windy, colder and wetter. We always know how to roll with it out here in Colorado - but priority dates are sunnier and warmer.

Book Now

So, my calendar is - it's first come, first serve. If you're eyeing those priority dates, book early. Trust me, this is the way to secure the best date and time, and you can proudly check it off your list way before the last-minute rush hits.

Don't wait – let's make those family memories! 📸