How to Beat the Heat: Summer Family Photo Tips for Central Florida
- cintiaally
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
Let’s be honest, summer in Central Florida isn’t just hot. It’s “walking through a sauna with a hair dryer in your face”hot. But don’t worry! You can absolutely have beautiful, joyful family photos and keep the sweat to a minimum. These summer family photo tips will help you stay cool and collected while making picture-perfect memories. As a Florida photographer (and fellow sweat-survivor), I’ve got the local know-how to help you make the most of your session, even in the middle of summer.
1. Understand That Summer in Florida Isn’t Only June–August
First of all, summer in Florida lasts way longer than it does in most other parts of the country. While other states start pulling out their sweaters and seeing the first hints of fall, we’re still reaching for ice water and sunscreen. Florida’s “summer” stretches from mid-May through October—and sometimes even early November. So if I send you this post before your September session, know that I’m not confused. I’m just here to help you survive your session with these tried-and-true summer family photo tips!
2. Time It Right (Say Hello to Sunrise & Sunset)
If you’re thinking of booking a session at noon in July… let’s gently redirect that idea. The best time for summer family photos in Central Florida is early morning (golden-hour early! Yes, even before coffee!) or an hour before sunset. This gives you soft, flattering lighting and slightly cooler temps. Plus, kids are usually more relaxed and cheerful earlier or later in the day, a major bonus!
3. Dress for the Weather, Not Pinterest
When it comes to summer family photo tips, wardrobe is a big one. Skip the heavy layers and dark colors, and opt for breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen. Pastels and light neutrals photograph beautifully in the Florida sun and help keep everyone cooler. Flowy dresses are perfect for
catching the breeze and yes, dads can totally rock shorts (styled well, of course!).
4. Keep the Kids Cool & Comfortable
Hot weather and cranky kids go hand-in-hand. Help your littles stay happy by packing water, a hand-held fan, a snack, and maybe a favorite toy. I'm really loving this cute little fan for outdoor sessions! Bonus points if you toss a damp washcloth into a ziplock bag for quick cool-downs. A relaxed kid is a photogenic kid, just one of the many summer family photo tips I always recommend to my clients!
5. Consider a Studio Session
Don’t want to brave the heat? You really don’t have to! Studio sessions are an awesome summer alternative. The AC is on, the lighting is perfect, and there’s zero risk of a surprise thunderstorm or frizzy-hair crisis. Studio sessions are especially great for young babies or milestone moments when staying cool and comfortable is key. Added benefit, I have access to Disney+ in the studio to help occupy or redirect your little when needed.
6. Explore Creative (and Cooler) Locations
Not every session has to take place at a park or an open field. Some of the most meaningful and comfortable family photos can happen right in your own home, where everyone feels relaxed and the AC is on full blast. Whether it’s baking cookies in the kitchen, snuggling on the couch, or playing in the backyard under some shade, in-home sessions add a personal touch and keep everyone cool. You can also consider fun, air-conditioned locations like libraries, greenhouses, or local indoor play spaces (with permission, of course!). When it comes to summer family photo tips, thinking outside the box, while staying out of the heat, is always a win.
7. Make It Fun (Even If You’re Sweating)
The best photos aren’t always the posed ones. They’re the giggles, the tickles, the cuddles, and yes, even the toddler holding a plastic dinosaur. These moments are authentic and real-life moments. So even if you’re a little warm, don’t stress—just have fun. That’s what truly brings your photos to life.
Summer Family Photo Tips | Cintia Ally Photography, Lakeland, FL Wedding and Family Photographer
So yes, summer in Central Florida is steamy, but with the right planning (and these summer family photo tips in your back pocket), your photos can still be cool, joyful, and full of love. Whether we’re chasing golden hour, staying breezy at sunset, or keeping it chill in the studio, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to sweat less and smile more? Let’s book your summer session today!
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