Summer has a way of slowing things down.
Long evenings, golden sunsets, barefoot walks through the grass, and memories made under a sky that seems to stay bright forever. It’s one of my favorite seasons for photos because summer naturally invites us to be present, playful, and connected.
But if you’ve spent even more than one summer in Texas, you know that it also comes with plenty of heat.
One of the most common questions I get from clients is:
“How do we stay comfortable during a summer session?”
The good news is that with a little planning, summer sessions can be both beautiful and enjoyable. Here are a few of my favorite tips for making the most of your summer photo session.
Choose the Right Time of Day
If you’ve followed my work for a while, you’ve probably heard me talk about golden hour.
For outdoor sessions, I photograph during the last 1-2 hours before sunset. This is when the light becomes softer, warmer, and far more flattering that the harsh midday sun.
It’s a timing approach I use throughout the year because it creates the dreamy, nostalgic feel that many of my clients are drawn to.
During the summer months, sunsets in Texas often happen between 7:00 PM and 8:40 PM. Because o that, many of my summer sessions begin between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM so we can take full advantage of the soft, golden light leading up to sunset.
While that may feel later than expected, the combination of beautiful light, cooler temperatures, and fewer harsh shadows makes it well worth it.
Dress for Comfort First
Your outfit plays a bigger role than you might think.
Lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and flowy materials tend to photograph beautifully while helping you stay cooler throughout the session.
Soft neutrals, earth tones, creams, and muted colors work especially well with my editing style and create a timeless feel that won’t look dated years from now.
I typically recommend avoiding bold colors, especially bright reds, as they can pull attention away from the connection and emotion within your images.
If you’re planning a family or couples session, try coordinating colors rather than matching exactly. This allows everyone to feel comfortable while still creating a cohesive look in your photos.
Bring Water
This might seem simple, but it’s one of the most helpful things you can do.
A cold bottle of water can make a huge difference during a warm Texas evening. I always encourage clients to bring water for themselves and their children, especially during July and August sessions.
Staying hydrated helps everyone feel better, look more relaxed, and enjoy the experience more.
Don’t Stress About the Heat
One thing I always remind my clients is that perfection isn’t the goal.
I also recommend bringing a small towel or washcloth to your session. During the Texas summer, a quick wipe of your forehead, neck, or hands can help you feel more comfortable and refreshed between photos.
A little wind in your hair, a few rosy cheeks, or your child wanting a quick break are all completely normal.
Some of my favorite images come from the in-between moments—laughing together, snuggling close, or taking a moment to cool off before jumping right back into making memories.
Your session isn’t about looking perfect.
It’s about preserving this season of life exactly as it feels.
Consider Locations with Shade
Not all locations are created equal during the summer months.
Areas with mature trees, open shade, or natural wind flow can make a session feel much more comfortable while still providing beautiful backdrops.
When helping clients choose a location, I often consider both the scenery and the overall experience. The goal is to find a place that allows you to focus on each other rather than the temperature.
Embrace the Summer Feeling
Some of the most meaningful photos aren’t the perfectly posed ones.
They’re the moments that feel like summer.
Bare feet in the grass. Kids chasing each other through a field. Holding hands as the sun sets. The warmth of an evening spent together.
Years from now, those are often the memories you’ll cherish most.
Final Thoughts
Summer sessions may come with warmer temperatures, but they also offer some of the most beautiful light of the entire year.
With thoughtful timing, comfortable clothing, plenty of water, and a relaxed mindset, your session can feel less like a photoshoot and more like an evening spent making memories together.
As an Abilene photographer, some of my favorite sessions happen during those warm summer evenings when the light turns golden and everyone settles into simply being together.
And honestly?
Those are usually the sessions that feel the most like home.
Ready to Plan Your Summer Session?
If you’re dreaming of warm sunsets, genuine connection, and photographs that feel like a memory you can step back into, I’d love to help tell your story.
Whether you’re celebrating a growing family, documenting your senior year, welcoming a new baby, capturing a chapter with the person you love, or simply wanting to preserve this season of life, summer is a beautiful time to do it.
I’d be honored to help create images that feel warm, nostalgic, and uniquely yours.
