I know, I know – when the rest of the country is breaking out the cozy sweaters and sipping on pumpkin spice lattes, we’re still rocking our shorts and sunglasses. So when’s the right time to capture the best fall photos for holiday cards? Let me break it down for you!

September to Early October: Sunrise Magic

Despite what the calendar says, early fall in Phoenix can still feel like summer. Evening shoots during this time are often uncomfortably hot (sometimes dangerously hot) for clients and can result in less-than-flattering sweaty portraits. However, if you’re an early bird, September and early October offer stunning opportunities for sunrise sessions. The soft, golden light and cooler morning temperatures make for dreamy photos!

Late October: A Transitional Period

As we creep into late October, things start to cool down a bit. It’s not perfect yet, but if you need those holiday card photos, we can make it work! The key to a successful late October shoot is selecting a location with plenty of shade. These shaded areas are not only beautiful but also cooler, making for a more comfortable experience. When you schedule your session with me, I have my go-to amazing locations that will help us stay as cool as possible!

November: The Sweet Spot

Now we’re talking! November is when Phoenix really shines for “fall” photos. While we don’t have any fall colors until late December, the weather’s beautiful, and the light is to die for at both sunrise and sunset. This is prime time, folks!

It’s worth noting that photos in Phoenix are best from November through May. This period offers the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful light for outdoor shoots. I do offer A/C indoor studio sessions (like THIS one) in Scottsdale year-round though!

A Mountain Alternative

While September and October might not be ideal in Phoenix, it’s the perfect weather for a session in Prescott or Flagstaff, AZ. These higher-elevation cities offer cooler temperatures and possible fall foliage during these months, providing a classic autumn backdrop for your photos.

Ready to book your fall session? Let’s chat about finding the perfect time and location for your photos, whether in Phoenix or up in the mountains!

Can’t wait to hear from you and start planning your perfect fall photo session!

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Wondering what my 4 best photo scheduling tips that you may not have thought about are?

What about Prescott? Here are the best times to schedule your fall photos in Prescott, AZ.