Everything you need to know to stay cool, comfortable, and enjoy your session.
If you're thinking about booking summer family photos in Charleston, you've probably wondered how anyone survives taking pictures in this heat.
The truth is, Charleston summers are hot. But they're also one of my favorite seasons to photograph. Between the lush green trees, long golden sunsets, and kids who are happiest running around barefoot, summer has so much to offer.
The key is knowing how to plan for it.
After photographing families through many Charleston summers, I've picked up a few tricks that make a big difference. Whether you're planning a family, maternity, or couples session, these tips will help you stay comfortable and make the most of your summer photo session.
The Best Time for a Summer Photo Session in Charleston
I recommend scheduling all of my outdoor portrait sessions at either sunrise or sunset because of the beautiful, soft, dreamy light they provide. That golden light is what gives my photos their timeless, natural look.
During the summer, though, there's more than one reason.
It might not seem like one hour would make much of a difference, but in the Charleston summer, it really does. Just an hour can mean softer light, cooler temperatures, and a much more comfortable experience for everyone. That's why I plan my summer sessions around the best light, not just what's convenient on the clock.
Sunrise Sessions
Summer sunrise sessions usually begin around 6:00 AM, so they definitely require an early wake-up call. The biggest advantage is that temperatures are at their coolest, popular locations are less crowded, and you'll have the rest of the day to enjoy Charleston without worrying about your photos later. Just keep in mind that once the sun gets higher in the sky, temperatures can warm up pretty quickly.
Sunset Sessions (My Favorite!)
If you ask me, sunset is hard to beat.
Most of my summer sessions begin around 7:00 PM, with the sun setting around 8:30 PM. Even though it means a slightly later bedtime for little ones, I find it's almost always worth it. The temperatures are much more comfortable, the golden light is beautiful, and by that time of day the sun isn't beating down overhead.
I've photographed plenty of families with toddlers at sunset, and they're usually having so much fun exploring, playing, and snuggling with their parents that they don't even notice it's past bedtime.
Choose the Right Location
The location you choose can make a bigger difference than you might think during a Charleston summer photo session.
If staying as cool as possible is your top priority, I usually recommend the beach. The breeze coming off the water can make a surprising difference on a hot summer evening, and it's hard to beat ending your session by letting the kids splash in the waves. It makes the experience feel less like a photoshoot and more like a fun family outing.
If you're dreaming of a park setting, look for locations with plenty of open shade. Open shade isn't the same as standing underneath a tree. It's a shaded area with nothing directly above you, often created by tree lines or nearby buildings. This creates soft, even light without the harsh sun, spotty light, or deep shadows that can happen under a canopy of trees.
Some of my favorite Charleston parks for summer sessions, like Hampton Park and Ashley River Park, have beautiful areas of open shade that help keep everyone more comfortable while still creating gorgeous, natural-looking images.
If you're not sure which location is the best fit for your family, just ask! I'm always happy to recommend locations based on the scenery you love and what will be the most comfortable for your session.
Dress for the Charleston Heat
What you wear can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel during your summer photo session. I always recommend choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton whenever possible. Flowy dresses and lightweight button-downs are some of my favorite options because they photograph beautifully while helping you stay cool.
When it comes to colors, soft neutrals and earthy tones are always a great choice. Colors like cream, beige, sage, olive, dusty blue, muted terracotta, and soft florals not only fit my editing style, but many of them are also more forgiving in the summer heat than colors like light gray, which tends to show sweat much more easily.
I also recommend avoiding heavy fabrics, thick layers, or tight-fitting clothing that can trap heat and make you feel uncomfortable throughout your session. The more comfortable you feel, the more relaxed you'll look in your photos.
If you're looking for more outfit inspiration, every session includes my Style Guide with outfit ideas, color palettes, and real examples to help you feel confident before your session.
What to Bring
A few small items can make a big difference during a summer photo session. I always recommend bringing a few essentials so everyone stays as comfortable as possible.
Here's what I suggest packing:
- Water for everyone
- A small towel to wipe away sweat
- A handheld fan
- Snacks and water for little ones
- Bug spray if we're photographing in a wooded area
- A hairbrush for quick touch-ups
If we're meeting at the beach, you may also want to bring towels and a change of clothes for the kids. One of my favorite ways to end a beach session is by letting everyone kick off their shoes and play in the water. It gives the kids something to look forward to and often leads to some of the most genuine, joyful photos of the evening.
Don't Let the Heat Hold You Back
Let's be honest. Charleston summers are hot, and I'll probably be the one sweating the most while I'm running around with camera gear, squatting, laying on the ground, and chasing the best light.
But that's never what I remember about a session.
I remember the connection. The way your partner looks at you when you aren't paying attention. The way your child reaches for your hand. The laughter that wasn't planned. Those are the moments worth remembering, and they're always worth a little summer heat.
With the right time of day, the right location, and a little preparation, summer can be one of the most beautiful times of year for photos. Don't let a few hot months keep you from documenting this season of life. One day, you'll be so glad you did.
If you've been putting off booking summer family photos because of the heat, I hope this gave you a little more confidence. I'd love to help you choose the perfect time, location, and session for your family.
Ready to plan your Charleston summer photo session? Contact me here, and let's start planning!
