Justina Thorsen Justina Thorsen

Why Summer Is the Perfect Season for Family Portraits in Littleton, CO

Who thinks about getting their family portraits taken in the summer? If you're like most people, you probably wait until the fall family photo season rolls around—just in time for golden leaves, cozy sweaters, and those all-important holiday card deadlines. And honestly? I get it! Fall is undeniably beautiful here in Littleton, Colorado. But today, I want to make the case for something a little different.

If you're looking for a session that feels relaxed, vibrant, and full of life, summer might just be the best time of year for family portraits—especially with young kids.

Why You Might Be Overlooking the Best Time for Family Photos

Fall tends to get all the attention when it comes to scheduling family photo sessions, and it's easy to see why. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and the holidays are right around the corner. It's a season that naturally tugs at our sense of nostalgia and tradition.

But here's what no one tells you: fall is also busy. Between back-to-school schedules, sports, extracurriculars, and preparing for the holidays, it’s not always the most relaxed time to wrangle your family into coordinated outfits and head out for portraits.

That’s why I love offering summer family portrait sessions in Littleton, CO—and why I think you’ll love them too.

5 Reasons to Book Your Family Portraits This Summer

1. Summer is FUN—and it shows in your photos

Kids are happiest when they’re having fun. And summer is full of it! Long days, barefoot adventures, and carefree evenings create the perfect atmosphere for natural, joy-filled family portraits. When everyone’s relaxed and playful, it makes for the most genuine smiles and real connection.

2. Gorgeous weather = gorgeous photos

Let's be honest: no one likes shivering in a cute sweater while pretending not to be freezing during a fall session. In the summer, the weather is warm and golden—perfect for sunset sessions where you can wear light, breezy dresses and let your kids run barefoot through the grass or sand without worry.

3. More flexibility in your schedule

With school out and many families staying closer to home, summer often offers more flexibility for booking. You’re not battling homework, bedtimes, and fall obligations—making it easier to plan a session at just the right time of day (hello, golden hour!).

4. Lush, colorful backdrops

Littleton’s parks, trails, and open spaces come alive in the summer. Everything is vibrant, trees are fully leafed out, and the sunlight is rich and golden. From rolling fields to mountain views, summer in Colorado offers endless options for stunning, outdoor family portraits.

5. Get ahead of the holiday rush

Imagine this: it’s October, and your holiday cards are already ordered, printed, and ready to mail—because you had your family portraits taken back in July. No scrambling for outfits, no last-minute sessions, and no added stress in the busiest time of year. Sounds pretty amazing, right?

What to Expect from a Summer Family Portrait Session

When you book with me, you’re getting more than just beautiful photos—you’re getting a full-service experience. From our first phone consultation to the final delivery of your artwork, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Here’s what your session includes:

  • Wardrobe styling consultation, with access to my curated client closet

  • Help choosing the best outdoor location in Littleton, CO

  • A relaxed, playful session during the golden hour for soft, glowing light

  • In-home ordering appointment to choose your favorite images

  • Design and delivery of custom wall art, heirloom albums, or holiday cards

Make This Summer One to Remember

Before the school year starts back up and life gets busy again, take a moment to slow down and savor this season. Your kids are only this little once—and there’s nothing better than capturing their giggles, hugs, and sun-kissed faces in the heart of summer.

If you’re ready to book your family portraits in Littleton, CO this summer, I’d love to create something truly beautiful for your family.

📞 Now booking Summer 2026 sessions – Reach out today to schedule your consultation!

Read More
Family Portraits Justina Thorsen Family Portraits Justina Thorsen

Family Pictures | Bow Mar Lake | Littleton Family Photographer

Lake Bow Mar is a Photographer’s Dream Canvas with its sun-drenched docks, winding bridal paths, boardwalks, and open fields which create endless opportunities for dynamic composition. The gentle shimmer of water, framed by trees and complemented by front-range mountain views, adds a touch of magic that transforms a typical portrait into a timeless masterpiece.

Most of my outdoor sessions take place during the golden hours— when early evening light casts a warm glow across the lakes and gently illuminates faces. Golden hour is more than just a pretty backdrop. It softens shadows, warms skin tones, and brings out the natural beauty of your surroundings—whether you’re standing in a field of tall grass or nestled in the open foothills overlooking the Front Range. Every photo feels a little more romantic, a little more nostalgic, and a lot more magical.

What makes summer family sessions in Colorado extra special is the vibrancy. The landscape bursts with color—deep greens, soft purples, golden yellows—and that bold, beautiful light ties it all together. It’s the perfect season to capture connection and joy with the people you love most.

When you book a family portrait session, we’ll time it just right to soak up the very best light of the day. I’ll guide you every step of the way—from wardrobe styling to finding the perfect location that reflects your family’s vibe. Whether it’s playful laughter, tender snuggles, or that proud family-of-five moment, we’ll capture it all with warmth and authenticity.

Because these are the days you’ll want to remember—the long summer evenings, barefoot giggles, glowing light, and hearts full of love. And when the golden hour fades, the memories we create will last a lifetime.

Ready to book your golden hour session this summer?
Let’s create something beautiful together—framed by the light of Colorado and the love of your family.

#ColoradoFamilyPhotographer #GoldenHourPortraits #LittletonPhotographer #SummerFamilyPhotos #ColorfulColorado #FamilyPhotographySession #KeepsakeReflections #SunsetPortraits #FoothillsFamilyPhotos #DenverFamilyPhotographer

Read More