Keeping Your Child Up Late for Summer Family Photos in Portland: Why I Recommend It

As a toddler mom, I know exactly what you're thinking when I suggest a 7:30 or even 8:00 p.m. session. Because I think it, too, when making any plans.

"That's bedtime."

Believe me when I say that I get it.

We've worked hard as mothers to build routines because they matter. A well-rested child usually means a happier child, and no one wants to intentionally throw off bedtime.

So why would I ever recommend doing just that?

Because the soft, golden hour lighting will give you wall-hanging worthy photos - it's an investment of time and sacrifice of one easy bedtime routine for a lifetime (and your children's) of beautiful memories in photos.

Golden Hour Is Worth the Extra Bedtime Story

The most beautiful light of the day in Portland happens just before sunset.

During the summer, that often means the best light doesn't arrive until 8:00 or even 8:30 p.m. depending on the exact location. Some spots there are enough trees or hills to block the sun earlier but most places, especially a wide open field will have the best lighting right before sunset.

It's soft. It's warm. It's dreamy - and this kind of light will make your photos look dreamy as well.

Instead of harsh overhead sun creating dark shadows under eyes, golden hour wraps everything in beautiful, even light that photographs effortlessly.

And most importantly, it changes how your photos feel.

The images become calmer, more connected, and filled with the kind of warmth that reminds you exactly what summer felt like years from now.

Toddlers Usually Do Better Than Parents Expect

One of the biggest concerns I hear is: "I'm worried my child will be exhausted and won't behave."

But something magical happens when children are outside exploring, picking flowers, snuggling on mama's shoulder in the evening wind. They know this is out of routine. So it's exciting to them. And they're with a stranger (me) so often they don't show their full tantrums anyway!

As a preschool educator, I know how important rhtyhm and routine is. As a mama I know how important an on-time bedtime is. And as a photographer, my child has stayed up past her bedtime for golden hour family photos and it ALWAYS sounds dreadful beforehand but every single time has been so much easier than I thought.

Many toddlers actually become calmer during golden hour instead of more energetic. They're ready to slow down and cuddle close - giving us those sweet, intimate images that us mamas crave so much.

As a documentary-style photographer, those quiet moments are my favorite hands-down.

One Late Bedtime Won't Undo Your Routine

This is something I remind parents often.

One special evening won't erase months of healthy bedtime habits.

In fact, many families tell me their kids sleep especially well afterward because they've spent an hour running, laughing, and playing outside.

I will hear from parents afterwards that their kiddos fell asleep on the way home and peacefully transferred to their crib or bed.

I've also heard that their child did NOT fall asleep in the car because they were so excited about the out-of-routine evening but they still peacefully went to bed once they got home.

The next day, just focus on taking things easy and getting back into your normal routine.

Think of this late night photo session less as breaking routine and more as creating a summer memory like if you were camping or on vacation where you'd break routine anyway.

If You're Nervous, Here Are My Favorite Tips

A few small adjustments can make late-evening sessions much smoother:

• Let your child nap longer, if possible, that afternoon.

• Pack a favorite snack and water to bring with you on the shoot. My toddler has stayed up 2 hours past her bedtimes multiple times for shoots, and yogurt melts from Costco has gotten us through each one.

• Bring pajamas for the drive home.

• Don't stress if your child gets a little silly—that often leads to the sweetest moments.

• Trust the process. Children don't have to smile at the camera to create beautiful photographs.

  
  

My Perspective as a Toddler Mom

When I book my own family's photos, I wrestle with bedtime too.

I know what it's like to wonder whether it's worth it. But every single time, I've been grateful we chose the memories.

Childhood doesn't wait for perfect timing. Sometimes the most beautiful moments happen just a little past bedtime.

Here is another blog post for tips on how to manage toddler's behavior during a family photo session.

Home