The Ultimate Guide to Spring & Summer Family Photos in the Lehigh Valley

Spring and summer in the Lehigh Valley are pure magic. The soft pastel blooms of April, the warm family-centered evenings of June, and the golden fields of August make this one of the best times of year to capture your family as they truly are. Whether you’re in Easton, Bethlehem, or Allentown, this guide is designed to help you plan a fun, stress-free, and meaningful family photo session!

Hi, I am Lia! I am a family-maternity photographer in the Lehigh valley and I hope to see you soon!

Why Spring & Summer Are Perfect for Family Photos

When the world starts turning green again and the sun finally sticks around, everything about family sessions becomes easier — kids are happier, outfits are lighter, and the backdrops are beautiful without much effort.

Spring brings fresh flowers, gentle breezes, and soft diffused light. Summer brings long golden evenings, warm skin tones, and those carefree memories your kids will remember years from now. These seasons create the most natural, timeless images for Lehigh Valley families.

The Best Locations for Family Photos in the Lehigh Valley

One of the benefits of living in the Lehigh Valley is the variety of scenery in such a small radius. Here are some of my favorite locations that photograph beautifully through spring and summer:

Alletown Rose Garden

Perfect for soft spring blooms, greenery, and open spaces where kids can explore.

Trexler Nature preserve

If you want a sunset field this is your sunset field!

Easton’s Riverside & Downtown

A mix of brick textures, waterfront backdrops, and charming streets. Great for families who want a mix of nature and architecture.

Lake Nockamixon

A more wet option, with picture perfect views of the lake!

Each location has its own best lighting times and seasonal highlights, which I guide you through when planning your session.

When to Schedule Your Session for the Best Light

Light is everything in photography.

Golden Hour (Sunset)

The most flattering warm, glowy light happens about 60–90 minutes before sunset.
Perfect for families who love warm tones and a dreamy, cinematic feel. This is where I shine in my work. My families crave the pictures taken at sunset time.

Morning Light

Bright, fresh, and gentle — ideal for early-riser families. Bonus: fewer crowds at parks.

Midday

We avoid this unless we’re in deep shade. The Lehigh Valley gets strong sun in summer, which can be harsh on skin and eyes.

I’ll always walk you through the best timing for your chosen location and your photographer will help you choose!

What to Wear for Spring & Summer Photos

Your outfit choices truly shape the look of your final gallery — and I love helping with this part!

Spring

Soft neutrals, pastels, creams, and light linens pair beautifully with early blooms.

Summer

Earthy neutrals, muted greens, dusty blues, and light flowy fabrics are perfect for warm, golden settings.

A few simple tips:

• Avoid neon or super bright colors — they reflect harshly on skin in sunlight.
• Choose coordinating tones vs. matching outfits.
• Think “movement” ; dresses, light fabrics, and layers create gorgeous motion.
• Pack backup options for the kids (because, well… kids).

If you ever feel overwhelmed, you can send me photos of your options! Styling guidance is included with every session! Even have access to beautiful client gowns to borrow free of charge.

Tips for a Smooth, Stress-Free Family Session

I’m a mom… I get it. You want beautiful photos, but you also want your kids to have fun.
Here’s what makes a huge difference:

• Bring snacks, water, and a small “bribe” treat for after.
• Let kids play between shots — movement creates the best candids.
• Keep expectations light and fun; I never force poses.
• Bring something meaningful — bubbles, a blanket, a picnic, a favorite toy.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s always connection. And letting your partner know that is the goal too! This way we walk away with a fun stress free time.

Weather in the Lehigh Valley: What to Expect

Spring weather in PA is unpredictable. Some days are 70° and sunny, others bring surprise drizzle. Summer can be warm and humid but usually stable for evening sessions.

Here’s how we handle it together:

• I monitor the forecast for the week leading up to your session literally am watching hours to!
• If rain pops up, we have a built-in rain date ready. This is huge here with weather unpredictability unless rain is your thing I am always down to play!
• Cloudy days actually photograph beautifully!

Your photos will be gorgeous, no matter what Mother Nature decides.

What to Expect When Working With Me

When you book:

• You’ll receive a session guide and custom location suggestions.
• I help with outfits, timing, and preparing your kids.
• During the session, I’ll direct you gently while also encouraging play and natural moments.

My goal is simple:
To capture your family the way you want to remember them real, connected, and warm.

Ready to Book Your Spring or Summer Family Photos?

If you’ve been thinking, “We should really do family photos this year…”
this is the sign to get on the calendar before it fills.

Spring and summer book quickly, especially golden hour sessions.

👉 Click here to inquire or grab your date!
👉 Check out my portfolio for more family sessions

Can’t wait to create something beautiful for your family this season.