What Time of Day Is Best for Family Photos? (Ireland Guide)
If you’ve ever tried to take photos of your kids in the middle of the day, you’ll already know… it’s not always the easiest.
Harsh light, squinting eyes, busy parks, tired little ones. It can feel like everything is working against you.
So one of the most common questions I get as a family photographer in Dublin is:
“What time of day should we book our photos?”
The short answer?
It depends on your family, but light matters more than anything.
Let me explain it in a way that actually helps you choose.
The Best Time for Family Photos in Ireland
In Ireland, the best time for family photos is usually early morning or evening, when the light is softer and more flattering.
Golden Hour (Evening Sessions)
This is my go-to for most family sessions.
That soft, warm, glowy light you see in beautiful photos? That’s golden hour, just before sunset.
In Dublin, that usually means:
Summer: around 7pm–9pm
Spring/Autumn: around 5pm–7pm
Winter: earlier in the afternoon
Why it works so well:
No harsh shadows
Skin tones look natural and warm
Kids aren’t squinting
Everything feels calmer and more relaxed
It also gives that lovely “memory” feel to your photos… the kind you’ll actually want on your walls.
Morning Sessions (Great for Young Kids)
If your kids are small, mornings can be the better option.
Especially if:
They’re early risers
Evenings are meltdown territory
You want things to feel calm and easy
Morning light is softer than midday and works really well, especially in parks or at home.
For newborn or in-home sessions, mornings are almost always best. The house is brighter, everyone is fresher, and there’s no rush.
What to Avoid (If You Can)
Midday (12–3pm)
This is the trickiest time of day for photos.
Light is harsh and overhead
Strong shadows under eyes
Kids are often tired or overstimulated
Busy locations like Phoenix Park or St Stephen's Green are packed
That said, life isn’t always flexible. If this is the only time that works, I can absolutely work around it by choosing shaded areas and keeping things moving.
But if you have the option, earlier or later is always better.
Real Life Matters More Than “Perfect Time”
Here’s the honest truth most people don’t say:
The “best” time is the time your kids are happiest.
You could book the most perfect golden hour slot, but if your toddler is exhausted, it won’t feel fun.
Equally, a slightly earlier session with happy kids will always win.
So when we plan your session, I always take into account:
Nap times
Bedtimes
Your routine
The location
Because the goal isn’t just “nice light”
It’s photos that feel like your family
My Recommendation (If You’re Not Sure)
If you’re booking a family photoshoot in Dublin, here’s what I usually suggest:
Young kids → Morning session
Older kids → Evening golden hour
Newborn → Weekday morning at home
Summer sessions → Later evenings for best light
And if you’re unsure, I’ll guide you. That’s part of what you’re booking me for.
Final Thoughts
The light matters, yes.
But what matters more is how the session feels.
Relaxed. Easy. No pressure.
Because that’s when the real moments happen. The ones you’ll actually care about in a few years.
Thinking of Booking a Family Photoshoot in Dublin?
If you’re wondering what time would suit your family best, just get in touch. I’ll help you figure out the best plan based on your kids, your routine, and the kind of photos you want.
