It’s Time. | Why I Open My Fall Calendar in July

Every year, around Christmas in July, I do the same thing. I start planning, order the holiday backdrop, call my friends with the holiday truck, and open my fall calendar.

It always feels a little funny because we’re still in the middle of summer. The pool is still open, the beach bag is by the door, and nobody is thinking about Christmas. Including me.

So… why July?

The simple answer is because I’m one person. Every fall I photograph around 75 sessions. I answer every email, help families choose locations, watch the weather like it’s my second job, edit every gallery, order every print, and package every envelope that goes in the mail. Opening my calendar in July gives me the time to do all of those things well and give every family the experience they deserve.

But that’s only part of the reason.

Every fall I watch another year of childhood unfold through my camera, and every July I realize just how quickly those years are adding up.

Yes, these photographs may be used for holiday cards and updated profile pictures, but over the years I’ve realized they become something much more important. They become a lasting part of your family’s story. One day you’ll look back and remember the missing teeth, the favorite hoodie they wore every day, the season they couldn’t stop talking about dinosaurs… or Taylor Swift… or soccer… or dance. It’s all the little things you don’t realize you’ll miss until they’re gone.

That’s when I know…

It’s time.

Not because summer is ending.

Because another year has quietly slipped by.

So no, I’m not trying to rush summer. Please, go to the beach, stay up too late, eat all the ice cream, and soak up every minute with your family. I simply ask that you carve out five minutes to get your session on the calendar. Then go right back to your regularly scheduled summer fun, and I’ll take it from there. When the leaves begin to change, I’ll be in touch with location ideas, wardrobe tips, and everything you need for a relaxed, memorable session.

I’d love to help you tell the next chapter of your family’s story.

See what’s happening this fall.