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Summer Portraits: 10 Reasons to Book Now Instead of Fall

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

Summer Portraits vs. Fall Portraits

Summer is here—and while fall may get all the attention for family photos, this sunny season might just be the perfect time to schedule your next portrait session. I know fall is the traditional favorite, but hear me out: summer portraits come with some serious perks.

From golden-hour light to flexible schedules and happy, relaxed vibes, here are 10 reasons why summer portraits might be your new favorite family tradition.

Summer Portraits

10 Reasons to Book Your Family Portraits This Summer (Not Fall)

  1. Summer Schedules Are More Flexible Without the rush of school days and packed calendars, it’s easier to find a time that works for everyone.
  2. College Kids Are Home Take advantage of having the whole crew under one roof—especially those kids who are off at college most of the year.
  3. Fall Gets Crazy Busy Beat the autumn chaos. Between school events, sports, and holiday prep, fall fills up fast.
  4. Longer Days = Golden Light Summer evenings offer more time and that dreamy sunset glow photographers love.
  5. You’ll Actually Enjoy It With fewer time pressures and nicer weather, sessions feel more fun and relaxed.
  6. More Wardrobe Options Think light, colorful outfits. Summer style is carefree, photogenic, and comfy.
  7. Beautiful Outdoor Settings Blooming flowers, lush green parks, and golden fields are perfect backdrops.
  8. Better Photographer Availability Summer is less hectic for bookings, giving you more flexibility in choosing a date.
  9. Beat the Holiday Rush Get your photos done early and be ahead of the game for cards and gifts.
  10. Capture Summer Memories The warmth, joy, and connection of summer deserve to be remembered.

Worried About the Heat? Indoor Options to the Rescue

Yes, it’s Texas. Yes, it gets hot. But that doesn’t mean you have to sweat through your summer portraits.

Here are some indoor-friendly options that still bring style and personality:

  • At Home: Cozy, meaningful, and 100% personal.
  • Studio Rental: Crisp, professional, and temperature-controlled.
  • Airbnb or Styled Space: Adds a unique, stylish backdrop for something different.

Indoor sessions offer comfort for little ones, reliable lighting, and no weather worries. You can still get that polished, heartfelt look—without braving the heat.

Bonus: Ideas to Make Your Summer Portraits Extra Special

Looking to make your session more personal? Here are a few fun ideas:

  • Bring a picnic blanket and snacks for relaxed, candid moments.
  • Include the family pet if they’re part of your summer story.
  • Add a splash of personality with summer props like sunglasses, hats, or a favorite book.
  • Choose a meaningful location like a favorite park, your backyard, or even a lakefront.

The more personal your session, the more meaningful the images will be.

Final Thoughts

Summer portraits offer more than just beautiful light. They come with freedom, fun, and the chance to capture your family’s joy in the moment.

Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor golden-hour session or a cozy indoor setup, I’m here to help plan every detail.

Want to chat about summer portrait ideas or grab one of the remaining dates? BOOK HERE and let’s make it happen.

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

When was the last time you updated your headshot? 👀

If your photo is from 10, 15, or even 30 years ago… it’s time.

Using an outdated headshot might seem harmless, but it can actually break trust — especially in professions where connection, credibility, and transparency matter (which is… all of them).

💬 Imagine a client or patient walks in expecting the person they saw online… and barely recognizes you.
It may feel small, but it instantly creates a disconnect.

Here’s the truth:
✅ Your clients want to see the real you.
✅ A recent headshot builds trust and shows you’re showing up with integrity.
✅ If your look has changed significantly (new hair, new role, new energy!) — it’s time.

Keep it current. Keep it real.
And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got you. DM me for a free consultation. 📸✨

15 1
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17973700172906269
When was the last time you updated your headshot? 👀 If your photo is from 10, 15, or even 30 years ago… it’s time. Using an outdated headshot might seem harmless, but it can actually break trust — especially in professions where connection, credibility, and transparency matter (which is… all of them). 💬 Imagine a client or patient walks in expecting the person they saw online… and barely recognizes you. It may feel small, but it instantly creates a disconnect. Here’s the truth: ✅ Your clients want to see the real you. ✅ A recent headshot builds trust and shows you’re showing up with integrity. ✅ If your look has changed significantly (new hair, new role, new energy!) — it’s time. Keep it current. Keep it real. And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got you. DM me for a free consultation. 📸✨

Pretty pictures aren’t enough.

If you don’t know who your audience is, your branding photos won’t do what they’re supposed to do — build trust, tell your story, and attract the right clients.

Before every branding session, I walk my clients through a strategy call where we get crystal clear on two things:

1️⃣ Who are you speaking to?
2️⃣ What message do you want to send?

Because a realtor needs to connect with buyers and sellers.
An attorney needs to earn trust.
A coach needs to show confidence and approachability.

Intentional imagery makes all the difference.
📸 Let’s create brand photos that actually work for you.

📆 Contact me to schedule your session or learn more about our branding process.

16 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18048879089529671
Pretty pictures aren’t enough. If you don’t know who your audience is, your branding photos won’t do what they’re supposed to do — build trust, tell your story, and attract the right clients. Before every branding session, I walk my clients through a strategy call where we get crystal clear on two things: 1️⃣ Who are you speaking to? 2️⃣ What message do you want to send? Because a realtor needs to connect with buyers and sellers. An attorney needs to earn trust. A coach needs to show confidence and approachability. Intentional imagery makes all the difference. 📸 Let’s create brand photos that actually work for you. 📆 Contact me to schedule your session or learn more about our branding process.

What should you wear for your headshot session?
It depends on how you want to show up.

Your outfit sets the tone — and the right level of polish helps you appear confident, credible, and uniquely you.

Here are 4 levels of formality to help you choose the best look for your headshots 👇🏻

1️⃣ The Modern Suit Jacket
Crisp, structured, and powerful. Perfect for executives, attorneys, and leadership roles.

2️⃣ Soft Professional (No Jacket)
A sleek blouse or polished top with clean lines. Professional without being stiff — great for coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

3️⃣ Elevated Casual (Sweaters & Knits)
A fitted knit or stylish sweater gives an approachable, warm, and modern vibe. Ideal for creatives, educators, or small business owners.

4️⃣ Casual Short Sleeve
Simple, solid, and flattering. Feels relaxed but still polished — great for wellness pros, lifestyle brands, or startup teams.

✨ Quick Styling Tips:
– Stick to solid colors that flatter your skin tone
– Skip busy prints & distracting accessories
– Choose wrinkle-free, well-fitting pieces
– Bring a backup outfit or layering option!

🎯 Not sure what’s best for your brand?

We go over wardrobe during your pre-session consultation — so you’ll feel 100% confident in what you wear and how you show up.

📆 Contact me to book your headshot session!

12 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17899257765237869
What should you wear for your headshot session? It depends on how you want to show up. Your outfit sets the tone — and the right level of polish helps you appear confident, credible, and uniquely you. Here are 4 levels of formality to help you choose the best look for your headshots 👇🏻 1️⃣ The Modern Suit Jacket Crisp, structured, and powerful. Perfect for executives, attorneys, and leadership roles. 2️⃣ Soft Professional (No Jacket) A sleek blouse or polished top with clean lines. Professional without being stiff — great for coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs. 3️⃣ Elevated Casual (Sweaters & Knits) A fitted knit or stylish sweater gives an approachable, warm, and modern vibe. Ideal for creatives, educators, or small business owners. 4️⃣ Casual Short Sleeve Simple, solid, and flattering. Feels relaxed but still polished — great for wellness pros, lifestyle brands, or startup teams. ✨ Quick Styling Tips: – Stick to solid colors that flatter your skin tone – Skip busy prints & distracting accessories – Choose wrinkle-free, well-fitting pieces – Bring a backup outfit or layering option! 🎯 Not sure what’s best for your brand? We go over wardrobe during your pre-session consultation — so you’ll feel 100% confident in what you wear and how you show up. 📆 Contact me to book your headshot session!

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.