🎄 Why OC Families Should Book Christmas Photos in July

Yes, Christmas in July is a thing—and for Orange County families, it’s the smartest way to get ahead of the holiday chaos.

At Blue Skys Studio, we believe the best time to plan your family’s holiday portraits is now—while the sun is shining, the kids are out of school, and your calendar isn’t already packed with holiday parties, gift shopping, and school events.

Here’s why savvy OC families are getting their portraits done early—and how our Christmas in July Special makes it fun, easy, and stress-free.


Smiling family of four during Christmas in July photo session in Laguna Beach, Orange County”

☀️ 1. Avoid the Holiday Rush

Fall and winter get busy fast. Between back-to-school, sports, travel, and the holidays, scheduling anything for your family becomes nearly impossible.

Booking your session in July gives you the flexibility to choose the perfect day, time, and location—before our calendar fills up with last-minute bookings.


Family holiday portrait taken outdoors in Laguna Beach during Christmas in July session

🌤️ 2. Take Advantage of Perfect Weather

Let’s face it—July in Orange County is gorgeous. Golden sunlight, warm evenings, and vibrant greenery make it the ideal time for glowing, natural family portraits.

Unlike December, you don’t have to deal with chilly winds, rain delays, or gloomy skies.

 

🌿 3. Nature Looks Its Best

From Laguna Canyon’s wildflowers to golden hour light along the Newport Beach coast, summer showcases the best of OC’s natural beauty.

Whether you want ocean views, a tree-lined park, or a rustic field, we’ll help you choose the perfect backdrop.


Orange County family smiling during a summer holiday photo session with Blue Skys Studio

4. Take Advantage of Our Christmas in July Special

We’re making it easy—and irresistible—for your family to get ahead this year with our Christmas in July Special. Each session includes everything you need to knock “holiday photos” off your to-do list in style:

A full-length, customized portrait session tailored to your family’s needs
25 custom-designed holiday cards using your favorite images
A full gallery of posed and candid photos, including family portraits, sibling shots, parent combos, and individual portraits
Wardrobe consultation and location guidance so you look and feel your best
✅ Options to add on custom albums and wall art to showcase your favorite images at home

But don’t wait—we only have limited time slots available, and this package is an amazing deal that families return for year after year.

Christmas In July Family Portraits

“Where Summer Meets the Season of Joy: Christmas in July Portraits”

Celebrate the spirit of the season before the holiday rush begins. Blue Skys Studio invites you to take part in our exclusive Christmas in July family portraits event—a luxurious opportunity to create heirloom artwork while the sun is still shining.a luxurious opportunity to create meaningful family portraits and heirloom artwork while the sun is still shining.

With just 12 private sessions available, this is a limited-time offer designed for families who value beauty, connection, and timeless imagery.


Casual family photo capturing genuine expressions and laughter.

 A Signature Holiday Portrait Experience – Only $249

This summer, treat your family to a one-of-a-kind session that blends elegance with ease. For just $249, you’ll receive:

  • A full-length family portrait session at a stunning outdoor location of your choice

  • 25 custom-designed holiday cards featuring your favorite image(s)

  • A beautifully curated gallery of candid and posed portraits, including family groupings, siblings, and individual moments

  • Personalized wardrobe guidance and location styling

  • Optional upgrades for custom albums, gallery wall installations, and fine-art prints

📸 Book Your Family’s Session Now →


Family of four embracing in a loving hug with the scenic San Clemente Beach behind them.

Why Choose Us for Your Christmas in July Family Portraits

At Blue Skys Studio, we believe that portraiture is more than photography—it’s a chance to tell your family’s story through sophisticated, soulful images. For over 20 years, we’ve worked with Orange County’s most discerning families to create portraits that are:

  • Luxuriously styled and expertly lit

  • Warm, candid, and full of joy

  • Tailored to your personality and home decor aesthetic

Whether you dream of a serene beach backdrop, a lush garden, or a modern cityscape, we’ll guide you through every detail—from outfit styling to natural posing—so you feel confident and cared for throughout your entire experience.


Candid shot of the Brooke Smith family walking together.

📍 Choose Your Perfect Backdrop

🌊 Scenic Beach Portraits
The ultimate SoCal experience. Let the ocean breeze and golden-hour glow set the scene for timeless family portraits.

🌳 Lush Park Portraits
Enjoy nature’s beauty with vibrant greens, floral backdrops, and serene paths—perfect for families seeking a classic, romantic feel.

🏙️ Stylish Urban Portraits
Chic, modern, and full of energy—urban locations bring a contemporary edge to your holiday portraits, ideal for families with bold style.

📅 Secure Your Spot – Only 12 Sessions Available


Family photo session at Picnic beach at sunset in Laguna Beach.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Our session with Blue Skys Studio was magical. The experience was effortless, and the portraits truly reflect who we are.”
– Emily R., Laguna Beach

“I didn’t think a photo session could feel this relaxed and fun. The results are absolutely stunning.”
– Michael T., Newport Beach

“From start to finish, everything felt personalized and luxurious. We finally have portraits worthy of our home.”
– Sarah L., Irvine


Family photos with teenage kids in Orange County CAFrequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of day for portraits?
We recommend scheduling during golden hour—the hour before sunset—when the light is soft and flattering.

What should we wear?
Don’t worry—we provide tailored wardrobe suggestions to match your location and personal style.

Will you help with posing?
Absolutely. With decades of experience, we’ll gently guide you through posing to create natural, joyful images.

What about lighting?
We use a mix of natural light and off-camera flash to ensure every image looks stunning—no matter the setting.

How do I book?
It’s easy! Click the button below to choose your session date and secure your spot.

🎁 Reserve Your Holiday Portrait Experience Now →


A family portrait session with what to wear when you want to incorporate fun prints and patterned clothing in your session.

A Gift You’ll Treasure for Years

The best memories aren’t made in a rush. This is your chance to slow down, connect, and preserve your family’s story in artful, authentic imagery. With limited availability, we encourage you to act fast—because these 12 sessions will go quickly.

🎄 Secure Your Spot Today →


Senior Photos and Spring: Here are 5 Reason Why Now is the Perfect Time for Your Session!

Senior girl sitting in the middle of a blooming wildflower meadow, surrounded by yellow and white daisies, wearing a sage green dress and smiling at the camera.

 

Spring isn’t just about blooming flowers and warmer weather it’s also one of the best times of the year to book your senior photo session.

As the school year races toward the finish line, things get busy—think prom, finals, graduation prep, and maybe even college visits. That’s why spring is the perfect window to get your senior portraits done without the last-minute rush.

High school senior guy kneeling by a rocky riverbank, dressed in a tan pullover and khaki pants, with soft green foliage in the background.

Here are a five reasons why I always recommend spring for senior photos:

1. You’ll Be Ahead of the Game

Spring sessions give you plenty of time to choose your favorite images for:

  • Yearbook submissions

  • Graduation announcements

  • Custom party invitations

  • And yes, even that giant poster your mom wants for the celebration table 😉

No scrambling last-minute or rushing your photographer. You’ll have your gallery back with time to spare.

Senior girl perched playfully on a wooden fence in front of a hillside covered in yellow wildflowers, wearing a UW Huskies sweatshirt and black jeans.

2. The Weather (and Light) is Perfect

Spring brings soft, golden light, longer days, and (usually) comfortable temps. It’s not too hot, not too cold—ideal for outdoor sessions. Plus, locations like parks, gardens, and open fields are bursting with fresh green and florals that add gorgeous natural color to your photos.

Senior guy sitting on a wooden fence with a tree full of yellow-green blossoms behind him, wearing a casual flannel and neutral-toned outfit.

3. More Flexibility in Scheduling

By spring, most school activities are slowing down before the big push of end-of-year events. That means more flexibility for you to choose a date that works best—without fighting for weekend slots or squeezing something in before sunset after sports practice.

Senior girl in a black dress leaning on a rustic wooden fence with a sea of yellow wildflowers and rolling hills behind her.

4. Wardrobe Options Galore

Spring fashion is fun, light, and colorful. Whether you want soft neutrals, bright pops of color, or something casual and comfy—spring gives you tons of flexibility with outfits. Layers also photograph beautifully during this season.

Senior guy walking along a trail through a field of spring wildflowers, with rolling green hills in the background, dressed in casual outdoor wear.

5. Time to Get Creative

With less pressure than a fall deadline or the chaos of senior year’s final months, spring gives us time to try different locations, multiple outfits, and a relaxed approach to creating something uniquely you.

High school senior girl beaming in a field of wildflowers, dressed in her gold graduation gown and purple lei, celebrating her achievement.

Let’s Make It HappenWhether you’re envisioning golden-hour beach photos, a floral field session, or an urban vibe with soft spring light—this season is the time to make it happen. My goal? Always the same—create meaningful images that capture the real you, and spring gives us the perfect backdrop.

Need more reasons to fall in love with spring sessions? Check out our blog Why Spring is One of the Best Times for a Photo Session for even more inspiration on how this season brings out the best in every photo—whether you’re a senior, part of a family session, or just want to celebrate a milestone.

Let’s get you on the calendar before everything fills up!

✅ Ready to take the next step?
Visit Blue Skys for free tools, deeper guides, and insider content made just for readers like you.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Why Spring Is the Best Time for Senior Photos

Why is spring the best time to take senior pictures?

Spring offers mild weather, soft natural lighting, and blooming flowers, creating the perfect backdrop for senior portraits. You’ll also beat the summer and fall rush — meaning better photographer availability and more time to use your photos for announcements and grad parties.


What makes spring senior photos better than fall or summer sessions?

  • Spring colors: Fresh greenery, wildflowers, and pastels pop in photos

  • Comfortable temperatures: No sweating or bulky layers

  • Earlier scheduling: You get your photos in time for graduation announcements and yearbooks

  • Less crowded locations: Many popular photo spots are quieter in spring


What should I wear for a spring senior photo shoot?

Spring is perfect for light, flowy dresses, denim jackets, floral prints, pastel tones, and casual white tops. Layers and textures photograph beautifully in the springtime sun. Avoid heavy jackets or dark, wintery colors.


Where is the best place to take senior pictures in spring?

Top spring senior photo locations include:

  • Parks or botanical gardens with blooming flowers

  • The beach (cooler and less crowded in spring!)

  • Urban areas with bright murals or clean architecture

  • Natural trails or open fields with soft spring light

If you’re in Southern California, places like Laguna Beach, Fullerton Arboretum, and Irvine Regional Park are perfect for springtime senior shoots.

Wondering what to Wear for your Outdoor Family Photos?

We’ve got you covered with clothing color schemes for each of the popular locations in Orange County.

Make sure you have right color outfits to go with the scenery at your session!

Do you want to find out what to wear for your outdoor family photos?  Your outdoor family photo session is coming up and you’re going through your mental checklist: get haircuts, wax those eyebrows, pick the outfits.

In your outdoor family photos, I recommend picking two to three colors and coordinating everyone’s outfits around that color scheme.  For example, navy and cream with a pop of gold.

Think of your location when it comes to color schemes for your photography wardrobe:

What to wear to a family session | Classic Neutrals

The Classic Neutrals: There is timeless elegance with neutrals and earthy tones. Think of beiges or cremes – these colors look great in open fields, such as Laguna Canyon, San Juan Open Spaces, Alta Laguna Park and Mission San Juan Capistrano.

A family photography session in Laguna Beach. All the family members are dressed in creams and neutral tones.

What to Wear to a Family Photo shoot | For bold and vibrant clothing

Bold & Vibrant: This is for our fashionistas! Stand out with bright and bold colors that pop – just be careful to avoid clashing colors in group photos. This color scheme works great in an urban environment to show off your style. The best locations in Orange County for these types of sessions include The Lab, The Camp, Downtown Laguna Beach, Orange Circle, Los Rios Historic District, Newport Fun Zone and the Santa Ana Arts District.

This image show what to wear to an urban photoshoot for a family.

What to Wear to an Outdoor family session | Pastel Perfection

Pastel Perfection: Use oft and dreamy pastel hues to create a whimsical atmosphere. These color schemes will look great during a sunset at the beach, San Juan Capistrano in the flower fields, Laguna Niguel Botanical Gardens, or Sherman Gardens in Corona Del Mar.

Young family wearing pastel colors at their sunset family photoshoot in Laguna Beach

What to Wear to a family shoot | Mixing and matching patterns

Mixing Patterns: Embrace creativity with playful patterns that complement each other. You can add hints of polka dots to a tie, or a hair bow, or even socks. There’s many fun ways to harmonize styles and patterns to each of your family members. These looks are best at the beach, an urban area or in a field. 

A family portrait session with what to wear when you want to incorporate fun prints and patterned clothing in your session.

What to Wear to a Family Session | Cool Blues and Greens

Cool Blues & Greens: Cool tones create a serene and calming effect. These dreamy images can help promote a sense of calm and well-being, which will not only look great for your memories but also on the walls of your home. Great destinations for these include the beach, Newport Back Bay, Balboa Island, and the Newport Beach Pier.

Family photos in Irvine showing what to wear to a park shoot.

What’s your favorite color scheme or style? Let us know! Follow us on Instagram at @blueskysstudio, on Facebook at facebook.com/blueskysstudio, and follow along for more photography tips and tricks by signing up for our newsletter below.

Learn more about everything Blue Sky’s by getting updates on special promotions and our pop up studios by filling out your info here!