So you’re traveling to Nantucket for vacation! And you’re wondering when to book your Nantucket family photos? How far in advance is it smart to schedule a family photo shoot?

As your friendly neighborhood Nantucket photographer, I would love to help make this easy for you! Consider this post a full guide to give you all the information you need to make the best decision for your family! 

Here’s the number one thing you need to know: 

For July and August vacations, the earlier you book, the more flexibility you will have. Many families reserve their session as early as six months ahead of time, since this is the busiest time of the year. I’m typically photographing 3+ families per day in the Summer.

Booking six months in advance might sound early, but Nantucket summers fill quickly, especially when everyone is hoping for those dreamy evening sessions by the beach.

When to Book Your Nantucket Family Photos? Summer Dates Fill First

The busiest months here in Nantucket are June, July, and August. Families are planning vacations, reunions, and special trips together here to the island. 

If you’re wanting to book a portrait session with me, I have availability every Summer on:

• Monday
• Tuesday
• Thursday
• Friday
• Saturday

(Wednesdays are my reserved days off where I do editing and admin!) 

You have a couple different options when booking your session: 

There are early morning sessions before 9 a.m. and two evening session times each day. Evening sessions are always the first to go because the golden hour lighting is a favorite! 

If you know you will be visiting Nantucket during the summer, it is best to reserve your session before June. Booking early gives you the best chance of choosing the day and time that works best for your family.

What happens if you miss that window? Should you even bother reaching out? 

Yes absolutely! Because of cancellations or the odd unfilled spot. Last-minute sessions can still happen. But as summer gets closer, options become more limited so if this is a non-negotiable for your trip, I recommend reaching out in advance. If this is more a spontaneous decision, you’ll just have to be a little more flexible and choose from the remaining times available.

A Little More Flexibility After Labor Day

Once Labor Day has passed, Nantucket becomes quieter and the calendar opens up quite a bit. April, May, September, and even the weeks leading up to the holidays are much easier to book.

These “shoulder season” sessions have their own kind of magic. The beaches are quieter, the pace is slower, and there is often more freedom to choose the perfect evening.

No matter when you are visiting, planning ahead is the easiest way to make sure your memories are beautifully captured.

So if you’re thinking ahead about when to book your Nantucket family photos… feel free to reach out to me here!

But if you’re feeling spontaneous and want to add a session to your planned trip, please send me a message – I’d love to work with you!