Why Fall is the Best Time to Book Photos for Your Holiday Cards

There’s something about fall that just feels like a reset to me. With the cooler weather and shorter hours of daylight, I’m less tempted to stay up late, soaking in the summer evenings. Routines return. Sweaters and socks are back in the daily rotation.  

The slow shift in seasons also feels like an invitation to pause, reflect, and soak in the sweetness of family life before the busy rush of the holidays takes over. If you have school aged children, they’re already getting back into the swing of school and returning to schedules.

With the seasonal and daily life changes, holiday cards might be the furthest thing from your mind. However, fall is the perfect time to book your family photos for those cards.

If you’re a mom, you’re probably the one making the mental checklist right now: When will I even find the time? Who needs new outfits? Will everyone cooperate?

Take a breath. You don’t have to do it all perfectly. The first step is just getting your session scheduled.

Because more than coordinating outfits or picture-perfect smiles, what matters most is capturing your family as you are—right now, in this season. Fall gives us the space and beauty to do just that.

The Magic of Fall Light

As a photographer here in Ketchikan, I can tell you that fall light is unmatched. The way the sun sits lower in the sky creates a soft, golden glow that makes everything feel a little warmer, a little cozier, and a little more magical.

That golden-hour glow paired with Alaska’s natural backdrops—whether it’s towering spruce trees, moss-covered trails, or the soft, misty atmosphere of fall—creates the most dreamy setting for family photos. There’s a quiet magic in the way the light filters through the forest and reflects off the water. 

Photos taken during this time of year feel timeless, and they translate beautifully to holiday cards, wall art, or gifts for loved ones.

Less Rush, More Presence

By scheduling your photo session in the fall, you’re giving yourself the gift of time. Holiday card deadlines tend to sneak up fast, and trying to squeeze in a last-minute session (and hope for good weather!) adds stress no parent needs.

When you book your session in the fall, you’re ahead of the rush. You’ll have your images back in plenty of time to place orders, and enjoy the process instead of scrambling at the last minute.

And even more importantly—you’ll be able to be present during the holidays instead of feeling like you’re catching up.

A Moment to Celebrate Your Season of Life

Whether you’re in the thick of toddler chaos, navigating the tween years, or watching your teens begin to stretch their wings, every stage of motherhood is worth documenting.

I know it’s tempting to wait until things are “less crazy” or until you’re feeling more confident in your body or until your kids are more cooperative. But can I tell you something?

Now is the perfect time.

Your kids won’t remember if you were wearing the perfect outfit or if their hair was a little wild that day. What they’ll remember is that you showed up. That you thought this moment in their lives was worth remembering. That they were loved enough to be seen—just as they are.

Fall photos are the perfect excuse to slow down and gather together, even if just for an hour, to capture the way your family laughs, cuddles, plays, and connects.

Great Timing for Holiday Cards (Without the Winter Stress)

Let’s be honest: Alaska winters are beautiful—but they’re also unpredictable. Rain, early snow, short daylight hours…it can make scheduling winter photo sessions tricky. And trying to get your holiday cards printed and mailed when you’re shooting photos in November or December? That’s a fast track to unnecessary stress.

By booking in the fall, you’re choosing comfort and ease. You’ll have more flexibility with scheduling, better weather conditions, and more opportunities to find a day that works for your family. You’ll also have time to carefully select your favorite images and design holiday cards that feel thoughtful and personal—not rushed.

Vacationing in Ketchikan? Fall is Stunning Here.

If you’re planning a cruise to Southeast Alaska or visiting Ketchikan during the fall, it’s an ideal time to schedule a vacation photo session. With fewer crowds, crisp air, and gorgeous fall scenery, it’s the perfect backdrop for photos that tell the story of your adventure together.

Vacation sessions are a great way to knock out your holiday card photo while you’re already doing something memorable and meaningful. I’ll help you choose a beautiful local location and guide your family through a relaxed, fun session that leaves you with keepsake-quality images and a deeper connection to your time in Alaska.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If the idea of planning a photo session sounds like one more thing on your already full plate, know this: I’m here to make the process simple and stress-free.

From outfit suggestions to guiding your family through the session itself, I’ll walk you through every step with patience and care. My goal is always to create a space where you feel relaxed and confident—where your kids can be themselves and where you can just enjoy being together.

You don’t have to show up perfect. You just have to show up.

Let’s Make This Fall One to Remember

Your holiday card is more than a box you check off your to-do list. It’s a celebration of your family’s story—who you are, how far you’ve come, and the love that binds you together.

Whether you're a local mom in Ketchikan or just passing through on vacation, I’d be honored to capture your family this fall. Let’s preserve the beauty of this season and the heart of your home in photos that will last a lifetime.

Ready to book your fall photo session?

Click here to learn more and reserve your spot with Christina Chacharon Photography. I can’t wait to meet your family and create something truly special together.