Running a photography studio while being present in family (and honoring your own life outside of work) is a constant balancing act. As a Brooklyn-based family photographer, I’ve learned that the seasons of life – just like the seasons of photography, require flexibility, intention, and grace.
Parents often ask how I manage my schedule, when I shoot, and how I avoid burnout during busy seasons. I wanted to share a behind-the-scenes look at how I structure my year – not just for myself, but because it directly impacts the experience I give the families I photograph.
Why Balance Matters in Family Photography
Photography isn’t just about cameras and lighting, it’s about presence. When I show up rested, inspired, and grounded, your family receives my best work.
By protecting space for my own family, friendships, and creativity, I’m able to:
- Stay emotionally present during sessions
- Work patiently with babies and young children
- Create images that feel calm, connected, and genuine
This philosophy guides how I structure my year.
My Seasonal Photography Schedule (A Transparent Look)
🌞 Summer Schedule (June–August): Slowing Down with Intention
During the summer months, I intentionally limit my shooting schedule.
- Shooting days: Tuesday – Thursday only
- Rest of the week: Editing, planning, and personal time
- Personal focus: Spending time with family and friends in Northport, LI and further east in Sag Harbor and the Peconic area
Summer is a reminder to give myself grace, to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and even photograph my own family memories. Loving myself and honoring my personal life allows me to return to my work refreshed and creatively fulfilled.
🍂 Fall & Holiday Season (September–December): Busy, Full, and Joyful
This is my peak season and it’s beautifully full.
- Shooting: Nearly every day
- Hours: Morning through sunset
- Sessions include:
- Outdoor fall family photos
- Beach sessions
- Holiday studio sessions
- Newborn, maternity, cake smash, and family photography
This season is fast-paced and joyful, and because I’ve protected rest earlier in the year, I’m able to show up fully present for every family.
❄️ January: A Regenerative Reset
January is a quiet, restorative month.
- Sessions: About 0-1 shoot per week
- Timing: Morning sessions only
- Purpose: Rest, reflection, and creative reset
Depending on how busy the holiday season was, I may take the entire month off from shooting. This reset allows me to return grounded, inspired, and excited for the year ahead.
🌱 February–May: Steady Growth with Boundaries
As we move into spring, the schedule gradually opens up again.
- Availability: Monday – Friday
- Timing: Morning + early afternoon
- Limit: No more than 4 shooting days per week
- Weekends:
- 2 Saturdays per month
- 1 Sunday per month
This balance gives me room to work hard without overworking, leaving space to recharge while serving families consistently.
By April and May, outdoor sessions become more popular, and afternoon shoots are more common. As May comes to a close, I naturally slow down again and transition back into my summer rhythm.
What This Means for You as a Client
This thoughtful schedule allows me to:
- Be fully present during your session
- Offer a calm, unhurried experience
- Provide consistent communication and thoughtful editing
- Protect the quality of my work. Not rush it
By honoring my own boundaries, I’m able to create a luxury, stress-free photography experience for families across Brooklyn, Windsor Terrace, and NYC.
A Note to Fellow Parents
If you’re in a season where balance feels hard – I see you. Parenthood is full, messy, beautiful, and fleeting. My hope is that the way I structure my life reminds parents that it’s okay to slow down, say no, and prioritize connection – both in front of and behind the camera.
If you’re looking for a Brooklyn family photographer who values presence, balance, and a deeply personal experience, I’d love to connect with you.
👉 Contact Rosie Richards Studio to learn more about availability and upcoming sessions.