“When should we schedule our session?” It’s one of the first questions I get when someone books with Pearl Photography & Co., and it’s a great one — because timing genuinely affects how your photos turn out. Let me walk you through the options so you can make the best choice for your family.

What Is Golden Hour?

Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The light is warm, soft, and incredibly flattering — it’s the glow you see in those dreamy photos where everything looks kissed by honey-coloured light.

In Edmonton, golden hour timing shifts dramatically with the seasons. In the summer, evening golden hour might not start until 8:30 or 9pm (hello, long northern days!). In the fall, it’s more like 5:30 or 6pm — much more manageable, especially with little kids.

Why Photographers Love Golden Hour

There’s a reason it’s the most requested time slot:

• Flattering light — the low angle minimises harsh shadows under eyes and noses. Everyone looks their best.
• Warm tones — that golden glow adds richness and warmth that you just can’t replicate at noon.
• Beautiful backgrounds — backlit scenes, glowing fields, sun flares through trees. Magic.
• Calmer atmosphere — parks are quieter in the evening, which means fewer photobombers and a more relaxed vibe.

If your schedule allows it, golden hour is almost always my top recommendation for outdoor sessions.

The Case for Morning Light

Morning golden hour (just after sunrise) offers the same beautiful light as the evening version, with a few extra perks: locations are usually empty, the air feels fresh, and for early risers, everyone’s energy is at its peak.

The catch? Sunrise in an Edmonton summer is early — we’re talking 5am. That’s a tough sell for most families. But in the fall and spring, a 7:30 or 8am session is very doable and the light is gorgeous.

What About Midday?

I’ll be honest: harsh midday sun (roughly 11am to 3pm) is the most challenging light to work with. The sun is directly overhead, which creates unflattering shadows and makes everyone squint.

But — and this is important — midday isn’t always avoidable, and it’s not always bad:

• Overcast days are a gift. Cloud cover acts like a giant softbox, diffusing the light beautifully. Some of my favourite sessions have been on cloudy afternoons.
• Shaded locations help. In a ravine or forested area like Mill Creek, the tree canopy filters the light even at noon.
• Winter light is different. The sun stays low all day in an Edmonton winter, so “midday” light is actually quite lovely for snowy sessions.

If midday is the only time that works for your family, don’t worry — I’ll choose a location and shooting style that makes the most of it.

My Honest Recommendation

For most families, I recommend scheduling 1.5 to 2 hours before sunset. You get that beautiful warm light, the kids are usually still in good spirits, and we wrap up before anyone gets overtired.

For maternity sessions, golden hour is pure magic — that warm glow on your skin is unbeatable.

For engagement sessions, I’m flexible. Some couples love the romance of sunset; others prefer a bright, airy morning feel. We’ll figure out what suits your vision.

What If the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate?

Edmonton weather is famously unpredictable. If it’s overcast on our session day, don’t panic — I’ll reach out and we’ll decide together whether to proceed (cloudy light is actually great!) or reschedule. I always build flexibility into my scheduling for exactly this reason.

Have questions about timing your session? Let’s chat — I’ll help you pick the perfect time for beautiful light.

One of the best parts of being an Edmonton photographer is the sheer variety of beautiful outdoor locations we have right here in the city. Whether you’re dreaming of golden fields, lush ravines, or urban backdrops, there’s a perfect spot for your session. Here are some of my favourite places to photograph families, couples, and mamas-to-be.

Mill Creek Ravine

This is one of my most-requested locations, and for good reason. Mill Creek Ravine feels like an escape from the city — winding trails, tall trees, wooden bridges, and that gorgeous dappled light filtering through the leaves. It’s stunning in every season: fresh greens in spring and summer, fiery colours in the fall, and a peaceful snow-dusted wonderland in winter.

Hawrelak Park

Hawrelak Park is a classic for a reason. The lake, the willow trees, the open meadows — it photographs beautifully at any time of day, but it’s absolutely magical at golden hour. There’s plenty of room for kids to run and play, which makes it ideal for family sessions.

Edmonton River Valley Trails

The river valley trail system gives us endless options — from scenic overlooks with the city skyline behind you to quiet wooded paths that feel miles from anywhere. I love using the trails for engagement and maternity sessions where we want a mix of intimate and grand.

Whitemud Park

If you’re after that dreamy, romantic feel, Whitemud Park delivers. The creek, the bridges, the tall grasses — it’s got a soft, storybook quality that works beautifully for couples and maternity.

Urban Spots — Whyte Ave & Downtown

Not every session needs to be in nature! Edmonton’s urban spots — the colourful walls on Whyte Avenue, the downtown skyline, the historic buildings in Old Strathcona — make for fun, modern backdrops with tons of personality.

Not sure which location is right for you? That’s what I’m here for. When you book with Pearl Photography & Co., we’ll chat about the vibe you’re going for and I’ll recommend the perfect spot. Let’s find yours — book your session.

If there’s one thing I hear from parents before a family session, it’s this: “My kids will NOT sit still for photos.” And you know what? That’s completely okay. I’ve photographed plenty of wiggly toddlers, shy preschoolers, and too-cool-for-this teenagers — and we’ve always come away with beautiful images. But a little preparation goes a long way toward making the experience enjoyable for everyone (including you).

Here are my best tips for getting your kids ready for a family photo session.

Talk About It Ahead of Time

Kids do better when they know what’s coming. A day or two before the session, tell them in simple, positive terms what’s going to happen: “We’re going to meet Branae at the park, and she’s going to take some pictures of our family. We’ll play some games and have fun.”

Keep it light and upbeat. The more it sounds like an adventure and less like a chore, the better.

Don’t Skip Naps or Meals

This is the single biggest factor in how a session goes. A tired, hungry child is going to have a hard time — and honestly, who can blame them? I know this from experience as a mom myself.

Schedule your session around your child’s best time of day. For most little ones, that’s morning or right after an afternoon nap. Feed everyone a good snack before we meet (and bring backup snacks).

Let Them Be Themselves

Here’s something I want every parent to hear: your kids don’t need to be perfect during our session. They don’t need to sit still, smile on command, or behave like tiny adults. Some of my favourite images are the in-between moments — the giggles, the curious looks, the way your toddler melts into your arms.

I build play into my sessions. We’ll do silly walks, I’ll ask them to whisper secrets to you, we’ll race to a tree. When kids are having fun, the genuine expressions come naturally.

Bring the Essentials

A little preparation in your bag can save the day: snacks and water (non-messy ones), a favourite comfort item, a change of clothes, and wipes for sticky hands and runny noses.

Dress Them in Something Comfortable

Comfort matters more than anything. If your daughter hates the itchy dress or your son refuses to keep the bow tie on, it’s going to show in every photo. Let them have some say in their outfit. When kids feel good in what they’re wearing, they’re more relaxed.

Manage Your Own Expectations

I say this with love: try to let go of the picture in your head of everyone looking at the camera and smiling perfectly. Those shots are lovely when they happen, but the images you’ll treasure most in ten years are the ones that show your family’s real personality.

If things get chaotic, that’s okay. I’ve seen it all, and I promise I’m not judging. My job is to find the beautiful moments in the beautiful mess.

There’s something so special about maternity photos — this brief, beautiful chapter where you’re carrying a whole new person. But one of the most common questions I hear is: “When should we book our maternity session?” Here’s my honest advice.

The Sweet Spot: 28-34 Weeks

For most mamas, the ideal window is between 28 and 34 weeks. Your bump is beautifully round and photographable, but you’re usually still comfortable enough to move around, change outfits, and enjoy the session. Before 28 weeks the bump can be subtle on camera; after 34-35 weeks, comfort becomes the priority (and babies sometimes arrive early!).

Book Early — Don’t Wait Until the Third Trimester to Reach Out

Here’s the thing: I recommend booking your session in your second trimester, even though we’ll shoot in the third. My calendar fills up, especially in the warmer months, and I’d hate for you to miss your window. Reach out around 20-24 weeks and we’ll get your date locked in.

Bring Your People

Partners and siblings are always welcome at my maternity sessions — some of the sweetest images come from those interactions. A toddler kissing your bump, your partner’s hand resting where the baby kicks… these are the moments you’ll treasure.

What to Wear

Flowy dresses, fitted knits that show off the bump, or even simple jeans and a soft top — it all works. I have a few gowns you can borrow if you’d like something extra special. The key is wearing something that makes you feel beautiful, because you are.

It’s Normal to Feel Nervous

So many mamas tell me they feel awkward in front of the camera, especially when they’re not feeling like themselves. That’s completely okay — it’s my job to guide you, find your best angles, and make it fun. By the end, most of my clients tell me they wish we’d kept going.

Expecting? Book your maternity session — let’s capture this incredible chapter.

Your wedding day is going to fly by — I hear it from every couple. The hours blur together, and before you know it you’re waving goodbye to your last guest. That’s exactly why your photos matter so much: they’re how you’ll relive it all. Here are my best tips for getting natural, genuine wedding photos you’ll actually love looking at.

1. Build in Breathing Room

The number one thing that leads to stiff, rushed photos is a packed timeline. Give yourself buffer between events — 15 extra minutes here and there makes a world of difference. When you’re not watching the clock, you relax, and relaxed is photogenic.

2. Do a First Look (Or Don’t — It’s Your Call)

A first look gives you private time together before the whirlwind starts, and it means we can get most of your portraits done early so you can actually enjoy cocktail hour. But if you want that traditional walk-down-the-aisle moment, we’ll make the timeline work. There’s no wrong answer — just the one that feels like you.

3. Golden Hour Is Worth Planning Around

That soft, glowy light in the hour before sunset? It’s pure magic on camera. If your timeline allows, we’ll sneak away for 15-20 minutes during golden hour. Some of my favourite wedding images ever were taken in that window — it’s worth it.

4. Forget the Camera Exists

The best wedding photos aren’t posed — they’re the in-between moments. Laughing with your wedding party, your dad tearing up, the way you look at each other when you think no one’s watching. My job is to be there for those moments without getting in the way of them. Soak in your day and let me handle the rest.

5. Feed Your Photographer (Seriously)

This one’s practical: a fed photographer is a happy, energetic photographer. Make sure your vendor meals are sorted — we’ll be on our feet for 8+ hours making sure nothing gets missed.

Planning your Edmonton wedding? Let’s talk about your day — I’d be honoured to capture it.

One of the questions I get asked most often before a family session is: “What should we wear?” It’s such a good question — because what you wear really does shape the feel of your photos. After years of photographing families around Edmonton, here are my tried-and-true tips for putting together outfits that look amazing on camera.

Start With a Colour Palette, Not Matching Outfits

Gone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans (unless that’s your thing — no judgment!). What photographs beautifully is a coordinated colour palette: pick 3-4 colours that go well together and let each family member wear something in that range. Think soft neutrals with a pop of colour, or earthy tones like sage, cream, rust, and denim.

Texture Adds Depth

Knit sweaters, linen shirts, denim jackets — texture catches the light in a way that flat fabrics don’t, and it adds so much richness to your images. This is especially lovely for fall sessions in places like Mill Creek Ravine, where the natural backdrop is already full of texture.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Neon colours, large logos, and busy patterns tend to distract from what matters — your faces and your connection. Small patterns are fine, but keep them to one person so they don’t compete. And when in doubt, solid colours in soft or muted tones are always a safe bet.

Dress for the Location and Season

Edmonton weather is… unpredictable, to say the least. Layers are your best friend — they look great and keep everyone comfortable. For outdoor sessions, think about footwear too: we’ll likely be walking on grass or trails, so save the stilettos for the studio.

Most Importantly: Be Comfortable

If you’re tugging at your clothes or your little one hates their outfit, it shows. Choose things you feel good in — confidence photographs beautifully. And if you’re ever unsure, just send me a photo of what you’re thinking. I love helping with this part!

Ready to book your family session? Let’s chat — I’d love to capture your crew.