This is how the conversation usually goes.

 "Tonia. I really need to get in for a session. There are a few things I need to do first (insert reason - lose 5 pounds, find the right hair color, get back from vacation, convince the family) but I need to get on your calendar! When should I book my session?"

  This question used to throw me. The sassy part of me always wanted to say, "Mmmm...I'd say after you lose the 5 pounds, find the right hair color, get back from vacation and convince your family."

  But I would never say that out loud!

  So my response was always, "When you are ready, I am ready."

  I finally had to sit myself down and ask myself what are people actually asking me? How am I supposed to know when it's convenient for people to schedule their session? I realized that people weren't asking me to plan their life, they were asking about my professional opinion - the best time of year so the background (nature) looked the best. They were asking me about the ease of scheduling with me - busy season vs offseason. People wanted to know what was good for me as well. 

 While my answer doesn't pinpoint an exact date to schedule (because I am not a mind reader and I don't know what is going on in other people's homes), my answer usually goes something like this:
 "If you are looking for an outdoor session, my suggestion is to try to book for October through mid-November when it starts to cool off. Late November through December is just too hectic. Mid-January through April is also a good time. After that, I would consider indoor sessions because of the heat. However, January through April is my busy season with seniors so you'll want to try to call me at least two weeks before the day you'd like to shoot"

  I know that sounds like a whole wide range of months but Arizona is a great state to live in and we are fortunate to have plenty of sunny days. But let's keep it real, it gets downright toasty in the summer months and we have to plan accordingly. No good story starts with, "I passed out for dehydration at my portrait session." And unless you want armpit, forehead and upper lip sweat in your pictures, we try not to schedule those months for outdoor sessions.

 The next part is pretty easy. Once you've decided what month you are looking for all you need to do is contact me. I'll check out my calendar and I will give you a few options for days depending on what type of session you are looking for. You choose your date and I get you on the calendar! 

 Because you scheduled me at least two weeks prior, you have given us time to meet and discuss what you are looking for, go over clothing options, choose a location, get to know each other and eat a few snacks. By the time we leave each other, we will have a great handle, be on the same page, set expectations and have no worries about your upcoming session. 

 Now don't think that my answer is the industry standard. This is my suggestion. Do not write me to complain if you ask another photographer the same question and get a different answer. I can't help that. But I can make it easy for you to start your portrait session journey! 

  When you are ready, I am too.

  With lots of love, 

  Tonia