How to Prepare for a Family Session at the Beach

Planning a family photo session at the beach can be an exciting experience—but it’s also important to be prepared so everything goes smoothly. As a Jacksonville Beach photographer, I specialize in capturing relaxed and beautiful moments along the stunning coastline, and I want to ensure that your family session is enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you’re a local or visiting Jacksonville for a family getaway, these tips will help you get ready for your beach photo session and ensure you’re prepared to make the most of this special time together.

Set the Right Expectations: It’s About Fun, Not Perfection

The first thing to keep in mind when preparing for a family photo session at the beach is that the goal is to capture real, authentic moments—not stiff, perfectly posed shots. Think of this as an opportunity to have fun with your family while I guide you through the session. The beauty of beach photography is that it’s all about the natural environment and your family’s unique connection. Whether you’re walking barefoot along the shore, laughing together, or simply soaking in the beautiful surroundings, these candid moments will become the heart of your photos.

It’s important to understand that wind, sand and water are a part of every beach session. I will make sure that they work in your favor as much as possible. You don’t need to brush away every hair from faces or get rid of every grain of sand on skin. These elements actually add to your photographs, not take away from them.

While we do take some time to get a few more structured shots, the majority of the session is about creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to be themselves. With this in mind, let go of any pressure to get “perfect” images, and instead focus on enjoying the experience with your loved ones.

What to Wear: Comfort Meets Style

When it comes to clothing for a beach session, I always recommend choosing outfits that are comfortable and reflect your family’s style. For a relaxed and elegant look, try to keep things simple and coordinated (but not too matchy-matchy). Soft, neutral colors like whites, beige, and pastel tones work beautifully against the beach backdrop and help your family’s personalities shine through. Avoid overly bright or distracting colors, or big loud prints that might take away from the natural beauty of the setting.

Think light fabrics that flow well in the ocean breeze—dresses, loose tops, and lightweight pants are great choices. For the kids, make sure their clothes are comfortable enough for running around and playing in the sand. And remember, the beach can get a little breezy, so layering options (like a light sweater or jacket) are always a good idea, especially for early spring or late fall sessions.

Timing is Everything: The Best Light at Jacksonville Beach

When it comes to beach photography, the timing of your session is key to capturing that perfect shot. The best time to schedule your family photo session at Jacksonville Beach is during the golden hour—the hour before sunset. This time of day offers the most flattering, soft light, creating a warm, glowing atmosphere that enhances your photos. The golden hour light is gentle and dreamy, allowing for natural, beautifully lit images that feel relaxed and timeless.

Additionally, this time of day tends to be less crowded, giving us a bit more space and privacy to create intimate moments with your family. So, if you want your photos to have that stunning, golden glow, scheduling your session around sunset is the way to go.

Get Ready for Sand, Water, and Fun

If you’re taking family photos on the beach, chances are your little ones will want to dip their toes in the water (and maybe even splash around a bit). That’s perfectly fine! In fact, I encourage you to embrace the messiness of the beach—the sand, the water, and the fun moments that unfold naturally. Don’t worry about sand getting on your clothes or getting a little wet. These are the moments that will make your photos feel truly authentic. I will make sure that water time is done toward the end of your session, once we have all of the “must have” photographs. These candid water moments usually end up being some of my clients favorite images! From siblings splashing each other to finding seashells and sharks teeth, truly getting a chance to enjoy the ocean is what it’s all about.

If you're concerned about the sand or saltwater, bring along some beach towels to wipe off after the session or have a change of clothes ready for after the shoot. But, remember, this is part of the experience—sometimes a little sand between your toes makes for some of the best memories!

Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Finally, the most important thing you can do to prepare for your beach photo session is to relax and enjoy the moment. This is an opportunity to capture your family in a beautiful, natural setting, and I want to make sure it’s an experience that feels enjoyable for everyone. The more relaxed and present you are, the better your photos will turn out. Let go of any stress or nerves and just focus on being together.

As your Jacksonville Beach photographer, my goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the session. I’m here to guide you, capture those special moments, and help you create lasting memories that you’ll treasure forever.

If you’re ready to schedule your family beach session or just want to learn more, feel free to reach out. I can’t wait to help you create beautiful photos that showcase the love and connection your family shares.

take me to the beach!