The Ultimate Jacksonville Family Photography Guide
Everything You Need to Know to Plan a Beautiful,
Stress-Free Family Photo Session
Hey there, I’m Tracy — your Jacksonville family photographer and your unofficial chaos coordinator. I specialize in beautiful, joy-filled photo sessions for families who love deeply, laugh loudly, and maybe show up to picture day with snack crumbs on their shirts (no judgment, I promise).
If the idea of wrangling everyone for a photo feels a little overwhelming—I totally get it. I’m a mom too, and I know that getting in front of the camera can feel like a lot. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be. This guide is your go-to resource for making the whole experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and dare I say… actually fun?
Whether this is your first time or your fifth, I’ve got your back. From what to wear to how to keep the kids smiling, we’ll walk through it all together—so you end up with images you adore and memories that last way longer than the snack bribes it took to get them.
When to Book Your Jacksonville Family Photographer
The best time to reach out and book your session? As soon as you think, “We really need new family photos.” Ideally, that’s 2–3 months in advance, especially during the busy fall and holiday seasons when weekend spots book quickly. Planning ahead ensures you get your preferred date and plenty of time to coordinate outfits, plan location details, and build excitement instead of stress.
I take on a limited number of sessions each month to give every client a fully personalized experience. You’re not just another appointment on my calendar, you’re a family whose story matters. So, the earlier you book, the more flexibility we have to tailor your session to your family's unique needs, rhythms, and personalities.
Tip:
Fall and spring are the most popular seasons thanks to NE Florida’s weather (you know: hot, hotter, hottest and fall). Weekend dates in October, November, March and April are in the most demand and book out the fastest. Looking to schedule a last minute session? A week day evening may give you a better chance of booking with the photographer that you want.
If you’re booking an extended family session around the winter or summer holidays, try to schedule at least 2-3 months in advance. This way, everyone has enough time to coordinate travel schedules, plan outfits across all family groups, and to make sure everyone in the family has a chance to prepare.
Outdoor sessions typically take place 1 hour before sunset. It’s important to keep this in mind if you have a child that has a strict bedtime and isn’t flexible (it’s me, I used to have that kid!). I find that most children are able to stay up a little later if needed for a late summer sunset.
The Best Jacksonville Locations for Family Photography
Choosing the right location sets the tone for your entire session. Are you a barefoot-on-the-beach kind of family? Do your kids light up in wide open nature spaces? Or maybe you prefer a more classic, clean studio look. Here are my top three recommendations:
North Beach at Guana Preserve
This spot is a coastal gem—quiet, scenic, and full of natural beauty. The beautiful sand dunes that line the shore make a gorgeous background for photographs, and there is a nice, wide beach area. The beach here is less crowded than others in Jacksonville, which means fewer distractions and a more peaceful experience. Think golden light reflecting off the waves, sandy toes, and authentic joy. This location can only be booked for sunset sessions.
Why it's great:
Stunning golden light at sunset, with beautiful grassy dunes
Less busy than the bigger, more well known beach access points
No city noise or buildings, just sand dunes and rolling waves
Pro tip: Dress in light, monochromatic neutral tones for an elevated beach look. Pastels can bring softness to the sand and sunset skies. And bolder colors can add a pop of contrast to the beach scene.
Fun tip: Want to make a night of it after your session and take the family out afterwards to celebrate? Valley Smoke is one of my favorite Ponte Vedra restaurants that’s close to this location. Interested in just getting a quick treat? Try Flo’s for the yummiest ice cream this side of the ICW.
Alpine Groves Park
Located along the river in St. Johns County, Alpine Groves Park offers tall lives oak trees, dreamy Spanish moss, wide-open grass, and a rustic dock overlooking the river. It’s perfect if you want that charming, Southern feel to your family photographs. Bonus - this location can be booked for sunrise or sunset, depending on your family’s schedule.
Why it's great:
Lots of variety in one spot: trees, large grassy area, and water views
Ideal for families who don’t want photos on the beach
This park the best combination of manicured space without being too stuffy
Easy parking and restrooms (parents, rejoice!)
Pro tip: If you want to utilize the pier for photographs on the water, then your session should be schedule just after sunrise to get pretty, pastel tones over the river.
Fun tip: Looking to celebrate a job well done and fill everyone’s tummy’s after your session? Bella Vista is one of my family’s favorite restaurants and it’s right up the road from Alpine Groves Park. Looking for something a little more casual? The locally famous V Pizza has an outpost nearby in Mandarin.
Natural Light Studio Sessions
Studio sessions are perfect for those hot (or rainy) summer days, when you need a session during the mid-day hours, or when you want a crisp, minimalist aesthetic. My studio space offers an easy, controlled environment with beautiful soft light and white walls. This is a great choice for families with anyone who prefers air-conditioning and fewer variables. Studio sessions can be booked throughout the day, and can be a great option for families that have strict nap and bedtime schedules.
Why it's great:
Weather-proof and kid-friendly
Clean, modern background that keeps the focus on you
Option to include simple props, rugs, or personal touches
Pro tip: Consider bringing a second outfit for variety. This space works beautifully for cozy, intimate portraits.
Fun tip: Want to reward the kids (and yourself) with the most insane milkshakes you’ve ever seen? It’s a quick ride to The Yard Milkshake Bar from the studio.
Bonus Location - Fort Clinch
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Fort Clinch is 100% worth it. Located in charming Fernandina Beach, this location gives you the best of both worlds—towering live oak trees with Spanish moss and a scenic beach just a short walk away. The road leading into the fort might be my absolute favorite ever. It’s what my kids used to call a “tree tunnel” when they were little. If you want to maximize the variety of your photographs, this place is the best.
Why it's great:
Beautiful variety in one session: historic fort, mossy trees, and beach access
A peaceful, unique backdrop that feels like an adventure
Great for families who want something a little extra special and don’t mind a mini road trip
Pro tip: Due to the towering, moss covered trees, these sessions should be scheduled 1.5 hours before sunset. Make sure to bring a pair of flats for the walk between the two locations.
Fun tip: Fernandina Beach is an absolutely charming town and a perfect place to grab a bite to eat or sweet treat afterwards as a reward. And I’m convinced there’s nothing sweeter than strolling their adorable shop lined streets at dusk, with an ice cream in hand, and your family by your side.
What to Wear for Family Photos
Wardrobe stress? Not here. Styling is part of the experience when you book with me. I offer everything from light guidance with color palettes to complete, shoppable style boards built around your family’s vibe, season, and location.
My Styling Approach
Start with mom: If you feel great, it sets the tone. Choose something that fits well, moves nicely, and feels like you.
Build from there: Coordinate, don’t match. Stick to 3-4 colors with soft contrast and mix in textures like linen, cotton, denim, and knits.
Think timeless: Avoid logos, neon, or trendy prints that may date your images in a year.
Tips for Each Family Member
Mom: Midi or maxi dresses in neutral tones, simple jewelry, and soft hair/makeup photograph beautifully.
Dad: Fitted chinos or jeans, rolled sleeves, henley shirts or casual button-downs in earth tones.
Kids: Comfortable is key. Choose clothes they won’t tug at or want to take off. Layers like cardigans or suspenders are great for depth.
Babies: Rompers, knits, and barefoot looks are always sweet. I also recommend neutral swaddles or simple onesies.
Shopping Support
Not into shopping? I’ll do it for you. I can source outfits for the entire family and send a style board with clickable links. Easy, no stress, and beautifully coordinated.