How to Prepare for Your Beach Photo Session

There is something magical about beach sessions. The sound of the waves, the warm sand, the salty air, and the beautiful sunset light all come together to create timeless images full of connection and emotion. Beach sessions are some of my absolute favorite sessions to photograph, and with just a little preparation, they can be a fun and stress-free experience for the whole family.

Whether this is your first professional photo session or you’re a seasoned pro, here are some of my favorite tips to help you prepare.

Don’t Stress About Perfection

The most important thing to remember is that your session is about your family—not perfect smiles, perfect poses, or perfect behavior.

Children are meant to play, explore, laugh, and sometimes even get a little sandy. Some of the most beautiful images happen during those unscripted moments. I will guide you throughout the session and help with posing, but my goal is always to capture genuine connection and authentic moments.

Trust the process.

What to Bring

A few simple items can make your session much more comfortable:

Water

Especially during the summer months, it can still be warm when we begin our session. Bring water for everyone, particularly little ones.

Small Snacks

If you have younger children, a quick snack can be a lifesaver. Think simple, non-messy options that won’t stain clothing or leave colorful residue around mouths and hands.

Bug Spray

Depending on the location and time of year, bugs can occasionally make an appearance near dunes, marshes, or bay-side areas. If you’re sensitive to bugs, it’s always a good idea to bring some along.

A Blanket

A neutral blanket can serve several purposes:

• A place to sit comfortably in the sand
• A cozy wrap if it gets breezy after sunset
• A beautiful prop that adds texture and warmth to your images

Chunky knit blankets, linen throws, and neutral woven blankets photograph beautifully.

Hair Brush & Touch-Up Items

Bring a brush, lipstick, powder, or anything you might want for a quick touch-up before we start.

A Towel

Especially if you or the little ones decide to explore the water at the end of our session!

What Should We Wear?

This is probably the number one question I receive.

My biggest advice is to coordinate, not match.

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same. Instead, choose colors that complement one another while allowing everyone to have their own style.

Colors I Love for Beach Sessions

I will always love soft neutrals and pastels because they create a timeless, airy look.

Some beautiful neutral combinations include:

• Ivory + cream + tan + soft blue
• White + beige + sage green
• Soft blush + ivory + light gray
• Dusty blue + cream + oatmeal

Lately, I’ve also been loving richer jewel tones paired with neutrals.

Some stunning combinations include:

• Burnt orange + blue or chambray + cream
• Rust + denim blue + ivory
• Deep teal + camel + beige
• Olive green + cream + soft blue or blush
• Terracotta + neutral linen tones

These colors photograph beautifully against the beach landscape and add depth and warmth without overwhelming the natural scenery.

A Few Things to Avoid

While there are always exceptions, I generally recommend avoiding:

• Neon colors
• Large logos
• Busy patterns
• Athletic sneakers
• Matching everyone exactly

The goal is for your family to be the focus—not the clothing.

Dress for Movement

Beach sessions are active.

We’ll walk, play, snuggle, twirl, run, and explore. Choose clothing that allows you to move comfortably and naturally.

For women, flowy dresses often photograph beautifully because they catch the breeze and create movement.

For children, clothing that allows them to run and play comfortably is always best.

Timing Matters

Many families are surprised when I recommend scheduling sessions close to sunset.

The reason is simple: light.

The hour before sunset provides the soft, dreamy light that creates those beautiful beach images you see throughout my portfolio.

While I can photograph earlier in the evening, the closer we get to sunset, the softer and more flattering the light becomes.

Trust me—it’s worth staying up a little later for those magical skies.

Let the Kids Be Kids

One of the biggest concerns parents have is whether their children will cooperate.

The truth is, I don’t expect children to stand perfectly still and smile at the camera for an hour.

Some of my favorite photographs happen when children are:

• Running through the sand
• Collecting shells
• Snuggling with mom
• Laughing with dad
• Exploring the shoreline

The less pressure everyone feels, the more natural your images will be.

Don’t Be Afraid of Bare Feet

The beach is one of the few places where bare feet almost always photograph best.

Most families end up kicking off their shoes before we even begin. Bare feet create a relaxed, natural look that perfectly fits the environment.

Need Help With Outfits?

If you haven’t chosen outfits yet, I would love to help.

I am happy to create a complimentary style board for your family. Simply send me:

• The ages of the children
• The colors you’re leaning toward
• Any outfits you’re considering

You can even text or email me screenshots, links, or photos of clothing you’re thinking about purchasing or already have. I’m always happy to offer suggestions and help pull everything together.

Most Importantly—Have Fun

Your beach session should feel like a fun evening spent with the people you love most.

Come ready to play, laugh, cuddle, explore, and enjoy the experience. I’ll take care of the rest.

I cannot wait to meet your family and create beautiful memories together on the beach.

See you at sunset!

This would be excellent for your website and also works as a resource you can link to in your beach-session email.