Thinking about booking a family beach session during your trip to the coast, or finally updating that framed photo from five years ago? For locals or families visiting our little corner of paradise, a beach session is one of the most fun (and stunning) ways to celebrate your crew!
Here are 5 simple tips to help you get the most out of your beach portraits, so you’ll walk away with photos you actually want to hang on the wall.
1. Pick the Right Time of Day
Beach light is beautiful… but also unforgiving if you go at the wrong time. The best time for family portraits is golden hour, which is either right after sunrise or just before sunset.
At this time of day the light is softer, the beach is cooler, and there are fewer people around. If your kids are early risers, go for sunrise and then grab pancakes after! If your crew does better in the evening, sunset is your friend. Just don’t try to do this at 2pm in the middle of July and expect miracles.
Important tip: Sunset is by far the most popular time for beach sessions. Just know it books up fast, especially during tourist season!
Photo by Crystal Lee Photography 
Photo by Crystal Lee Photography
2. Eat First. Seriously.
Please don’t show up hangry. (Lookin’ at you, Dad.) Pack a snack or plan an early dinner, but make sure everyone has a full belly before you hit the sand! Sunsets in peak summer are near 8:00-8:30pm, which means sessions typically start pretty late in the evening.
No one wants to smile through stomach growls, and you’ll have way more patience for the process if you’re not thinking about tacos the whole time. (And yes, you can still go out for ice cream after.)
3. Dress for the Breeze (and the Sand)
You don’t need to match perfectly (no pressure for the whole family to wear white shirts and khaki pants, we promise), but you do want outfits that feel cohesive and work with the beach tones. Choose colors that work well together and outfits that you’re comfortable moving in.
Here are a few quick tips:
- Stick to soft, natural colors: think light blue, cream, blush, sage, or even rust.
- Avoid loud logos, neon colors, or super-busy patterns.
- Flowing dresses and linen shirts look great in the breeze.
- Plan for bare feet, heels and sand don’t mix!
Need outfit inspiration? Many photographers offer styling help or even client closet access!
Photo by Middle Child Photography 
Photo by Hannah Ruth Photography
4. Think Ahead (Just a Little)
A few small steps can make your session smoother:
- Pack wipes, tissues, and a hairbrush just in case.
- Bring a towel in the car and maybe a change of clothes for the kids.
- Hydrate beforehand and maybe skip the chocolate ice cream until after the shoot.
And pro tip: make sure everyone’s well-fed before you arrive. Hangry kids (and adults) are not here for your portrait dreams. (Yes, this is worth repeating!)
5. Choose a Photographer Who Knows the Area
Not all beaches are created equal, and not every photographer understands how to work with salty air, sandy feet, and changing tides. When you book a professional who lives and works in the area, you’re getting more than pretty photos—you’re getting their expertise on the best spots, the best light, and how to handle whatever the coast throws your way.
Bonus? Every photographer featured on our directory is a legal, vetted pro—so you can book with confidence.
Photo by Splash Studio Photography 
Photo by Michele Coleman Photography
6. Let Go of Perfection
Your job is not to make everyone behave. Your job is to show up, be together, and let your photographer do the rest. Don’t stress over the toddler who refuses to smile or the wind that won’t quit.
The best beach portraits often come from natural connection and movement, like a toddler running to hug your leg, or everyone laughing during a silly moment. Let the kids be kids, and celebrate who your family is in the exact moment in time!
Your photographer will help guide you into relaxed poses, but don’t be afraid to get a little sandy, play tag, or twirl in the surf. The joy makes the magic.
Ready to Book Your Family Beach Session?
Whether you’re looking for something playful and candid or more posed and classic, we’ve got a photographer who fits your vision. Browse our curated list of Myrtle Beach photographers and find your perfect match today!
