I absolutely love capturing family sessions on our florida beaches and have been lucky enough to capture over 300 families. below are some tips that I have found helpful.

Timing: Schedule your session on a weekday during golden hour, either just after sunrise or before sunset. This will give us the most beautiful lighting for your photos and avoid the weekend crowds.

Extended Family: The more the merrier! Include grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and whoever else you want! Any larger groupings such as this are scheduled for 1.5-2 hours to ensure that we have plenty of time to capture all of your groupings and candid moments.

Clothing: Choose outfits that coordinate well without being overly matching. Light, breathable fabrics in beach-friendly colors work best. Avoid busy patterns or logos that can be distracting. I am always happy to help you choose!

Essential items: Don't forget to pack sunscreen, water, snacks and towels. Portable fans are great for those hot summer days!

Embrace the environment: Encourage your family to enjoy the beach experience fully. Candid moments of laughter, playing in the sand, or splashing in the waves make for memorable photos.

Poses and composition: We'll work together on a mix of posed and candid shots. I'll guide you with flattering poses and compositions that showcase the beach environment beautifully.

Relax and have fun: Remember, this session is about capturing precious memories. Stay relaxed, enjoy the moment, and let your natural interactions shine through. A happy and relaxed family makes for stunning photographs.

Expect the unexpected: Weather and tides can change quickly at the beach. Embrace any unexpected elements as they can add a unique touch to your photos.

Communication: Feel free to share your vision, ideas, and any specific shots you have in mind. I'm here to listen and make your vision come to life. Good communication ensures we're all on the same page. I will be in constant communication with you, helping you choose the best location for your group, check in with you a week prior to your session date, and 24 hours prior.

I look forward to working with you and capturing beautiful moments of your family at the beach. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience and create lasting memories.

MY FAVORITE BEACH LOCATIONS

Anna Maria Island - This island is the perfect backdrop for portrait sessions. There are two locations on the island that have a mix of greenery, dunes and perfect views of the Gulf of Mexico. Bean Point and Holmes Beach.

Fort De Soto Beach - One of my personal favorite beaches in Pinellas county, this park is filled with wildlife, dunes, trails, fields and so much more to explore during your session. If you are worried about a crowd or parking, this location is always secluded.

Treasure Island - A small, but beautiful beach with a rock jetty and boardwalks. A perfect location for families with little ones. Schedule a morning session, pack a picnic and enjoy the shaded pavilion, restroom close by and a playground.