Family Portraits at the Beach | Salisbury Beach Family Photographer

Family Portraits at the Beach | Salisbury Beach Family Photographer

Life With Kids, Sessions

Have you been thinking about doing a Family Portrait Session at the beach?

You love the idea of the sand and the water and the sunset coming together. You love the idea of your family frolicking on the beach.

The way the sun hits the water late in the day can create the most gorgeous glow. The sound of the waves, the bells on the jetty sounding their warning, and the background sound of gulls create a symphony.

Beach sessions can create a carefree ambience unlike anything else.

Parents and children sit on the sand at the beach

I have photographed dozens of sessions at the beach over the last 18 years. Beach sessions can be awesome, but expectations are everything when planning a family portrait session that meets your needs.

Here are some things that you need to consider when planning a beach session.

1. We shoot about 75 minute before sunset.

This is the time to get the best light and the least amount of people in the way. Depending on the time of year, this might fall at your kids’ bedtimes or during dinner. If your children’s routine does not allow for flexibility, consider scheduling a morning session with me in the spring or fall at a park.

2. It might be windy and sandy.

Keep that in mind when choosing wardrobe and styling hair. If your children have never experienced sand in their toes, your portrait session is not the first time that they should have their feet touch the sand.

3. There might be dogs running loose.

A lot of beaches allow dogs off leash after 6 pm. If you choose to bring your dog, we will keep your dog on a leash, and you should have a friend or family member come to handle the dog.

4. There might be a parking fee, even after 6 pm.

We will look ahead and check. If there is a parking fee, the client is responsible for parking fees for the photographer.

5. Your kids will want to go in the water.

Think about their age and their ability to follow directions. Be prepared for them to get dirty and wet at the end. Please bring a change of clothes if you have to drive home.

6. Beach sessions can be booked from May 15-September 15.

Any earlier or later can be too cold or windy.

7. Know your greenhead weeks.

Each beach in New England has a “DO NOT GO TO THE BEACH” week or two when the green heads will zap and sting and bite. There is nothing more miserable than getting it by flies during a session. That can quickly end the fun.

A family walks hand in hand on the beach

I absolutely love to do sessions at the beach. There is something magical about the ocean! Family beach sessions are meant to be carefree and fun. As long as everyone in the family knows what to expect, it can be one of your favorite sessions ever!