Beach Family Portraits Guide: How to Embrace the Magic (and the Mess!)

Imagine this: waves crawling up the shore, little toes covered in warm sand, the wind tousling everyone’s hair just right. The sun dips lower and lower, casting a soft golden glow over squealing kids running toward the water. It’s dreamy, it’s real, and yes – it’s exactly where some of the most treasured family portraits are made.

One evening, I photographed a family of four who completely stole my heart. Their connection? So pure, so playful. The kids – around four and six years old – held hands and played in the sand like they were starring in their own movie. The parents were right there with them, laughing, chasing, holding hands. It was all joy, all love, all unscripted. I still smile thinking about that session because what we captured wasn’t just photos – it was memory, suspended in time.

If you’ve been thinking about scheduling beach family portraits but feel unsure about logistics, sunlight, or how to keep the kiddos interested, I get it. But I promise, with a little planning and a big dose of letting go, beach photos can be more than beautiful – they can be meaningful.

Embracing the Beach Vibes (Even When the Wind Picks Up)

Let’s be honest. Beach sessions are not studio sessions. There are no ceilings, no backdrops, no temperature control. And thank goodness for that. The unpredictable nature of the beach – ocean wind, salty air, sometimes sand in your snack bag – is also what makes the moments real.

My approach? I like to start with some relaxed portraits to make sure we have those classic images. Then, I invite everyone to play. That’s when the good stuff happens. Wiggles become twirls. A simple prompt to “run from the waves!” turns into a burst of laughter. I might suggest things like:

• Writing your names in the sand
• Holding hands and dancing Tidepool-style
• Digging with your toes
• Just being YOU

Because when kids are free to be kids and parents are relaxed enough to join them, we create the kind of magic that’s worth framing forever.

Tips to Make Your Beach Family Portraits a Breeze

1. Wardrobe Magic: What to Wear (And What to Skip)

One of the most common questions I get is what to wear for beach portraits. I’ve put together a full style guide and even made an Amazon list to help guide your choices, but here’s a quick snapshot:

• Stick with light, neutral colors or pastels
• Flowy dresses work beautifully (and photograph like a dream in the wind)
• No jeans, no busy patterns, and definitely not all matching
• Think solid colors that complement each other rather than “matching outfits”
• Barefoot or sandals – we’re in the sand after all!

I love when everyone looks coordinated without being identical. That beach breeze loves soft fabrics, so let your wardrobe dance with the wind.

2. Timing is Everything: Why Golden Hour Rules

For light that flatters every skin tone and gives that soft, glowy wraparound warmth, golden hour is our best friend. That’s the hour right after sunrise or right before sunset.

Afternoon sun can be harsh, and nothing makes little ones squintier than midday sunshine. A beach at golden hour? It’s like nature’s diffuser. Everything looks more magical.

3. Expect Some Chaos, and That’s Okay

Let’s skip perfection. Real moments are better than perfect ones. Sometimes the wind is wild, sometimes kids have their own ideas. That’s part of it.

I always say: let’s get a few “smile at the camera” shots, and then let’s get sandy. The freedom to play – without the pressure of a pose – leads to real laughter, genuine smiles, and candid memories.

Bring snacks, bring a towel, and bring patience. I can work with wind, I can work with a moody toddler, and I can definitely capture beauty in the unpredictable.

Why Beach Sessions Matter (Even After We Leave the Sand)

That heartful session I mentioned at the beginning? I still find myself drawn to their images. Not just because they were photogenic or the sunset was perfect – but because you could feel the love. Nothing felt forced.

Beach family portraits aren’t just about the setting. They’re about the space to be yourselves in one of the most naturally beautiful places. Whether your kids are just big enough to waddle through the tide or are already racing you to the next shell, these are the moments worth holding onto.

Let’s celebrate your family story – sandy hair, salty smiles, and all.

Ready to Book Your Family Beach Session?

If you’re dreaming of family photos on the beach, I’d love to help make that happen. I’ll send you my full style guide, amazon store, help you prep every step of the way, and make sure the session reflects the heart of your family.

Get in touch through my terialinaphotography.com/contact to book your beach family portrait session.

And remember – the best photos happen when we let go of the perfect and lean right into the present.

See you by the waves.