How to Prepare for Beach Family Photos

mom wearing a white dress holding and kissing baby on the bead in the water at Virginia Beach

Planning a beach family photos can feel a bit like wrangling seagulls with a net—especially with little ones in tow—but I promise it doesn’t have to be stressful. As a longtime family photographer and coastal-loving mama, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a session feel easy-breezy (and what can turn into a sandy meltdown).

Whether you’re planning your first photo session or just want your next one to feel a little more relaxed, here are ten helpful tips to help you prepare for stunning, joy-filled Virginia Beach family photos.

Time it right for golden hour magic

The lighting at the beach can be gorgeous—or harsh, depending on when you go. Aim for sunrise or an hour before sunset to get that dreamy golden light that flatters every skin tone and adds a warm, ethereal glow to your Virginia Beach family photos. Bonus: an early morning session often means fewer crowds and cooler temps, especially in the summer.

Pick the right part of the beach

Not all beaches are created equal! Virginia Beach offers a variety of vibes, from the peaceful dunes at Sandbridge to the lively boardwalk area. For a more serene, natural look, I love North Beach, with its sage grasses, soft dunes, and wide-open sandy stretches. Talk to your photographer about what you’re envisioning, and they can guide you to the perfect location.

Dress for comfort and style

Outfits matter—but not as much as you think. You don’t need to match perfectly; coordinating colors (think neutrals, soft blues, and earth tones) work beautifully with the beach palette. Start with mom’s outfit and build from there. Light, breathable fabrics are your friend, and barefoot is always a beachy win. No one wants to wrestle with heels in the sand!

Blankets, baskets, and beachy props

You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy picnic setup, but having a soft blanket to sit on can be a game-changer—especially with little ones. Consider bringing a neutral-colored quilt, a straw basket, or even a favorite book or toy. Props can help everyone feel more relaxed and give those hands something to do during candid shots.

Skip the shoes (or choose wisely)

Shoes and sand just don’t mix well. Bare feet keep things natural and comfortable. If you’d prefer something on your feet, go for sandals or easy slip-ons that can be taken off quickly. Little details like this help keep the flow of the session smooth and stress-free.

Pack your beach bag with intention

Bring the essentials: baby wipes, water, snacks, a hairbrush, bug spray, and maybe a bribe-worthy treat for the kiddos (no shame!). If it’s a windy day, a clip or headband can help tame flyaways. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed you’ll feel—and that calm translates to beautiful, connected photos.

Prep the family ahead of time

Talk to your kids (and your partner!) about what to expect. Let them know it’ll be fun, that there may be a little walking, and that smiles don’t have to be forced. Keeping expectations light helps everyone arrive in a better mood. And please—don’t stress if your toddler has a meltdown. Some of the best moments come from just letting it be real.

Think beyond the session: how will you display your images?

When you’re prepping for your session, think about your home, too. Where do you want your images to live? Are you dreaming of a gallery wall in the hallway or a statement piece over the fireplace? Planning with this in mind helps your photographer guide you through poses and composition. Virginia Beach family photos are more than just a session—they’re heirlooms in the making.

Let go of perfect—and embrace connection

The beach is wild and wonderful—sand will fly, waves will crash, and kids will wander. And that’s okay. The goal isn’t to capture perfection, it’s to capture you. The snuggles, the giggles, the wind-blown hair and sandy toes. The more you relax into the moment, the more your photos will reflect the magic of your family just as you are.

family playing in the water during sunset at Virginia Beach

Ready to plan your own Beach family photo session?

If you’re dreaming of joyful, relaxed images that reflect your family just as you are—salty breeze, sandy toes, and all—I’d be honored to help you bring that vision to life. Whether it’s your first beach session or a beloved yearly tradition, I’ll walk you through every detail—from what to wear and how to prep the kids to choosing the perfect shoreline and chasing golden light.

You can explore my full family portrait experience, peek through recent sessions, or dive into more helpful planning tips to get inspired. When you’re ready, let’s make some memories—and maybe a little magic, too!

Hugs,

Shannon