Pro Tips on Family Beach Photos from our Destin Photographers
Sit back, Relax and let our photographers in Destin FL show you why we are the premier choice Destin photographer for family photos
Welcome to the beautiful shores of Destin, Florida, where the sun sets over emerald waters and white sands create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family portraits. At Destin Beach Photography Company, we specialize in capturing these magical moments for families and large groups. Our experienced Destin photographers are here to share some pro tips to help you make the most of your beach photography session.
Choose the Right Time of Day
When planning a family photo session in Destin, choosing the right time of day is just as important as selecting the perfect photographer. Destin photographers know that lighting plays a crucial role in capturing breathtaking beach portraits. The best time for family photos is during the golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. These times provide soft, warm lighting that enhances skin tones, reduces harsh shadows, and creates a beautiful, glowing backdrop with the Gulf Coast’s stunning turquoise waters and white sand.
Morning sessions, typically scheduled shortly after sunrise, are ideal for families with young children. The beach is quieter, the temperatures are cooler, and the lighting is soft and flattering. Evening sessions, scheduled an hour before sunset, are another popular choice among Destin photographers. The sunset’s warm hues create a magical atmosphere, and the gentle Gulf breeze adds a natural, effortless touch to your family portraits. While midday might seem convenient, the harsh overhead sun can create unflattering shadows and cause squinting, which is why experienced photographers avoid scheduling sessions during peak sunlight hours.
We highly recommend browsing through our galleries to reference sunrise vs. the golden hour (evening). Also consider you family members preference as well. Some littles do better during the morning vs. after a long beach day. Whichever timing works for your family our photographers in Destin Fl are available!
Make sure to check out our Evening Family Photo gallery and our Sunrise Photoshoot Gallery!
What to Wear for Family Beach Photos
Choosing the right outfits is crucial for your beach photos. We suggest coordinating colors but avoiding matching too perfectly. Soft pastels, whites, and light blues complement the natural beach setting and help create a cohesive look without being overly uniform. Remember to choose light, airy fabrics that move well and can catch the gentle sea breeze for a dynamic shot.
Our Pro Destin photographers have complied 16 tips on what to wear for family beach photos! It’s a great read with a ton of helpful tips to be prepared for your family’s session.
Use Natural Props
Destin’s natural beauty offers a variety of props that can enhance your family portraits. A simple starfish, a beach blanket, or a straw hat can add a fun and relaxed element to your photos. Our photographers are skilled at incorporating the natural environment into your session, ensuring that every shot is unique and personal.
Although it is BYOP (Bring your own prop), we encourage you to bring whatever you desire. A few creative examples would be:
- Balloon for a birthday Shoot and/orWooden Number
- Sonogram Photo for Maternity Photos and/or an article of baby clothing
- Graduation Cap and Grown and/or Hobby props such as football or Instrument
- A sign or message in a bottle for a Surprise Proposal
The Best Beach Photography Location
While the beach is a beautiful setting, it’s important to consider your background carefully. Our photographers in Destin, FL, are experts at finding the perfect spot where the background enhances the shot rather than detracts from it. Avoid overly crowded areas or places with boats or surfers in the background. Instead, we find spots where the waves, sky, and sand complement your family’s portraits.
Our Beach photoshoots are conducted at Henderson State Park. It’s a versatile site with plenty of parking, handicap accessibility and onsite restrooms. We have been using this particular location for over 16 years and have photographed thousands of satisfied clients. Needless to say, it’s a great locations for family photos.
Final Thought from our Photographers in Destin Fl
Relax and have fun! Perhaps the most important tip is to relax and enjoy the experience. Beach photography should be fun and stress-free. Play with your kids, interact with each other, and let our photographers capture those candid, joyful moments. These natural, spontaneous shots often turn out to be the favorites.
If you’re looking for professional Destin photographers to capture unforgettable moments, timing is key. Whether you prefer a peaceful sunrise session or a golden sunset backdrop, choosing the best time of day ensures your family photos turn out beautifully. Book your session with a trusted Destin photographer to make the most of your beach portraits and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Took Amazing Photos
Let us show you why we are the premier choice for family beach portraits in Destin.
