Are you thinking about having family pictures taken at Holden Beach, Ocean Isle or Bald Head Island? To help you get the most out of this experience, we’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know to prepare. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable session that results in beautiful, memorable photos.
1. Choose the Right Time
Best Lighting
- We will suggest 30 min before sunset or sunrise so that we ensure to get the most beautiful lighting for your images. We know this can be a hard time for littles…we get it, but our experience is that babies and toddlers do better when the light is low and its a bit cooler than when sun is in their eyes. In your welcome box we have tips about how to help your littles shift a bit to this timing.
Avoiding Crowds
- Early in the week is best for avoiding crowds. In addition, if you are willing to go where we suggest, we have some favorite spots that work perfectly. Avoiding the pier and public accesses is typically best.
2. Select Your Outfits
Coordinated Colors
- Harmonize: Choose outfits with complementary colors, such as soft blues, whites, and pastels, which look great against the beach backdrop.
- Avoid Patterns: Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns to keep the focus on your faces and expressions.
Comfort is Key
- We will sit you on the ground!!! So don’t wear short tight dresses, or something too dressy.
- Footwear: Barefoot is a classic choice for beach photos, but bring flip-flops or sandals for comfort before and after the shoot.
3. Pack Essentials
- Hair Accessories: Hair ties, clips, and a brush can help manage hair in windy conditions.
- Water and Snacks: Keep everyone hydrated and happy, especially young children.
4. Prepare the Family
Setting Expectations
- Communicate: Explain to children what to expect to make them feel comfortable and excited.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Encourage a fun and relaxed attitude to capture genuine smiles and interactions.
Rest and Nourishment
- Sleep Well: Its a great idea for everyone to have a nap that day…rested bodies are happy bodies!
- Eat Light: Have a light meal or snack beforehand to keep energy levels up without feeling too full.
6. On the Day of the Session
Arrive On Time
- If we are meeting don’t come early: Arriving too early will mean you will just hang around and wait, and kids get impatient. I would rather you be a few minutes late, then 20 min early (remember the lighting is key)
Stay Flexible
- Embrace Spontaneity: Be open to spontaneous moments and candid shots—these often turn out to be the best!
Conclusion
Your beach photo session is an opportunity to create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. By following these preparation tips, you’ll help ensure the experience is enjoyable and the photos turn out stunning. We can’t wait to capture your family’s special moments at the beach!
Still haven’t scheduled your session for 2024 or 2025? We’d love to work with your family. Click the chat box and we’ll start chatting with you about our process and what to expect and availability .
