I didn’t realize how connected I was to the ocean until I moved to Maine from San Diego, where beach time is a part of daily life and the beauty of a beach sunset was often taken for granted. Lucky for me, Maine has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen.  Now, I spend as much time at the beach as possible. Even in winter you will find me there, actually especially in winter. The magic of winter beaches is one of the biggest surprises of my life. I love them so much. Is it cold? Absolutely, and sometimes windy, but it makes up for it by being gorgeous, a little wild, and peaceful.

It seems like a few years ago, beach photo sessions were everywhere. To the point that I was like, “Oof, this is getting a little predictable.” Here’s the thing, the beach is a wonderful location for family photos, it’s a beautiful backdrop, and lots of fun. I’m also being a little bit selfish here, because if I’m being honest, I’d really just love to spend more time taking photos at one of my favorite places.

I’ve found that even in the most beautiful of locations, being a little prepared, so that you get the most out of your session, is one of the most valuable things that you can do. 

Here are 5 tips for family photo time at the beach - even in winter!

1. Pick a beach you are familiar with, in fact, pick a beach that you love. Feeling comfortable in front of the camera starts with feeling comfortable in your environment. You don’t want to feel stressed and out of your element from the get go. Pick a beach that you actually go to, that you feel happy going to. Your genuine happiness is what I want to capture in your photos, the excitement and fun that your family really experiences in a place that is special to them.

• Need help finding the perfect beach for your photo session? Here’s just one of MANY lists of beautiful places to explore.

• Want to try a little beach hiking/location scouting? Check out the Outdoor Movement Project’s list of beach hikes to try.

2. Pick a time that you know may be less crowded: Beaches are crowded in Summer, this is just how it goes in Maine, but if you are familiar enough with the beach you are going to, you can make a plan to go there at a less busy time. Having said that, some of the best times for photos at the beach are in the evening, during the “golden hour”, that final hour and a half just before sunset. If you play your cards right, by the time golden hour hits, the crowds have begun to thin out. 

3. Check the tide charts: Beaches can change dramatically with the tides. During high tide, your big expansive beach can turn into a tiny sliver with crashing waves. So, make sure to at least look at the tide charts to be prepared for the conditions. 

4. Bring your beach bag: Time gets a little bit slippery at the beach, it is magical and soothing, but every time I plan for a quick hour out in the sun and sand, I end up spending three. Pack a beach bag with all the usual suspects: snacks, water, a brush, towels. You may just be going for beach photos, but prepare as if you are going to the beach like any other time.  Pack extra clothes…I know it’s a lot getting everyone ready for photos in even one outfit, but you may want to bring a backup or just bring your swimsuits and prepare to relax and have fun. Bring your beach stuff! You will probably need it. 

5. Book your session in advance: Everything that goes into making your photo session a fun and memorable event can take a little bit of time.  Even if summer feels a million years away, it will be here sooner than you realize! Once my schedule starts to fill up, booking a session last minute can be really challenging. Do yourself a favor and message me now to get on my books!