How to Prepare for Your Family Photo Session at Cocoa Beach or Port Canaveral
Whether you’re visiting Florida’s beautiful Space Coast or a local who wants to capture stunning memories with your family, a photo session at Cocoa Beach or Port Canaveral is the perfect way to create timeless, beachside memories. To ensure your session is a success, it’s important to be well-prepared, from choosing the best time of day to styling your outfits.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your family session:
1. Schedule Your Session During Golden Hour
One of the most magical times for photography at the beach is during golden hour—the hour just after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, golden light during this time creates flattering skin tones and adds a dreamy glow to your photos. Plus, beach crowds are usually thinner, allowing for a more relaxed, intimate session.
Why Golden Hour?
- Soft, warm lighting is more flattering than harsh midday sun.
- Beautiful, natural backdrops with stunning sky colors.
- Cooler temperatures make the session more comfortable.
Whether you choose a 30-minute quick session or a slower-paced 1-hour session, shooting during golden hour ensures that your family will look their best while enjoying the calming coastal vibes.
2. Styling for Your Beach Session
What you wear to your session can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your photos. I offer personalized styling guidance to help you choose outfits that complement the beach environment, ensuring your family looks cohesive and natural in every shot.
Styling Tips:
- Opt for Light, Airy Colors: Whites, pastels, and soft neutrals like beige and light blue look beautiful against the sand and sea. Avoid dark or neon colors, which can be too harsh for the setting.
- Add Texture and Layers: Flowing dresses, linen shirts, and textured fabrics add movement and depth to your photos. Avoid busy patterns, but small, subtle prints can work well.
- Comfort is Key: Especially for younger children, make sure everyone feels comfortable in their outfits. The beach can be breezy, so flowy clothes allow for beautiful movement but be mindful of the wind!
If you’re unsure about what to wear, I’m here to help. We can work together to style your session, so everyone looks their best and feels confident.
3. Choose the Right Session Length
I offer two session options to fit your family’s needs: 30-minute quick sessions and 1-hour slower-paced sessions.
- 30-Minute Quick Session: Perfect if you want to capture a few stunning shots without a long time commitment. These sessions are great for families with young children who might not have the patience for a longer session.
- 1-Hour Slower-Paced Session: If you prefer a more relaxed experience with time for multiple poses, candid moments, and perhaps even a wardrobe change, the 1-hour session is ideal. This allows us to move around the location, capturing a variety of settings and moments.
4. Plan Around the Elements
Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral are stunning, but the weather can sometimes be unpredictable. Keep the following in mind when planning your session:
- Wind: Beach sessions often come with breezy conditions. Embrace the natural look of wind-swept hair, but consider bringing hair bows or clips for a more polished look. Braids also look great and add texture!
- Footwear: While barefoot photos are a classic beach vibe, if you prefer shoes, opt for sandals or neutral-colored footwear that won’t distract from the natural beauty of the beach.
- Sunscreen: Be sure to apply sunscreen before your session, but avoid heavy or greasy sunscreens that might affect your skin’s appearance in the photos.
5. Bring the Essentials
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially for evening sessions.
- Towels and Extra Clothes: If your kids (or you!) want to splash in the water for some fun shots, towels and a change of clothes will keep everyone dry and comfortable afterward.
- Snacks: For younger children, a quick snack can help keep them energized and happy during the session. Marshmallows are a favorite as they are not messy and easy to hide in photos!
6. Have Fun and Be Yourself
The best photos come when your family is relaxed and having fun. Don’t worry about posing perfectly—natural moments make for the most beautiful shots. Whether it’s your kids running along the shoreline, splashing in the waves, or everyone cuddling together on a beach blanket, your session will capture the real essence of your family.
Ready to book your golden hour beach session? Whether you’re looking for a quick 30-minute session or a more in-depth 1-hour experience, I’m here to help capture these precious moments. Contact me today to schedule your family’s Cocoa Beach or Port Canaveral photo session!
