Beach Sessions
The best beach sessions are done either at sunrise, or an hour before sunset. One outfit change is allowed, but please keep in mind that some beaches do not have the facilities that would allow a change to occur.
Hair & Sweat
Props
Upon request, I do have a few props that I will be happy to bring with me to our session. When you call to book the session, please mention that you would interested in props, and I will discuss the details with you.
Some children do better if they are holding something in their tiny hands. If you have a toy, or a prop, that you would like to provide for them, please do.
You are also more than welcome to bring props for any kind of beach session, such as ... surf boards, beach balls, furniture, etc. Let your imagination be your guide. If you would like to discuss ideas, feel free to give me a call!
Long hair is gorgeous, and I'm a big fan of my own. Unfortunately, it never fails that the way I need to face the camera for proper light exposure, is not the best way for the wind.
The average wind speed at the beach is about 10 to 15 miles per hour. If you would like to leave your hair down during the shoot, it is best to use hairspray, even if you are not a hairspray user. You may consider bringing it with you to the session. Even if the water looks calm, the wind is still blowing.
As your photographer, I will keep an eye on your hair and try my best to help, but this takes time from our session. I will also edit out any little fly away strands.
Bring yourself a small towel to blot away any sweat that might form. Sweat does show up in photos, so we need to stop it in its tracks.
Sunglasses & Transition Lenses
Sunglasses are not needed during your session, so please consider not wearing them. In the past, they have proven to be a constant bother with taking them off and on, and trying to keep up with them so that they don't get lost in the sand. If you do wear them, please be prepared to keep them out of the shots.
Transition lenses become very dark in the sunlight, especially on the beach. Even if you need them to see, consider taking them off during your session.
Clothing
Clothing is as important as location, lighting & posing.
The classic beach session outfit is tan & white, and I'm sure you've seen someone wearing this combination, as it became extremely popular in the 90's. If you are going with the classic look, my suggestion is for girls to be in white sun dresses and boys to be in tan shorts and a white shirt. White shirts with blue jeans is also popular.
Personally, I love color! Pick out a great color that looks good on everyone. You can go with pastels or even primary colors. You could put the girls in beautiful, multi-color sundresses, and pick one color from it to have the guys wear. If you aren't a fan of sundresses, pick a color or two to pair with shorts, jeans or Capri's. I love red shirts and jeans, for a winter beach session. If you are doing an extended or multiple family session, consider putting each family in a different color. You can always search the internet for ideas.
Keep in mind that you with be surrounded by sand. You will be sitting down, kneeling, playing, and sometimes you will be standing above the photographer. For these reasons, short skirts are not ideal for beach sessions. If you decide to wear a skirt, please be aware of your leg position and how you pose. Baggy shorts are also not recommended, as guys sometimes sit with their knees up and spread open. Just be aware! I will do my best to stay aware of any undergarments that may be showing, but sometimes the sun will make it difficult for me.
There are times when some people do not want to remove their shoes and socks. Before coming to your session, talk this over with your group. It will stand out if only one person in your group has shoes and socks on. So, consider mixing it up with others, if they choose to leave them on. A few wear shoes, a few don't. During the summer months, I do suggest that everyone be barefoot.
Infants & Small Children
Please may sure your children have been fed and have had plenty to drink before your session. Also, try to stop for a bathroom break before you arrive.
Driving Time
Traffic is very hard to determine during spring break and summer. Summer families get stuck in traffic, or the get lost. Sometimes I can get stuck in traffic. If this happens, it is necessary to let me know, and I will do the same for you. Please make sure that you have my phone number with you before you leave for your session. 850-418-0011
Absolutely NO Cameras
Or pictures taken with your cell phone. It can be very distracting to subjects, as well as the photographer. The photographer uses his/her knowledge to pose and position, according to the sun. For someone to stand behind them with a personal camera/cell phone is just not acceptable. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.