As the golden sun dips low on the horizon, casting a warm glow across the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast, I can’t help but smile. As a professional offering family photographer service in the Mississippi Gulf Coast and surrounding areas, I’ve had the joy of capturing countless precious moments on our beautiful beaches and other equally majestic scenery.

There’s something magical about the way natural light dances across smiling faces and how the beauty of nature provides the perfect backdrop for family memories. Today, I’m excited to share some tips to help you prepare for your own outdoor family photoshoot.

5 Tips for a Wonderful Outdoor Family Photoshoot

1. Choosing the Perfect Location

I offer three stunning options for your photo shoot – my professional studio, the pristine beaches, or the picturesque field at our private property. Each has its own unique charm and advantages.

The studio provides a controlled environment, perfect for a polished, timeless look or for days when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The beaches offer a natural, relaxed backdrop with golden sands and shimmering waters. For a more rustic, woodsy feel, our private field property provides a lush, green and golden setting that’s magical during the golden hour.

To select the best location for your session, we’ll consider the personality of your family and the style you are hoping to achieve.

2. Dressing for Success

I provide clothing for every family member! This takes the stress out of coordinating outfits and ensures everyone looks their best.

My studio wardrobe is carefully curated with a variety of styles, colors, and sizes to suit different tastes and body types. From flowy dresses that catch the breeze beautifully on the beach to cozy sweaters for a more casual field shoot, I have options to complement every setting and season.

During our pre-session consultation, we’ll discuss your preferences and choose outfits that not only photograph well but also make you feel comfortable and confident. This lets you focus on enjoying the experience while I take care of making sure you look picture-perfect.

3. Timing Matters

The golden hour—that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset—provides the most flattering natural light for outdoor photography. When shooting outdoors, we will only schedule your session during these times. The soft, warm glow can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary. When shooting in the studio, timing is more flexible.

4. Embracing the Unexpected

As a family photographer, I’ve learned that some of the most beautiful moments are the unplanned ones. A sudden gust of wind tousling hair, a child’s spontaneous laughter, or a tender moment between siblings—these authentic interactions often make for the most cherished photos.

4. Keeping it Fun and Relaxed

Remember, the goal is to capture your family’s unique dynamic. Don’t stress about achieving “perfect” poses. Instead, focus on enjoying your time together. We will play games, tell jokes, and let your natural interactions shine through. As your photographer, I’ll be there to capture these genuine moments of joy and connection.

5. Preparing Little Ones

If you have young children, consider adjusting nap times to ensure they’re happy during the evening golden hour. Shooting at the studio can be a great way to work around nap times. Get them excited about your time together as a family by telling them how much fun we’ll have together. And don’t worry if they’re not always looking at the camera – candid shots of children being themselves are often the most heartwarming.

6. Trust Your Photographer

As an experienced professional offering family photographer service, I’m here to guide you through the entire process. From choosing the perfect location to styling your family from the studio wardrobe to suggesting poses that feel natural for your family, I’m dedicated to ensuring your family photoshoot is a wonderful experience from start to finish.

So take a deep breath, soak in the beauty of your surroundings and family, and let’s create some magic together!