As a professional photographer specializing in family portraits, I've witnessed firsthand the growing popularity of family beach portraits for capturing those unforgettable moments. There's something magical about the combination of sun, sand, and surf that brings out the best smiles and genuine interactions.

I'm excited to share some of the top trending ideas for family beach portraits in 2024. Whether you're a pro or planning your first family shoot, these ideas are mind blowing for the perfect moment.

Why Choose the Beach for Your Family Portraits?

Why do we flock to the beach with our cameras and loved ones? The reasons are as plentiful as the grains of sand! Beaches offer not just natural, flattering lighting, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, but also a variety of stunning backdrops from the calming sea to rugged cliffs.

We all share an undeniable emotional connection with the beach—it’s a place of joy, relaxation, and play. As a photographer, I find that families are naturally more relaxed and engaged in such a setting, making it ideal for capturing those candid moments you’ll treasure for years to come.

Top 20 Trending Family Beach Portrait Ideas in 2024

Classic Poses Reimagined

This year, it’s all about adding a twist to traditional poses. Think of a classic pose like the family line-up, but ask everyone to jump at the count of three. The resulting image captures a blend of structure and spontaneity, making it a favorite in my beach sessions.

2. Candid Moments

There’s nothing like capturing the laughter of a child chasing waves or the tender moment of a couple holding hands watching their kids play. These candid shots often become the most cherished. During one memorable photo session, I caught a toddler’s first reaction to the cold ocean water—it was a mix of surprise and delight that the family adored.

3. Themed Attire

Coordinating outfits based on beachy, nautical themes never goes out of style. Whether it's pastel-toned linens or vibrant beachwear, such outfits complement the vivid backdrop of the beach wonderfully.

4. Golden Hour Glamour

Scheduling your family portrait session during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—can dramatically elevate the quality of beach pictures. The soft, diffused light flatters everyone and brings a dreamy quality to the photos.

5. Silhouette Shots

Utilizing the strong backlight of the setting sun to create silhouette shots can produce some of the most striking images in beach photography. These are great for conveying emotion through body language, capturing the essence of family bonds without even showing faces.

6. Action Shots

Whether it’s building sandcastles, playing frisbee, or splashing water, action shots bring dynamic energy to family portraits on the beach. These moments are spontaneous and full of joy, perfect for capturing the spirit of a family.

7. Incorporating Props

From beach balls to surfboards, using props can add an element of fun and help families interact during the photo session, leading to more natural and relaxed pictures.

8. Multi-Generational Photos

Including grandparents in beach sessions adds a timeless dimension to your portraits. There's a profound beauty in capturing the wide span of generations, all sharing a moment together on the beach.

9. Pet Inclusion

More families are opting to include their furry friends in their beach family photos, and why not? Pets are part of the family too and can make for some adorable additions to your shots.

10. Seasonal Themes

Injecting seasonal flair, like a Christmas hat or Fourth of July sparklers, can give your beach family photos a festive twist, making them stand out and perfect for holiday cards.

11. Dramatic Landscapes

Utilizing the dramatic landscapes some beaches offer, such as cliffs or rock formations, can provide a stunning visual impact and elevate the aesthetic of your family portrait session.

12. Reflections in Water

Capturing reflections in the wet sand or shallow waters during a beach session adds an artistic touch to family portraits, doubling the beauty in a single shot.

13. Footprints in the Sand

There’s something poetic about using footprints in the sand as a metaphor in a family picture. It speaks of the journey together, often leading towards the horizon in a symbolic walk through life.

14. Underwater Shots

If conditions and safety allow, taking part in the session underwater can create mesmerizing images that are incredibly unique and captivating.

15. Drone Photography

Aerial shots with a drone offers a new perspective on family gatherings, capturing the grandeur of the beach setting and the intimate moments of a family together.

16. Beach Picnic Scenes

Staging a picnic setup not only provides a great setting for photos but also allows families to relax and enjoy some treats, which makes for happy and engaged subjects.

17. Sand Writing

Writing a date or a message in the sand is a simple yet powerful way to mark a special occasion or send a message through your photo.

18. Sunrise Sessions

For the early risers, a sunrise session provides a serene and less crowded environment, perfect for those soft pastel skies that make for breathtaking backdrops.

19. Sunset Colors

The vibrant hues during sunset provide a dramatic backdrop for beach photography, emphasizing the drama and beauty of the end of the day.

20. Minimalist Approach

Sometimes, less is more. A minimalist approach to beach family photos—focusing just on the family against the vast ocean or a clear sky—can highlight the emotional connection between family members without any distractions.

We’ve journeyed through the latest trends and tackled the tricky aspects of capturing the perfect family beach portrait. From the excitement of drone photography to the simplicity of minimalist shots, the possibilities are endless.

I encourage you to experiment with these ideas and add your personal flair. Every family is unique, and their beach portrait should reflect that uniqueness.

Ready to turn these ideas into beautiful memories? Book a session today.

About Bill Barbosa

PHOTOGRAPHER & BUSINESS COACH - M.Photog, Cr.Photog., CPP, FDPE, FED, FSA

Bill is an accomplished portrait commercial photographer who is based in North Palm Beach, Florida. Bill is passionate about capturing the essence of your inner and outer beauty through his photography. His meticulous attention to detail allows him to capture your unique story and style in a way that truly reflects who you are. In his state-of-the-art studio, Bill provides a comfortable and empowering experience that boosts your confidence and leaves you feeling great about yourself. With his expertise and talent, he creates stunning photographs that will be treasured for lifetimes.

Family Beach Portraits - Top 20 Ideas For 2024

Table of Contents

Why Choose the Beach for Your Family Portraits?

Top 20 Trending Family Beach Portrait Ideas in 2024