Planning Family Photos During Your Myrtle Beach Vacation
There’s something about vacation that slows everything down just enough to notice the little things, sandy toes, sun-kissed cheeks, and everyone actually together without rushing off to work or school.
If you’re already planning a trip to the Grand Strand, adding a family photo session to your Myrtle Beach vacation is one of the easiest ways to turn this year’s memories into something that lasts.
Here’s how to make it simple, stress-free, and actually enjoyable.
Why Vacation Is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
Vacation is one of the rare times when:
Everyone is together
Schedules are flexible
Outfits are already beach-ready
The kids are excited
You’re relaxed
You don’t have to coordinate multiple calendars or take time off work , you’re already here.
And Myrtle Beach gives you natural light, soft sand, and coastal scenery without needing elaborate setups.
When to Schedule Your Beach Photo Session
In Myrtle Beach, lighting is everything.
Sunrise Sessions
Soft, flattering light
Fewer crowds
Cooler temperatures (especially in summer)
Calm winds
Sunrise sessions are ideal for families with younger kids who wake up early anyway.
Sunset Sessions
Warmer tones
Glowy skies
Great for families with older kids or teens
Both work beautifully, it just depends on your schedule and energy level.
Book Before You Arrive (Especially in Summer)
Myrtle Beach is a high-tourism area, especially June through August.
If family photos are important to you, book your session before your trip begins. Waiting until you arrive often means:
Limited availability
Less ideal time slots
No flexibility for weather adjustments
Booking ahead allows ensures you get the best lighting window.
Choose the Right Location for Your Family
The Grand Strand offers more than just one stretch of sand.
Popular options include:
Huntington Beach State Park (our favorite) – wide undeveloped beach, beautiful dunes, and the option of Atalaya Castle
Myrtle Beach State Park – small boardwalk and pier
Cherry Grove Point – wide open beach with large natural dunes
Each location offers a slightly different feel, whether you want open shoreline, dunes, or a more architectural backdrop.
Keep It Simple
Vacation sessions work best when they feel natural.
You don’t need:
Overly complicated outfits
Props
Forced poses
The goal is capturing your family as you are in this season, playful, connected, relaxed.
If you’d like more guidance, I have full blog posts covering what to wear and how to prepare kids for beach sessions so you can feel confident walking into your session.
Plan Around Your Vacation Schedule
A few tips that make a big difference:
Don’t schedule photos on arrival day
Avoid booking the morning after a late night out
Build in downtime before your session
Bring water and a small towel
The more relaxed everyone is, the better the session flows.
What Happens If the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate?
Coastal weather can shift quickly.
When sessions are booked in advance, there’s flexibility to:
Adjust timing
Shift days
Monitor wind conditions
Planning early allows room to pivot without stress.
Why Hiring a Local Myrtle Beach Photographer Matters
A local photographer understands:
The best locations
Seasonal lighting changes
Crowd patterns
Beach regulations
That knowledge makes the difference between a chaotic session and one that flows smoothly.
Turning Vacation Moments Into Something Lasting
Trips come and go quickly.
The sand washes away.
The suitcases get unpacked.
The routine starts again.
Professional photos give you something to hold onto, not just what Myrtle Beach looked like, but what your family looked like in this season.
Ready to Plan Your Myrtle Beach Family Photo Session?
If you're visiting the Myrtle Beach area and want relaxed, natural beach portraits that don’t feel stiff or overly posed, I’d love to help you plan it.
Reach out before your trip to secure your date and we’ll make it simple from there.