Senior Portraits at The Beach

So many of my clients love doing their Senior portraits at the beach! I wanted to share a few things to keep in mind If you are thinking about Senior photos at the beach. The photos here are from my session with beautiful Tess, in June of 2021 at Wingaersheek beach in Gloucester.

1. Choosing the Right Beach Location

Yes, most beaches are beautiful, and you might have a favorite, but some are better suited for a photo session than others. I particularly like Wingaersheek beach in Gloucester because there is a really nice variety of backgrounds, from beach grass and trees, to huge rocks, the ocean, and even some beautiful houses and a lighthouse in the distance (keep scrolling to see all of those things!). I also have a spot up in York Harbor that is really beautiful and offers a nice variety as well!

2. Choose the right day

Avoid Weekends and Peak Summer days

The best time to do a beach session is late Spring or early Fall before the beaches get crowded, and black flies / green heads are bad. For summer sessions, it’s very important to avoid weekends and holidays, as it is just too crowded until late in the day. The beach can still be busy on weekdays, but certainly not like a weekend, and you don’t want to miss out on the best spots because there are people everywhere. I’d also add that heat waves can also be troublesome because of crowds.

3. Choose the Right Time of Day

Because there is very little (if any) shade at beach locations, and because the reflection of the sand and water keeps things very bright, it’s important to schedule the session as close to sunrise or sunset as possible. I normally don’t start a beach session much more than an hour before sunset, unless it’s a very cloudy day. And don’t worry if it is cloudy — I kind of love the soft light of a cloudy day a the beach!

4. Come Prepared for the Beach

I always recommend bringing a brush to your session, but it’s especially important at the beach, as it’s often windy. In addition to that, bring along a bag with bug spray, and maybe a little towel to brush off the sand. Also, it’s really best to be barefoot at the beach, so choose shoes that are easy to kick off and a bag to carry them in (I can carry it, or if you bring a parent or a friend, then they can!).

I love that so many Seniors want to do beach sessions. We always have a great time, and there is something about being at the beach that makes everyone relaxed. I already have a few beach sessions schedule for later this Spring and Early Summer so it’s best to get on the calendar now if you are thinking about it!

Cristen Farrell is a Boston Senior Portrait Photographer and offers a variety of Senior Session packages. Cristen will capture you in a natural and authentic style, and you will have fun along the way! If you are looking for Boston Area or North Shore Senior photos, or Senior Portraits at the Beach, Cristen can be reached by clicking on the contact form on this page.  Don’t forget to follow Cristen Farrell Photography on Instagram, too!