How to Prep Kids for Beach Sessions in New Smyrna

If you’ve ever tried to wrangle little ones at the beach, you already know—it’s equal parts sunshine and chaos. Sand everywhere. Snacks that turn into shells. A toddler who suddenly hates the ocean.

But here’s the good news: beach sessions don’t have to feel like an Olympic event.
After photographing hundreds of families on New Smyrna Beach, I’ve learned a few simple things that make sessions go smoothly—no bribery, no fake smiles, just your people as they really are.

Here’s exactly how to prep your kids (and yourself) for a beach session that actually feels like fun.

1. Pick the right time of day

The light and the mood are everything. Sunrise is usually best—it’s calm, cool, and the beach is nearly empty.
If your kids aren’t early risers, sunset can still work beautifully, but plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before golden hour.

Either way, give yourself a few extra minutes to walk to a quieter spot. A slower start keeps everyone relaxed.

Sunrise and Tides Info is also great to have!

2. Keep outfits soft and simple

When kids can move, they stay happy. Go for light, breathable fabrics in soft neutrals—think sand, cream, denim, or pale blue.
Skip anything stiff, matchy-matchy, or logo-heavy.

Bare feet are perfect. Bring one backup outfit (just in case someone decides to go for a swim).

3. Feed them well and keep expectations realistic

Hungry kids are cranky kids—especially with the ocean teasing them in the background.
A solid breakfast or dinner beforehand helps, and bring water plus a small snack (crackers, fruit, or something non-sticky).

And remember: if someone melts down, it’s fine. Real life makes the best photos.

4. Skip the poses. Let them play.

Most of the magic happens when you stop trying to make it happen.
We’ll walk, splash, chase waves, collect shells, and talk. I’ll give simple prompts to spark connection (“hold Mom’s hand and walk toward me” or “see who can make the biggest splash”).

Kids who get to play forget the camera—and that’s when we get the good stuff.

5. Pack light but smart

Toss these in a small tote or backpack:

• Wipes + a hand towel

• Sunscreen

• A favorite small toy (bubbles always win)

• Water + a snack

• Change of clothes (for the ride home)

That’s it. Anything else will just slow you down.

6. Embrace imperfection

If hair gets wild, or someone ends up sandy and soaked—that’s exactly how it’s supposed to go.
The beauty of a beach session isn’t perfection. It’s the realness—the wind, the light, the movement, the laughter.

And the best part? You won’t remember the chaos later. You’ll remember the feeling.

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After your session

You’ll receive a full gallery of edited images, ready to download and print—usually within three weeks.
If you’d like, I can help design a simple keepsake album or a framed print for your home

Ready to plan your New Smyrna Beach session?
See my Beach Sessions or get in touch here.