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Let’s be honest: beach sessions sound magical until your kids start eating sand, a thunderstorm rolls in, and everyone’s trying to figure out who packed pants tight enough to survive the ocean spray.

If this sounds like your version of “Will this really go okay?”… welcome! You’re not alone. I shoot Tybee Island family photo sessions at sunrise and sunset for clients looking for joyful, candid memories in one of Savannah’s most iconic locations. And even after years of doing this, I keep learning new things every time I do my own family’s beach session (with a trusty tripod and fingers crossed every Memorial Day).

If you’ve been thinking about booking a Tybee Island photo session but have a few hesitations, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down.

What Makes Tybee Island Sessions So Special?

Shooting at the beach is hands-down one of my favorite types of sessions. Between the dreamy light, soft sand, and salty breezes, it’s hard to go wrong. I’ve photographed everything from kids splashing in the tide to extended families laughing in pastel hues at sunset.

So whether this is your vacation highlight or a local tradition, these sessions are designed to feel fun, relaxed, and a little bit magical. That being said, beach photography does come with some variables, which is exactly why I created this easy Tybee Island beach session FAQ.

Let’s tackle the questions I get all the time…

What Happens If It Rains?

Ah yes, the weather. My second-biggest beach session wildcard.

Here’s what you need to know about rain and beach photography:

• If it’s raining – especially if it’s a thunderstorm – we’ll reschedule. There really isn’t a cute “pop under an awning” scenario at the beach.
• Even during my fully booked seasons, I pad in space for rain reschedules. We can almost always find a time that works during your visit.
• Coastal Georgia rains can be intense… and brief. It may pour at 5:00 PM and be stunning by our planned 7:30 PM start. I monitor the radar closely and will be in touch if weather looks iffy.
• For sunrise sessions, weather calls happen the night before. For sunset, we’ll make the call about 2-3 hours ahead of time.

Bottom line: I’ve photographed post-storm sessions with cotton candy skies and golden light. Just because it rained before doesn’t mean your chance is lost.

What If We (or You) Can’t Get to Tybee?

Now for my number one worry as your Tybee Island photographer: traffic mishaps.

• I do everything I can to avoid getting stuck – especially on holiday weekends. That usually means I stay overnight on the island if needed or leave ridiculously early.
• My typical drive from home to Tybee takes about 45 minutes. On session days, I give myself 2 to 2.5 hours just in case.
• If neither of us can get onto the island (super rare but hey, never say never), I work with you to reschedule or find an alternate Savannah-area location that still brings those dreamy photos to life.

Your session matters, and we build in enough flexibility to make it happen smoothly.

What If My Kids Just Want to Play in the Sand?

Let them!

Listen, your beach session isn’t about getting kids to stop doing beachy things. It’s about capturing the joy of the beach, squishy toes and all.

Here’s the thing:

• Playing in the sand is part of the experience, not a distraction.
• I’ll absolutely get those posed family shots… but I’ll also get your littles giggling while digging or racing down the shoreline.
• Real moments make for the best memories. The more relaxed you are about sandy cheeks and salty legs, the better your gallery will reflect the spirit of your family.

If you’re worried about your child’s energy or attention span – don’t be. We use it to our advantage.

What Should We Wear?

This is the most important question (and arguably the most fun). Outfits can totally elevate your Tybee session.

My go-to tips:

• Avoid the whole khaki shorts and white shirts combo. Sure, it’s simple… but too matchy-matchy doesn’t leave room for personality.
• For big groups, pick a theme like shades of blue or a single base color (think “everyone wear something with navy”).
• For small families, start with mom’s outfit. Choose something you feel amazing in and coordinate the rest around it.
• Maxi dresses and skirts look so good with ocean movement.
• Jeans are fine, too – just make sure they’re tight enough to stay up when wet!
• Comfort is key. If you don’t love how it feels, you won’t feel confident wearing it during your session.

And yes, you’re going to get wet. Maybe even soaked. This is part of the magic. Bring extra clothes. You’ll thank me later.

So… Is It Worth It?

Absolutely.

Whether you’re local or just here on vacation, making time for a Tybee photo session gives you something that lasts longer than tan lines or souvenirs. These sessions are full of fun, wind-in-your-hair moments that turn into tangible keepsakes.

If you’re waiting to book because you’re worried about logistics or weather or wardrobe, trust me – I’ve thought of all those things for you. My job is to make it easy. Your job is to enjoy it.

Ready to Book Your Tybee Family Session?

Beach sessions are offered at select sunrise and sunset times based on light and tide scheduling. If you’re even kind ofconsidering it, now’s the time to reach out so I can send over all the info and help you start planning.

You’ll never regret getting in the photo – sand, splashes, and all.

If you’re ready, get in touch here and let’s make some beach magic happen.