Holiday Family Photos on Folly Beach, SC
As a photographer, there’s something truly special about working with families I’ve had the privilege to watch grow. I had the honor of photographing this lovely family’s wedding back in 2014, and now, I’ve had the joy of documenting their journey as a family of four. We recently met up for holiday family photos on Folly Beach, and the experience was magical.
Folly Beach is an iconic spot for family photos, and it didn’t disappoint. The golden glow of the setting sun and the warmth of this family’s bond created the perfect backdrop for their holiday photos. Let me take you through this special session and offer some tips for families looking to make the most of their holiday photo shoots.
Folly Beach: A Beautiful Backdrop
Folly Beach, located just 10 miles from downtown Charleston, SC, is filled with charm and natural beauty. Known as “The Edge of America,” this barrier island offers miles of sandy shores, lush marshes, and stunning coastal views. The beach has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, making it ideal for a family photo session.
Folly Beach has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Native Americans initially inhabited it before European settlers arrived. Over the years, the island has transformed from a quiet, isolated community to a beloved beach destination. Today, its unique blend of history, nature, and local culture makes it a perfect place to capture the essence of family life. Whether strolling along the beach or playing near the water, the views are stunning in every direction.
For this particular session, we arrived just before the golden hour—the magical time when the sun dips low in the sky, casting a warm, soft light over everything. The natural beauty of the beach combined with the soft glow of the sunset created a dreamy atmosphere for capturing family moments.
The Family: A Snapshot of Love and Growth
The family I had the pleasure of photographing consists of a mom, dad, and their two young daughters. It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a decade since I captured the parents’s wedding day. In 2014, we celebrated their union, and now, I’m photographing their growing family. It’s an honor to watch their family grow, and capturing their memories at such a special time in their lives is something I’ll always cherish.
The parents’ love and connection with their daughters were evident throughout the holiday family photos session. They played, laughed, and embraced each other under the warm glow of the sun. The daughters, dressed in soft cream-colored long sleeve shirts and blush pink sparkly skirts, looked absolutely adorable. The skirts sparkled in the golden light, adding a touch of magic to the photos. The parents also looked effortlessly stylish: the mom wore a short white dress, while the dad wore a classic long sleeve button-up shirt paired with jeans. Their outfits were perfect for the beach setting, and the colors complemented the soft hues of the landscape beautifully.
Why Choose Folly Beach for Family Holiday Photos?
One of the main reasons Folly Beach is such a popular spot for family photos is the variety of backdrops it offers. There’s no shortage of photo-worthy locations, from the soft sand to the tall grass and the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse in the distance. Whether you’re taking photos near the water’s edge or in the serene, grassy dunes, Folly Beach offers a perfect mix of natural beauty that can help create timeless family portraits.
Additionally, the lighting at Folly Beach is ideal for photo shoots. About an hour before sunset, golden hour provides the most flattering light for portraits. The sun’s soft glow wraps around families, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This time of day also helps eliminate harsh shadows, often during midday photo shoots. For families with young children, the golden hour light adds a dreamy quality to the photos and helps the kids feel relaxed and comfortable.
Tips for Holiday Family Photos: What to Wear
When planning holiday family photos on Folly Beach, choosing the right outfits can make a big difference in the final results. The key is to find a balance between looking coordinated without being too matchy-matchy. Here are some tips for families preparing for a holiday photo session:
1. Pick a Color Palette
Choosing a color palette that reflects the season and works well with the location is essential. For this session, the family opted for a soft, neutral color scheme with blush pink and cream touches. These colors complemented the beach setting and created a cohesive look without overpowering. For a holiday feel, consider using pastel shades, warm neutrals, or even festive colors like deep reds and greens.
2. Avoid Overly Busy Patterns
While it’s tempting to dress everyone in festive patterns, avoiding anything too bold or distracting is best. Instead, opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that won’t compete with the background. The girls’ blush pink sparkly skirts were perfect for adding a touch of holiday magic without overwhelming the photos.
3. Layering for Comfort and Style
Layering is key when you’re taking photos on a beach in the fall or winter. The mom wore a short white dress, perfect for a beach session, while the dad wore a long-sleeve button-up shirt with jeans. Layers add visual interest and keep you comfortable in varying temperatures. In case it gets chilly, consider bringing a cozy cardigan or jacket.
4. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can elevate your family photos, but it’s important not to go overboard. For instance, a simple necklace or a cute hair accessory can be a nice touch for the girls. The mom’s dress was simple yet elegant, and the girls’ sparkly skirts added just the right sparkle for a holiday session. Keep accessories minimal to avoid distracting from the natural beauty of the family.
5. Comfort is Key
Remember that family photos should be fun and relaxed. It’s important that everyone is comfortable in what they’re wearing, especially when you have young children. The family in this session chose outfits that allowed them to move freely, which helped them feel at ease in front of the camera.
Final Thoughts on Holiday Family Photos on Folly Beach
These holiday family photos on Folly Beach were a session to remember. The combination of the stunning natural beauty of the beach, the golden hour light, and the love shared by this family made for a perfect setting. Whether you’re a photographer or a family preparing for your own session, Folly Beach offers endless possibilities for capturing meaningful memories.
If you’re planning a family photo session this holiday season, be sure to take into account the location, time of day, and what you choose to wear. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your photos turn out as beautiful and timeless as this family’s.
For me, there’s no greater joy than capturing these milestones in the lives of families. From weddings to family photos, each session tells a unique story, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to document it. I look forward to capturing many more memories in the years to come.
0 Comments