There’s just something so magical about beach sessions. Whether it's the sound of the waves, the gorgeous light, or the carefree energy of summer — the beach is one of my favorite places to photograph! It’s a summer staple and makes for a beautiful, dynamic backdrop for any session: extended family, maternity, individuals, couples, kids, senior portraits — you name it.
Over the years, I’ve photographed many sessions at the beach and have learned all the tips and tricks to make them go smoothly (and beautifully). So, whether you're brand new to beach photos or just need a refresher, here’s everything you need to know before you book!
Why Beach Sessions are Best in the Evening
I recommend scheduling beach sessions for 6:00 PM or later during the summer. Why?
- Avoid beach fees: Many beaches charge entry or parking fees during the day, which are often waived after 6:00 PM.
- Fewer crowds: Evening sessions mean fewer beachgoers in the background and more space to roam.
- Gorgeous lighting: The best time for photos is around 7:30 PM, when the sun is lower in the sky. That soft, golden hour light is perfect for dreamy portraits — and we may even catch a sunset over the ocean!
Beach Session Travel Details
While I love traveling for beach sessions, please note:
- My session packages include travel up to 10 miles from Lawrence, NJ.
- Beach sessions are subject to an additional travel charge of $0.70 per mile after the first 10 miles.
- Have a beach in mind but not sure about the cost? Just reach out — I’m happy to provide a quote and more info!
What to Bring + What to Expect
Props to consider bringing:
- A beach blanket or towel to sit on
- Ultrasound photos for maternity sessions
- Cake for a beachy cake smash
- Sentimental items or matching accessories for group photos
Other tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes like flip flops or sandals that are easy to take off.
- Bring a towel to brush off sand.
- Planning to jump in the water? Bring a change of clothes!
- Stay hydrated — summer beach sessions can get hot, especially for little ones.
Locations I Love for Beach Sessions
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Belmar Beach:
Belmar beach is my go to beach for beach sessions. While it is the closest beach for most of my clients who reside in Mercer County, NJ, you can’t go wrong with this popular spot. With a little bit of dunes, a little bit of rocky areas, and a lot of beach with an ocean view, there’s some great spots to capture. In addition to the beach itself, there’s also a beautiful pavilion located on 5th/6th Avenue and also makes for a great backdrop!
Parking is best along Ocean Ave if you can find spots - those spots will be pull in spots with parking meters. There’s also parking on 5th and 6th Ave which has the pull in spots with parking meters, or you can park on any of the numbered streets where you may find free street parking.
Asbury Park Beach
If you’re looking for a unique beach with some great rock areas and some of the historical buildings, this is the spot for you! The Carousel Building and the Convention Hall make for great backdrops along the ocean (and provide some shade in the afternoon, as well)! The rocky areas are great for giving us a variety of shots - we are able to do some photos sitting on the rocks against the ocean, some photos standing on the rock wall area, and of course with the rocks in the distance.
Parking for Asbury is a bit tricky! Each time I’ve visited this beach, the good parking is limited and can also be quite hectic. I always recommend trying to find a spot along Ocean Ave, but you can also find parking on side streets from 1st-8th Avenue.
Seaside Heights Boardwalk / Beach
When you think of the Jersey shore, you may think of Seaside Heights - it’s a staple beach! With dunes, the boardwalk, small sandy pathways, and of course, the beach with an ocean view, it’s great for photos.
Parking is all over, but may be tricky to find! There's various side streets with street parking, metered spots, and parking lots. I recommend my clients parking by Stockton Ave, which is right by the Sawmill and close to beach access.
Sandy Hook Beach
Sandy Hook is a great North Jersey beach located in Middletown Township and may be perfect for your upcoming session. While there is of course a great view of the beach, there’s also some nice dune areas and a small boardwalk pathway with lots of greenery. This unique pathway is one of my favorite things about this beach, and makes for a great backdrop for your upcoming shoot!
After 6:00, parking fees are waved, and you can park in any of the lots along the beach. Before 6:00, there is a parking charge - so make sure to consider this for your shoot!
Avalon Beach
This quiet beach spot was great for capturing an extended family shoot of multiple families! With a great spot for photos with dunes, a nice sandy pathway, a small boardwalk, and of course, the beach with an ocean view, we were able to capture a variety of shots.
Avalon offers street parking and also parking by 28th-30th E St. You'll be able to find a few different parking lots with different payment options.
Wildwood Beach
This beach location is one of my personal favorites! With a great boardwalk, a beautiful long beach for lots of space to run around, and picturesque spots, this beach is a great spot for your upcoming beach session! When I visited this spot for the Stewart family beach session, we were able to achieve a wide variety of shots on the beach itself, with the lifeguard stands, the wildwood sign and on the boardwalk. Even better, we were able to include their pup Riley for photos, since it is a dog friendly beach!
Wildwood has various parking spots along the boardwalk/Ocean Ave itself, but also on the side streets right by the boardwalk like E Maple Ave, 26th Ave, E Magnolia Ave, etc.
Dog Friendly Beaches:
Dog friendly beaches are hard to find, but after doing some research, dogs are welcome at Asbury Park (on 8th Ave), Barnegat Light Beach, North Wildwood dog beach, and Sunset beach. All of these are located in New Jersey, and are great spots for a photoshoot. If you’re looking to include pets in a beach session at these locations, please reach out to book a session!
Belmar Beach is not dog friendly, but it does have a gorgeous pavilion with greenery, florals, and the Silver Lake in the background. It’s a beautiful spot, and perfect if you’re looking to incorporate your dogs in this beach town for your photoshoot.
Ready to Book?
Have a beach in mind that’s not listed? No problem! I love exploring new spots and would be happy to offer suggestions, travel quotes, or info on your dream location. Just reach out and we’ll start planning your beach session!
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