Beach Family Photos in Perth – Tips for Outfits, Spots & Poses
There’s something undeniably special about beach family photos. The ocean breeze, the golden light, the way little feet chase waves — it all comes together to create moments that feel effortless and full of heart. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of bare feet in the sand or the joy of seeing your kids play freely by the water, a beach session is more than just beautiful photos — it’s an experience your family will remember.
In this post, we’re sharing tips, ideas, and real beach family photos from sessions we’ve captured around Perth — filled with movement, laughter, and love. From what to wear to where to go, we hope it inspires your own seaside story.
Beach Family Photo Ideas to Inspire Your Session
The most meaningful beach family photos often come from those simple, in-between moments — the ones that feel just like you. Here are some ideas we love to explore during a session:
Looking out at the sunset together
With your backs to the camera and the sky glowing ahead, there’s a quiet stillness in this moment. No need for words — just the warmth of each other’s company and the beauty of the view. These frames capture the pause before the night settles in, soft and full of presence.
Walking along the shoreline hand in hand
There’s something timeless about holding hands at the water’s edge. Maybe your kids are skipping ahead, maybe you’re walking in silence — either way, it’s a moment of connection. Gentle, simple, and full of love
Take a look at Sallyane’s Family Beach Photo Session
Walking with the family dog
Your dog is part of the family, and their joy at the beach is contagious. Whether they’re splashing ahead or loyally padding alongside, their energy brings an extra layer of fun and warmth to your session. These photos are always full of personality.
Get inspirations from Erna’s Family Beach Photo Session
PLaying with sand
Little hands digging, building, or finding tiny treasures — sand invites imagination. It’s often the moment kids forget there’s a camera nearby and just fall into their own world. We love capturing the focus, the freedom, and the joy of it all.
Playing in the shallows or splashing in the waves
Bare feet, wet hems, and the kind of laughter that only comes from chasing waves. These are the playful, in-between moments where kids are totally in their element — and parents often join in too. It's joy in motion.
Toddler walking on wet sand for the first time
Those first few uncertain steps across smooth, wet sand are pure magic. Maybe a hand is gently holding theirs, maybe they’re wobbling bravely on their own — either way, it’s a moment full of wonder, curiosity, and the sweetest kind of courage.
A big group cuddle
This is the moment everyone squeezes in close — arms wrapped around shoulders, giggles spilling out, faces pressed together. It’s not about perfect posing, it’s about the feeling of being held and loved. These are the frames that stay with you.
everyone running toward the camera
This one’s pure fun — movement, laughter, and hair flying in the wind. There’s something so freeing about just running, especially when the whole family joins in. These photos burst with energy and joy.
Take a look at Sallyane’s Family Beach Photo Session
Everyone holding hands with the sea behind them
A simple, beautiful way to show unity — hands linked together, ocean stretching out behind. Whether you're standing still or swaying with the breeze, this pose feels grounding. It's like saying, we’re in this together.
How to Prepare Your Family for a Relaxed Session
We want the experience to feel like a beautiful evening at the beach — not a photoshoot. A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping things easy and enjoyable.
Bring essentials like water, snacks, spare clothes, towels, and a favourite toy if little ones need comfort.
Keep expectations flexible — especially with young children, some of the best moments come when they’re just doing their thing.
Dress in layers if it might get breezy, and avoid anything that needs constant adjusting or fussing.
Trust that imperfect moments are often the ones you’ll love most later.
Best Perth Beaches for Family Photos
We’re so lucky in Perth to have a coastline full of beautiful spots — each with its own feel and rhythm. Here are a few of our favourite beaches for family sessions:
Cottesloe Beach – Famous for a reason. Golden sunsets, gentle waves, and classic WA charm.
South Beach (South Fremantle) – A quieter, family-friendly stretch with calm water and lovely light.
Trigg Beach – Perfect if you love a slightly more rugged, natural look with dunes and open space.
Port Beach – Easy to access, spacious, and great for running, playing, or having a picnic post-session.
We’ll help you choose a location that suits your family’s vibe and the kind of photos you love most.
Best Times of Day for Beach Family Photos
Light makes all the difference in photography, and the beach gives us some of the most beautiful natural lighting around — if we time it right.
Golden hour (the hour just after sunrise or before sunset) is ideal for its soft, warm tones and flattering shadows.
Midday can be quite harsh with direct sun and bright reflections off the sand and water, so we generally avoid it for sessions.
Tides and weather also play a role — we always check conditions ahead of time to choose the best beach and timing for your family.
What to Wear for Beach Family Photos
Outfits don’t need to be fancy or formal to photograph beautifully. For beach sessions, think lightweight, breathable fabrics that move well in the breeze and feel comfortable against your skin.
Earthy tones, soft pastels, whites, and muted blues all work beautifully against the natural tones of sand and sea. Blue and white especially complement the ocean backdrop and give a clean, coastal feel without being too bold.
Aim for coordinated, not matching — think harmony in tone and texture rather than identical outfits. A mix of linen, cotton, and soft knits can add lovely texture.
Barefoot is often best, but if you prefer shoes, go for something neutral and easy (like sandals or simple slides).
Most importantly, wear something that feels like you. When you're relaxed and comfortable, it shines through in every photo.
Matching doesn’t have to mean identical — this family coordinated in white and denim, creating a light, relaxed palette that looked right at home against the sea and sky.
From deep navy to the softest sky blue, this family’s outfits flowed like the ocean itself. Paired with whites and layered textures — denim, linen, cotton — each look felt unique but beautifully connected. The mix of tones added depth and softness, perfectly echoing the changing blues of the sea and sky.
Ready to capture your family story by the beach?
Every beach session tells a different story — and it’s never just about the photos. It’s about the experience of slowing down, soaking up the moment, and seeing your family with fresh eyes.
Some families laugh through the whole session. Some take a quieter, more reflective pace. Sometimes the wind picks up and hair gets wild — and that becomes the most loved photo of all. Our goal is to create a space where your family can just be, and the memories take care of themselves.
Explore our portfolio to see the magic we create: Family, In-home, Newborn, Maternity, Family Trips, Celebrations, and Extended Family.
Ready to make your family’s story come to life? Book your family photography session with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Beach Family Photos
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Choose light, breathable fabrics in earthy tones, soft pastels, or neutrals that complement the beach setting. Coordinated colours (rather than matching outfits) work best. Barefoot is often ideal, but if you prefer shoes, keep them simple and neutral.
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The best time is during golden hour — either just after sunrise or before sunset — when the light is soft and flattering. We avoid midday when the sun is harsh and shadows are strong.
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Totally normal — and absolutely okay. Our sessions are relaxed and play-based, allowing space for your children to warm up, explore, and be themselves. Some of the most beautiful photos come from those unscripted moments.
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Yes, if the beach allows it and your dog is part of the family, we absolutely welcome them! Just be sure to bring a lead, some water, and a towel for post-beach snuggles.
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We offer two family photography packages: The Little Chapter (45 minutes) and The Wild Chapter (75 minutes). Both are designed to be relaxed and unhurried, with plenty of space for natural moments to unfold.
If you have young children, we often recommend The Wild Chapter, as it allows extra time for your little ones to explore, settle in, and play — making the whole experience feel more like a carefree afternoon at the beach.
For more details on the packages, please check out our family portfolio.
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Perth weather is usually kind, but if we’re facing heavy rain or strong winds, we’ll reschedule to a nearby date that works for you. Cloudy skies can actually make for beautiful, soft lighting — so we keep an eye on the forecast and stay flexible.
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Absolutely. If you have a favourite beach with personal meaning, let’s go there. If you're unsure, we’ll recommend a few stunning Perth spots based on your style and accessibility needs.
