Apollo Beach Family Photos: A Golden Hour Baby Announcement
When the Still family was ready to share that baby number three is on the way, we headed to Apollo Beach Nature Preserve for a golden hour session on the sand. As an Apollo Beach family photographer based just up the road in Riverview, this is one of my favorite spots to bring families, and this session reminded me why.
If you're planning family photos or a baby announcement of your own in Apollo Beach, I've added a few tips about the preserve below, along with what I'd bring if it were my family heading out there.
Two Boys, An Ultrasound, and a Lot of Sand
This family has two young boys already and they brought all the energy you'd hope for at a beach session! First we worked on the group family portraits, some of just mom and the boys, mom and dad alone, and finally individuals of mom. Brooke already had an ultrasound ready so we incorporated it into a few shots too.
By the end of the evening, the boys had buried the ultrasound in the sand, and that perfectly sums up family sessions! We dug it back out, of course, and it was the perfect way to wrap up the session.
Why Apollo Beach Nature Preserve Works for Family Photos
Apollo Beach Nature Preserve sits right on Tampa Bay, and it's one of the closest spots to Riverview with a true beach feel. The preserve has a small sandy beach, walking trails, and a ramp-style observation tower with views across the bay toward the Skyway Bridge and St. Pete.
Swimming isn't allowed there because of the currents, so sessions stay on the sand and the kids have room to play without heading into the water. There are restrooms on site too, which matters more than you'd think with little ones.
At golden hour, the sun drops low over the bay and the light comes in soft and warm, which is why I like to book this spot for the last stretch of the day.
Tips for a Session at Apollo Beach Preserve
Plan around sunset. The preserve opens at 8 a.m. and closes at sunset, so golden hour sessions end right as the park does. We’ll confirm your session time the week of your session.
Arrive early for parking. The lot is free but fills up on nice evenings, especially close to sunset. Give yourself an extra fifteen minutes.
Dress for sand and wind. A breeze usually comes off the bay, which is something to keep in mind when planning hair and outfits. For outfit ideas, my fall beach wardrobe guide walks through colors and fabrics that work well on the sand.
Before every session, I talk with parents about their kids' ages and what keeps them happy, so I can plan the session around your family and you don't have to figure it out on your own.
Family Photographer in Apollo Beach and Riverview
I'm a family photographer based in Riverview, photographing family, maternity, and at-home newborn sessions for families across Riverview, Apollo Beach, Ruskin, and Fish Hawk. If you're expecting or ready for family photos of your own, you can reach out through my inquiry form here and we'll start planning!
