Daytime Beach Family Photos| Monterey Family Photographer
Can I have a beach photo session during the daytime?
When most clients think of beach photos, they picture the dreamy golden glow right before sunset. Golden hour is a beautiful time of day with soft, warm light. Although this time of day has gorgeous lighting, golden hour can also be a tough time of day for little ones. Fellow parents of little ones understand that right before dinner and bedtime can be the toughest stretch of the evening.
If your little ones thrive in the morning time, I’m here to comfort you that you can still get gorgeous beach family photos in non-golden hour times. Take a look at a few of these photos from a family session taken at 10AM.
Here are a few reasons you might want to consider a daytime beach session for your next family shoot:
1. The Water Looks More Vibrant
The blue waters at Asilomar Beach are at their brightest and bluest in midday light.
2. Kids Are Happier (and Less Tired)
Late afternoon sessions can be tough with nap schedules and dinner times. Mid-morning or early afternoon sessions tend to catch little ones when they’re still in great moods, which makes a huge difference in your gallery.
3. The Light Can Still Be Beautiful
With the right positioning and direction, even bright sun can look flattering. I often use my off-camera flash to compensate for the brighter sunshine during daytime shoots.
4. It’s a Different Aesthetic
Golden hour sessions are warm and romantic; daytime sessions feel bright, lively, and full of energy. They’re perfect for playful, candid family moments where kids can run, explore, and be themselves.
My Tip: Go With What Fits Your Family
Both golden hour and daytime sessions have their magic, it just depends on your family’s vibe and routine. If you want bright, joyful images and an easier schedule with little ones, daytime might be the perfect fit.
If you’re in the Monterey or Pacific Grove area and love those true coastal tones, I’d love to photograph your family.
