Most family photo sessions at Wrightsville Beach last 30 to 60 minutes. This gives us enough time for a variety of photos without anyone feeling rushed, especially young children.

A joyful toddler sits between his smiling grandmother and mother on a sunny beach during a family photo session.

Is 30 Minutes Enough?


For immediate families with young children, a 30 minute session is often all that's needed. Kids usually have short attention spans, so working efficiently helps keep everyone engaged.

During a typical 30 minute session, we'll capture:

  • Full family portraits
  • Parents with the children
  • Siblings together
  • Individual photos of each child
  • Candid interactions
  • Walking and playing along the beach


Grandmother and toddler grandson laughing joyfully together on a sandy beach during a sunny family outing.

When Should You Choose a 60 Minute Session?


A longer session is a good choice if you:

  • Have an extended family
  • Want multiple beach locations
  • Have several young children
  • Want more variety in your gallery
  • Plan to include grandparents

The extra time allows us to move at a comfortable pace while creating more combinations and candid moments.

A smiling father kneels on sandy beach hugging his two young sons, all wearing matching blue shirts.

What Happens During the Session?


I keep sessions relaxed and easy to follow.


We'll begin with the larger family portraits while everyone is fresh, then move into smaller family groups, sibling photos, couples, grandparents, and finally more natural interactions as everyone becomes comfortable in front of the camera.


There's no need to worry about memorizing poses. I'll guide you throughout the session with simple direction while allowing plenty of room for genuine moments.

Father lifting excited girl on beach while two boys play in sand at sunset.

What Time of Day Is Best?


Most family sessions take place during the hour before sunset. The light is softer, the beach is generally less crowded, and temperatures are more comfortable throughout much of the year.

Sunrise sessions are also available for families looking for a quieter beach experience.

Pregnant woman in floral dress smiling on beach with two children hugging her at golden hour sunset.

Does an Extended Family Session Take Longer?


Yes. Extended family sessions usually require additional time because we'll photograph:

  • The entire family together
  • Individual households
  • Grandparents with grandchildren
  • Siblings
  • Cousins
  • Multiple family combinations


These sessions typically last between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the size of the group.

A smiling mother crouches on a sandy beach making a heart shape with her daughter in a floral dress.

FAQ

Is 30 minutes enough for family photos?

Yes. For most immediate families, 30 minutes provides enough time for a complete gallery with a variety of portraits and candid moments.

Can we change outfits?

If time allows, a quick outfit change is possible during longer sessions.

Do you help us pose?

Absolutely. I'll guide you every step of the way so your photos feel natural and relaxed rather than overly posed.