Sunset photoshoots offer the most stunning light — perfect for capturing the joy, love, and connection in your family. The warm, glowing light just before the sun sets is flattering for everyone, but when young kids are involved, a little extra prep goes a long way! Here’s a guide to ensure your family enjoys the session and you walk away with beautiful, timeless photos.
1. Timing is Key
Golden hour is usually about 30-45 minutes before the sun sets, but this timing might be a little late for younger children, especially during the Summer months. While I aim to capture that perfect golden light, I understand the need for flexibility, especially if bedtime is a concern. If possible, plan for a relaxed non-daycare day and consider a later nap for little ones so they’re not overtired.
Tip: Spring and Autumn are great months to book your family’s sunset photos as the sun is much lower in the sky. Instead of an 8pm start time it comes down to a 5pm start time making it ideal for young kids.
2. Dress for Comfort and Style
When it comes to dressing your family, think soft, neutral tones or earthy colors that complement the natural surroundings. For young kids, comfort is key! Avoid anything too restrictive or fussy, and choose outfits they’ll feel good playing and moving in.
- Parents: Opt for casual yet coordinated outfits, something that is easy to move around in as you will be doing lots of playing and throwing your children in the air.
- Kids: Comfortable, all in one outfits are great as you avoid seeing the nappy.
Tip: This time of night can get cold quickly no matter the season. It’s a good idea to bring layers like cardigans, jumpers, or cozy blankets for extra warmth.
3. Pack Essentials (Snacks, Blankets, Towels and Pyjamas)
A well-prepared bag can make a world of difference in keeping your kids happy and comfortable during the photoshoot. Here are a few essentials that will help ensure everything runs smoothly:
- Snacks: Healthy, mess-free options like crackers or fruit slices can help avoid hunger meltdowns. Easy snacks can also be a helpful distraction between shots.
- Blankets: Bring a neutral-toned blanket that matches the outdoor setting — perfect for cuddly photos and for kids to sit on.
- Towels: If your session is by the beach or near water, towels are a must! Kids love exploring, and we often end up playing in the water. Towels will help dry off wet feet and keep sandy kids clean before getting back in the car.
- Pyjamas or a Change of Clothes: After a fun-filled session, kids might be ready to crash on the way home. Packing pyjamas or a comfy change of clothes allows them to get cozy for the drive, especially if you’re shooting close to bedtime.
Tip: Stay hydrated and bring water bottles, especially for warmer summer days!
4. Embrace the Adventure!
One of the most important things for a successful sunset photoshoot is to keep the mood light and playful. Kids can sense stress, so the more fun you have, the better the photos will be. Encourage them to explore, run around, or even dance in the glowing light — I’ll capture all the natural, candid moments that reflect your family’s joy.
Tip: Avoid pressuring your kids to “perform” or smile on command. The best photos often come from spontaneous giggles and natural interactions.
5. Keep the Mood Relaxed and Positive
Your kids will take cues from you, so try to stay relaxed and enjoy the experience! If they’re feeling a bit shy or restless, that’s okay — we’ll work around it. Some of the best photos come from unplanned moments, so embrace the silliness and the chaos. This is your family’s unique story, and I’m here to capture it in the best light possible.
Final Thoughts
Sunset sessions are all about connection and natural beauty, and with these tips, I hope you are feeling more prepared. By keeping things fun, flexible, and stress-free, we can create stunning images that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Ready to book your sunset family session? Contact me here to reserve your spot — I can’t wait to capture your family’s magic in the sunset glow!
