The best time of year for a beach photoshoot in Dorset and West Sussex
Sunrise & sunset sessions through the seasons
One of the questions I’m asked most often is “What’s the best time of year for a beach photoshoot?”
And the honest answer is… there really isn’t a wrong one.
Sandbanks and West Wittering beaches are beautiful all year round. Each season brings its own rhythm, light and feeling and that’s exactly why I love photographing at them both so much. Whether you’re expecting a baby, welcoming a newborn, or soaking up this chapter of family life, there’s a season that will feel just right for you.
All of my sessions are timed around golden hour, either shortly after sunrise or before sunset, when the light is soft, flattering and calm. Here’s what the beach looks and feels like through the seasons, and why each one works so beautifully.
Spring at Sandbanks Beach
Fresh light, quieter beach and a sense of new beginnings
Sunrise: around 5:30-6:30am
Sunset: around 6:30-8:00pm
Spring at Sandbanks feels gentle and hopeful, as the days begin to stretch out. This is such a lovely season for maternity, newborn and family photography in Dorset. The beach remains peaceful, especially on weekday sessions, giving you space to connect and relax.
While sunrise sessions can be incredibly peaceful, in spring they do fall quite early. For most families and especially newborn sessions, sunrise is too early to be practical or enjoyable. Because of this, I tend to recommend sunset sessions in spring, when the light is just as soft and beautiful, but the experience feels far more relaxed.
Evenings are calm and comfortable, with plenty of time to slow down, connect and simply enjoy being together. Spring carries that feeling of new beginnings, which makes it especially meaningful for pregnancy and newborn sessions. Soft knits, neutral layers and barefoot walks along the shore work beautifully here.
Summer at Sandbanks Beach
Golden evenings, warm tones and carefree family moments
Sunrise: around 4:45-5:15am
Sunset: around 8:30-9:15pm
Summer brings long, golden evenings and that unmistakable holiday feeling.
Sunrise is very early in summer, so for most families and especially newborn sessions, it isn’t practical. Instead, sunset sessions give the most beautiful light without the pressure of an early start.
Sunset sessions in summer are especially popular for families. Yes, they do mean a later bedtime for little ones, but time and time again parents tell me it’s more than worth it. Children are often swept up in the excitement of being at the beach, running barefoot on the sand and sharing something a little out of the ordinary together.
The soft, golden light and open space creates relaxed, joyful sessions full of laughter, connection, and the beautiful chaos of family life.
Autumn at Sandbanks Beach
Soft light, muted tones and slower, more intimate moments
Sunrise: around 6:30-7:30am
Sunset: around 5:30-7:00pm
Autumn is a truly underrated season for beach photography. The crowds thin out, the light softens again and the beach takes on a quieter, more reflective feel.
This is one of my favourite times for beach sessions. The lower sun creates beautiful, flattering light and the cooler air allows for cosy layers, textures and movement. Think soft jumpers, flowing dresses and close embraces.
Autumn is also a wonderful season for sunrise sessions. The mornings are crisp and calm, with soft pastel skies and the beach feels almost private, ideal if you’re dreaming of peaceful, intimate images before the day begins.
Sunset times become more family friendly again too. Autumn beach sessions at Sandbanks feel grounding and timeless, perfect for slowing down and soaking up this season of life.
Winter at West Wittering Beach
Quiet beach, dreamy light and deeply intimate sessions
Sunrise: around 7:30-8:00am
Sunset: around 3:45-4:30pm
Winter at the beach is incredibly special. It’s calm, quiet and almost feels like the beach is yours alone. With far fewer people around, sessions feel intimate and peaceful, allowing you to truly be present with one another.
Winter sunrise sessions are my absolute favourite of the whole year and don’t require an early alarm in the same way summer does. The light is soft and low, creating a dreamy, flattering glow. The beach at this time of day is incredibly still and serene and there’s something so grounding about starting the day slowly by the sea.
Winter sunsets are also family friendly, with sessions easy to fit around everyday life thanks to the earlier golden hour.
Winter is beautiful for maternity, newborn and family photoshoots at West Wittering. While it’s easy to imagine the beach feeling cold, it’s often not as chilly as people expect, especially when layered up properly. Soft knits, hats, scarves and textured layers not only keep you warm, but photograph beautifully too.
Winter naturally invites closeness, so wrap up and lean into those cosy moments and embrace the crisp sea air. The skies can be dramatic, the tones muted and timeless. Winter beach sessions feel deeply emotive and meaningful.
So… when is the best time for a beach photoshoot?
The best time is the season that feels most aligned with you and the chapter you’re in now.
No matter the season, the beach offers a beautiful, natural backdrop that allows your story to unfold gently and honestly. I’ll always guide you on the best time of day, what to wear and how to prepare, so your session feels relaxed from start to finish.
Want exact sunrise and sunset times?
For detailed official sunrise and sunset times by date and beach location, see the full calendar for Sandbanks in Poole on https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/uk/poole.
Ready to capture your beach memories?
If you’re dreaming of a maternity, newborn or family photoshoot at Sandbanks or West Wittering beach, I’d love to help you choose the perfect season and create something truly meaningful together.