YOUR family WELCOME GUIDE
Welcome to YOUR BEACH family EXPERIENCE
I’m so happy you’re here.
Firstly, thank you for trusting me to capture your family as you are right now. These in-between moments, the laughter, the chaos, the cuddles, the tiny habits you don’t want to forget are often the ones we miss most later on.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know ahead of your family session, so you can arrive feeling relaxed, prepared and ready to just enjoy time together.
what to expect
Your family session is designed to feel easy, natural and completely unposed.
We’ll meet at the beach during golden hour, when the light is soft and warm, perfect for capturing real connection without anything feeling forced.
There’s no pressure for perfect behaviour or perfect smiles. The best images often come from the in-between moments running, playing, cuddling, exploring, and simply being together.
I’ll gently guide you with simple prompts and movement-based ideas so everything feels relaxed and natural. Most families forget they’re even being photographed within the first 10 minutes.
Think of it as an evening at the beach with your family… just with me there quietly capturing it all.
A few days before your shoot, I’ll be in touch to confirm final details, including timing and our exact meeting spot.
If you have any questions at all in the lead-up, you’re always welcome to reach out. I’m here to help you feel completely at ease going into your session.
before your beach session
EVERYTHING YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING
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Soft, neutral tones always work beautifully for your newborn session. Think creams, beiges, and gentle earthy colours, as these help keep the focus on connection and your baby.
Comfort is the most important thing, especially for you and your baby. Soft, simple clothing without bold patterns or logos photographs best and keeps everything timeless.
For a little inspiration, I’ve created a Pinterest board you can explore here:
https://pin.it/34t8ikgGKThere’s no pressure to recreate anything exactly, they’re simply there to give you a feel for what works beautifully in this setting.
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Nappies, wipes, and anything your baby may need during the session
Milk or feeding supplies (breast or bottle)
Extra layers for you and your baby
A blanket or any sentimental items you’d like included in your images
I recommend wearing footwear that’s easy to slip on and off, as we’ll usually shoot barefoot on the beach. Bare feet help keep everything feeling natural and grounded in the sand.
It can also be helpful to bring:
A warm layer for in between photos, especially if it’s breezy
Water to stay comfortable throughout
Anything that helps you feel at ease, such as a hairbrush or lip balm
That’s really all you need, everything else is taken care of.
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If the weather isn’t suitable (heavy rain or strong winds), we’ll simply reschedule.
There’s always flexibility built in for this reason, so there’s no need to worry. Cloudy skies and light rain can still be incredibly beautiful and soft, so sessions often go ahead even without full sunshine.
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This is completely normal.
Almost everyone feels this way beforehand, especially if they’re not used to being in front of the camera.
You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do. I’ll gently guide you throughout and within minutes it usually starts to feel natural and easy.
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The beach car park is here: https://share.google/UmGAHyUswPgaQNDjv
Parking in the area can be paid for using the RingGo app, or directly at the machine using your card.
I recommend allowing a little extra time to park and short walk to our meeting point so we can start your session feeling relaxed.
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Public toilets are located next to the main car park at Sandbanks Beach.
Opening times:
Late May – 10 September: 7:00am – 10:00pm
1 April – late May: open between 8:00–9:00am, close between 7:00–8:00pm
11 September – 31 October: open between 8:00–9:00am, close between 7:00–8:00pm
1 November – 31 March: open between 8:00–9:00am, close between 4:30–6:00pm
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If needed, you can get changed in the public toilets at Sandbanks Beach (subject to opening hours).
Alternatively, I can help you find a quiet, discreet spot on the beach for a quick change.
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We’ll be heading up into the dunes for your session. The dunes are just a short walk from the car park, so it’s very manageable. A baby carrier can be really helpful for this short walk, although a pram is absolutely fine too if you prefer , we can take our time and make it work comfortably for you.
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The remaining balance is due by the day of your session, as detailed on your invoice.
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after your session
After your session, I’ll carefully select and edit your images in my signature style.
You’ll then receive your gallery where you can view your full collection and choose your favourite images.
From here, you’ll also have the option to choose from a small collection of fine art products designed to help you preserve your images beautifully.
I’ll guide you through everything available when your gallery is ready, so you can choose what feels right for you.
Many families choose to continue their story with a milestone session once their baby is sitting or taking their first steps, or with a family session back at the beach as they grow. I always keep space aside for returning clients so you’re never left struggling for availability during these early years.
This season moves faster than we ever expect it to.
This is your chance to slow down.
To be present with your children.
To enjoy them exactly as they are right now.
And to have something beautiful to look back on long after this chapter has passed.
I can’t wait to meet you at the beach.
Sophie x
