Guides · Beach sessions · Timing
The best time for beach photos in Myrtle Beach.
The Grand Strand's beaches face the Atlantic to the east, which changes everything about when to shoot. Here's how the light works on our beaches through the day.
Sunrise: the sun comes up over the ocean
At sunrise the sun rises out of the water behind you, which gives a glow around hair and shoulders and colors in the sky over the ocean. The beach is also at its emptiest. I offer a sunrise session as an add-on for family, graduation and maternity sessions.
Sunset: soft light on your faces
In the evening the sun sets inland, behind the dunes, so light falls softly on your faces with the ocean behind you. The last hour before sunset, golden hour, is one of the most popular times to shoot.
Midday: avoid it if you can
Overhead sun makes squinting and hard shadows, and in summer the beach is crowded and hot. If midday is the only time that works, shade under a pier or in a maritime forest helps.
Weather and tides
- Weather reschedules for family, graduation and maternity sessions are free, with no penalty.
- Low tide leaves wide wet sand that reflects the sky. It's worth checking the tide table when you pick a day.
- Wind is common on the beach. Plan hair and light fabrics with that in mind.
Related
Questions
Quick answers.
What time should a sunset session start?
Usually about an hour before sunset, which moves a lot through the year on the Grand Strand. We'll set the exact time when you book.
More guides