Sunrise or Sunset? Let’s Talk About the Best Time for Your Beach Photos

I get asked this question all the time—should we shoot at sunrise or sunset? And while both are absolutely magical, there are a few things I always share to help clients decide which is right for their family.

Let me start by saying this: sunset is my personal favorite. It’s warm, golden, emotional, and gives us more time to shoot without rushing (especially when families want those impromptu shots in the water—splashing, laughing, just living the moment). It’s perfect for families who want to fully embrace the beauty and wildness of the beach—even if there’s wind or dramatic clouds rolling in. Teens especially do better at sunset, because let’s be honest... getting them up at sunrise isn’t easy!

BUT—sunrise sessions have a secret power.
They’re my go-to recommendation for clients who worry about wind, especially moms with long hair or littles who don’t love the gusty beach breeze. Mornings tend to be much calmer, giving us smooth skies and a wide variety of color in the early light. And the beaches? Practically empty. It’s peaceful, clean, and the light is stunning.

So what’s my final verdict?

• Sunrise: Best for calmer winds, more private beaches, and soft pastel tones.

• Sunset: Best for storytelling, natural emotion, bold color, and those water-play moments.

You really can’t go wrong—but I’m always happy to help you pick what works best for your vision and your crew.

Swipe through these examples to see the beauty of both sunrise and sunset. No matter when we shoot, the memories we capture will be nothing short of magic. ✨