This is Why You Should Book a Sunrise Photo session This Summer for Family Photos

When families first inquire about booking beach family photos with me, one of the most common questions I get is: “Should we do sunrise or sunset?” While both offer beautiful light, here in Ponte Vedra Beach during the Summer, sunrise is hands-down the better choice—and here’s why.

1. Avoid the Afternoon Thunderstorms

If you’ve spent even one Summer in Florida, you know the weather has a mind of its own. Afternoon storms roll in almost daily, often right around golden hour. Booking a sunset session during the summer means playing a risky game with unpredictable rain, lightning, and wind. Sunrise sessions, on the other hand, happen before the storms start brewing—giving us a much more reliable window for beautiful, dry skies.

2. Cooler Temperatures & Less Humidity

Florida mornings are cooler and far more comfortable than late afternoons, especially during those steamy July and August days. You’ll still break a little sweat chasing toddlers down the beach (don’t worry—I’ll be doing the same with my camera in hand!), but it’s a far cry from the sweltering heat of sunset hours.

3. Empty Beaches = Peaceful Sessions

One of the best-kept secrets of a sunrise session? The beach is practically empty. Even the most crowded of beaches such as Mickler’s, Vilano and Crescent have very few people. While locals and tourists are still snoozing, we get the shoreline all to ourselves. No dodging other beachgoers, no distractions in the background—just your family, the soft sound of waves, and the first light of day. It’s peaceful, private, and pure magic.

4. Dreamy, Soft Morning Light

Sunrise light is different from sunset. It’s softer, cleaner, and glows in pastel hues—perfect for light-filled, dreamy images. The ocean tends to reflect that morning light beautifully, adding a soft shimmer that makes your gallery feel ethereal. For families who love that airy, natural look , morning light is a match made in heaven.

5. Start the Day with Connection

There’s something really sweet about starting your day with snuggles, giggles, and barefoot adventures at the beach. Afterwards, you’ve got the whole day ahead of you to grab breakfast, explore Ponte Vedra, or just go home and take a well-earned nap. It’s a beautiful way to begin a day and create memories that last far beyond the session.

6. Better Time of Day for Toddlers and babies

Sunset in the Summer months is very late, which means our start time will be around7/7:30pm. This time of day can be a challenge for families with young children. Most of my clients with young children prefer a sunrise session because their children are in better moods at that time of day. It is always ideal to choose a time of day that aligns with your children’s schedule.

Is Waking Up Early Worth It?

I know, I know—getting everyone up and dressed before the sun rises sounds like a tall order… But I promise you: it’s worth it. I’ll guide you every step of the way with outfit styling, location tips, and a laid-back experience that takes the stress out of early mornings. And when you see your images lit by that first golden light? You’ll be so glad you said yes to sunrise.

Ready to book your sunrise session? Contact Me to reserve your date —let’s create something beautiful together.