If you're heading to Emerald Isle with the family, beach portraits are probably already on your mind - and for good reason! This little slice of coastal Carolina has a way of making time slow down. The salty breeze, golden light, barefoot babies running through the tide… it’s pure magic and it deserves to be remembered beautifully.
But even with the best of intentions, I see families make a few common mistakes that can turn what should be a relaxed, meaningful experience into something rushed or forgettable. If you’re investing in portraits during your vacation, here are five mistakes to avoid—and what to do instead to make sure your beach session is everything it should be.
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book
This is the biggest one. I totally get it... vacation brain kicks in and suddenly it's the day before you leave, and you're scrambling for a photographer. But the best beach photographers (the ones who prioritize lighting, safety, and timeless results) book up weeks-months in advance, especially in the summer. To get your preferred date and time, the best approach is to book while you’re still planning your trip. That gives us time to coordinate wardrobe, plan for the tides, and even build in a weather backup.
2. Booking Someone Based on Price Alone
I know how tempting it is to search “Emerald Isle beach photographer” and click the cheapest option. But here’s the thing: you're not just paying for someone to show up with a camera. You're paying for experience, direction, and artwork that you’ll actually want to display in your home. This is your family’s story and it deserves to be captured in a way that reflects that.
Here’s the honest truth: Emerald Isle, as a tourist destination, draws in a wave of photographers each season, but not all are prepared to deliver the kind of service and professionalism your once-in-a-lifetime moments deserve. We hear from families every summer who were left scrambling after their photographer canceled last-minute or didn’t follow through on delivering their memories. It’s heartbreaking, and it’s avoidable. At Samantha Ann Photo, we’ve built a reputation on reliability, intention, and a finished product you’ll be proud to hang in your home. When you’re trusting someone to preserve your family’s memories, it should never be a gamble.
3. Not Thinking About the Final Product
Many families don’t consider what they’ll do with their images until they’re scrolling through a gallery of digital files. My approach is a little different. We talk about your home and your style first so we can design wall art that fits your life. When your portraits are created with the end in mind, they have more impact and more meaning.
4. Choosing the Wrong Time of Day
Light matters—a lot! Midday sun might feel convenient, but it rarely flatters skin tones or creates the dreamy, warm glow you’re likely envisioning. That’s why I only shoot at sunset and watch the radar very closely. Welcome to North Carolina where you can experience 4 seasons in one day and rain predictions can shift by the hour. It’s worth planning dinner a little earlier - trust me. When you book with us, we not only account for backup dates during your vacation dates to insure we never miss capturing a family, we remain flexible throughout the day should weather be an issue and adjust accordingly. Born and raised here, we've got nearly 40 years of experience in navigating weather, lighting, locations, and traffic.
5. Hoping for a “Perfect” Session
Real talk: no family is perfect. Your toddler might throw sand. Your teenager might roll her eyes - and that’s okay! I’m here to help you feel at ease, capture your connection, and create artwork that reflects the love between you. The best sessions are the ones where everyone can just breathe, be present, and enjoy the moment.
If you’re planning a trip to Emerald Isle and want family portraits that feel genuine and stress free - I’d love to talk. You can inquire here and let’s start dreaming up what these memories will look like on your walls.
