Book your St. Simons Island vacation photo session
Your best souvenir isn’t in a gift shop.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect photo session on St. Simons Island—while you’re still packing your bags.
There’s nothing quite like a vacation on St. Simons Island —the blend of southern charm, towering live oaks, salty air, and slow coastal mornings makes it one of the best places in Georgia to truly exhale (and smell the jasmine). And whether you’re coming with your kids, your extended family, or the love of your life, capturing those memories with a professional photo session is one of the best souvenirs you can take home. The secret? A little prep before you even hit the causeway.
1. Choose Your Photographer Early (Especially in Busy Seasons)
The best vacation photographers on the island can book up weeks—sometimes months—in advance, especially during spring break, summer, and fall break. Reach out early so you get your first choice and have time to collaborate on the best location and time.
2. Know the Best Time of Day to Shoot
On the beach, sunrise and sunset are golden. If you want soft, glowing photos and comfortable temperatures, let your photographer help guide you on timing based on the season and tides.
3. Pick a Location That Feels Like You
From sandy-covered beaches and palm-lined boardwalks to Spanish moss-draped parks and cozy coastal cottages, St. Simons has so many personality-filled backdrops. I help clients choose between favorites like East Beach, the Pier Village, Avenue of the Oaks, and even their own vacation rental!
4. Plan Outfits That Fit the Island Vibe
Think soft, breathable, coastal colors—whites, creams, soft blues, sage, sandy neutrals. SSI has a natural elegance, and your outfits can complement the surroundings. I send all my clients a styling guide and even offer outfit planning help if you want it simple.
5. Bring the Essentials
Pack a small bag with water, touch-up items (like wipes for littles or lip gloss for you), and a snack or two if kids are involved. If you’re heading to the beach, plan on sandy toes and maybe even a barefoot shot or two.
6. Don’t Stress the Weather—Trust the Local
Island weather can be moody, especially in summer. But as someone who photographs here and lives here, I know how to pivot quickly, chase the light, and still make magic! I keep a close eye on the radar and help my clients stay flexible if a storm pops up.
7. Decide How You Want to Use Your Photos
Whether you want prints for your home, an heirloom album, or frame for your home, it’s helpful to think ahead. I help clients make those decisions while we plan their session, I find having a vision early can shape the session (and save you time later!).
8. Think of It as a Memory-Making Hour, Not a To-Do List Item
The best sessions happen when you show up in the spirit of vacation—not perfection. Laugh, play, hold hands, slow down. It’s not about the pose; it’s about the people - YOUR people!
St. Simons Island is special—it just is. And whether this is your first visit or your family returns year after year, a photo session here lets you bottle up that feel of it forever.
If you’re planning a trip and want to make time for something truly meaningful, I’d love to help you design the perfect photo experience before you even leave home!
