If you’re dreaming of beautiful family portraits in the Charleston area, fall is the perfect season. At Captured by Kate Photography, we specialize in creating timeless beach portraits for families on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Folly Beach, and Isle of Palms. With golden light, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds, autumn is the ideal time to capture your family together by the sea.
Why Fall is the Best Time for Charleston Beach Portraits
In Charleston, fall brings the most flattering light for photography. We typically schedule sessions at sunrise or about 90 minutes before sunset—the times of day when the sun casts a soft, golden glow. During summer, these sessions can run late into the evening, which can be tough for young children. In the fall, the shorter days mean easier session times for families.
Another bonus? The cooler, less humid weather. With no sticky heat or heavy air, families feel more relaxed and comfortable, which always leads to natural smiles and genuine moments.
Best Charleston Beach Locations for Fall Family Portraits
Every Charleston-area beach has its own personality, and we love helping families choose the backdrop that best matches their style:
Kiawah Island – Wide, quiet beaches with a serene, natural feel. Perfect for portraits with a mix of maritime forest, dunes, ocean, and stunning skies.
Seabrook Island – Peaceful and private, with long natural beach paths perfect for photos. These trails open into fields of marsh grass, large rock jetties ideal for posing, and sandy stretches of shoreline.
Folly Beach – Fun, funky, and lively, with iconic beach scenery. Folly offers lighthouse views, driftwood, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for playful family portraits.
Isle of Palms – A family favorite, with long beach access that winds through beautiful sand dunes before opening up to wide stretches of sand and classic Lowcountry charm.
What to Wear for Fall Family Beach Portraits
Wardrobe makes a big difference in how your portraits look and feel. For fall sessions, we recommend:
Natural, organic tones like navy, dark green, camel, tan, brown, or burgundy
Jewel tones such as lavender, emerald green, or rich blues for a pop of color
These colors photograph beautifully against sandy beaches and coastal skies while also pairing perfectly with holiday card designs.
A Relaxed Family Experience
Fall on Charleston’s beaches means fewer tourists, calmer settings, and a more relaxed atmosphere. This allows us to capture not only classic portraits but also candid family moments—kids running along the shoreline, parents sharing a laugh, and those in-between moments that make your family unique.
