A family of five walks barefoot along the beach at Fort Story, holding hands. They are dressed in whites, khakis, and pinks.

Ultimate Guide: Fort Story Beach Family Photo Session

April 30, 2025•3 min read

Family Session at Fort Story Beach

As a family photographer who’s spent years photographing along the coast, I’ve learned that the where of your session can be just as important as the when. Fort Story Beach offers a unique blend of scenic backdrops, soft sand, and natural rock formations that make it one of the most underrated gems for relaxed, beautiful family photos. If you’re looking for a peaceful location where your kids can be themselves, this might just be your new favorite spot.

Note: Fort Story is located on a military installation and requires base access. If you don’t have access, don’t worry—Sandbridge Beach is my next favorite for a laid-back, coastal session and is just as beautiful.

Why Fort Story is a Hidden Gem for Family Photos

Tucked away from the crowds and chaos of the busier tourist spots, Fort Story Beach offers a quiet, natural environment. There’s a bit of everything—tall dune grasses, gentle waves, and even dramatic rock formations that give your session a little extra visual interest. If your family leans more low-key, this is the perfect place to stretch out and relax together without distractions.

A beach family photo collage at Fort Story, showing a family of five smiling, playing, and cuddling on the sand and rocks during sunset, with soft tones, coastal scenery, and warm, natural light throughout the session.

Natural Textures Add Depth to Your Photos

Smooth sand is great, but throw in some large rocks and you’ve got a visually rich backdrop that adds texture without taking away from your family’s connection. These elements help frame your family beautifully, making every photo feel a little more intentional—even when the moment is completely candid.

Timing Matters: Golden Hour at Fort Story

Like most beach sessions, the best time to shoot here is during golden hour—early morning or right before sunset. The light hits just right across the rocks and sand, giving everything that warm, soft glow. It’s flattering, gentle, and makes skin tones look amazing. Plus, it keeps everyone from squinting under harsh midday sun.

Collage of family photos taken at Fort Story Beach, featuring candid moments, barefoot walking on the sand, soft golden-hour light, rocky backdrops, and joyful interactions between parents and children in light, neutral-toned outfits.

Let the Kids Lead

This family session was full of laughter, sandy toes, and that magical kind of sibling energy you can’t script. We kept things light and easy—walking barefoot, exploring the rocks, and letting the little ones play. That’s the beauty of Fort Story: you don’t have to work hard to get genuine smiles. The calm setting does a lot of the heavy lifting.

Conclusion: Why Fort Story Might Be the Right Spot for Your Family

The location you choose can change the entire feel of your session. Fort Story Beach offers a quiet, beautiful environment with plenty of room to play and meaningful spots to pause and connect. Whether your family loves the coast or you’re just looking for something new, this spot delivers a subtle kind of magic that feels real and grounded.

Let’s plan a session that fits your family—one that feels natural and relaxed, not forced or fussy. I’ll take care of the details so all you need to do is show up and enjoy.

Contact me, and I can answer any questions you have about session locations or what to expect. Or come hang out with me over on the 'Gram!