How to Nail a Windy Myrtle Beach Family Session: Tips and Tricks for Photographers
As a Myrtle Beach family, senior, and wedding photographer, I know the weather here can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful! One minute, the sun is shining; the next, the wind kicks up, and suddenly, you’re dealing with 11 MPH gusts and rain. But don’t worry! With the right mindset and a few tried-and-true tips, you can turn a windy day into a stunning, light-and-airy photo session that your clients will love!
1. Reassure Your Clients: Confidence is Key
When the wind starts whipping, the first thing you need to do is reassure your clients. Remember, they’ve invested a lot in this session—time, effort, and money—so it’s up to you to show them you’ve got this. Even if you’re feeling a bit stressed inside, stay positive and calm. Remind them that wind is just part of Myrtle Beach’s natural charm, and you’re here to capture those beautiful, windswept moments that make beach photography so special.
2. Educate Your Clients Beforehand
Preparation is everything. Before the session, educate your clients on how to dress and what to bring to combat the wind. Suggest they bring hair ties, bobby pins, or even hats to keep their hair in place. Advise against wearing mini skirts, and recommend putting shorts under dresses, especially for little ones. I personally don’t recommend shooting in winds over 13 MPH, but if your clients are set on it, be upfront about the challenges and discuss alternative locations if needed. Let them know you’re flexible and committed to making their session a success, no matter the weather.
3. Use Wind Blocks to Your Advantage
One of the best tricks for shooting in windy conditions is finding natural wind blocks. For example, when I shoot at the pier and the wind is coming from the left, I use the pier to block it on the right side and get those gorgeous, flowing hair shots before the wind takes over. Other great wind blockers include buildings, trees, and even dunes. You’ll be amazed at how different the wind feels just a few steps away from the beach. Having a variety of background options can save the day and give your clients more to choose from.
4. Embrace the Wind: Make It Work for You
Don’t fight the wind—embrace it! If you’re shooting an engagement session, encourage your clients to play with the wind. Have them twirl, hold onto their hats, or let the dress flow for some dynamic, fun shots. For family sessions, moms can hold their dresses, or you can position the children in front to shield them from the wind. The key is to make your clients feel comfortable and confident, so they can focus on enjoying the moment.
5. Keep Your Lens Clear: A Clean Lens is a Sharp Lens
Wind can do more than just toss hair around—it can also add salt, sand, and haze to your lens, making your photos look foggy and less sharp. To combat this, always bring a camera/lens-safe wipe with you. Regularly wiping your lens during the shoot ensures that your images stay crisp and clear, free from any distracting fog or haze. This small step can make a big difference in the quality of your photos, especially during a Windy Myrtle Beach Family Session.
6. Know How to Shoot: Burst Mode is Your Best Friend
When you’re battling wind, capturing that perfect shot can be a challenge. This is where burst mode comes in handy. Set your camera to burst mode and take a series of shots quickly. Even if it takes ten shots to get that one where the hair isn’t flying into your clients’ mouths, it’s worth it! This technique increases your chances of getting that flawless image where everything is just right.
7. Never Say “I Can Just Photoshop It Later”
Avoid the temptation to think, “I can just Photoshop it later.” Your time is valuable, and while post-processing has its place, your goal should be to get it right in-camera as much as possible. Burst mode helps with this, and overshooting ensures you have plenty of options. Underpromise and overdeliver—your clients will appreciate the attention to detail and the effort you put into making their session perfect.
8. Be Honest and Show Examples
Transparency is key to managing expectations. Show your clients examples of what a windy beach session looks like compared to a more sheltered location. Sometimes seeing is believing, and this can help them make an informed decision about whether to proceed or consider an alternative. This honesty builds trust and ensures they’re happy with the final results, no matter what.
Don’t be shy; share social media!! You can say things like: Hey! Check out my Facebook for my most recent beach photography!
With these tips, you can turn even the windiest day into a successful Myrtle Beach family photography session. Remember, it’s all about preparation, confidence, and creativity. So, the next time you find yourself facing those unpredictable beach winds, you’ll be ready to capture stunning, light-and-airy photos that your clients will treasure forever!! XOXO
Want to learn more about beach photography!? Download my FREE video on harsh, bright light HERE!
