If you’ve already booked your session with me—welcome. I’m genuinely so excited you’re here. And if you’re still deciding, consider this your behind-the-scenes peek at how I take care of my people from the very first message to the final gallery.

I’m Amanda Christine with Amanda Christine Photography, and I specialize in fun, connection-filled beach photography for families vacationing along the Alabama coast. If you’re searching for an Orange Beach photographer, Gulf Shores photographer, or Gulf Coast photographer who can keep things playful andmake you look effortlessly polished, you’re in the right place.

A little love note for Gulf Coast families

Gulf Coast has this magic mix of laid-back coastal energy and quiet luxury—the kind that makes you exhale the second your toes hit the sand. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a full week of sunshine, I want your session to feel like part of the vacation: easy, joyful, and a little bit “wow, we should do this every year.” (Because honestly… you should!)

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Quick truth: beach sessions are not studio sessions (and that’s the magic)

The beach is wild and beautiful and alive. The light changes. The breeze shows up. Kids get sandy. Hair moves. Someone laughs at the wrong time. Perfect.

My sessions are a blend of:

• Sweet candid moments (the real stuff: laughter, snuggles, connection)
• Beautifully posed photos (gently guided so you look amazing)

You will never be left wondering what to do. I’ll guide you the whole time—where to stand, where to look, what to do with your hands, how to hold your kids, when to walk, when to cuddle. You just show up and love on your people.

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What to expect during your beach session with me

If you’re nervous because you’ve never done professional photos—breathe. I’m not here to make you “perform.” I’m here to make you feel confident, cared for, and like your best self.

Here’s what sessions usually feel like:

• We start easy with a few “everyone together” photos (because Grandma will want one!)
• Then we move into smaller groupings (parents, kids, siblings, individual child photos)
• We mix walking, playing, cuddling, and a few classic “look at the camera” moments
• I fix the little things as we go (hair, straps, spacing, hands, posture—yes, I notice everything so you don’t have to)

My goal: relaxed, connected photos that feel like your family—on your best day.

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Breeze talk: the beach breeze is real, so let’s plan for it

Let’s talk about the one thing that surprises people the most: wind.

There’s almost always a breeze on the beach, and you know what? It can look incredible in photos—when we choose the right clothes and hairstyles. Wind is not the enemy. Wind is a styling assistant… with a slightly chaotic personality. Keep in mind it is not always breezy but there’s often some kind of wind present that you would usually find in other “typical” photo locations.

Best fabrics for beach photography

For beach photography, I love clothing that moves. Think:

• Linen
• Cotton
• Gauze
• Knits
• Flowy dresses and skirts

These fabrics photograph beautifully because they add softness and motion without feeling stiff.

What to avoid (gently, lovingly)

You don’t have to be fancy, but a few things tend to distract in photos:

• Neon colors
• Large logos
• Super stiff fabrics
• Anything that wrinkles instantly

Your faces and connection are the focus—your outfits should support that, not compete with it.

Color palettes that look timeless on the Alabama coast

If you want the easiest “yes” formula, stick to:

• Creams, whites, tans
• Soft blues, sage, muted pinks
• Light neutrals and warm earth tones

These tones complement the sand, sky, and water and keep your images looking elevated and timeless.

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Hairstyles for the beach (because wind happens)

Beach hair is… beach hair. And the goal is not perfection. The goal is to plan for movement.

If you love wearing your hair down

Go for it! It will blow, and it can look gorgeous. I’ll help you fix it between shots when needed.

If wind stresses you out

Choose something more secure:

• Half-up, half-down
• Low bun
• Braid
• Ponytail with a few soft face-framing pieces

My biggest pro tip

Bring:

• A brush or comb
• A couple extra hair ties / pins

Wind happens. We roll with it. And I’ll guide you through it so you still feel calm and confident.

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No shoes (trust me on this)

Beach photos almost always look best barefoot.

Shoes sink into sand, tilt ankles, and can look clunky. Bare feet look natural, timeless, and “right” for the beach.

If you’re worried about feet—don’t be. I pose you in flattering ways, and we can always adjust angles and placement. Barefoot beach photography is the way to go.

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The secret ingredient: fun

The best photos happen when your family is having a good time—period.

If your kids are shy, wild, clingy, loud, silly… that is normal. That is real life. And I’m experienced with all of it.

Here’s what I want you to know:

• Your kids do not need to “perform”
• You do not need perfect behavior
• You do not need to stress

You need connection.
And I’ll guide you into moments that bring it out naturally.

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What to bring to your beach photography session

Keep it simple. The less you carry, the more relaxed you feel.

Here’s my go-to checklist:

• Water (especially for kids)
• A small snack (non-messy: crackers, gummies, granola bar)
• Towel (for sandy hands/feet)
• Brush/comb + hair ties

That’s it. You don’t need a giant bag of “just in case” items. We want you present and comfortable.

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My favorite outfit formula (easy + flattering + timeless)

I get asked about outfits constantly, so here’s my favorite “works every time” approach for family beach photography:

A simple outfit formula

Pick:

• 1 main color
• 1 neutral
• 1 soft accent

Example combos:

• Cream + light blue + tan
• White + sage + khaki
• Sand + blush + soft gray

My favorite look for moms (because moms deserve to feel beautiful)

A flowy neutral dress is magic on the beach:

• It moves beautifully in the breeze
• It photographs softly and elegantly
• It helps you feel confident without trying too hard

For dads, a light button-down or soft tee in a neutral tone looks great. For kids, soft coordinating tones (not perfectly matching) photograph beautifully and feel natural.

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FAQs I hear from families all the time

“What if my kids don’t cooperate?”

Then we do what I do best: I keep it moving, keep it playful, and guide you into connection. Some of the most meaningful images come from the in-between moments.

“What if it’s windy?”

Perfectly normal. We plan outfits and hair with the breeze in mind, and I’ll help you adjust as we go.

“Do we have to pose the whole time?”

Nope. We’ll do a mix. I’ll guide you into flattering positions, then we transition into movement and interaction so it never feels stiff.

“I feel awkward in photos. Will you tell me what to do?”

Yes. Absolutely. You will not be left guessing. I’ll give you gentle, clear direction the whole time.

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A note for families vacationing in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

If you’re visiting the coast and booking beach photography during your trip, you’re doing something so meaningful. Photos become part of your family legacy—especially when life feels fast.

Whether you found me searching for:

• an Orange Beach photographer
• a Gulf Shores photographer
• a Gulf Coast photographer
• or someone who specializes in beach photography for families in the surrounding areas

…I want you to feel taken care of from the very beginning. My sessions are designed to feel like you’re spending time together—because you are. I just happen to be there capturing it beautifully.

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Ready to book your beach session?

If you’re already booked: I can’t wait to see you on the sand. You’re in great hands, and I’ll guide you through everything.

If you’re not booked yet and you’re looking for relaxed, emotional, joy-filled family photos at the beach, I’d love to work with you.

Next step:
👉 Reach out here to book: www.amandachristinephotography.com

With so much love,
Amanda Christine
Amanda Christine Photography