There’s something extra special about extended family sessions at Myrtle Beach State Park — especially at sunset. As a Myrtle Beach photographer, I photograph many beach sessions each year, but large family gatherings at golden hour always feel a little magical.
When families vacation together along the South Carolina coast, it’s often the only time everyone is in the same place at once. Grandparents, siblings, cousins — all together, barefoot in the sand, with the sun setting behind them. That’s what makes extended family sessions so meaningful.
Why Myrtle Beach State Park Is Perfect for Extended Family Sessions
Myrtle Beach State Park offers a quieter, more natural backdrop compared to some of the busier areas along the Grand Strand. The sea oats, dunes, and wide open shoreline create the perfect setting for timeless family portraits.
For extended family sessions, space matters. We need room to:
Photograph the entire group together
Break into individual family units
Capture grandparents with grandkids
Get candid cousin moments
Myrtle Beach State Park gives us that flexibility — especially during sunrise or sunset when the light softens and everything glows.
The Beauty of a Sunrise or Sunset Session
Sunrise or Sunset is hands-down the most requested time for family beach photos — and for good reason. As a Myrtle Beach photographer, I always recommend sunrise or sunset for extended family sessions because:
The lighting is soft and flattering
The beach is less crowded
The temperature is cooler
The sky often gives us dreamy pastel colors
Sunset sessions also tend to feel more relaxed. The kids can play a little, the adults can breathe a little, and we capture both posed portraits and natural interactions.
What to Expect During an Extended Family Beach Session
Large family sessions don’t have to feel overwhelming. I guide the entire process so it stays organized but never stiff. We start with the full group portrait while everyone is fresh, then move into smaller combinations:
Grandparents with all grandchildren
Individual families
Sibling groups
Cousins together
Just the grandparents
And of course, we end with those fun, candid walking shots along the shoreline at sunset.
Planning Your Myrtle Beach Extended Family Session
If you're planning a vacation and considering booking a Myrtle Beach photographer for extended family photos, here are a few quick tips:
Book early — summer sunset dates fill quickly
Coordinate outfits (neutral tones photograph beautifully at Myrtle Beach State Park)
Plan for a little wind — it’s part of beach life
Arrive 10–15 minutes early so we can start on time
Extended family sessions are about more than just a holiday card photo. They’re about preserving this season — the grandparents still active, the cousins still little, everyone together in one frame.
If you're visiting Myrtle Beach and want sunset beach photos at Myrtle Beach State Park, I would love to help document your time here.
