Sunset Photoshoot Ideas for Families
There’s something truly magical about a sunset photoshoot with your family. The light is soft, golden, and full of emotion—perfect for storytelling that feels both natural and timeless. Whether you’re playing at the beach, snuggling on a blanket, or walking through the bush as the sky shifts colour, sunset creates space for genuine connection and relaxed, beautiful images.
Every photo you’ll see here was captured by The Story of Us. We hope they spark ideas for your own session. Below, you’ll find sunset photoshoot inspiration—outfits, locations, and thoughtful ideas drawn from real families we’ve had the joy of photographing.
Beach Sunset Photoshoot
Beaches are one of our favourite places to shoot at sunset. The open sky reflects on the water, and the sand turns golden as the sun drops. Kids love the freedom to run and play, while couples often find the breeze and setting sun effortlessly romantic.
Love the beach as a family? Explore our guide on beach family photo ideas for more inspirations!
Tips for a successful beach sunset shoot
Arrive early and be ready for the light to change fast – The best golden light often happens just before sunset, and it fades quickly.
Check tide times – Low tide gives us more space to work with and often provides beautiful reflections in wet sand.
Dress comfortably – Bare feet, relaxed outfits, and fabrics that move with the breeze work best.
Embrace the elements – Wind, water, and salt air all add texture and life to your session. We’ll lean into them, not fight them.
Bring extras – A towel, water bottle, and a jumper for post-shoot comfort are always good ideas.
Take a look at Sallyane’s Family Beach Photo Session
Family Sunset Photoshoot
Families often ask if sunset is too late for little ones, but in our experience, it’s when magic happens. With the right timing and a flexible approach, sunset sessions can be playful and relaxed. Children are often calmer, snuggled into parents, or joyfully splashing in the shallows.
Take a look at sweet moments from Erna and family’s outdoor photo session
Tips for a relaxed family sunset shoot
Adjust naps and meals if needed – A slightly later bedtime for one special night can be worth it for these photos.
Bring a favourite comfort item – A soft toy or blanket can help kids settle, and sometimes even features beautifully in the shoot.
Keep movement central – Games like tag, jumping waves, or “swing me” moments make photos joyful and authentic.
Layer up – It cools down quickly. Light jumpers in complementary tones can be part of your wardrobe plan.
Let go of perfection – Sunset is about mood, not control. The best images often come from spontaneous, unplanned moments.
Maternity Photoshoot at Sunset
Maternity sessions at sunset are pure poetry. The golden tones wrap around your bump, highlighting your shape without needing studio-style lighting. Flowing fabrics, open fields, or even a secluded beach can create a calm, natural setting that feels both grounded and ethereal.
Flowing fabrics, open fields, or a secluded beach can create a natural setting that feels both grounded and ethereal.
Planning your own maternity session? Get inspired by Lisa’s beautiful maternity shoot.
Tips for a magical sunset maternity session
Opt for movement-friendly dresses – Long, soft gowns with flow or stretch allow for gentle posing and show off your bump beautifully.
Choose comfort over trend – We always prioritise how you feel. If you're more comfortable in bare feet or need breaks, we adapt the session with care.
Bring layers – Sunset cools quickly, especially near water. A soft cardigan or knit layer keeps you warm without compromising the look.
Let your partner (and kids) join – These sessions often double as a quiet family moment. Including your partner or other children can add warmth and context.
Trust the light – We’ll guide you into the best angles so that the golden glow wraps around your features and bump naturally.
Head over to our guide on Magical Beach Maternity Photo Ideas For Expecting Mums for more inspiration!
Couple Sunset Photoshoot
For couples, sunset creates an emotional backdrop that doesn’t need much direction. The low light adds intimacy and drama, perfect for slow walks, cuddles, and silhouetted shots. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply documenting your love, sunset adds a softness that helps people relax in front of the lens.
Tips for an effortless couple session:
Wear clothes you can move in – We’ll encourage you to walk, spin, lift, and lean. Comfort helps movement feel natural.
Focus on each other, not the camera – We’ll guide you gently, but the most beautiful moments come when you’re just being yourselves.
Embrace physical closeness – Forehead kisses, hands on cheeks, or a tight squeeze can translate powerfully in sunset light.
Be open to getting a little sandy or barefoot – It all adds to the story and helps you feel grounded.
Let the sun lead – We’ll position you for the most flattering light without making things feel staged.
Sunset Photoshoot Outfit Ideas
What you wear to a sunset photoshoot can transform the way your photos feel. The warm, directional light of golden hour interacts beautifully with certain colours and textures—and knowing how to dress for that light makes all the difference.
Tips for choosing outfits that glow at sunset:
Choose earthy and muted tones – Colours like terracotta, soft sage, rust, dusty blue, and cream complement the sunset palette and blend harmoniously with natural landscapes.
Lean into timeless neutrals – Sand, stone, beige, cream, warm browns, and soft greys reflect golden light beautifully. Neutrals flatter all skin tones, layer well across groups, and help the emotion of the moment shine through without visual distraction.
Use texture to add depth – Linen, waffle knits, embroidery, or layered cottons catch the light in subtle, beautiful ways.
Coordinate, don’t match – Think of your group like a palette: mix tones that belong together, rather than dressing everyone the same.
Flowing fabrics are your friend – Dresses or skirts that move in the breeze create gorgeous shape and softness in beach or bushland settings.
Comfort matters – If you're constantly adjusting straps or worried about stains, it’ll show. Choose pieces that let you move, play, and feel like yourself.
For inspiration based on real families and couples, check out our full guide on family photo outfit ideas!
Best Sunset Spots in Perth
We’re spoiled in Perth with endless golden hour options. Here are a few of our favourite sunset-friendly locations:
City Beach – Wide sand and dramatic west-facing light make this a go-to for classic beach sessions
Fremantle South Beach – Family-friendly with soft dunes, grassy paths, and a calm stretch of ocean
John Forrest National Park – Bush textures, rocky outcrops, and layered light—perfect for adventurous families or maternity sessions
Burns Beach Cliffs – Ideal for couples seeking drama and texture with silhouetted moments
Lake Monger Reserve – A tranquil, wind-sheltered setting great for little ones and quieter family sessions
Not sure what suits your vibe? We’re always happy to recommend a location based on your family’s style, energy, and what kind of story you want your photos to tell.
Sunset Time in Perth, Australia
Sunset times shift significantly with the seasons in Perth:
Summer: ~7:15pm to 7:45pm
Autumn/Spring: ~5:30pm to 6:30pm
Winter: as early as 5:15pm
We always plan sessions to begin about 45–60 minutes before official sunset, to capture that golden hour magic. If needed, we adjust based on the family’s rhythm and light conditions.
Sunset Photoshoot: Let Golden Hour Tell Your Family’s Story
A sunset photoshoot isn’t just about chasing pretty light—it’s about slowing down, leaning in, and capturing the love and chaos that makes your family yours. Whether you’re drawn to golden dunes, quiet bushland, or sandy shorelines, sunset brings warmth and authenticity to every frame.
Ready to make your family’s story come to life? Book your family photography session with us today!
Explore our portfolio to see the magic we create: Family, In-home, Newborn, Maternity, Family Trips, Celebrations, and Extended Family.
family Sunset photoshoot FAQs
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We offer two family photography packages: The Little Chapter (45 minutes) and The Wild Chapter (75 minutes). Both are designed to be relaxed and unhurried, with plenty of space for natural moments to unfold.
If you have young children, we often recommend The Wild Chapter, as it allows extra time for your little ones to explore, settle in, and play — making the whole experience feel more like a carefree afternoon at the beach.
For more details on the packages, please check out our family portfolio.
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We usually begin sunset photoshoots about 45 to 60 minutes before official sunset time, depending on the location and season. This allows us to capture the full golden hour glow and wrap up just after the sun dips below the horizon.
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Keep it simple — let them know it’s going to be fun and relaxed, not stiff or serious. Bring snacks, comfort items, and maybe a favourite toy. Most importantly, trust that we’ll follow their lead and keep things light.
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Absolutely—with a little planning. While sunset can be close to bedtime, many families find that children are calm and cuddly during this time. We recommend adjusting naps or meals slightly and bringing comforts like snacks or a favourite toy.
