Family beach photos are a fantastic choice for families with young children. In Melbourne’s west, Altona beach is a beautiful location, with the old Altona pier providing an interesting backdrop and the calm, shallow water perfect for exploration.
Altona beach photography sessions are perfect in all seasons as the beach is quite sheltered, and the images look just as good if you’re splashing in the water, or warmly dressed and snuggled up on a rug.
Altona beach in spring
Mild spring weather coupled with an early sunset is the perfect combination for families with toddlers or children who have an early bedtime. The breeze calls the kitesurfers to play, and chances are you’ll have most of the beach to yourself.
The long stretches of sand at Altona beach offer plenty of space to play, run, hold hands and interact. Images can be taken with the pier in the background or with the gorgeous golden glow of the setting sun. Depending on the light, your images will feature hues of gold, pale yellow, sage greens and earthy blues.
altona beach pier
Altona’s beautiful historic pier is another great reason to book an Altona beach photography session. The rustic timbers and bench make for interesting photos with striking leading lines. Stop and spot the jellyfish or pier between the planks and see if you can see any starfish. The pier is the perfect spot to illicit natural play and interaction.
As of the end of 2022, the original wooden pier is still standing but partially closed. A new pier is scheduled to commence construction in 2023 and will bring a new feel to Altona beach photography sessions.
what length session should I book?
Altona beach is perfect for 30, 60 and 90-minute sessions. This featured session was 30 minutes and just the perfect amount of time with a 3-year-old in tow. Longer sessions can also cross over onto the parkland for variety in your images or include larger groups of people.
If you need help selecting a package, we can discuss this prior to booking and if you feel like you need a little more time on the day, I can arrange for that too.
how to prepare for your Altona beach photography session
Altona beach tides mean that there is always a lot of sand at this beach. When the tide is low, there is an opportunity to have photos at the base of the pier. Keep in mind that this is a beach location, and little people can be drawn to the water! It’s a great idea to bring a spare change of clothes in case any children accidentally get wet.
If you’d like being in the water to form part of your session, that’s also ok! Let me know in advance so I can dress appropriately, although I always expect to get a little sandy and soggy!
I’ll always have a rug packed in my bag, but you can bring your favourite rug too. Mine are a thin linen style, so they’re perfect for waving in the air and running under, as well as sitting on.
Generally, it’s safe to have shoes off, although, around the pier, it is better to have shoes on as, at times, there is broken glass.
This location is perfect for family sessions, extended family sessions, couples or maternity photoshoots.
Lastly, come prepared to laugh, interact and have fun. The best images are those where you’re engaged with your family, and your natural love and enjoyment shine through.
