How to Plan a Family Photo Shoot Abroad: Tips from Our Aruba Experience

Jess Barrera
Aug 15
3 min read

Family vacations create memories that last a lifetime — but a professional photo shoot can make those memories truly unforgettable. On our recent trip to Aruba, my brother and I decided to surprise our mom with something extra special: a family photo session at the beach.

It turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip… and the pictures still bring smiles (and a few happy tears) every time we look at them. It was affordable and one of the best gifts we’ve ever given.

Here’s everything we learned so you can plan your own unforgettable session.

Benefits of a Vacation Photo Shoot

(So You Can Plan Yours Better Than We Did!)

Before diving into the logistics, here’s what makes a vacation shoot different from one at home — and why it impacts your planning:

Everyone is already together — Perfect for capturing the whole family without extra scheduling.
Unique backdrops — Beaches, landmarks, or local streets give photos a one-of-a-kind feel.
No rushed timelines — You can choose a day and time that works best with your trip itinerary.
Built-in memories — The photo shoot becomes part of your vacation experience.

Knowing these perks helps you pick the best day, location, and outfits to make the most of your session!

How to Find the Right Photographer Abroad

Tips for choosing a vacation photographer:

Check their portfolio for lighting style, posing, and candid work.
Read reviews from other travelers, especially families.
Ask about location recommendations — locals often know hidden gems, like ours did!
Discuss package details ahead of time (time, edits, delivery method).

For our recent trip to Aruba, I researched local photographers, and we found Marc Crooze of Crooze Photography Aruba. Marc was not only talented, but also incredibly welcoming!

He even gave us tips for things to see and do on the island, which made the rest of our trip better by hearing first-hand from a local. His portfolio showed a great variety of photos — candid, posed, and creative shots — and his pricing was more reasonable than we expected.

Location Tip: We booked our session at Rogers Beach, which we found quieter and more scenic than the highly recommended Baby Beach. It gave us a peaceful, intimate setting without crowds in the background!

What to Wear for Beautiful, Cohesive Family Photos

Coordinating outfits for a photo shoot can be tricky, especially while traveling. Here’s what worked for us!

Our family photoshoot outfit tips:

Pick a color palette (soft blues, whites, and sandy neutrals work well for a beach photoshoot).
Choose lightweight, flowy fabrics that move in the breeze.
Avoid busy prints, graphic tees, or logos that can distract from your faces.
Bring a portable garment steamer to smooth out wrinkles from luggage travel

Must-Have Travel Photo Session Essentials!

Pack a few small items to make your shoot easier:

Small makeup kit for touch-ups.
Hairbrush or comb for windy conditions.
Water and light snacks, especially if you’re shooting with kids! :)

Timing Your Session for the Best Results

The right timing makes all the difference:

Book early in your trip so you’re rested and can reschedule if needed.
Aim for golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for soft, flattering light.
Avoid midday shoots when the sun is harsh.