I love working in the studio, but my absolute favorite location to do photoshoots is on the beach. There is something whimsical and insouciant about almost any beach in South East Florida. Beach photography can be both fun and beautiful if you have an intimate relationship with both the client and the environment. 

Having an intimate knowledge of the beaches in South East Florida helps to put the clients at ease. Our coastline is riddled with hidden gems, but if you are unfamiliar with the area Google it. Google enables me to scoop out an area before I drive to the destination. Additionally, arriving 30-60 minutes earlier than the client gives me a feel for the land, weather, and blocking (setting up an area - theater term). This leaves my clients feeling confident that they are in good hands for their photoshoot. 

I often encourage my friends and family to use the beach for their photos and videos. Needless to say, not everyone is a photographer, but with better optical lenses on a smartphone device you can almost achieve the same look and feel like a professional photographer. However, it still takes planning and asking the "why." When you go to the beach on purpose to take photos, they turn out better than I am at the beach, "oh let me take a picture while I am here." For better beach photos let it be a forethoughts and not an afterthought.  Leave the props at home all you need is nature.