Family Photoshoot in Phuket: Ideas You'll Want to Copy

​Thinking about a Family Photoshoot in Phuket? Awesome choice!

We’re a family of four living in Thailand since 2019. Family photoshoots here have become one of our favorite traditions. Thailand has so many amazing photographers and stunning locations—perfect for capturing special family memories.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to plan an easy, stress-free family photoshoot in Phuket, get tips for beautiful, natural family pictures, and discover the best photo spots on the island.

On our last trip to Phuket, we booked a private family photoshoot with a lovely Ukrainian professional photographer, Fedorchuk_ph (check out her Instagram!).

Is It Worth Booking a Family Photoshoot in Phuket?

Absolutely. A family photoshoot in Phuket is a fun and relaxed way to capture beautiful memories. You’ll find stunning beach locations, golden-hour light, and talented photographers who know how to work with kids. Just keep it short, playful, and stress-free.

Choosing the Right Family Photographer in Phuket

Finding a Phuket family photographer is easy because there are many talented professionals with years of experience. Here’s how we chose ours:

• Looked through Instagram to find photographers with styles that would capture our family’s journey.
• Checked if the photographer had experience working with family members of all ages, especially kids.
• Compared photography services and packages.

Here’s what Fedorchuk offered us:

• Package 1: 150 edited photos, 10 detailed retouches, 1-1.5 hours, 2-3 outfit changes – 5000 THB (~$140)
• Package 2: 70 edited photos, 5 detailed retouches, 30 minutes – 3000 THB (~$90)

We picked the 30-minute package. After a 1.5-hour photoshoot previously, we learned that shorter is definitely better with small kids.

Picking the Perfect Location and Time

Our photographer suggested Naithon Beach, one of Phuket’s stunning beaches (and right next to our favorite hotel of all time: Pullman Phuket). She recommended meeting at the wooden bridge at 6 pm to catch the best light of the day. Early evening provides soft, beautiful lighting that creates beautiful portraits.

It’s still warm and sandy, though, so prepare yourself! I’m not a fan of having my hair down (hello, sweat and wind!), but it photographs better. So, sacrifices were made!

Our Phuket Family Photoshoot Experience

Here’s how our Family Photoshoot in Phuket went.

We got there right on time, and the photographer greeted us warmly. It was reassuring that she also has a child and knows exactly how to handle little ones.

We didn’t waste much time chatting and jumped right into the family photo shoot. The beach was nearly empty, so leaving our stuff at one spot felt easy and safe.

We started sitting on rocks, cuddling and playing.

Gradually, we moved closer to the sea. We held hands and walked toward the water with beautiful palm trees in the background. My husband carried Ruby (2.5 years) on his shoulders, and I carried Lila (6.5 years).

Step by Step Through the Family Photoshoot in Phuket

Soon we were splashing and spinning around at the water’s edge, laughing a lot.

Then my favorite part: drawing in the sand! We outlined the kids’ hands and feet and had a blast doing it. This playful activity resulted in some of the sweetest pictures. Fedorchuk was like our shadow, gently guiding us without being pushy.

Next, we had some individual specific shots—dad-and-daughter and mom-and-daughter moments. With some minutes left, my husband and I got some couple shots that felt like a mini post wedding or engagement photoshoot.

We kissed under a giant palm leaf and got some cheeky romantic photos. I’m usually not the type for cheesy couple photos, but these were just so much fun — and I knew we only had a few minutes left.

The shoot ended around 10 minutes overtime, but we felt great—not exhausted like after other sessions.

Only two days later, the photos arrived, edited beautifully. We requested a bit of retouching only for sweat stains—tropical heat is real! Otherwise, we kept it natural.

This photoshoot was genuinely fantastic. We would absolutely do it again.

Tips for Your Own Phuket Family Photoshoot

• Keep it Short: 30-60 minutes is perfect, especially with younger kids.
• Golden Hour: Early morning (7-8 am) or late afternoon (5:30-6:30 pm) is best for beautiful lighting.
• Pack Essentials: Water, snacks, wet wipes, at least one change of clothes, and small toys to keep all family members happy.
• Have Fun: Keep it playful and relaxed for natural, happy photos.

How to Choose Your Photographer:

• Instagram and Portfolios: Check out photographers’ social media and websites to see their style. I looked at a lot of pages and felt that many photographers retouch too much or make the poses look too staged. That’s just not what I was looking for for our family shoot.
• Experience with Kids: Make sure your photographer is comfortable with children and has experience shooting families.
• Clear Pricing: Understand exactly what’s included in photography services. Are there extra fees for retouches or location changes?
• Communication: Choose someone responsive and friendly. Good communication makes the whole family experience smoother.
• Reviews: Read client reviews to see how satisfied other families were.

What Should You Wear for Your Phuket Photoshoot?

Choosing outfits can feel stressful—but don’t overthink it! Stick to comfy clothes in similar or complementary colors like white, beige, pastel blues, or earth tones.

Skip loud patterns or logos—they can be distracting. Flowy dresses look amazing in beach photos, and linen shirts keep dads both comfortable and stylish.

Most importantly, wear the right clothing that makes you feel great.

💡 I always try to wear something I feel comfortable in—clothes that cover the bits I’m not so confident about (are we still allowed to call them ‘problem areas’?). Something that stays in place and flatters my shape, so I don’t have to worry about adjusting it all the time.

Weather Backup Plan—Because we’re in Thailand!

Phuket weather can be super unpredictable—one minute sunny, the next pouring rain. Chat with your family photographer beforehand to confirm what happens if rain decides to join your shoot. Usually, they’ll reschedule or suggest a backup shooting location with cover nearby. Just stay flexible—tropical showers are part of the adventure!

Check out my guide on the best months to visit Thailand.

Props and Accessories for Extra Fun

Want to add more personality to your family photo session? Grab easy props like sun hats, beach balls, bubbles, or sunglasses. It keeps little ones engaged, too!

Our oldest once found a coconut and carried it throughout the shoot. At another shoot, we suddenly found beautiful flowers and tucked them into the kids’ hair.

Posing Ideas That Actually Work

Don’t worry too much about perfect poses—some of the best family photos happen in the in-between moments. Try this: share a kiss in the middle while your kids run wild around you. Hold hands and walk toward the water.

Sit down together on a blanket, cuddle, or whisper something silly into your child’s ear. Lift the little ones onto your shoulders, spin in a circle, or let them jump into your arms.

These natural movements create photos full of joy and connection—not stiff smiles. Let your photographer guide you, but don’t be afraid to just be yourselves.

Budget-Friendly Tips

The prices mentioned in this guide give you an idea, but here’s a little extra tip: In Thailand, tipping your professional photographer is appreciated, but it’s totally optional. About 10 – 20 % is common if you’re happy.

Booking off-season or weekdays can sometimes score you better rates or package deals. Don’t hesitate to ask!

When Should You Book Your Phuket Photoshoot?

Photographers in Phuket can book up quickly—especially during peak times like Christmas, New Year, or Songkran (Thai New Year). Aim to book your family photo shoot at least two weeks in advance.

However, if you’re traveling during busy seasons (December to March), it’s safer to plan at least a month ahead. That way, you get exactly who and when you want!

Awesome Photo Spots in Phuket:

• Naithon Beach: Calm, quiet, and stunning at sunset. Perfect for relaxed family moments. It’s less crowded, and the wooden bridge makes a great starting point.
• Kata Beach: Popular for families, soft sand, and gorgeous sunsets. Lots of great beachside restaurants nearby, making it perfect for a post-shoot dinner.
• Merlin Beach: Beautiful calm waters, rocky spots, and lush greenery. The nearby resort also provides easy access and comfort.
• Mai Khao Beach: Less touristy with a huge, wide beach ideal for photos without crowds. The long coastline is excellent for walking and playful shots. We just stayed at Anantara Mai Khao and I can confirm: This beach is so beautiful!
• Old Phuket Town: Colorful colonial buildings, vibrant street art, and bustling streets. This location adds a unique twist to your family photos, away from the typical beach vibe.
• Promthep Cape: One of Phuket’s breathtaking viewpoints, especially at sunset. It can get busy, so early mornings or weekdays are best.
• Bang Tao Beach: A family-friendly beach with plenty of space. Soft white sand and blue waters make it an ideal spot for natural, playful shots.

Beyond Phuket: Nearby Photography Destinations

If you have time during your family vacation, consider exploring these nearby areas for your family photos:

• Khao Lak: An hour north of Phuket, with quiet beaches and a relaxed vibe. A Khaolak photographer can capture your family against beautiful, less crowded backdrops. We stayed at the Marriott Khao Lak and loved Khuk Khak Beach.
• Koh Yao Yai: A peaceful island getaway with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone karsts. We shot the most beautiful selfies at Laem Had Beach (honestly, it’s surreal!). Here’s my guide on Koh Yao Yai with kids.
• Ko Phi Phi: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs, perfect for truly epic family portraits.

👉 You might also like these Thailand articles:
– The Best Time to Visit Phuket: Weather, Season & Climate
– Pullman Phuket Naithon Beach with Kids – Honest Review
– Thailand with a Baby – Family Travel Guide
– What to Wear in Thailand? 20 Do’s and Don’ts

​Where to Stay in Phuket?

Check out these amazing hotels in Phuket, or use the map below. 👇

Key Takeaways

• Book at least 2–4 weeks in advance during high season
• Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light
• Neutral, soft colors work best—avoid loud prints or logos
• 30 to 60 minutes is the ideal shoot length with kids
• Discuss a weather backup plan with your photographer
• Bring water, wipes, a change of clothes, and small toys
• Choose a photographer with family and kid experience
• Great photo spots include Naithon, Kata, Mai Khao, and Old Town

Final Thoughts on Having a Family Photoshoot in Phuket

Honestly, if you’re thinking about doing a family photoshoot in Phuket—just go for it! It’s such a fun way to capture special moments, and you’ll end up with beautiful memories to keep forever.

Our session was relaxed and playful, with plenty of laughs (and sand everywhere). Having a photographer who gets kids made all the difference. My best advice? Keep it short, comfy, and casual, and just enjoy yourselves.

Go make some memories—you won’t regret it!

Are you planning a family photoshoot in Phuket? Got questions? Let me know in the comments!

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

---

Heads up: Some links in “Family Photoshoot in Phuket” are affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.