Though it’s no secret we have so many gorgeous areas all around the Jacksonville and St. Augustine area for family photos, sometimes your little ones don’t want to ride in the car too long just so you can have the family photoshoot you dream of. But that’s OK! I can help you out by giving you 5 of my favorite photoshoot locations nearby for outdoor maternity, family or even newborn pictures.
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: Nature & Ocean Vibes
A local favorite, Hanna Park offers wide open beaches, dunes, shaded trails, and water views that fit almost any photo style. From casual beach portraits to adventurous family sessions, there’s something for every group. Sunrise and sunset here bring out that soft, warm light that photographers love. You have choice from beautiful beach spots with long wooden boardwalks or even a lake with tall grass, gorgeous light and a playground nearby if the kids need to get some energy out.
Dutton Island Preserve: Marshland Magic & Golden Hour
Just west of Mayport Road, Dutton Island Preserve is a peaceful, hidden gem where salt marsh meets the Intracoastal Waterway. Its long nature trails, and even the tall marsh grass surrounded road to the observation points offer natural, organic backgrounds. Featuring think tall grasses, water reflections, and birds flying overhead, this can add a unique storybook feel to your family photos. There’s also a beautiful paved tree lined path for some shade and a little more green in your background.
Castaway Island Preserve: Quiet Boardwalks & Water Views
Castaway Island Preserve feels like a secret coastal hideaway tucked between neighborhoods but right along the water. Its wooden boardwalks and marsh overlooks create classic, relaxed photo settings with a natural vibe. Whether your shoot is candid or posed, the preserve’s interpretive nature trail and pier area give lots of texture and depth to images. During a dryer season you can even get more into nature and let the beauty surround you without all the mud.
Downtown Atlantic Beach: Charming Coastal Town
The downtown Atlantic Beach area blends beachy streets, shops, and local color. This gives family sessions an urban-but-coastal feel. Capture photos amid quaint storefronts, palm trees, and ocean views for a vibe that’s both relaxed and vibrant. The many restaurants and shops offer a variety of backgrounds and you can pair your walk through town with a short stroll to the beach for even more.
Atlantic Beach (Beaches & Boardwalks): Classic Florida Coast
Of course, the beaches of Atlantic Beach themselves are unbeatable for family photos. With soft sand, rolling waves, and horizon light as your backdrop, you’ll get timeless coastal portraits that feel like classic Florida summer postcards. Whether you’re barefoot at the water’s edge or watching kids play in the surf, this area celebrates the simple beauty of life by the sea.
Pick Your Perfect Photoshoot Location
From wild marshlands and wooded preserves to sandy beaches and charming streets, the Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach area is packed with scenic photoshoot locations perfect for outdoor newborn, maternity and family pictures. Whether you want nature, ocean views, or a mix of both, you’re spoiled for choice here for sure.
Melody is a graduate of Jacksonville University. She married a Jax Beach resident, moved away for 12 years, then returned to the area in 2016. Together they have two girls. Melody works as owner/photographer of Melody Coarsey Photography, she loves yoga, family, traveling, dining with a view and the ocean.
