Quick Overview

Looking for a personalized family portrait session in Cocoa Beach? For around $300 per group (up to 10 people), you’ll get a one-hour photo shoot on North Topsail Beach, guided by Sara Rhodes. This private experience offers professional photography, quick social media sneak peeks within 24 hours, and a full gallery of at least 20 edited images within a week. It’s available five evenings a week, making it flexible for most schedules.
Two things we particularly appreciate: the focus on authentic family moments and the timely delivery of photos. Plus, the chance to have some fun — like Jackie’s family, who joked about a shark swimming up while they were shooting — makes for memorable stories.
A potential consideration? The activity depends on good weather, so if rain storms roll in, your plans might need rearranging.
This tour suits families, couples, or small groups eager for high-quality photos that capture their personalities against a stunning beach backdrop. It’s especially great if you want a professional, relaxed environment with the flexibility to share your images with friends and relatives.
Key Points

- Private and Personalized experience tailored to your family or group.
- Professional Photographer ensures high-quality, well-composed images.
- Fast Turnaround with social media sneak peeks within 24 hours.
- Full Online Gallery of edited photos delivered within 7 days.
- Ideal for Families or Small Groups looking for authentic, fun, and memorable portraits.
- Weather Dependent — good weather is essential for the best results.
Planning more time in Cocoa Beach? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the Portrait Photographer Experience
If you’re dreaming of capturing your family’s best moments amidst the natural beauty of North Topsail Beach, this tour offers a rare blend of professionalism and personal touch. For $300, you get a dedicated, private photo session led by Sara Rhodes, who has earned glowing reviews for her patient, creative approach.
Location and Setting
The shoot takes place on North Topsail Beach, renowned for its broad sandy shores and quiet, scenic surroundings — perfect for relaxed family photos. Starting at 1201 Atlantic St, Melbourne Beach, the activity is flexible, usually taking place in the evening (from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM), capturing the golden hour light that makes photos glow.
Why focus on the beach? Because it offers a natural, open backdrop that’s both stunning and timeless. Whether you’re after playful group shots or intimate close-ups, the scenery elevates every image.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
This isn’t a sightseeing tour — it’s a dedicated photo shoot, so expect about an hour of focused photography. Sara will guide your group through natural poses, candid moments, and even some fun, spontaneous shots. She’s praised for her ability to navigate family dynamics, including handling four young boys, as one reviewer shared, “She was so patient photographing our blended family… She was creative, kind and fun.”
Within 24 hours, you’ll get a sneak peek shared on Facebook or Instagram, giving you an early taste of your photos. Then, within 7 days, you’ll receive a full online gallery of at least 20 professionally edited images. These images are downloadable and shareable, perfect for printing holiday cards, framing, or just sharing online.
What’s Included?
The package includes:
- Professional family portraits and individual shots.
- A fully edited gallery of at least 20 images.
- The ability to download, print, and share your photos.
- A sneak peek on social media within 24 hours.
One reviewer, Dee_P, mentioned, “Sara did an amazing job! She was easy to collaborate with and took beautiful pictures.” Meanwhile, Jackie_S called Sara “so patient,” emphasizing her kindness and creativity.
Who Would Love This Experience?
This tour is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups wanting lasting memories with a professional touch. It’s perfect if you value authentic moments, enjoy natural scenery, and appreciate swift delivery of your photos. If you’re traveling with children or a larger group, Sara’s experience navigating varied personalities and ages makes this a relaxing, enjoyable process.
Why Choose a Portrait Session on North Topsail Beach?

The scenic beach backdrop is one of the biggest draws — it adds a relaxed, natural feel to all photos. Plus, the timely social media preview and quick turnaround are practical benefits, especially if you’re planning holiday cards or gifts.
The cost of $300 might seem high for some, but considering the professional quality, personalized service, and digital convenience, it offers solid value. Several reviews highlight how the images become cherished keepsakes, and the experience itself creates fun family memories.
The Value of Professional Photos on Vacation
In a world where so many photos are taken with smartphones, having a dedicated photographer who knows how to capture your genuine expressions and the beautiful natural light can make a real difference. These photos aren’t just snapshots; they’re polished, artistic keepsakes.
Flexibility and Convenience
Booking is straightforward, with availability most evenings. You’ll meet at the designated starting point, and the session is private, so no awkward crowd. Plus, if weather turns bad, you can reschedule or get a full refund — an important consideration for outdoor activities.
Who Is This Tour Not Suited For?
If you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a quick, casual snapshot, this might be overkill. The one-hour session is best appreciated when you’re ready to focus on quality, relaxed photos rather than rushed shots. Also, if the weather forecast predicts storms, you might want to wait or plan for a backup date.
Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This portrait session offers more than just photos — it’s an opportunity to capture your family’s personality against the beautiful backdrop of North Topsail Beach. The professionalism of Sara Rhodes and the personalized approach ensure you’ll walk away with images that truly reflect your family’s spirit.
While the cost is on the higher side for a short activity, the quality, convenience, and emotional value make it worthwhile for those wanting timeless family memories. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to engage in an authentic, fun experience rather than just snapping photos on their own.
This experience is ideal if you’ve got a special occasion coming up, want to create holiday cards, or simply desire beautiful, professionally crafted family portraits on vacation. The quick turnaround and private setting make it a stress-free way to add a meaningful souvenir to your trip.
FAQ

How long is the photo session?
The session lasts approximately one hour, giving plenty of time for relaxed, natural shots without feeling rushed.
What is included in the photos I receive?
You’ll get a gallery of at least 20 fully edited images. These can be downloaded, printed, and shared. You also receive the unedited gallery for selection purposes.
Can I see the photos before they are fully edited?
Yes, you’ll get a sneak peek within 24 hours on Facebook or Instagram, so you can share early highlights.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my shoot?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 38 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention successful sessions with children, and Sara is praised for her patience and ability to handle family groups well.
Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the beach during the session.
What is the meeting point?
You will start at 1201 Atlantic St, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951, and the session ends back at the same location.
To sum it up

If you’re seeking a professional, personalized family portrait experience on the beautiful North Topsail Beach, this tour offers a memorable way to preserve your vacation moments. With a friendly, experienced photographer like Sara, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, fun environment that results in stunning, authentic images. The quick social media preview and online gallery make sharing your memories easy and swift.
Ideal for families, small groups, or couples wanting more than just casual snapshots, this experience provides a lasting memento of your trip that you’ll cherish for years. Just remember to plan around the weather, book ahead, and prepare for a joyful session that captures your family’s unique spirit amid beautiful surroundings.
In short, for those valuing quality, convenience, and authentic memories, this portrait session is a worthwhile addition to any beach trip along Florida’s coast.
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