Planning a photo session on Nantucket is about more than choosing a date and location. The best sessions are the ones that reflect who you are and what makes your time on the island special. If you’re wondering how to personalize your session, the answer is simple: lean into the things you already love.

But as a Nantucket family photographer, I want to give you the tips and tricks I have for making your session uniquely represent you. 

Start With a Location That Fits Your Story

Nantucket offers so many beautiful backdrops, but not every location is the right fit for every family or couple. While the beach is a classic choice, it is far from the only option.

Maybe your family loves strolling through town, exploring cobblestone streets, and admiring the charming storefronts. Perhaps you’re drawn to the cottages and blooming flowers in Sconset. Or maybe a nautical setting like Brant Point Lighthouse feels like the perfect representation of your Nantucket vacation. (Here’s a recent session I did at the lighthouse, if you want to see how it photographs!) 

Choosing a location that feels natural & personalized to you helps create images that are both beautiful and meaningful. These are images that will always transport you right back to how you felt on this day. 

Let Your Outfits Reflect Your Personality

Your clothing choices can tell part of your story, too. Some families feel most comfortable in coordinated shades of blue, while others prefer a relaxed look with T-shirts, jeans, and casual layers.

The goal is not to wear something that feels unfamiliar or staged. Instead, choose outfits that help you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourselves. When you feel good, it shows in your photos. I typically recommend avoiding big logos or cartoon characters in your outfits. But as long as everyone’s outfits are cohesive, you’re going to look great! 

How to Personalize Your Session With Activities

Some of the most memorable images come from doing something together rather than simply posing for the camera. Think about activities your family already enjoys or traditions that are part of your Nantucket vacation. We can take pictures while you do that! It doesn’t have to be big event: sometimes the smallest activity can lend itself to the most memorable photos. 

A few fun ideas include:

• Flying a kite on the beach
• Collecting shells along the shoreline
• Enjoying ice cream after your session
• Riding bikes around town
• Playing catch or running together
• Blowing bubbles with little ones
• Bringing your dog along for the adventure
• Spending time on your boat
• Surfing, fishing, or throwing rocks into the water
• Packing a picnic to enjoy together

These small moments often become favorite memories long after your vacation ends.

Create Photos That Feel Like Your Vacation

The most meaningful photographs are the ones that capture your family exactly as you are in this season of life. Whether you’re celebrating a proposal, gathering generations together, or documenting a summer vacation, your session should feel personal and fun.

When you focus on how to personalize your session, you create images that tell your story and preserve the memories that matter most. That’s what makes Nantucket photos worth revisiting for years to come.