Being Tampa area photographers for many years, we have done beach photo sessions from as far north as Tarpon Springs and as far south as Siesta Key.

As far as choosing the best beach for photoshoots in Tampa, it’s hard to say.

It really all depends on what you’re going for. We’re known for our GLOWY photos, and it’s super easy to get photos with that golden hour glow on any shoreline in Florida.

But if you want some variety in your photos, it’s important to look at the areas surrounding the beach you choose. Some beaches have cute little parks to get some shots, while others have fancy tiki huts and lifeguard shacks.

Here are the top 3 we recommend based on our experience as Florida photographers!

Option #1: Sand Key Beach

Our most popular beach, by far, is Sand Key Beach.  

This beach is just south of Clearwater Beach, so you don’t have to deal with all the tourists. We love that it is more secluded because it gives you the confidence you need to really go all out!  

We know plenty of nooks and crannies to get the best shots, such as:

• Boardwalks
• Sandy paths
• Lifeguard shack
• Fancy tiki huts
• Picturesque shores of the beach

You just can’t beat it!

Option #2: Fred Howard Park

Starting in the north, Fred Howard Park in Tarpon Springs is a great little park and beach.  The sand dunes and sea oats are lovely backdrops for portraits.  Our north county clients love the beauty and convenience of this park.

Option #3: Ana Maria Island

Although this is in the Sarasota Area, Ana Maria Island is another one of the best beaches for pictures in all of Florida!

It’s typically not very crowded, and the light there is amazing!  Every beach and every sunset is different, but we find Ana Maria Island has a unique glow all its own.

Plus, the water is genuinely crystal clear.

The BEST Beach for a Photoshoot in Tampa— Our Opinion?

Our clients always ask for our opinion on which one of these beaches we would choose for their photos.

If we had to pick, we would say that Sand Key Beach is one of the best beaches to take pictures in the Tampa Bay area!

There are 3 main reasons why we prefer Sand Key:

1. Not many people (less stressful for you, less editing for us!)
2. Central location for our Tampa Bay area families
3. Most options for a variety of shots!

Feel free to give us a contact us or schedule a phone consultation when you’re ready to schedule your beach photo session free of the Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key crowds.