Family Photoshoot on Phu Quoc Island – Tips from a Local Photographer

When families come to Phu Quoc, they often ask me the same thing: “Will our kids behave during the photoshoot? What if they get bored, hungry, or refuse to smile?” Believe me, as a family photographer I’ve seen it all - from toddlers who decided sand tastes better than snacks, to shy kids who warmed up after holding a giant coconut with both hands. The good news? With the right approach, a family photoshoot can be fun for everyone - yes, even for tired parents.

Let me share what works best here on the island, what to wear, what to bring, and where to go for unforgettable family pictures.

Phu Quoc isn’t just another beach destination - it’s an island that gives families a relaxed atmosphere, stunning nature, and experiences kids actually enjoy.

• Beaches made for photos: Long Beach, Ong Lang, Khem Beach, Sao Beach, Starfish Beach - each one has its own mood. Some are lively with beach clubs and palm swings, others are quiet and feel like your private paradise.
• Magical sunsets: On the west coast, the sky often turns pink, orange, and purple - the kind of natural backdrop you don’t need to Photoshop.
• Family attractions: A shoot doesn’t have to be only on the sand. There’s Grand World with its colorful streets, the aquarium shaped like a giant turtle (kids love the glass tunnels under the fish), the Safari Park, or even your resort pool with tropical gardens.

Wherever we shoot, my job is to make your family comfortable so the photos show real connection, not forced poses.

The secret is simple: keep it easy, fun, and a little tasty.

• Snacks and drinks: Always bring something small to eat. But since we’re on Phu Quoc, I often suggest making it part of the shoot - give the kids a fresh coconut to drink through a straw. It’s healthy, refreshing, and looks fantastic in photos. Parents can grab smoothies or fruit shakes from the nearest beach bar. Trust me, a photo of your child sipping coconut water with sandy toes is more authentic than any staged pose.
• Favorite items: Whether it’s a toy car, a stuffed animal, or a set of beach toys, these little things help children relax. Sometimes I even use them to catch attention towards the camera.
• Timing: Morning light is soft and kids are usually fresh. Late afternoon is another good choice - cooler weather and those famous sunsets. The one time I don’t recommend? Right in the middle of nap time.
• Play, don’t pose: The best shots come when kids forget about the camera. Running, splashing, building sandcastles - these moments give real laughter, not “cheese” smiles.

My philosophy: treat the session like family playtime, and the camera will simply record the joy.

You’ve probably seen the advice that only neutral tones work by the ocean. That’s a myth. Yes, whites and pastels are timeless, but bright colors can look amazing against the blue sea and green palms.

• Great choices: blues, greens, yellows, oranges, even pinks - as long as they are solid or with subtle patterns.
• What to avoid: neon tones and very bright red (it tends to “vibrate” in photos).
• Think as a group: You don’t all need to wear the same thing. Instead, coordinate. If Dad wears a navy shirt, Mom a light dress with touches of blue, and the kids something in soft yellow - the picture looks harmonious without being boring.
• Comfort matters: Flowing dresses, linen shirts, shorts, or skirts - clothes that move with the breeze. Barefoot on the sand is always my top recommendation.

When families put a little thought into their outfits, the result isn’t just stylish - it feels like a complete story captured in one frame.

Small details can turn good photos into great ones. Some of my favorite ideas:

• Vietnamese conical hats (nón lá): Authentic, simple, and instantly recognizable.
• Straw hats & umbrellas: Practical shade and a charming island look.
• Pareo and beach shirts: Flowing fabrics that catch the wind add movement and color.
• Flowers: Even one orchid stem can make a portrait pop.
• Picnic setup: A light blanket, tropical fruits, coconuts, and kids enjoying mango slices. This turns the shoot into a picnic on the sand - something fun for children and a story in itself.

With these elements, photos feel less like “posing” and more like you’re just enjoying your holiday.

Here are my personal favorites on Phu Quoc:

• Long Beach: golden sand and fiery sunsets.
• Ong Lang Beach: quiet charm, soft evening light.
• Starfish Beach: shallow waters with bright orange starfish (we admire them without touching).
• Sunset Sanato Beach Club: playful art installations kids love to explore.
• Khem Beach: white sand, palm swings, crystal water.
• Grand World Aquarium: glowing tunnels and wide-eyed children staring at fish above them.
• Safari Park & Aquatopia Water Park: candid laughter, playful energy.
• Resorts & Villas: tropical gardens, stylish pools, cozy hammocks – perfect if you want to stay close to your accommodation.

Each location brings a different vibe, and together we can choose the one that fits your family best.

Honestly, anytime. But here are moments families love to capture:

• Birthdays: a cake, some balloons, and the sea as a backdrop.
• Anniversaries or vow renewals: romantic for parents, fun for the kids.
• Family reunions: grandparents, cousins, everyone together – these portraits grow more valuable with time.
• First big vacation: because you’ll never regret having photos of that first trip.

Sometimes the “ordinary” days – like your child’s first swim in the ocean – make the most meaningful photos.

As your photographer, my goal is simple: make the session enjoyable so your photos show love, not effort. With coconuts in hand, playful kids, and the beauty of Phu Quoc all around, we’ll create images that feel alive and natural.

👉 Curious about packages? Check the Pricing Page

I’ll help with everything - from picking the right beach to suggesting wardrobe ideas. You just need to bring your family, some energy, and maybe a coconut or two. The rest, I’ll take care of.