Got a family vacation to the beach in your future? Chances are you'd like to get some really great pictures of your family along the way, but well-meaning intentions don't always pan out if mama's not prepared. Whether you want them perfectly poised or completely candid, you don't need to be a professional to capture a few picture-perfect moments. So check out these ideas for must-take beach photos on your next trip. Source: Flickr user Damian Gadal
I love taking close-ups of my tots at the beach. The natural lighting combined with the fun, beachy look almost always churns out a prized photo. Source: Flickr user The Bywaters
Kids love getting down and dirty at the beach — and the sand will wash off, but a picture memorializing the moment will last forever. Source: Flickr user Mike Baird
Where there are birds, there are kids chasing them — and it can make for a special photo opportunity. Source: Flickr user thejbird
Another fun way to memorialize your trip is to write in the sand and capture it. Got a new writer in the family? Even better! Source: Flickr user Jamie
Don't forget to snap a few images of special moments had on the sandy shores, in or out of the water. Source: Instragram user Mike Baird
Beachside sunsets are not only beautiful, but they provide the perfect lighting for a really stunning silhouette shot. Source: Flickr user Damian Gadal
A sweet family walk (or staged walk) along the beach often makes for a great photo. Source: Flickr user laura dye
Footprints in the sand are a great way to capture time spent at the beach. Even better, take a shot of the family's footprints lined up next to each other. Source: Flickr user vicki watkins
Your kiddos' shoes resting on the sand while they play in the distance might just end up being your favorite family beach photo ever. Source: Flickr user Sebastian Schille
Again, the lighting at the beach is ideal for getting artistic and capturing shadow play. Source: Flickr user bricolage 108
Let your fam's goofy side out in the wide-open spaces, and don't be afraid to snap a few fun perspective shots. Source: Flickr user Ashley
The sandy shores provide great backdrops for getting some images of remarkable reflections of your children at the beach. Source: Flickr user Henry Burrows
You might not want to tote home every treasure she found during your trip, but take a few pictures of a few choice items, and you'll have them with you always. Source: Flickr user Peter Giordano
Leave the sand at home all while capturing the essence of the beach: sandy toes. Source: Flickr user _SiD_
Pictures of family members' feet in the sand are great — especially if you make a yearly trip to the beach and you can take the same picture each year. Source: Flickr user Shannon
Capture the family's flips-flops lined up while everyone plays. Source: Flickr user kewfriend
Whatever you do, be sure to take some time to try to get a good family portrait. Source: Flickr user Chris A