The Wind Warrior's Guide: Hair styles with 30A Photographer
- Melonie Marie McEver
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
Welcome to the Click 30A Confidence Closet Guide! We are so excited to help your family look and feel amazing for your dream vacation photos on the beautiful Gulf Coast. One of the most common questions we get is: "What do I do with my hair on a windy beach?"
The Wind Warrior's Guide with top 30A Photographer: Hair Tips for Your 30A Family Beach Session
This is not a question to take lightly on the Emerald Coast! The high winds associated with the Gulf can be an unpredictable factor in your photoshoot. You can be standing in the calm of the beach parking lot with barely a breeze, but the moment you pass over the sand dunes and onto the open beach, you will encounter the full force of the wind, causing long hair to whip into your face, cover your eyes, and instantly turn that picture-perfect moment into a frustrating one. To help you crush it on camera, we’ve put together the ultimate hair guide for women and girls with long hair. The goal is simple: secure your hair so you don't spend the entire session holding it out of your face. We, as your 30A Photographer, want you to be fully present and enjoying your time.
Windy Beach Hairstyles: Secure is Stunning
While the look of "flowy beach waves" is lovely in theory, in practice, it often leads to hair that looks more tangled and messy than romantic. We strongly recommend styles that secure the hair away from the face.
Braids are Your Best Friend: A braid is the ultimate defense against the wind.
Side Braid or Side-Do: A chunky fishtail or a classic three-strand braid pulled over one shoulder is both stylish and secure. By keeping the hair on one side, you still get the beautiful texture and length without it blowing across your face.
Half-Up with Braids/Twists: If you truly want some hair down, pull back the front sections and secure them with small braids or twists on the sides, pinning them in the back. Use a firm-hold hairspray to lock down any flyaways around your hairline.
Chic Ponytails and Knots: Don't underestimate the elegance of a secured updo.
Low Ponytail: A sleek or textured low ponytail at the nape of your neck minimizes tangling and keeps all your hair secure. You can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for a polished look.
Low Messy Bun/Knot: A tousled, low knot is a fantastic choice that looks beachy and intentional, even as the wind tries to mess with it. Avoid high top-knots, as they can look a bit too casual for family portraits.
Accessorize and Pin: Accessories are functional and fashionable.
Decorative Clips and Barrettes: Use stylish, large clips or barrettes to pin back the front sections of your hair, especially on the side facing the wind.
Headbands: A simple, stylish headband can be a lifesaver for keeping your fringe and hairline smooth. Finding the right look can be a breeze with the help of your 30A Photographer style consultation.
The Power of Professional Prep
If you are unsure about styling your own hair, or if you want that extra confidence boost, we cannot recommend this enough: always leave it to a professional hair stylist in the area who is familiar with our high winds.
A local professional knows exactly which products—like strong, flexible-hold hairsprays and texture sprays—will hold up against the Gulf humidity and wind. They are masters at creating a "securely messy" look that photographs beautifully and stays put, ensuring you look your best from the first click to the last. Don't worry, the perfect look is achievable with the right strategy.
Don't let the wind stress you out. A little preparation goes a long way. Choose a secure style, use your favorite holding product, and be ready to relax and enjoy making memories with your family on the beautiful beaches of 30A, captured beautifully by your 30A Photographer.
