The Beauty, The Heat, and The Magic of the Dunes
In the weeks leading up to my honeymoon photoshoot in Sossusvlei, I suddenly received two more enquiries for the same area. Luck was clearly on my side — one of them was for nearly the same dates, which meant I could photograph both sessions during the same trip.
On the afternoon of the 21st, I met Amèlie and her family to plan the finer details of their Sossusvlei family photo session for the next morning. Her husband, an avid photographer himself, had the most beautiful camera I’ve ever seen. We couldn’t resist spending some time photographing the dunes as we drove into the park.
Because of the lovely rains this year, the desert looked alive — patches of grazing drew herds of oryx, springbok, and ostriches, often appearing out of nowhere. Seeing an oryx silhouetted against the red dunes is pure magic — a moment that never gets old.
When we arrived in Deadvlei, the conditions couldn’t have been more different from the previous day: much busier, and much hotter. With not even a whisper of wind to stir the air, we quickly became red-faced and glowing. The kids, full of energy, ran and played their way into Deadvlei, blissfully unaware of how far or how hot that walk can get — but their laughter and movement made for some wonderfully natural photographs.
Inside the vlei, I dashed for the last bit of shade, camera in hand, ready to capture it all. Since Amèlie requested a documentary-style family session, I simply followed them — no stiff poses, no forced smiles. Just the story of their morning unfolding between the burnt orange dunes and the ancient camel thorn trees that have stood here for centuries.
From Deadvlei, we headed on to Sossusvlei for a quick stop before returning to the car park, saying our goodbyes after another well-spent morning in one of Namibia’s most beautiful and surreal landscapes.
Sossusvlei never disappoints. But to truly make the most of it, you need to plan carefully — from park opening times and permits to light, weather, and timing. If you’re dreaming of a photo session in Sossusvlei or Deadvlei, whether it’s a family shoot, couple session, or honeymoon photos, I’d love to help you make it happen.
Family Photo Session in Sossusvlei
Sossusvlei is one of those places that almost doesn’t feel real — a landscape painted in shades of red and gold, where the silence feels ancient and the light shifts with every heartbeat.
It’s a destination that takes your breath away every single time.
But to truly make the most of it — for your photos to capture that magic — it takes a bit of planning and perfect timing.
That’s where I come in.
When you book a family photo session in Sossusvlei or Deadvlei, you’re not just arranging for a few portraits in the dunes. You’re investing in an experience — one that celebrates your family’s connection in one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth.
I’ll help you navigate the timing (trust me, light here moves fast), plan around the hours that bring that golden glow, and create images that feel alive — full of laughter, stillness, wonder, and the genuine in-between moments.
Because Sossusvlei has a way of slowing you down — reminding you what really matters. And capturing that is what I love most.
What to Expect — Planning, Permits & Timing
To make your session in Sossusvlei go smoothly, here’s what I help you plan for:
- Permits & Access: Access to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei often requires entry fees and permits, especially for photography shoots. Some roads may be closed or restricted depending on weather or season. We’ll coordinate in advance so that everything is approved and arranged before your arrival.
- Timing & Light: Light in the desert changes fast. Sunrise and sunset are the most magical times — soft, warm, directional, and full of drama. We’ll aim for those golden hours, and I’ll guide you about when to be ready, how long to expect, and where to position ourselves.
- Travel Logistics:
- Roads to Sossusvlei are often sandy and remote — I’ll advise on suitable vehicles (4×4 is usually a must).
- We’ll factor in driving times, rest stops, and buffer for delays.
- Water, snacks, sunscreen, hats — pack with purpose.
- Changing outfits? We’ll select locations near to parking / safe spots for adjustments.
- Weather can shift — early mornings may be chilly; once the sun rises, it gets intense. Layered clothing works best.
- Session Flow & Expectation:
- We might begin before dawn or linger after sunset — getting different moods in one shoot.
- We’ll move lightly, gently — making space for candid moments, laughter, quiet pauses.
- My approach is documentary + editorial — real connection, genuine expressions, with a sprinkling of direction when needed. (As I note on my home page: “More of you, less of me.”)
- You won’t be locked into stiff poses — we’ll balance structure and spontaneity.
- Image Feel & Editing:
- The desert’s red hues, the warm golden light, and the sweeping dunes become part of your portrait story.
- My editing style leans toward natural, warm, timeless tones — images that don’t just look good now, but feel like memories years from now.
By planning these elements ahead, the shoot becomes less about logistics and more about your family, your story, your connection.
Why This Session Matters
A family session in Sossusvlei is more than a “location shoot.” It’s an invitation to be present — together — in a place that humbles, awes, and transforms.
The dunes, the wind, the shifting light — they become part of your narrative. And when you look back years later, these images won’t just show where you were — they’ll show who you were then: a family breathing, loving, exploring, celebrating.
📸 Ready to plan your Sossusvlei family session?
Reach out and let’s begin the conversation. Whether you have questions about travel, outfits, or timing — I’m here to help make it beautiful and effortless.
My Travel Agent – ATI Holidays
Client Travel Agent – Tourmaline Safaris
Accommodation – Sossusvlei Lodge
Vehicle – EuropCar
Photographer – Mariette du Toit Photography
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@mariette_du_toit_photography
Mariëtte du Toit
I'M A BLEND OF EDITORIAL POSING AND DOCUMENTARY STYLE — TIMELESS, PERSONAL, EFFORTLESS, AND ENTIRELY YOU.
