This is the second time I've had the pleasure of photographing this beautiful Chicago family. Each summer they travel to Naples, Florida to visit relatives so they're quite familiar with the beautiful, colorful golden sunsets we enjoy here on the Gulf Coast. I loved this particular session because the light got super soft as the sun was setting and you got more of a golden hue softly peeking over the horizon as it kissed the night goodbye.

Mom did a great job with everyone's clothing, and I especially loved her long, flowing maxi dress! I always suggest wearing a maxi dress during a family photo session on the beach. It gives room for chasing your littles on the sand, scooping them up and running around, yet adds a nice feminine and organic timeless look to your family beach session outfits. If you're going for a timeless look that is also functional, go with a maxi dress!

Some of my favorite photos from this session include the water as well. I love how smooth and silky the wind was making it look that night - perfect for an ethereal vibe! If you slow your shutter down a bit, you'll get the most beautiful soft imagery, closer to a film look than you would if your shutter speed was higher - yielding a more crisp digital looking image. I always try to include a few artistic portraits in with my family photo sessions, along with the traditional posed and candids. Keeping a variety of photos during a portrait session makes for a more visually interesting rounded set.

Scroll on to see a few of my favorites from this family beach portrait session in Naples. My hometown and first love, shooting here never gets old.