"Why wake up at the crack of dawn for a photo shoot?" There's something magical about witnessing the world come alive as the sun peeks above the horizon. It's a time of quiet serenity, when the beach is bathed in a soft, golden light that lends an ethereal quality to a photograph. I'm an early riser myself, having two small children at home, so I'm used to greeting the rising sun. I am always appreciative when clients venture out so early. It's worth it!

What makes sunrise sessions truly special is the sense of intimacy and connection they evoke. Imagine standing barefoot in the sand, surrounded by your loved ones, as you watch the first light of day illuminate the sky. It's a moment of shared wonder and gratitude, a reminder of the beauty and fleetingness of life. And my special beach spot near St. Augustine is always guaranteed to be a private experience.

This session was a bit unique in that, for the most part, I typically photograph families with younger children. When it comes to photographing adult children, it's a little more uncommon, but I love that this group embraced the moment and had fun! Sunrise sessions offer the perfect opportunity to capture your unique personalities and the bond even adult children share with their parents. Whether it's laughter shared over inside jokes or quiet moments of reflection, these early morning hours allow for authentic interactions and genuine emotions to shine through. And a little water play never hurts!

Plus, let's not forget about the practical benefits of a sunrise session. With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, families can enjoy a more relaxed and comfortable experience on the beach. Not to mention, the soft, diffused light of sunrise creates a flattering glow that enhances natural beauty.

For this particular family, I truly loved the candid images we got at the end of the session! During my first cull and after I had finalized the set, they really ended up being my favorite images from this adult family sunrise session. I hope some of these make it up on the walls for them to enjoy for years to come.

A sunrise photo session on St. Augustine Beach is an experience like no other—a chance to capture fleeting moments of beauty, connection, and joy against the backdrop of nature's masterpiece. So why wait? Set your alarms, gather your loved ones, and let's make some memories as we chase the sunrise together. You won't get too soaked, I promise!