It's always bittersweet when a family completes their final session of their baby membership. Weather and life, and little man not quite walking yet, prevented us from having their family portraits on a few occasions, but I'm so glad we waited because we got such a beautiful night out at Guana State Park that evening! As you know, I'm mostly a family photographer in St. Augustine, but from time to time I make my way over to Ponte Vedra Beach, and Guana is definitely my favorite spot to document families when I'm there. The location gives me almost a Hawaii vibe, and I love the color of the sand there!

There’s something magical about beach baby portraits—the innocence captured against the vastness of the ocean, the playful splashes, and the warmth of family embrace. It’s a testament to the fleeting moments of childhood and the enduring love shared within a family. And, with this little guy, we were all running! He would not calm down for us for anything. But my little wooden boat I brought to the session caught his eye just long enough for a few great candid solo portraits. 

Tips for a Memorable Beach Portrait Session:

1. Timing is Key: Plan your session during the golden hours – the hour after sunrise or before sunset – for soft, flattering light and breathtaking hues.
2. Dress Comfortably: Opt for light, breathable fabrics in coordinating colors to complement the beach setting.
3. Embrace Candid Moments: Some of the most precious shots arise spontaneously, so encourage natural interactions and genuine emotions.
4. Capture the Environment: Don’t forget to incorporate the stunning backdrop of the beach into your portraits, adding depth and context to your images.

As the waves kissed the shore and the sun dipped below the horizon, we wrapped up our session knowing that we had captured moments that would be treasured for a lifetime. We left each other knowing we had finally made it happen and captured Baby August in this fleeting baby stage.