As we wrap up the summer months, I'm excited to share one of my favorite family portrait sessions of the season! I've been working with this family since 2016, and each summer, they travel all the way from Nashville to enjoy the sandy shores here at Ponte Vedra Beach. During this year's session, we opted for the beautiful grounds at The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, a longtime home base of this family since 1970! These clients have become more like friends over the years, and it's an honor to see their children grow right before my lens.

Why Ponte Vedra Inn & Club?

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Ponte Vedra Beach, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club offers a stunning backdrop for any photo session. Its lush grounds, historic architecture, and pristine beaches provide endless opportunities for capturing beautiful, natural moments. This luxurious resort has been a favorite for our photo sessions, and it's easy to see why!

The day of the shoot, the weather was perfect—blue skies, a gentle breeze, and just the right amount of sunlight filtering through the palm trees. We started our session in one of the Inn’s picturesque areas of the golf course, where the kids could run around and play while we snapped some candid shots. The vibrant flowers and manicured lawns added a splash of color and life to every frame.

Family Traditions and Timeless Moments

Having worked with this family for several years, we've developed a wonderful rapport. The kids have grown up before my lens, and it's been a joy to document their milestones and see their personalities shine through in every session. This familiarity allowed for a relaxed, fun atmosphere, making it easy to capture genuine smiles and laughter.

Tips for a Successful Family Portrait Session

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or planning your first family shoot, here are a few tips to ensure a successful session:

1. Choose the Right Location: A place that holds meaning for the family can make the session more personal and memorable. The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club was perfect for this family because they love spending time there.

2. Timing is Everything: Golden hour, the hour before sunset, offers the most flattering natural light. It's worth planning your session around this time to get those dreamy, soft-lit photos.

3. Keep it Fun: Especially with kids, it's important to keep the session light-hearted and fun. Let them play and be themselves—that's when you'll capture the most authentic moments.

4. Build a Connection: If possible, get to know your clients beforehand. A good relationship can make everyone feel more comfortable, resulting in more natural and relaxed photos.

Working with returning clients is always an honor. Over time, you get to witness and document their growth and changes, creating a beautiful visual history for the family. Plus, the familiarity allows for a smoother, more enjoyable session for everyone involved.

Family photo sessions are more than just taking pictures; they're about capturing memories that will be cherished for years to come. At Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, they have the perfect setting to create stunning, timeless images. Whether you're a local or planning a visit to Ponte Vedra Beach, consider this beautiful spot for your next family photo session.

Whether you're reminiscing about past photo sessions or looking for inspiration for your next one, I hope this story has sparked some joy and excitement. Feel free to share your own experiences and tips in the comments below!