Sunrise Family Portraits on the Coast

A Spring Session With a Returning Family on Saint Augustine Beach

Each year, as the spring breezes begin to warm the coast and the skies turn a lighter shade of blue, I begin to get excited for the return of this beautiful family from Orlando. It’s become something of a tradition now—one that I look forward to just as much as they do. Every spring, they pack up their car before dawn and make the early morning drive to Saint Augustine to meet me on the beach for a sunrise family session.

As a professional St. Augustine Family Photographer, there is no greater compliment than being chosen again and again to document a family’s milestones. Watching these children grow through the years, watching their connections deepen, their personalities bloom—it’s an incredible honor and a true privilege.

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Why Sunrise is the Secret to the Best Coastal Portraits

If you’re dreaming of portraits that feel natural, glowing, and entirely free of crowds or distractions, let me share a little secret: sunrise is your best friend.

At sunrise, the beach feels almost sacred. The light is soft and golden, the sand is cool, and the only sound is the gentle crashing of waves. For families with young children, it’s a surprisingly stress-free experience. The kids are often in their best moods early in the day, and the entire beach becomes their playground—free to run, explore, and laugh without holding back.

As someone who has worked with families for over 15 years as a St. Augustine Photographer and Jacksonville Family Photographer, I can confidently say: the light, the peace, and the beauty of a sunrise session create something truly unforgettable.

The Beauty of a Spring Morning in Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine Beach in the spring is unlike anywhere else. The breeze still carries a whisper of winter, keeping things cool and crisp. The skies are painted in pastel hues—rosy pinks, peachy oranges, the softest lavenders—before the golden light takes over.

This session took place in early spring, when everything along the dunes feels fresh and alive. The sand was smooth and untouched, the waves gentle, and the light absolutely perfect from the moment they arrived. Even though we had a few moments of cloud cover early on, it only made the light feel dreamier once the sun broke through.

This setting is why I chose to specialize in coastal family photography. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and emotional storytelling, and Saint Augustine Beach offers a backdrop unlike any other on Florida’s coast.

Four Years of Trust and Joy

This family’s loyalty means the world to me. The first time they booked a session, their youngest was still a toddler. Now, he’s confidently exploring the beach on his own, racing ahead of his siblings and calling back over his shoulder, “Come on!” It’s in these small, unscripted moments that the real magic lives.

As a St. Augustine Family Photographer, I’ve learned that trust is everything. When a family returns year after year, we get to skip past the awkward introductions and dive straight into connection. They already know how I work—how I gently guide, how I chase the light, how I capture those quiet, in-between moments that become lifelong memories.

There’s a comfort and a flow that comes from years of working together. The children recognize me. They’re excited to be back at “our beach,” and they instinctively know that this time together is something special.

What It’s Like to Book a Sunrise Session With Me

For families considering a session, here’s what you can expect when you book a sunrise coastal portrait experience with me:

• Stress-free planning: From choosing your outfits to deciding where to park and when to meet, I take care of all the details so your morning flows smoothly.
• Styling support: You’ll receive a detailed guide to help you choose clothing that photographs beautifully against the coastal backdrop—whether you prefer light linens, soft pastels, or something timeless and neutral.
• Gentle direction: I won’t ask you to stand stiffly and say cheese. I’ll guide you into movement, laughter, hugs, and interaction—capturing moments that feel real.
• Experience: With 15 years behind the camera and hundreds of family sessions in Saint Augustine and Jacksonville, I know how to read light, adjust quickly, and create an effortless experience, even with little ones in tow.

Whether you’re local to the area or traveling from Orlando or Jacksonville, my goal is to make your session feel more like a slow morning walk with your favorite people than a photo shoot.

Serving Families From Orlando to Jacksonville

Over the years, I’ve had the joy of photographing families from all over Florida—Orlando, Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, and beyond. Many come back every year to document how much has changed (and what’s stayed the same). Others are visiting for the first time and want to capture their vacation in a meaningful, lasting way.

My signature style is relaxed, editorial, and emotional. I want your images to feel like you—at your most joyful, most present, most connected. These aren’t just beach pictures. They’re part of your family’s legacy.

Let’s Create Your Own Coastal Tradition

If you’ve been dreaming of sun-soaked, coastal portraits with your favorite people, let this be your sign to book the session. Whether you're marking a milestone, celebrating a season, or simply wanting to press pause on this moment in time, I would be honored to help you do it beautifully.

📸 Now booking summer and fall family sessions in:
– Saint Augustine
– Ponte Vedra Beach
– Jacksonville
– Hammock Beach
– And for returning Orlando families who love the coast

Let’s start planning your dream sunrise session.

👉 Click here to inquire and reserve your date
Serving discerning families who value connection, beauty, and storytelling through photography.