Joyful Family Beach Session in Newport Beach | Orange County Family Photographer

There’s nothing quite like photographing a family at the beach in Newport Beach, California. The golden light, soft ocean breeze, and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect backdrop for authentic family photos filled with joy and connection. As a family photographer in Orange County, I love capturing those little in-between moments — sandy toes, kids running along the shoreline, and the laughter that naturally happens when families simply enjoy being together.

Why Newport Beach is Perfect for Family Photography

Newport Beach offers everything a family photo session could need — stunning coastal views, wide open spaces for kids to play, and that magical Southern California sunset glow. Whether your family loves the calm of early mornings or the golden light of sunset, this beach is one of the most scenic places in Orange County for timeless family portraits.

During this session, we kept things simple and fun. The family played in the waves, shared a few snuggles on the sand, and let the kids lead the way. I always encourage families to interact naturally — that’s when the most heartfelt and candid moments unfold.

A Relaxed and Candid Approach

My approach to family photography in Newport Beach is all about connection and comfort. You don’t need to worry about posing perfectly or keeping your kids still — in fact, the best photos often come when everyone is simply having fun. I guide families gently, offering direction when needed, but I also step back to let your personalities shine through. The result is a collection of natural, joy-filled images that truly tell your family’s story.

Capturing the Real You

What I love most about beach family sessions in Orange County is how they bring out everyone’s playful side. Whether it’s toddlers collecting seashells, parents walking hand-in-hand, or teens laughing together before the waves roll in, every family has its own rhythm and energy. My goal as your Newport Beach family photographer is to capture that genuine connection — the little moments you’ll want to remember forever.

Planning Your Family Beach Session

If you’re considering family photos in Newport Beach, I recommend choosing a time close to sunset for that dreamy, golden light. Neutral, soft colors always photograph beautifully against the sand and sea. I also suggest bringing a towel and a change of clothes for little ones — most kids can’t resist splashing in the water at the end of the session!

Whether you’re local to Orange County or visiting Southern California on vacation, a Newport Beach family photo session is the perfect way to capture your family’s love and create memories by the ocean that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Book Your Newport Beach Family Photography Session

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Newport Beach or anywhere in Orange County, CA, I’d love to help you create relaxed, timeless images that tell your story. Reach out today to book your family beach session and start planning the perfect experience for your family.

Orange County Maternity Photography: Favorite Newport Beach Sessions Through the Ye

There’s something incredibly special about photographing maternity sessions in Newport Beach, California. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of capturing so many expecting mothers and families along this beautiful stretch of the Orange County coast — each one with its own story, emotion, and glow.

As a maternity photographer in Orange County, I love how Newport Beach provides such a timeless and natural setting. The soft ocean light, the gentle breeze, and the calm of the shoreline create the perfect atmosphere for celebrating this extraordinary chapter of motherhood.

Why Newport Beach Is Perfect for Maternity Photography

When you picture maternity photos in Orange County, Newport Beach instantly comes to mind. The combination of coastal beauty and peaceful energy makes it a dream location for capturing pregnancy portraits that feel warm, elegant, and genuine.

Whether it’s a quiet morning session or a golden sunset shoot, every moment here feels magical. The ocean reflects the light in ways that make your natural beauty shine — it’s truly the perfect backdrop for this fleeting season of life.

Celebrating Motherhood and Connection

Every maternity session is a celebration — of strength, anticipation, and love. Some of my favorite Newport Beach maternity photos feature moms-to-be standing gracefully by the water, cradling their growing bellies with a peaceful smile. Others capture the laughter and connection between couples as they wait for their little one to arrive.

I always aim to make each session feel relaxed, comfortable, and heartfelt. Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, these photos are meant to capture the love and anticipation that make this time so meaningful.

When to Schedule Your Maternity Session

For the most flattering and comfortable experience, I recommend scheduling your maternity session between 30 and 35 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, your baby bump has a beautiful round shape, and you’ll still have plenty of energy to move and enjoy your session.

Because Newport Beach offers gorgeous light year-round, we can create stunning images in any season — from the golden warmth of summer to the soft, glowing tones of winter sunsets.

The Experience of Maternity Photography in Orange County

My approach to maternity photography in Newport Beach focuses on connection and authenticity. I provide gentle guidance throughout your session so you never have to worry about posing — the goal is to help you feel natural and confident in front of the camera.

Every session includes:

• Thoughtful direction for flattering, natural poses

• Guidance on wardrobe and styling to highlight your bump

• A relaxed, comfortable atmosphere for genuine emotion

• The flexibility to include partners or family members

A Look Back at Favorite Maternity Sessions

Over the years, I’ve been honored to photograph so many incredible moms across Orange County, and Newport Beach has been at the heart of so many of those memories. Each session brings a new story — a reminder of how beautiful it is to pause and celebrate the journey to motherhood.

Scroll through below to see a few of my favorites from Newport Beach sessions throughout the years.

Playful Sibling Beach Photos in Newport Beach | Orange County Family Photographer

There’s something magical about photographing siblings at the beach — the laughter, the teasing, the way they chase each other through the waves. This playful Newport Beach session focused on just a brother and sister, capturing the special bond they share in a natural, candid way.

From the moment their feet touched the sand, they were off — running, splashing, and playing together in the ocean. Instead of forcing poses, we let them interact and enjoy each moment, which led to genuine smiles, giggles, and even a few surprises from the waves themselves.

Why I Love Sibling Sessions at the Beach

Beach sessions with siblings are some of my favorite because they allow each child’s personality to shine. The ocean’s open space encourages playful exploration, and the candid moments — holding hands, splashing water, or simply laughing together — create photos that families truly treasure.

These images don’t just capture how they look, but who they are: full of energy, love, and the unique connection only siblings share.

Tips for a Great Sibling Beach Photo Session

If you’re planning a sibling beach session in Orange County, consider these tips:

• Comfortable outfits: Flowy dresses, shorts, or neutral tones that can get a little wet or sandy.

• Time it right: Sunset is perfect for warm, glowing light that enhances every candid moment.

• Let them play: The best photos happen when kids are free to interact naturally, without being told to “say cheese.”

Book Your Newport Beach Sibling Session

Capturing your children’s playful bond at the beach creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, a sibling session is a beautiful way to celebrate their connection in a relaxed, joyful environment.

Dreamy Boho Maternity Session at Newport Beach | Orange County Photographer

Romantic Boho Maternity Session at Newport Beach

There’s something so magical about photographing expecting parents at the beach. The mix of golden sunset light, soft ocean air, and that quiet excitement of new life creates the most beautiful energy. As a Newport Beach maternity photographer, I love capturing these tender moments — the kind that remind you how precious this season of life truly is.

For this sunset session, I met up with a sweet couple on the sand in Newport Beach. The evening couldn’t have been more perfect — warm light glowed off the waves, and a gentle breeze caught the flow of her long, boho-style maxi dress just right. The soft neutrals she chose paired beautifully with the pastel sky, creating such a dreamy, natural look.

Capturing the Beauty of Motherhood at the Beach

We started the session just as the sun began dipping low on the horizon. The ocean turned gold, and their connection was effortless — quiet laughter, gentle touches, and so much love between them. She rested her hands on her belly while her husband wrapped his arms around her, both of them glowing with anticipation.

I always tell my clients that maternity photography isn’t just about showing a baby bump — it’s about celebrating the love and strength that make a family. This couple radiated both. Between shots, we talked about their excitement for the baby’s arrival and how fast this season seems to pass. It was such an honor to freeze these moments in time for them.

Why I Love Sunset Maternity Sessions in Newport Beach

Newport Beach is one of my favorite places to photograph expecting moms. The light here is soft and warm, the sand feels endless, and the ocean always adds a sense of calm. Sunset sessions are especially magical because of that golden glow — it flatters every skin tone and makes every photo look effortlessly romantic.

Whether it’s a boho-inspired session like this one or something more classic and elegant, the beach is the perfect backdrop for maternity photos. The colors, textures, and sounds all create a peaceful setting that allows couples to truly connect and be present with each other.

Looking for a Newport Beach Maternity Photographer?

If you’re expecting and dreaming of romantic, boho maternity photos in Newport Beach or anywhere in Orange County, I’d love to help you capture this special chapter. Every session is customized to reflect your personality, your story, and the quiet beauty of motherhood.

Reach out through my Life Now Photography contact page to schedule your maternity session — and let’s create something beautiful together.

Golden Hour Mom and Me Photoshoot at Newport Beach Peninsula | Orange County Family Photographer

Golden Hour Mom and Me Session at Newport Beach Peninsula

There’s something magical about a mom and me photoshoot at Newport Beach — the soft ocean breeze, golden sunlight reflecting on the water, and genuine laughter shared between a mother and her children. This session on the Newport Beach Peninsula was full of love, giggles, and tender moments that remind me why I adore photographing families here in Orange County, CA.

As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, the light turned that perfect shade of warm gold — a photographer’s dream. This beautiful mom played and snuggled with her sweet babies, running along the shoreline, dancing in the waves, and sharing those quiet in-between moments that mean the most. Every smile, every sandy toe, and every splash told a story of motherhood — joyful, raw, and absolutely beautiful.

One of my favorite parts of a beach family photoshoot in Newport Beach is how natural it feels. There’s no need for stiff posing — the ocean brings out everyone’s playful side. The kids laughed as they chased the waves, and mom held them close, soaking in every moment. These are the memories that make my heart full as a family photographer in Orange County.

The Newport Beach Peninsula is one of my go-to locations for family and motherhood sessions. It offers wide stretches of sand, gorgeous coastal light, and a calm atmosphere perfect for families with little ones. Whether it’s a maternity photoshoot, a mom and me session, or a full family photography session, this spot never disappoints.

If you’re dreaming of timeless, light-filled photos that capture the connection between you and your children, I’d love to create that for you. Let’s plan your next beach photography session in Orange County — whether it’s Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, or Huntington Beach.

Book your Mom and Me Session today and let’s create memories you’ll treasure forever.

Senior Graduation Photo Session in Newport Beach

When Your Bestie is Having Her Baby | Newport Beach Maternity Photographer

My beautiful friend had her baby boy this month and my goodness there is nothing like those “firsts” together. This little person, who was there for so long, just tucked inside, is finally face to face. And in that moment, you wonder how ever lived your dats without him.

This photo shoot was definitely extra special to me as one of best friends ever met me for a sunset shoot in Newport. It had been gloomy all day along the beach until close to time, when the clouds blew out for the most gorgeous evening. Maternity will forever be one of my favorite genres to photograph.

Newport Beach is Cold So We Relocated to Cabo for Warmer Sand | Orange County Family Photographer

We live ten minutes from the beach. You would think we would want to go somewhere like the mountains for vacation, right? What can we say though: we’re chasing that warm sun life whenever we can. When I say that Newport Beach is “cold” I mean like high 50s/low 60s, which I understand some may laugh at, and with good reason. I grew up in Michigan, who even am I. But to my kids, who only know Southern California degrees, it’s straight up jackets and boots weather, and we were longing to be in our summer dresses again. Cabo did not disappoint, either! Mid 70s, a bit of humidy, and a lot of sun, these kids were living their best lives sipping pina coladas pool side.

Aaand, my mom dreams come true: I finally got a picture of the four of them all together! It may have taken us one year and a flight to another country, but we did it. Be right back, going to go print these out large now! :)

Beach Family Session | Beach Family Photos | Orange County Family Photographer | Newport Beach Family Photographe

Ten years ago we came to Newport Beach on a family vacation. We wanted to escape the freezing cold winters of Ohio. However, instead of our usual Florida stop, we decided to mix things up this time and head over to Orange County, CA for the first time. Little did we know how that one “simple” escape to warm beaches would have our family living along that same sand just one year later. Needless to say, we fell head over heels in love. We remember this one particular drive we would take along the Coast in Newport where we would see the the waves coming in below the winding cliffs. We would look at each other and be like, “What a dream it would be to actually call this place home.” Of all places, that one particular spot with the winding cliffs is where we now do all of our beach sessions! Just too good to not still be our favorite. And speaking of favorites, this family fits so perfectly into that spot. We have gotten to watch their sweet babies grow up right behind our lens, and it is such a gift each and every time we meet up again.

Watching Families Grow One Photo Session at a Time | Newport Beach Family Photographer

One of my all time favorite things about photographing families here in Newport Beach is watching those families grow. I first met these six when there were only four of them, and big sister was only a few months old! I have had the privilege of hanging out with them at the beach each year, and seeing their beautiful love for one another just get bigger. Three, then four kids later, they just become more and more my favorite each time. The big kids have gotten to know me which is just so special and little sisters are slowly recognizing my face now. They have the best parents to top it all off, and I feel like I’m hanging with old friends now!

You Don't Have to Stop Taking Photos Just Because Your Kids Are Older | Newport Beach Family Photographer

By far the majority of families I photography are those with young kids, and I get it. It’s those years you just don’t want to forget, those little details you want to hold onto forever. Chubby hands, silly dances, kisses with mom, and swinging in the air with dad are all my favorites too! However, now that I am a mom of not only a baby and toddler, but also a ten and twelve year old, I am seeing just how much of their “big kid” moments I also want to hold onto. I will look back when they are off on their own and reminisce on these days we had together, looking back at photos and seeing just how young they still were. Sports, after school clubs, friends, work, the list of reasons why it seems way too hard to get schedules together and everyone down to the beach is legit, I totally get it. BUT, it is so worth it for just one day out of your year. These are the memories you will cherish forever. Long gone may be the days of dimpled grins, but I can still get those beautiful faces to cuddle up close with you for a minute.

I got to hang with this gorgeous family at Newport Beach last month and loved every minute of my time with them. The sunset was amazing, the light golden, and their love and laughter all the icing on top.

Let's Feel Your Family's Joy | Newport Beach Family Photographer

Ahh, allll the happiness from these four! Can’t pick a favorite out of all this joy! These parents were so relaxed and just really leaned into their two girls’ playful and energetic souls, and the results are my favorite. Decide to have fun at your next family photo session and watch the beauty unfold!

Back From Maternity Leave | Newport Beach Family Photographer

After welcoming my fourth little baby earthside, I took a couple of months off from photo sessions to rest and heal. Well, “rest” is a very abstract word around my life these days—haha—but regardless, I have no words to describe how priceless this time has been watching my family grow together. I have now slowly been getting back into the groove of things though, shooting a small handful of sessions each month. One of my very first sessions back started with one of my very favorite families! We first met when they were vacationing here in Newport Beach three years ago. Their kids have only grown more beautiful and amazing, and I enjoyed every minute of hanging down at the sand with them. It was freezing, the winds were whipping, but they brought all the joy!

Our Baby Girl is Here | Newport Beach Family Photographer

Cue all the tears, tissues, and happy laughter: our rainbow baby girl is here! Shiloh Calise made her appearance earth side December 27th, making all our Christmas dreams come true. She is absolutely perfect and we are just a little bit obsessed with her. The kids hold and cuddle her constantly and watching their love for her is better than anything I could have ever imagined. The reality that I am a mom of four is such a dream come true.

I wanted so badly to get individual pics of each kid with their new sister and one morning all the stars just seemed to align with these moments that took my breath away. I can feel their love for her, and the warmth and safety she already knows in their arms.

This next one was Shiloh at less 24 hours old. I’m so happy to have this photo from that most beautiful day.

These are the words I wrote to her about this next photo, taken on day 3: “I’m bleeding, sore, and tired: I wouldn’t trade it for all the world. To finally be here in this moment, wrapping you in my arms; like a dream, much too good to be true. But then I do dream, for that short time before I hear your little cry again—and there you still are, taking my breath away with the reality of it all… thank you for letting me be your mom. Thank you for healing the cracks of my heart with your love.”

And a sweet hand knitted gift from our neighbor, at 9 days new. In just this short time our sweet girl has already started to act so much older, looking around and making eye contact. Time please slow down now! Shiloh Calise, you are a real life dream come true.

My Own Maternity Photos | Newport Beach Maternity Photographer

37 weeks pregnant and I just knew I wanted to document this special time with our rainbow baby still in my belly. Between school, work, and all the kids activities though, it was so hard to find that free evening. It was a random weekday where we all happened to be at home. I looked out the window and saw the sunset was going to be beautiful. With that, we ran like madmen and women and got ourselves together in 20 minutes flat. Rushing up to the hill by our house I knew we had about 15 minutes of sunlight left. I figured if my husband could just grab a single good one I would be so happy. Well, my kids were dreams, my husband outdid himself, and they gave me the most special gift of this pregnancy. I will cherish these photos forever with my greatest loves.

Engagement Session in Newport Beach | Orange County Family Photographer

These two: cutest ever!!! I cannot choose a favorite from my time with them! Engagement sessions will forever and always have my heart, and these two brought it with all their love and sweetness. This was one of my very last sessions I did before taking my maternity leave, and it didn’t disappoint. We met along the coast of Newport at a mostly empty winter beach. And speaking of love: COLOR!! I just love the choices of her blue and pink dresses and the way they brought that extra pop to the scene. Give me all the fun loving, colorful, Newport beach couples please? :)

Watching Your Family Grow | Laguna and Newport Beach Family Photographer

I absolutely love meeting new families and capturing their special moments behind my lens. I always feel like we’re all best friends by the end. :) But when my best friends come back year after year, that is a whole other level of love for me! Watching families grow behind my camera is such a special gift that I did not realize would be so special when I had first started out in photography. I met this particular family when brother was just an only child. I still remember when I got the message they were expecting their little girl. I have been able to see these little beach babes become little toddlers and preschoolers. It has been such a joy seeing them each year and getting to tell their story over and over again.

Let's Say Goodbye to the Stuffy Photoshoots | Newport Beach Family Photographer

If you’re wanting the super posed, super perfect children, photo session… I’m probably not your best bet! :) Give me all the fun, happy families, please. Swing those kids around and throw them in the air. Chase them till you’re both ready to crash by the end. Energy, excitement, and love of life is what children are made of, and how I love to capture that true sense of who they are. I fully believe when you look back at all this joy it will be well worth the chaos that most often defines a family photo session at the beach. We will leave full of sand, a little bit of exhaustion, and priceless memories of your beautiful life together.

This is the second time I had the privilege of getting this family behind my lens. The last time big sister was in her momma’s belly for our first maternity session together. Now they are getting ready to add a baby brother to the mix, and I couldn’t be more excited for them. The weather was absolutely perfect at Newport Beach this evening with the sun illuminating their sweet love. Let the photos speak for themselves—stuffy photos are so yesterday’s news. ;)

Engagement Photos Forever Please | Newport Beach Family Photographer

I don’t think I’ll ever grow tired of shooting engagement and couple’s photos! I mean who doesn’t like getting to pretend like you’re creating a romance story on the beach, right? ;) When you find the one your soul was made for, there really is nothing like it. Holding hands with your best friend till you’re old and gray.

Maternity Sessions in the Cold Still Works: Newport Beach Family Photographer

Winter photo sessions are my very personal favorite! Yes, it is cold. Yes, I have to go unthaw in a hot shower when I get home. But, also, YES, to empty beaches!! Not only does a small crowd help make it so much easier to get those beautiful landscape shots, but the comfort level is next level. Unless you model for a living, no one is usually super comfortable being behind a camera. But how about being behind a camera with people sitting on the sand just staring at you? Or trying to get a shot and having to keep waiting for others to walk by? In the winter months we get to erase all of that, and just concentrate on having fun! And hello, the fun I had with this beautiful, growing family! These two are going to be the BEST parents ever!

Also, side note: who else wants to wear a yellow dress on the beach?! I absolutely loved the way this color popped among the sunset!