Newport Beach Family Session with a Surprise Proposal | Orange County Family Photographer

There’s nothing quite like capturing a family session in Newport Beach, California—especially when it turns into a once-in-a-lifetime moment. This session was meant to be a simple family photoshoot, but it quickly became a heartwarming surprise proposal that we’ll never forget.

A Family Session with a Twist

Mom booked this session thinking it was just going to be a casual family photo shoot with her husband, their son, and their newborn baby girl. The day was beautiful, the sun was soft over the Newport Beach coastline, and the kids were playful and full of energy.

Meanwhile, Dad had been secretly planning a special surprise. He reached out to me ahead of time to coordinate a secret proposal at the end of the session. He wanted it to be intimate, unexpected, and captured in the natural beauty of Orange County.

Capturing the Perfect Moment

As we wrapped up the family portion of the session, Dad asked if I could get a few photos of just the two of them together. I asked Mom to look out towards the ocean, giving them a quiet, romantic moment.

While she gazed at the horizon, Dad positioned himself perfectly and then got down on one knee. I snapped away as he asked her to marry him—capturing the raw emotions, happy tears, and joyful smiles that made this moment unforgettable.

The look on her face and the joy in her eyes made this Newport Beach family session with a surprise proposal truly one of the most special I’ve photographed.

Why Newport Beach is Perfect for Family Photography

Newport Beach and the surrounding areas of Orange County are ideal for family photography for many reasons:

• Beautiful beaches with soft sand and gorgeous sunset views

• Scenic ocean backdrops that look stunning in photos

• Nearby parks and hidden spots for intimate family moments

• A relaxed California vibe that helps kids feel comfortable

It’s no wonder families in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Corona Del Mar, Huntington Beach, Dana Point, and Irvine love booking family photography sessions here.

Tips for a Surprise Proposal During a Family Session

If you’re thinking about a surprise proposal in Orange County, here are a few tips:

1. Coordinate with your photographer in advance so we can capture the perfect angle.

2. Pick a natural moment during your session—like the end when everyone is relaxed.

3. Choose a location that’s meaningful—a beach, a park, or even your backyard.

4. Keep it simple and heartfelt—it’s all about the emotion, not the props.

The Final Result

This Newport Beach family photography session ended with a beautiful engagement captured forever. From playful family moments to a heartfelt surprise proposal, it was a perfect reminder of why I love photographing families in Orange County, California.

Seeing the joy on their faces and knowing I captured a once-in-a-lifetime moment is exactly why I do what I do.

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Newport Beach or Orange County—whether it’s a beach family session, newborn photos, or even a surprise proposal—I’d love to help you capture your own special memories.

Contact me today to book your session and let’s make memories you’ll treasure forever!

Newport Beach Anniversary Bridal Portraits | Orange County Beach Photographer

Five years ago, like so many couples in 2020, this beautiful husband and wife had to adjust their wedding plans due to COVID. Their day was intimate and meaningful — but they never got the bridal portraits they had originally dreamed of.

This year, to celebrate their five-year anniversary, they chose to finally document this season of their love story with anniversary bridal portraits in Newport Beach, California — and it could not have been more perfect.

As a Newport Beach photographer serving Orange County, sessions like this remind me why I love what I do. Wedding days can feel fast and emotional, but anniversary bridal portraits allow couples to slow down and truly soak in the moment.

Why Do Anniversary Bridal Portraits in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach is one of the most iconic locations in Southern California for romantic beach photography. The soft sand, coastal cliffs, golden sunsets, and dreamy ocean light make it ideal for:

• Anniversary photo sessions

• Bridal portraits

• Elopement-style sessions

• Couples photography

• Beach engagement sessions

For couples who were married during COVID, anniversary bridals are such a meaningful way to:

• Re-wear your wedding attire

• Capture the portraits you didn’t get

• Celebrate how far you’ve come

• Create updated wedding photos in a relaxed setting

As an Orange County beach photographer, I always recommend sunset sessions in Newport Beach for the most flattering, romantic light.

A Romantic Newport Beach Beach Bridal Session

We met just before sunset along the coast in Newport Beach. The ocean breeze, the glow of the California sun, and the peaceful sound of the waves created the most effortless and romantic atmosphere.

She wore her wedding gown — flowing beautifully in the coastal wind — and he looked just as sharp as he did on their wedding day five years ago. But this time, there was something even deeper in their connection.

There is something incredibly special about photographing couples years after their wedding day. There’s comfort, history, and a quiet kind of love that only time builds.

As a Newport Beach anniversary photographer, I love capturing:

• Natural movement

• Genuine laughter

• Wind-blown veil moments

• Intimate shoreline portraits

• Golden hour silhouettes

The beaches of Orange County offer endless variety — from dramatic coastal views to clean, bright sandy backdrops.

Planning Your Newport Beach Anniversary Photo Session

If you were married during COVID or simply want to celebrate a milestone anniversary, a Newport Beach bridal session is a beautiful way to honor your story.

Here are a few tips:

Best Time:

Sunset for golden hour light (especially along the coast in Newport Beach).

What to Wear:

Many brides re-wear their wedding dress, but you can also choose:

• A modern white gown

• A romantic flowing dress

• Neutral coastal tones

As an experienced Orange County photographer, I help guide posing so that your session feels natural and effortless — never stiff or overly posed.

Why Hire a Newport Beach Photographer for Your Anniversary Portraits?

Hiring a local Newport Beach photographer means working with someone who understands:

• Tide timing

• Lighting conditions

• Best beach access points

• Permit considerations

• Crowd patterns

The Southern California coastline is stunning, but knowing exactly where and when to shoot makes all the difference.

Celebrating Five Years of Marriage in Newport Beach, California

Five years of marriage deserves to be celebrated. Whether you were married during the height of COVID or simply want updated portraits, an anniversary bridal session in Newport Beach is timeless, romantic, and unforgettable.

If you’re looking for an Orange County photographer specializing in beach bridal portraits and anniversary sessions in Newport Beach, I would love to help you tell your story.

Your wedding may have looked different than you planned — but your love story deserves to be documented beautifully.

This anniversary bridal session was photographed in Newport Beach, California in Orange County. If you’re looking for a Newport Beach photographer for anniversary portraits, bridal sessions, or beach couples photography, I’d love to connect.

In-Home Newborn Mini Session in Irvine, CA | Orange County Newborn Photographer

Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of the most tender seasons of life. Those first few weeks are filled with quiet snuggles, sleepy stretches, and moments that already feel like they’re passing too quickly.

This recent in-home newborn mini session in Irvine, CA was such a beautiful reminder that you don’t need an elaborate setup or hours of posing to capture meaningful newborn images. Sometimes, the most timeless photos happen right in the comfort of your own home.

Why Choose an In-Home Newborn Mini Session?

Many families in Orange County love the simplicity of a mini newborn session. Instead of packing up your brand new baby and heading to a studio, I come to you.

In-home newborn photography allows your session to feel relaxed and natural. Your baby stays cozy in their familiar environment, siblings feel more comfortable, and parents can truly settle into the moment.

A mini session is perfect if:

• You want updated newborn photos without a full-length session

• You prefer natural, lifestyle images

• You love the look of soft window light in your own space

• You’re adjusting to life with multiple children and want something simple

As a mom myself, I know how overwhelming those early days can feel. A shorter, guided session keeps things stress-free while still capturing all the sweetness.

What Happens During a Mini Newborn Session?

I gently guide posing so everything feels organic and comfortable. We use natural light from windows, simple textures, and your own home as the backdrop. The result? Authentic images that reflect your real life — beautifully.

The Beauty of Photographing Newborns at Home

There is something incredibly special about documenting this season where it’s actually unfolding.

Years from now, these photos won’t just show what your baby looked like — they’ll remind you of the home you brought them into. The nursery you decorated. The bed where you held them at 2am. The couch where siblings climbed up to sneak kisses.

That’s the magic of lifestyle newborn photography.

If you’re looking for an Orange County newborn photographer who offers in-home newborn mini sessions in Irvine, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and surrounding areas, I would love to help you preserve this season in a way that feels relaxed, meaningful, and true to your family.

Please reach out to me here to set up your own in home session!

And here, and also here, are full newborn sessions you can check out as well!

Aaand this one shows that you didn’t miss your window! Two months old can be just as fun and magical!

Newport Beach Mommy and Me Photoshoot | A Mother & Son Beach Session

There is something incredibly special about photographing the bond between a mother and her child — especially during the fleeting first years. This Newport Beach mommy and me photoshoot featured a beautiful mom and her one-year-old son, captured along the soft, golden coastline of Newport Beach, California.

As a Newport Beach family photographer, I love creating motherhood sessions that feel natural, emotional, and timeless. Mommy and me photoshoots aren’t about perfect posing — they’re about connection, movement, and the quiet moments that pass too quickly.

Why Newport Beach Is Perfect for Mommy and Me Photoshoots

Newport Beach offers some of the most stunning backdrops in all of Orange County. With its soft sand, neutral tones, and open shoreline, it’s an ideal location for motherhood photography that feels effortless and organic.

For this session, the ocean breeze, glowing light, and peaceful atmosphere allowed mom and son to simply be together. Beach sessions are especially perfect for one-year-old milestone photos because little ones can move freely, explore, and interact naturally — which results in genuine, emotion-filled images.

A One-Year-Old Milestone Mommy and Me Session

The one-year mark is such a meaningful season. Babies are beginning to walk, express curiosity, and form deeper emotional bonds. This mommy and me photoshoot beautifully captured that transition — the cuddles, the laughter, and the comfort only a mother can give.

During this Newport Beach motherhood session, we focused on:

• Gentle interaction and connection

• Natural movement instead of stiff posing

• Soft light and neutral tones that keep the focus on emotion

These sessions are designed to feel relaxed and unrushed, allowing space for authentic moments to unfold.

What to Expect From a Mommy and Me Photoshoot in Newport Beach

If you’re considering a mommy and me photoshoot in Newport Beach or anywhere in Orange County, here’s what you can expect:

• A calm, guided experience with simple direction

• Plenty of time for snuggles, walking, and play

• A focus on real connection rather than perfection

• A gallery that feels timeless and emotional

Whether your child is one year old or older, motherhood photography is a powerful way to preserve the relationship you share — exactly as it is right now.

Orange County Mommy and Me Photography

While this session took place in Newport Beach, I photograph mommy and me sessions throughout Orange County, including Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar, Huntington Beach, and surrounding coastal areas.

These sessions are especially popular for:

• One-year milestones

• Mother’s Day photos

• Pregnancy or postpartum seasons

• Simple “just because” memories

No matter the reason, motherhood sessions are an investment in memories your children will cherish one day.

Book a Newport Beach Mommy and Me Photoshoot

If you’re looking for a Newport Beach family photographer specializing in natural, emotional mommy and me photography, I’d love to create something meaningful for you.

Serving Newport Beach and Orange County, California

Motherhood | Family | Milestone Photography

Contact me here to schedule your mommy and me photoshoot

View my family portfolio here for more motherhood sessions

Because these moments — the way they reach for you, lean into you, and feel safest in your arms — deserve to be remembered.

Newport Beach Graduation Photography | Nursing Degree Celebration

Graduating with a nursing degree is a powerful accomplishment that represents years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. This Newport Beach nursing graduation photo session was designed to celebrate that journey in a meaningful and beautiful way.

Photographed during sunset along the coast of Newport Beach, California, this session captured the warmth and emotion of such a major milestone. The golden light, ocean views, and soft coastal tones created the perfect setting for graduation photos that feel timeless, elevated, and authentic.

Nursing graduates carry strength, compassion, and confidence into their careers, and this photo session was all about reflecting those qualities. From joyful smiles to confident portraits, every image tells the story of hard work paying off and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Newport Beach is one of the most sought-after photography locations in Orange County, California. Its natural coastal scenery, clean backgrounds, and stunning sunset light make it an ideal location for graduation photos, especially for nursing and college graduates who want a polished yet relaxed Southern California look.

As an Orange County graduation photographer, my goal is to create images that feel intentional and personal. Graduation photos are more than just a cap-and-gown moment. They are a way to document growth, resilience, and achievement. Nursing school is demanding, and graduating deserves to be celebrated with photos that reflect the magnitude of that accomplishment.

For nursing graduates in Orange County and Southern California, beach graduation photos offer a timeless way to mark this milestone. Whether you prefer something clean and classic or fun and creative, I guide each client through posing, location choice, and styling to ensure the final images feel natural and confident.

If you are searching for a Newport Beach graduation photographer, Orange County nursing graduation photos, or sunset beach graduation photography in California, I would love to help you celebrate this special moment. Graduation is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, and your photos should reflect just how far you have come.

Newport Beach Family Photographer | Sunset Family Session in Orange County

As a Newport Beach family photographer, there are sessions that stay with you forever—and this one was especially meaningful. Photographing this beautiful Orange County family again, six years after their maternity session, felt like a full-circle moment that perfectly captures why family photography is so powerful.

Six years ago, I met this family at Newport Beach for a maternity session, documenting the excitement and anticipation as mom carried their youngest daughter. Fast forward to today, and that same little girl is now standing on the sand beside her parents and two big brothers—laughing, playing, and becoming part of the very photos she once existed in as a tiny bump.

A Full-Circle Family Session at Newport Beach

This Newport Beach family photography session included mom, dad, two energetic brothers, and their sweet little sister—now six years old. One of the most special parts of this session was recreating a few of the same moments we captured during their maternity shoot years ago.

Standing in the same beautiful Newport Beach location, we photographed mom and dad together again, this time with all three children wrapped around them. The comparison between the two sessions was incredibly moving—proof of how fast time passes and how important it is to preserve each chapter.

As an Orange County family photographer, moments like this are exactly why I encourage families to invest in photos regularly. These images become part of your family’s story.

Why Newport Beach Is Perfect for Family Photos

Newport Beach, California is one of my favorite locations for family photography sessions. The soft sand, coastal breeze, and natural light create a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for kids of all ages. Whether it’s toddlers running freely or older siblings playing together, Newport Beach offers endless opportunities for authentic, joyful moments.

This family session was full of laughter, connection, and those in-between moments that truly reflect who they are. The boys chased waves, the little sister cuddled close to mom, and dad soaked it all in—exactly how family sessions should feel.

From Maternity to Family Photography in Orange County

Photographing this family from maternity to now is a reminder that family photography isn’t just about one session—it’s about documenting a legacy. Seeing their daughter, who was once just a growing belly, now holding hands with her brothers was incredibly special.

If you’re expecting or already have a growing family, booking regular sessions allows you to freeze time in the most beautiful way. As a Newport Beach maternity and family photographer, I love creating images that families can look back on for generations.

Looking for a Newport Beach Family Photographer?

If you’re searching for a family photographer in Newport Beach or Orange County, I would love to help you create meaningful, timeless images of your family. Whether you’re celebrating a new baby, documenting growing children, or simply updating your family photos, Newport Beach offers the perfect backdrop.

Family sessions are relaxed, fun, and focused on real connection—no stiff posing, just natural moments you’ll treasure forever.

Serving Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Irvine, and all of Orange County, California

Ready to Book Your Family Photography Session?

If you’d like to schedule a Newport Beach family photography session, feel free to reach out through my contact page. I can’t wait to help tell your family’s story.

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.