As a Crescent Bay family photographer, I’ve had the honor of photographing this family for over three years now: first for their maternity session, then at home with visiting grandparents for their newborn photos. Now, I joined them at Crescent Bay Beach for their baby’s very first visit to the ocean. Watching families grow through my lens is one of the best parts of this work. Also, this session, with familiar faces, was a full-circle moment I won’t forget.
Styling a Crescent Bay family session
The day was slightly overcast, but those soft clouds only added to the mood. A gentle, diffused light made everything feel cinematic. I gave mom loose color direction and previous client images for reference ahead of time. The family showed up with something even better than I’d imagined. Their light blue palette set the tone. In addition, tiny florals in mom’s dress didn’t overpower the frame, and baby in a classic Ralph Lauren gingham paired beautifully.
For his part, dad’s casual, but elevated look tied the whole family’s style together. Ultimately, it’s always up to the family how they want to show up for a session. However, staying true to your own style is what makes the final photos feel like you hanging on your walls years from now.
If you want your session to reflect Crescent Bay family memories, consider hiring a local photographer who knows this beach and the tides well.
When your toddler has other plans
The biggest surprise? Baby was completely fixated on the ocean; wouldn’t look away! That wasn’t something any of us planned for. Still, we simply followed his lead and let the water guide the whole session. Going in with low expectations and a go with the flow attitude always works in a family’s favor. Kids feel that energy and settle into it.
What to expect from a Crescent Bay family photographer
We still captured everything I always deliver: intimate mom and baby moments, relaxed lifestyle frames, candid and posed family groupings, and editorial detail shots of little hands in the sand. After years of listening to what parents actually want on their walls, these are the moments I know to watch for. As a mom myself, I deliver the photos I’d want to receive.
If you’re visiting Laguna Beach this year with your family, or you’re local to Orange County and the coast holds meaning for you, I’d love to hear from you. As a Crescent Bay family photographer, I’d love to help your family capture memories like these. Learn more about my Laguna Beach family sessions to see locations, timing tips, and what to expect. Alternatively, you can head to my services page to book directly.
