There’s nothing quite like watching three generations come together by the ocean—waves crashing, wind in your hair, little ones running wild between hugs and high-fives. It’s chaotic. It’s joyful. It’s real. And that’s exactly what made this Clearwater Beach session so special.

What started as a family legacy session quickly turned into something even bigger—a first birthday celebration filled with laughter, love, and frosting.

Three Generations, One Story

This wasn’t just a photoshoot. It was a moment. A memory in the making. A reminder of just how powerful it is to gather the people who’ve built your world—generation by generation—and document the beauty of what you’ve created together.

The energy was everything you’d expect with toddlers in the mix: loud, unpredictable, full of snacks and sandy toes. But woven through all of that were tiny, tender moments that stole the show.

Grandparents soaking up the chaos.
Parents trading glances and laughter.
Little ones soaking up every second of attention.

The kind of images that feel like time standing still.etween generations, every frame told a piece of their story.

Why I Love Generational Sessions at the Beach

The beach is one of my favorite places to photograph families like this. It doesn’t demand perfection. It invites movement, play, and presence. And that’s when the magic happens.

Here’s what makes beach sessions ideal for legacy moments:

• It’s all about connection. From tickles to hand-holding to candid glances, there’s space for natural emotion to shine.
• You don’t need much. The sand, the sea, and the people you love—Clearwater’s coastal glow does the rest.
• Everyone can relax. Kids roam, grandparents stroll, and the session flows like a walk on the beach (literally).

This session felt like a dance between generations—part celebration, part chaos, all heart.

A Beachy First Birthday Bash

In the middle of this generational lovefest? One very happy baby turning ONE.

We brought out a little cake, let him dig in, and embraced the joyful mess that followed. Sticky fingers, frosting-covered cheeks, sand in all the places… and zero stress about it.

There’s something so meaningful about celebrating that milestone surrounded by the people who helped shape it. It wasn’t just a cake smash—it was a moment of full-circle love.

Making Space for Legacy

What always stands out in sessions like this isn’t the scenery—it’s the emotion. The way grandma’s eyes linger on her grown child holding a baby of their own. The way generations laugh together like no time has passed. The unspoken pride. The layered stories.

These aren’t just portraits. They’re pieces of history.

I kept the session loose and natural—offering gentle direction when needed, but mostly following the flow. That’s where the truth lives: in the in-between.

Thinking About Your Own Multi-Generational Session?

Here are a few tips to help it come to life:

Let it breathe. I’ll guide you through it, but don’t stress about the “perfect” shot. The best ones are the real ones.

Coordinate your outfits, don’t match. Think soft neutrals, whites, earth tones, and denim—effortless and timeless.

Let go of perfection. Toddlers will run. Wind will blow hair. Embrace it—it’s all part of the story.

Bring the cake if there’s a milestone. A simple smash can turn into the highlight of your session.

What Legacy Looks Like

This session had it all: a breezy beach, the joy of a first birthday, generations showing up with their whole hearts, and a few tiny hands covered in cake.

It’s the kind of session that reminds me why this work matters. Because these aren’t just photos—they’re proof. That love is loud. That family is everything. That time doesn’t wait—but memories can.

Thank you for reading my blog. I love sharing real stories from sessions that celebrate love, legacy, and everything in between. If you’re ready to plan something meaningful for your family, click here to get in touch. I’d be honored to help you capture your own version of messy, magical, memory-making love.

Let’s be honest—maternity sessions with toddlers aren’t always serene. They’re chaotic. They’re unpredictable. And they’re full of energy, giggles, and moments you couldn’t plan if you tried.

And that’s exactly what makes them perfect.

This sunrise session in Spring Hill was a beautiful whirlwind of chasing light, brushing hair out of faces, and soaking up every second of love and laughter between a growing family. There was only one outfit—a stunning two-piece from my client closet—and that’s all we needed. One look. One location. One gorgeous morning to remember.

Why I Love Sunrise (Even When It’s Wild)

Don’t let the soft golden light fool you—sunrise sessions may look peaceful, but behind the scenes? It’s usually full of movement, toddler wrangling, and snack bribes.

But that first morning light? It’s magic. It creates this dreamy glow that wraps around everything and softens the chaos just enough to make it feel cinematic.

Here’s what makes sunrise sessions so worth it:

A reset moment at the start of your day that helps you slow down and soak it all in

Bright, flattering light that doesn’t fight your skin tones

Empty parks and fields—no distractions, no crowds, no photobombers

The Client Closet Fit

The mama in this session chose a boho-inspired look from my client closet—earthy tones, flowing fabric, and enough movement to dance in the grass and cuddle her little one with ease.

My client closet is full of bump-friendly styles that photograph beautifully and make getting dressed easy. Just let me know ahead of time if you’d like to use it so I can have pieces ready to go.

Tips for Planning a Real-Life Maternity Session

• Expect the chaos. Toddlers are unpredictable, and that’s part of the magic.
• Choose comfort. Flowy dresses, stretchy fabrics, and barefoot moments photograph beautifully.
• Let go of perfection. The most emotional images often happen in between the “posed” ones.
• Don’t overthink it. One outfit, one location, and one willing heart is more than enough.

Motherhood is raw and real and wild. This session celebrated all of that. It was a sunrise full of love, dirt, cuddles, and connection—and it’s exactly the kind of chaos I live for.

Every Season of Motherhood Deserves to Be Seen

Maternity sessions aren’t about looking perfect—they’re about feeling present. They’re about freezing time just long enough to remember what this season felt like… the kicks, the chaos, the love that keeps growing.

If you’re thinking about booking a session—whether it’s your first baby or your fourth—know this: you don’t need to have it all together. You just need to show up. I’ll handle the rest.

Thank you for reading my blog! I love sharing real stories and helpful tips for planning your own session. If you’re ready to book, click here to get in touch!

Branding sessions aren’t just about showcasing products—they’re about showing the person behind the brand. That’s especially true for someone like Becky, the creative force behind Southern Cow & Craft.

This session took place in the golden light of Brooksville, where open fields and country fences matched the heart of Becky’s work: a blend of Midwest roots, Florida charm, and a whole lot of handmade love. From jewelry to custom signs, Becky’s work is filled with intention—and this shoot was all about capturing that.

Meet Becky – The Maker Behind Southern Cow & Craft

Becky grew up in Central Illinois surrounded by farmland and long winters, but her story found new ground in Florida more than 20 years ago. What began as a creative outlet—drawing, painting, crafting—eventually turned into a full-time passion project that now includes a full range of handcrafted goods, curated accessories, and vintage-inspired finds.

She’s raised a wonderful son, who’s now a huge part of her shop’s journey. And what started with a mural during the Gulf War (yes, she’s been making art that long!) is now a thriving small business focused on community, nostalgia, and one-of-a-kind pieces made with care.

Everything at Southern Cow & Craft is either handcrafted or selected with love—and Becky’s passion shows up in every detail.

The Brooksville Vibe – Country Roots, Clean Visuals

Becky’s session took place at Darby Farm—a gorgeous wedding venue in Brooksville, FL that aligned perfectly with her brand’s rustic-meets-modern aesthetic. The soft light, open skies, and weathered textures gave her products room to shine, while anchoring everything in that Southern Cow & Craft vibe she’s known for.

To help bring her vision to life, I helped her find a lifestyle model who could wear her pieces in a natural, relatable way. Having someone step in to showcase the accessories made the images feel even more dynamic, and took some of the pressure off Becky needing to do it all herself.

During the session, I focused on capturing a well-rounded collection of images, including:

• Product close-ups – The clasp on a leather bag, the glint of a stone, and the textures that make each piece feel handmade and special
• Lifestyle photos – The model styling her jewelry in soft light, wearing Becky’s favorite pieces with ease
• Behind-the-scenes candids – Real moments of Becky laughing, adjusting a display, and working hands-on with her products

These photos are now fueling her website, social media, pop-up banners, and printed materials for vendor events. Every shot reflects the same intentional energy she pours into her business—and I loved getting to be a part of it.ile elevating her professional presence.

What Makes a Great Branding Session?

If you’re a small business owner like Becky, here are a few ways to make the most of your branding session:

• Let your products tell a story. Choose a location and wardrobe that align with your vibe.
• Step into the frame. People connect more deeply when they can see and trust the face behind the brand.
• Plan for variety. Close-up details, lifestyle portraits, and behind-the-scenes content give you a content bank that lasts.
• Think bigger than your website. These images can be used for social posts, email campaigns, booth signage, and more.

Why This Session Stood Out

This shoot felt like photographing a friend—someone who knows who she is and what she’s building, but who still leaves room for creativity and play.

Becky was clear in her vision, open to ideas, and absolutely magnetic in front of the camera. Watching her bring Southern Cow and Craft to life on camera was such a joy, and I’m so excited to see how these images show up across her brand—from Etsy to Instagram and everything in between.

She’s building something real and beautiful, and I feel lucky to help document it.

She’s building something really special, and we were honored to be a part of that story.

Thank you for reading my blog. If you’re ready to elevate your brand visuals with a session that feels like you, click here to get in touch. And if you want early access to branding session availability and promos, join my email list to be the first to know.

There’s a common myth floating around that newborn photos have to happen within the first two weeks of life. And while those early days do make for sweet, sleepy portraits, I’m here to tell you something important:

It’s not too late.

Older newborns—whether they’re 6, 8, or even 10 weeks old—are still very much in that tender new stage. Their expressions are changing, their eyes are bright, and their little personalities are starting to peek through. And when I take your session outside? There’s something extra magical that happens.

Why You Don’t Need to Rush

Those first few weeks can feel like a blur. You’re healing. You’re adjusting. You’re barely sleeping. Sometimes, just getting through the day feels like a win.

I want you to know:
Your baby is still perfect for photos.
You didn’t miss anything.

Older newborns may not curl up as tightly, but they bring their own kind of beauty:

• Soft stretches and growing rolls
• Big, curious eyes
• Little sounds and smirks
• Moments of alertness and connection

It’s a different kind of session—but in all the best ways.

What an Older Newborn Session Feels Like

If your baby is past that early sleepy phase, your session will look a little different than a “fresh 48.” But that doesn’t make it any less meaningful.

Here’s what I typically see with older newborns:

• More awake time. Lots of eye contact and interaction.
• Natural positioning. Less curled-up posing, more relaxed holds, over-the-shoulder snuggles, or cozy blanket wraps.
• More personality. Tiny “talks,” smiles, and stretches start to emerge—those moments are gold.
• Flexible pacing. I always follow baby’s lead and build in time for feeding, diaper changes, and snuggles.
• Posing is possible, but not guaranteed. Some older babies may still allow gentle posing, but once they’re more alert and wiggly, I shift into lifestyle-led moments instead.

You don’t need to worry about your baby being “too awake” or “too wiggly.” I promise—some of the most heartfelt images I’ve taken were of wide-eyed, wriggly newborns just being their little selves.

Why I Love Outdoor Newborn Sessions for This Age

When you step outside, everything softens. The filtered light, the fresh air, the natural textures—they create a relaxed space where everyone can breathe a little easier.

Outdoor newborn sessions are especially lovely for older babies. Here’s why:

• No studio lights or noise. Just natural light and space to move.
• Soothing background sounds. Wind in the trees, birds in the distance—it helps calm both babies and parents.
• Organic posing. I often photograph babies being held upright or stretched across a parent’s arms, which works beautifully at this stage.
• Timeless backdrops. Trees, wildflowers, golden grass—they don’t need much else to feel complete.

These sessions often feel more like a quiet walk with your baby than a photo shoot—and the images reflect that same sense of ease and connection.

If You’ve Been Hesitating, This is Your Sign

I hear it all the time:

“She’s already 7 weeks… did I miss the window?”
“I really wanted newborn photos, but life got busy.”
“Can we still do it?”

Yes. You can.
You’re right on time.

This isn’t about capturing perfection—it’s about preserving this part of the journey. It’s about storytelling, connection, and celebrating your baby exactly as they are right now.

Whether I meet you in your home or out in the golden light of Spring Hill, your session will reflect your baby’s unique rhythm—and your love for them in this exact season.

Thank you for reading my blog. If you’re thinking about scheduling a session and your baby is a little older—I’d love to connect. These are some of the most powerful sessions I get to photograph, and I promise, it’s not too late.

Click here to reach out and get more info, or join my email list to be the first to know about upcoming availability and special session dates.

Let’s tell your story—your way.

If your dog is basically your child (same), I want you to know that they are so welcome in your family session. In fact, some of my favorite moments have come from letting a pup do their thing—whether that’s stealing the spotlight or just trotting in and out of frame like the goodest background actor ever.

This particular St. Pete beach session was a reminder of how beautiful it can be to include your dog in a setting that’s relaxed, open, and 100% pet-friendly. The light was dreamy, the sand was soft, and the vibe? Easygoing, happy, and full of playful energy.

Why I Love Dog-Friendly Sessions

For a lot of families, pets aren’t just part of the household—they’re part of the story. Including them in your session adds so much personality and realness to your photos. And when we’re shooting in a place that welcomes dogs (like this St. Petersburg beach location), it’s even easier to lean into the fun without worrying about logistics.

We kept things simple—plenty of space to walk, lots of natural movement, and a few treat breaks to keep everyone happy. The result was a session that felt real, unforced, and full of connection.

Tips for Bringing Your Dog to Your Photo Session

To make the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone (including your four-legged family member), here are a few pro tips:

• Bring a leash that looks good in photos (a simple leather or neutral one works best)
• Let them run before the session to get all their excess energy out.
• Pack treats + water—we’ll probably bribe your pup at least once 😉
• Bring a favorite toy or squeaker to grab attention when needed
• Consider a handler or friend to take your pup for a break if we do a few without them
• Let me know ahead of time so I can plan accordingly!

And if your dog has a lot of energy? No worries. I’ve seen it all. We’ll work with their personality—not against it. Whether they’re chill or chaos gremlin, we’ll make it work. Promise.

Choosing the Right Location for Dog-Friendly Sessions

Not every beach or park in Florida is pet-approved, which is why I always recommend chatting with your photographer (hey, that’s me) about the best spots. This St. Pete location is one of my faves for dog-friendly sessions because:

• It’s spacious + offers a ton of amazing photo spots
• Dogs are allowed which is a must when you want to include your fur baby
• There’s enough variety to capture both playful and posed moments
• The lighting is GORGEOUS near sunset

You can kick off your shoes, let the kids run, let the dog dig a little, and just be. That’s where the best photos come from.

Your Dog, Your Story

Whether your pup is a fluffy new addition or has been with you through all the chapters of your life, they deserve a place in your story. These photos are about capturing your real life—not some perfectly curated version of it. If real life includes a wagging tail and sandy paws, I’m here for it. And the best part? Just steps from the dog beach is the people beach, with the clean, white sand Florida is known for

Want to Include Your Dog in Your Family Session?

Let’s make it happen—joyful, real, and fur baby approved.

How to Include Your Dog in a Family Session (St. Petersburg, FL)
Your pup is part of the family, and they belong in your photos too! If you’re looking for a St. Petersburg family photographer who loves four-legged friends, I’d love to hear from you.
Click here to get in touch