Outdoors

My journal about

From golden-hour fields to coastal views — explore outdoor locations perfect for your next shoot.

I'm so glad you are here! Feel free to sit back and browse a while. This is where you can find everything from recent sessions to tips & information and more.

hello & Welcome!

, Nadine

Love

How to Include Your Dog in a Family Session (St. Petersburg, FL)

, , ,

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

read now

Why I Love This Dreamy Nature Location in Spring Hill, FL

, , ,

This is one of those places I almost want to gatekeep—but I won’t, because it’s just too good not to share. Tucked away in Spring Hill, Florida, is a nature spot that somehow manages to feel like you’re standing in the mountains… without ever leaving the state. It’s wide open, quiet, and beautifully unbothered by the chaos of daily life.

We planned this Spring Hill family photography session around golden hour, and the light absolutely showed up. The tall grass glowed, the sky softened, and the whole space felt like a deep exhale. Whether you’re planning a maternity session in Spring Hill or simply want updated family portraits that feel like you, this spot checks all the boxes.’

What Makes This Spring Hill Photo Location So Special

Let’s start with the landscape. You’ve got soft hills, wild grass, and the kind of natural light that just wraps around people. It’s one of the few places in Florida that gives you those dreamy, mountain-esque vibes—without any actual climbing involved. There’s even a little pond that reflects light beautifully near sunset, making it ideal for golden hour sessions.

It’s also super accessible. There’s flat ground, minimal walking, and no hiking required. It works beautifully for families with littles, maternity clients, couples, and even pups (yes—it’s a dog-friendly photo location in Florida, which makes it even more lovable).

The Energy of This Session

This particular session just flowed. Nobody was rushed, nobody was overly posed. We leaned into the ease of the location and let the connection take the lead. From cuddles in the tall grass to quiet solo shots beneath the trees, every image felt like a moment instead of a pose.

That’s the sweet spot I’m always aiming for—photos that feel like you were there, not like you were “camera ready.” As a Florida family photographer, I want your session to feel like a breath of fresh air, not another item on your to-do list.

What to Wear for Nature-Based Sessions

I always recommend leaning into earthy tones and soft textures for outdoor sessions like this. Think creams, terracotta, olive, mustard, dusty blue—anything that plays well with the natural landscape. These tones don’t just photograph beautifully—they also keep the focus on you.

Avoid neons, logos, or busy patterns. Think elevated casual. And if you’re unsure, don’t stress. I’ll send you a pre-session style guide and you’ll have access to my client closet if we’re pairing your outdoor session with some indoor studio looks too.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

You don’t need to fly to the mountains or schedule a full-day adventure to get photos that feel magical. Sometimes, the most meaningful locations are the ones close to home—the ones where you can breathe, move, and just be.

This Spring Hill photo location is one of my favorites because it’s simple, honest, and beautifully understated. It’s perfect for families, maternity, or even just a “we haven’t had nice photos in forever” kind of session.

Want a Session with Nature Vibes?

Whether you’re bringing your baby bump, your wild little ones, or your dog with the zoomies, I’d love to take you here. Let’s create something natural, meaningful, and totally you.

his Spring Hill location is pure magic. If you’re dreaming of a nature-filled maternity or family session near Tampa, I’d love to show you why this spot is one of my go-to favorites.
Click here to get in touch

read now

Read More Articles

How to Include Your Dog in a Family Session (St. Petersburg, FL)

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

Why I Love This Dreamy Nature Location in Spring Hill, FL

This is one of those places I almost want to gatekeep—but I won’t, because it’s just too good not to share. Tucked away in Spring Hill, Florida, is a nature spot that somehow manages to feel like you’re standing in the mountains… without ever leaving the state. It’s wide open, quiet, and beautifully unbothered by the chaos of daily life.

We planned this Spring Hill family photography session around golden hour, and the light absolutely showed up. The tall grass glowed, the sky softened, and the whole space felt like a deep exhale. Whether you’re planning a maternity session in Spring Hill or simply want updated family portraits that feel like you, this spot checks all the boxes.’

What Makes This Spring Hill Photo Location So Special

Let’s start with the landscape. You’ve got soft hills, wild grass, and the kind of natural light that just wraps around people. It’s one of the few places in Florida that gives you those dreamy, mountain-esque vibes—without any actual climbing involved. There’s even a little pond that reflects light beautifully near sunset, making it ideal for golden hour sessions.

It’s also super accessible. There’s flat ground, minimal walking, and no hiking required. It works beautifully for families with littles, maternity clients, couples, and even pups (yes—it’s a dog-friendly photo location in Florida, which makes it even more lovable).

The Energy of This Session

This particular session just flowed. Nobody was rushed, nobody was overly posed. We leaned into the ease of the location and let the connection take the lead. From cuddles in the tall grass to quiet solo shots beneath the trees, every image felt like a moment instead of a pose.

That’s the sweet spot I’m always aiming for—photos that feel like you were there, not like you were “camera ready.” As a Florida family photographer, I want your session to feel like a breath of fresh air, not another item on your to-do list.

What to Wear for Nature-Based Sessions

I always recommend leaning into earthy tones and soft textures for outdoor sessions like this. Think creams, terracotta, olive, mustard, dusty blue—anything that plays well with the natural landscape. These tones don’t just photograph beautifully—they also keep the focus on you.

Avoid neons, logos, or busy patterns. Think elevated casual. And if you’re unsure, don’t stress. I’ll send you a pre-session style guide and you’ll have access to my client closet if we’re pairing your outdoor session with some indoor studio looks too.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

You don’t need to fly to the mountains or schedule a full-day adventure to get photos that feel magical. Sometimes, the most meaningful locations are the ones close to home—the ones where you can breathe, move, and just be.

This Spring Hill photo location is one of my favorites because it’s simple, honest, and beautifully understated. It’s perfect for families, maternity, or even just a “we haven’t had nice photos in forever” kind of session.

Want a Session with Nature Vibes?

Whether you’re bringing your baby bump, your wild little ones, or your dog with the zoomies, I’d love to take you here. Let’s create something natural, meaningful, and totally you.

his Spring Hill location is pure magic. If you’re dreaming of a nature-filled maternity or family session near Tampa, I’d love to show you why this spot is one of my go-to favorites.
Click here to get in touch

Documenting your Breastfeeding Journey here in Tampa

Breastfeeding is such a deeply personal journey—and one that deserves to be honored. Whether it lasted three days or three years, it’s a chapter that’s raw, emotional, and worth remembering. As a Tampa breastfeeding photographer, I’m here to help you freeze that moment before it’s gone. Because one day, you’ll blink, and the nursing days will be over—and you’ll wish you had just one photo that showed what it felt like.

This session was especially close to my heart because my own journey is winding down. I’ve breastfed all four of my kids, and when you add it up, that’s eight full years of nursing. It’s been a beautiful, exhausting, soul-shaping season—and knowing it’s almost over feels bittersweet. These photos are my way of honoring that part of my story, and helping other mamas do the same.

Why It Matters

We’re so used to photographing milestones—birthdays, first steps, cake smashes—but feeding your baby? That’s a milestone, too. It’s messy, intimate, sacred. It’s hours of your life you’ll never get back—and likely wouldn’t trade for anything.

And let’s be real: breastfeeding is normal. It’s not something you should have to explain or justify. If you want it captured, you deserve a photographer who gets it—and creates a space where you feel comfortable, seen, and respected.

That’s exactly what we do with breastfeeding sessions here in Tampa Bay. They’re gentle, intentional, and built around your comfort.

How to Include Nursing in Your Session

Wondering how this works during a shoot? It’s simple and natural—we just build it into your family or motherhood session like any other moment.

Here’s how:

  • Let me know ahead of time. We’ll plan space for it within your session, without making it a “thing.”
  • Choose a breastfeeding-friendly outfit. One of my favorite pieces from the client closet is flowy, flattering, and allows for easy nursing access.
  • Follow your baby’s lead. There’s no pressure to pose. If your little one needs to nurse, we’ll ease into it quietly, and I’ll capture what’s real.

There’s no need for perfect light or a “nursing pose.” Just you, your baby, and that beautiful in-between moment that says this is us.

If You’re Not Sure Yet, That’s Okay

You don’t have to commit to anything. Some mamas decide in the moment. Some start the session unsure and then lean into it when it feels right. And some have already weaned but still want to honor the chapter.

If you’re past the nursing season and feeling a tug in your heart reading this, you’re not alone. We can still capture your feeding journey in other ways—bottle feeding, snuggles, snack breaks, the way your toddler wraps their arms around you at snack time. It’s all part of the story.

Why I Offer Breastfeeding Photos (and Always Will)

Because this matters. Because motherhood isn’t polished—it’s powerful. Because there’s a sacredness to holding your baby close and knowing your body has been their comfort, their nourishment, their home.

As a Tampa motherhood photographer, this is one of the most meaningful types of sessions I offer. It’s not just about pretty pictures—it’s about preserving what this season feels like, in the most honest and beautiful way possible.

Want to Include Breastfeeding in Your Family Session?

You’re safe here. Whether it’s your first baby or your last time nursing, I’ll hold the space and tell the story—honestly, gently, and beautifully.

Your breastfeeding journey is powerful and deeply personal—and it deserves to be honored. If you’re in the Tampa area and ready to document this chapter, I’d love to walk through it with you.
Click here to get in touch

Maternity couple kisses on a sunny trail in Holiday, Florida with their golden retriever sitting between them, capturing love and anticipation.

Adventure-Inspired Maternity Session on a Trail in Holiday, FL

There’s a tucked-away spot in Holiday, Florida that feels like a hidden slice of magic—open space, golden light, lush greenery, and eventually, the beach. It’s not your typical pull-up-and-go location, but that’s part of what makes it so special. It’s quiet, natural, and full of the kind of peaceful beauty that just shows up in the photos.

This particular maternity session was such a dream. The light was soft, the vibe was relaxed, and the journey to the final location—the beach—was just as meaningful as the beach itself. And that’s the thing about this trail: we’re not just shooting at the end. We’re documenting every step along the way.

Golden hour maternity photo of an expecting couple walking through nature in Holiday, FL with their golden retriever by their side.
Close-up of hands forming a heart over a baby bump during a maternity session in Holiday, Florida, with soft natural light and delicate jewelry details.

What to Expect at This Location

This isn’t a location where we hike in and then start shooting. We start the second you step onto the trail—so come fully dressed and photo-ready from the beginning. The light, scenery, and feel of the walk are all part of the story we’re telling.

It takes about 15–20 minutes to reach the beach at the end of the trail, and along the way we stop wherever the light and energy feel right. You’ll want to wear comfy shoes for walking and pack anything else (water, baby items, extra clothes) in a backpack. It’s not stroller-friendly, so this session works best for couples, maternity sessions, or families with older kids who can walk independently.

Pregnant woman kneeling barefoot on a wooden bridge in Holiday, FL, smiling with her golden retriever nestled beside her.
Blonde expecting mom in jeans and a crop top cradling her bump while barefoot on a wooden bridge in Holiday, FL at sunset.
Blonde expecting mom in jeans and a crop top cradling her bump while barefoot on a wooden bridge in Holiday, FL at sunset.
Couple embracing during their maternity session with their golden retriever during their maternity session in holiday florida
Playful maternity moment on a wooden boardwalk in Holiday, Florida, with a partner lifting his pregnant wife as they laugh together in the trees.

What to Bring for an Adventure Session

Here’s a quick checklist of what I recommend bringing along for this kind of outdoor maternity session in Holiday, FL:

  • A small backpack with water, snacks, and any essentials
  • Comfortable walking shoes (change into photo shoes later if needed)
  • Bug spray and wipes—Florida doesn’t always behave
  • A relaxed attitude—because sometimes the imperfect moments are the most magical

If you’re including your pup (yes, this spot is dog-friendly!), be sure to bring treats, a leash, and water for them too. I’ve even taught a dog “sit” mid-session before—so no pressure if they’re still working on their model skills.

Who This Location Is Best For

  • Maternity sessions for couples who love a little adventure
  • Families with older kids who can walk the trail
  • Dog parents
  • Clients looking for something natural and a little off the beaten path

This isn’t a manicured park or a styled studio—it’s raw, earthy, and full of personality. And if that’s your vibe, this is going to feel like home.

Why I Love Sessions Like This

There’s something about being surrounded by nature that softens everything. People relax. They breathe deeper. They connect in a different way. And because we’re walking and talking and moving the whole time, the session doesn’t feel posed or stiff—it feels like an experience.

That’s my favorite kind of session. The ones where you’re not performing for the camera. You’re just being in the moment—laughing, holding hands, brushing sand off your bump—and I’m there to capture it all.

Thinking About an Adventure Session?

If you’re dreaming of something a little wild, a little beachy, and full of connection, I’d love to take you to this beautiful corner of Holiday, Florida.

Nature, love, and a growing belly—what more could you need? If you’re drawn to wild, nature-inspired maternity photos in Holiday or the greater Tampa area, let’s chat about your vision.
Click here to get in touch

Pregnant mother and father with three young daughters posing beside clear spring water during outdoor family maternity photoshoot in Weeki Wachee, Florida

How to Have a Fun, Chaos-Proof Family Session with Little Kids

Real talk? Family sessions with young kids are a little unpredictable—and that’s exactly what makes them beautiful. I always tell my clients: don’t go into it expecting perfection. Go into it ready to be in the moment. That’s when the real magic happens.

This session was such a perfect example of that. This sweet family brought so much love, patience, and the kind of real-life energy that makes my job so fun. The kids were full of curiosity and movement, and in between the wild moments, we captured the softest, most connected images—the kind that say more than any stiff pose ever could.

This particular session took place at the family’s private residence, but we have a nearby public location that offers the same dreamy light, open space, and freedom for little ones to run wild. If you’re looking for something similar, I’ve got you covered! It’s a beautiful spot with soft light, open space, and enough room for little ones to roam. Instead of trying to force “smile at the camera” moments, we leaned into their energy—and it paid off.

Here’s the thing: Toddlers do better when they’re allowed to move.

If you’ve got a little one under five, you already know they’re not built for stillness. So when it comes to family photography, the best approach is to make it fun. I use a ton of prompts and movement-based posing—think swinging, running, twirling, chasing bubbles. Nothing stiff, nothing forced. Just connection and play.

That said, there are definitely a few things you can do before your session to make the experience feel smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

Quick Tips for Prepping Young Kids for a Family Session:

  • Naps are your best friend. If your kiddo still naps, try to schedule the session around their best time of day.
  • Bring snacks + water. Simple, low-mess snacks and a water bottle go a long way when we need a little reset.
  • Wait to get dressed. Seriously—change them once you get to the location to avoid outfit drama, car snacks, or spit-up surprises.
  • Release the pressure. It’s okay if your kid cries, rolls in the grass, or insists on bringing a random stick into every shot. These little moments are part of your story, and honestly, they’re usually the photos that feel the most real later on.

This family really embraced that go-with-the-flow energy. They showed up with so much love for their kids, and because they weren’t micromanaging the moment, the kids had space to just be themselves. And that’s when the real moments showed up.

Why These Photos Matter

As a family photographer in Weeki Wachee and the Tampa Bay area, I’ve seen how fast these early years go. One minute you’re chasing them barefoot through a field, the next they’re off to school. These photos are a chance to hold onto what’s real—messy, beautiful, honest moments that tell the truth of your life right now.

You don’t need perfectly posed. You need meaningful.

A Final Reminder

Your child doesn’t need to be perfectly behaved to get beautiful photos. They just need to be loved—and they already are. When you come into your session ready to embrace the chaos and trust the process, that’s when the magic happens.

Ready to Book Your Family Session?

Let’s create something joyful, real, and totally stress-free.

Click here to access our Family Guide for booking your session with me.

Black and white portraits of three daughters during outdoor family session, showing sweet expressions and close-up connection
Expecting couple standing near Florida spring, gazing at each other lovingly with mom cradling her baby bump in rust-colored gown
Married couple embracing with serene expressions, standing beside turquoise spring water during intimate maternity photos at Weeki Wachee
maternity photos at Weeki Wachee

Mother holding youngest daughter in rust dress with soft sun flare during golden hour maternity session in Florida springs
Two sisters laughing and hugging in foreground while parents watch lovingly in blurred background during playful family maternity session
Full family of five, including pregnant mom, dad, and three daughters, snuggled together beside sparkling blue spring water
Pregnant woman standing confidently by cypress knees and riverbank in long rust dress during Florida outdoor maternity session
Three black and white maternity portraits featuring emotional moments between expecting couple and serene solo poses by the spring
Expecting couple embracing peacefully by crystal-clear river, surrounded by lush trees and golden light during Florida maternity session
Three sisters smiling and playing beside spring water, each wearing unique neutral-toned dresses in a whimsical woodland setting
Pregnant woman and partner standing forehead-to-forehead among palmettos and oak trees during intimate forest maternity portrait
Expecting couple smiling at camera while standing close together in wooded Florida landscape, with sun filtering through trees
Pregnant woman in brown bikini and crochet wrap standing waist-deep in spring water, cradling baby bump with soft light on her skin
Maternity portrait of woman in tan swimwear, gently holding belly while standing in calm, clear river during golden hour
Maternity photo of woman in sheer white gown with arms raised gracefully, standing beside turquoise spring with dreamy forest in background
Black and white maternity portraits of woman in flowing gown near water, highlighting movement, emotion, and nature
Woman in sheer maternity gown standing confidently by riverbank with gentle smile, cradling baby bump during sunset session

It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real. If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and want a stress-free family session with your wild little crew, I’m your girl. Let’s make some magic.
Click here to get in touch

@YOURUSERnAME

Instagram @Nadinebphoto