Hey there! I'm Amy, a family photographer with a camera in one hand and a bit of coffee in the other. I'm based in the lovely Murrieta and Temecula Valley and have been creating family heirlooms for over 20 years. I’m also a mom of three and know exactly how busy family life can get, but that’s also why I cherish every opportunity to freeze those magical, fleeting moments. One of my absolute favorite spots for family photography is Laguna Beach—especially on days when everything aligns perfectly like it did with the Muckey family!

Why Laguna Beach is Perfect for Family Photography

If you're considering where to go for family photos, Laguna Beach is a top spot for its dreamy coastline, soft sands, and dramatic cliffs. There’s something unique about the energy there, and when you get a family like the Muckeys on board, it's an adventure as much as it is a photoshoot.

I’ve had the pleasure of photographing the Muckeys a few times now. Last year, they joined me for a mountain session that felt like a scene from a storybook—think misty evergreens and glowing golden hour light. This year, they were excited to try a new location, so we hit the beach!

The Muckey Family: Adventurers at Heart

The Muckey family is simply amazing. They’re always game to try a new spot, and their two teenage daughters are the kind of kids who make my job easy with their openness and enthusiasm. Just getting to see how much they've grown and changed from year to year is one of the most rewarding parts of this job.

On the day of the session, the Muckeys showed up in coordinating tan and blue outfits—absolutely perfect for Laguna Beach's warm, golden backdrop and turquoise waves. There’s something about those colors that just click with the beach setting, almost like the sea and sky were made for them. And trust me, getting a family to look cohesive without matching exactly is no small feat, especially when teenagers are involved!

A Picture-Perfect Day for Family Photos

We met in the late afternoon when the light was soft but warm. The waves rolled gently, there was a refreshing breeze, and Laguna Beach was showing off with an unusually low tide that revealed the rugged rocks and little tide pools. If I could have bottled that day’s weather, I would!

We kicked off the session near the tower, and the girls didn’t hesitate to get their feet in the water. Teenagers usually have this cool, nonchalant attitude, but when they’re with family, you see these little glimpses of the kids they were not long ago. They laughed, splashed a bit, and even managed a few candid smiles between the more traditional shots.

The Perfect Mix of Fun and Formal

The Muckeys have this easy-going vibe that made my job so enjoyable. After some posed shots, we moved to capturing the candid, playful moments. Mom and Dad held hands while walking and shared a laugh. These types of shots—the ones where everyone is relaxed and being themselves—are my favorite.

And I have to say, one of the highlights was when we took a moment to just let the family sit on the sand and enjoy the view together. They all cozied up, Dad had his arm around his girls and they all leaned in close. We ended up with these beautiful shots that are less about "posing" and more about capturing the love and closeness that defines their family.

Why Family Photos Are Worth Every Moment

Whether it’s a beach family photoshoot, mountain session, or park adventure, family photography captures something invaluable: a moment in time that you can hold onto forever. Being a mom of three myself, I know how quickly the years fly by. Your babies go from toddlers to teenagers before you know it, and suddenly, you're cherishing every single family photo that reflects who they were at each stage.

One thing I remind all my clients (and friends!) is that it’s worth the drive, the planning, and yes, sometimes the teenage reluctance. Families come away from our sessions with more than just beautiful images—they have a collection of memories that can last generations.

Choosing the Right Family Photoshoot Location

Whether you're envisioning a beach family photoshoot in Laguna Beach, a lush green park, or a cozy at-home session, the setting can shape your family photos in unique ways. Here are some of my favorite family photography locations:

• Laguna Beach: For families who love the ocean and that laid-back, coastal vibe.

• Temecula Wineries: Perfect for those who love vineyard views and golden fields.

• Murrieta’s Rolling Hills: For a pastoral, earthy feel, with mountains and tall grass.

• Local Parks: Simple but versatile, parks can create both formal and candid shots.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Laguna Beach Family Photoshoot with Amy Dawnelle

1. Book Your Session Early: Laguna Beach is a popular spot for family photoshoots, so scheduling in advance ensures you get your preferred date.

2. Choose Your Color Scheme: Go for soft colors that blend with the environment. The Muckeys’ choice of tan and blue was perfect!

3. Prepare to Get a Little Sandy: Beach photoshoots can be messy, but that's part of the fun! Come with a carefree attitude and let the ocean do its thing.

4. Relax and Enjoy the Day: The best family photos happen when everyone is relaxed and having fun. I'll guide you through poses but also give you space to just be yourselves.

5. Select Your Favorite Photos: After the session, we’ll go through your gallery together and choose your favorites. Whether you want prints, wall art, or a family album, I’m here to help bring your vision to life.

Each family I work with brings their own energy and love to our session, and I couldn’t be more grateful to share these moments with them. From one mom to another, I know these times with your kids are priceless, and it’s truly my honor to help capture them.

So if you’re ready for a fun, memorable family photoshoot, why not make it a beach day at Laguna? Whether you want soft sands, dramatic cliffs, or playful wave shots, I’d be thrilled to work with your family and create memories you’ll treasure.

Ready to Book Your Family Photoshoot? Let’s Make Magic Together!

If you’re dreaming of a family photoshoot that captures your family’s unique spirit, head to Amy Dawnelle Modern Heirloom Photography to book your session. Let’s chat about your vision, find the perfect location, and make some unforgettable memories with your loved ones.