A Simmons Family Photoshoot at the Mission in San Juan Capistrano

As a mother of three and a professional photographer with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how fleeting those family moments can be. My kids are now 22, 19, and 16, and trust me when I say they grew up in the blink of an eye. That’s why I’m such a huge advocate for family photography. Those little giggles, silly faces, and moments of togetherness that define your family? They're precious—and they deserve to be captured and cherished forever.

Today, I want to tell you about one of my favorite families, the Simmons. They travel down every year from Orange County to have their annual family photoshoot, and this year was extra special because we ventured to the beautiful Mission in San Juan Capistrano for the outdoor portion of their session. It's one of the most stunning family photoshoot locations in Southern California, with its rustic beauty and rich history making it a perfect backdrop for timeless family pictures.

So, let me take you on this journey—one filled with laughter, a little chaos (hey, they’ve got three kids!), and lots of love.

The Importance of Annual Family Photoshoots

Before we dive into the details of the Simmons' session, let's talk about why family photos are so important.

Life moves fast—faster than we expect. One day, your kids are in diapers, and the next, they’re borrowing the car keys. Family photography freezes time, allowing you to look back at the stages of life that come and go so quickly. Each year brings new milestones, new interests, and new personalities. Capturing these moments, year after year, creates a visual story of your family that can be passed down for generations. It’s not just about getting a nice picture for the wall (although that's a bonus!); it’s about preserving the joy, connection, and growth that defines your family over time.

The Simmons family totally gets this. They’ve been coming to me every year for a family portrait session, and each year I get to see their three amazing kiddos grow and change. And as much as the kids evolve, the one thing that never changes is the love and silliness they bring to every session.

Meet the Simmons Family

Let me introduce you to the Simmons: mom, dad, and their three kids. They are a fun-loving bunch who never fail to light up my studio with their energy. Their goal every year is the same: to capture the genuine personalities of their kids. No stiff poses here—just pure, unfiltered joy. And honestly, that's what family photography is all about.

This year’s session began in my studio. We kept it simple, using a clean, white backdrop that focused all the attention on their interactions. I love starting in the studio because it gives us a chance to capture those classic, expressive family portraits. These are the kinds of shots that parents love to frame as heirloom portraits, something they can hang on their wall for years to come. The Simmons family always does a combination of posed photos and more candid shots—both equally beautiful in their own way. But after a little studio fun, we were ready for something a bit more adventurous.

Family Photoshoot at the Mission in San Juan Capistrano

Now, let me just say that if you haven’t been to the Mission in San Juan Capistrano, you’re missing out. It’s one of the most iconic family photoshoot locations in all of Southern California. The rich textures of the ancient walls, the lush gardens, and the tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for family pictures. And for the Simmons, it was a dream location.

The kids were thrilled to be there. They were running around, full of excitement and curiosity—everything you’d expect from kids their age. But that’s what made the session so special. I find that the more playful and natural the kids are, the more meaningful the photos turn out. We got some incredible candid shots of the siblings laughing, playing, and just being themselves.

Why Choose Amy Dawnelle Modern Heirloom Photography for Your Family Portraits?

If you’re considering booking a family photoshoot, especially if you’re in the Temecula, Murrieta, or surrounding areas, I’d love to work with you. My goal is to make your experience as laid-back and enjoyable as possible. Whether we start in the studio or head straight to one of the many beautiful family photoshoot locations around Southern California, I’ll work with you to capture those little moments that make your family unique.

Just like the Simmons family, you deserve to have those special memories frozen in time. You’ll walk away not only with stunning family pictures but also with heirloom portraits that you can cherish forever. I believe family photography should be fun, meaningful, and a true reflection of who you are. And as someone who’s been in your shoes—both as a mother and a photographer—I know just how important it is to capture these fleeting moments.

How to Book Your Family Photoshoot

Ready to create lasting memories with your family? Here's a simple step-by-step guide to booking your own family photoshoot with Amy Dawnelle Modern Heirloom Photography:

1. Get in Touch: Head over to my www.temeculaphotographer.net or give me a call to check availability. I only book six outdoor sessions per month, so spots fill up fast!

2. Consultation: We’ll have a quick chat to discuss what you're looking for in your session. Do you want studio portraits, outdoor candids, or both? Are there specific family photoshoot locations you have in mind? Let’s plan it together.

3. Session Day: Show up, relax, and let me do the rest! Whether we’re in the studio or at a picturesque location like the Mission in San Juan Capistrano, you can expect a laid-back, fun session filled with laughter.

4. The Reveal: After the shoot, we’ll meet to go over your photos and select your favorite images. You can choose from a range of heirloom portrait options, including framed prints, canvases, and albums.

5. Enjoy: Once your portraits are ready, they’ll be delivered to you, and you can proudly display them in your home, knowing that these moments have been captured forever.

Don't let another year slip by without capturing the love and joy your family shares. Book your family photoshoot today and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime.

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