Here’s the thing – I am always a little hesitant about my timing at the beach. Even after 6 years of photoshoots on the beach, I am always a little nervous if I got the timing right. Because the beach is so open and bright, it gets a ton of sunlight. Often, there are no mountains or trees for it to drop behind to make softer lighting, so you are really waiting for the light to drop behind the horizon to get softer lighting.

Time after time, I always worry that I start too early and that it will be too bright out. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I started to embrace brighter lighting. I used to only be a sunset or sunrise photographer because I always felt like that was the best lighting. But honestly, when you’re a mom, with another one on the way and you’re stuck with nap time, the best time for a photoshoot is the time where all your kids are happiest – and that usually means mid-day.

I’ve learned to embrace harsh lighting and use it as a tool, not the enemy. Throughout this gallery, you’ll see how light-filled each image is. You’ll see sun flares (which I personally love) and lots of orange hues. I feel like when you choose brighter lighting, it gives it a more nostalgic and timeless feeling.

Check out the gallery to see how these photos turned out! And of course, congrats to Evan and Debbie! Thank you for trusting me with your family photos. I can’t wait to meet your new baby girl.