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A Vibrant Tapestry of Moments: Capturing Family Memories at Capitola Beach

A Vibrant Tapestry of Moments: Capturing Family Memories at Capitola Beach

As I arrived at Capitola Beach, the day seemed to promise a session brimming with color, emotion, and scenic beauty. It was going to be a somewhat atypical family shoot - centered mostly around the verge-of-adulthood teenager, almost echoing the essence of a senior portrait session, yet intertwined with moments that encapsulated the family's close-knit bond. The anticipation in the air was palpable, as the family eagerly awaited to explore the picturesque corners of the beach, creating a vibrant tapestry of memories that would be cherished forever.

The beach was more than just a setting; it was a character in their story, adding layers of texture and color to each photograph. We ventured to moss-covered rocks that bore witness to the passage of time, each mossy nook holding secrets of the ocean. Under the sheltered tranquility of the shaded wharf, the family found moments of connection, where candid smiles and spontaneous laughter were captured, becoming the precious tokens of their bond. The colored buildings that stand as iconic witnesses at Capitola Beach added a whimsical and vibrant backdrop, harmonizing perfectly with the joyous spirit of the session.

As the shoot unfolded, it became a beautiful blend of individual portraits and group shots, a dance between posed elegance and candid charm. Each frame encapsulated the personality of the individuals, as well as the special synergy that they radiated as a group. The session transformed into a series of memorable snapshots, a melange of singular moments that, together, painted a vivid portrait of love, unity, and the vibrant hues of familial bonds. As the day drew to a close, we left with not just photographs, but a rich narrative of a family, beautifully etched against the colorful canvas that is Capitola Beach.

Family Portrait Photo Session @ Capitola Beach, CA

Family Portrait Photo Session @ Capitola Beach, CA

Sometimes I’ll have a family that is applying for adoption or want to show their family interaction to a prospective private school. The reasons don’t really matter to me, but I take pride in really bringing out the true personalities of everyone I photograph. Sometimes it takes a little while for people to warm up, but once they are comfortable, the real them starts to show through. Capturing that is always one of my goals, and is very satisfying. This family of three was photographed at Capitola Beach, one of my favorite photography destinations.

Senior Portrait Photo Session @ Capitola Beach, CA

Senior Portrait Photo Session @ Capitola Beach, CA

This is a natural light senior portrait session at Capitola Beach – the sun was hiding behind clouds so the natural light was beautiful, no need to add extra lighting to bring out this young woman’s beauty. This location is a great option for lots of photo settings in one place – rocks, cliffs, above and below the pier, and of course the iconic colored buildings of the Venetian Village.

Family photos at Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola, CA

Family photos at Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola, CA

Not every family shoot involves little kiddos, sometimes the kids are all grown up! But that’s no guarantee there won’t be tantrums… I met this client at the top of the stairs of Shadowbrook restaurant in Capitola and we made our way down the winding path, taking photos along the way. We were in-between storms so the light was naturally soft from the overcast sky.

Capitola Beach Family Photography Session

Capitola Beach Family Photography Session

I love this family, I’ve had the opportunity to photograph them many times, since before there were kids – I feel a photography relationship often starts with the engagement/wedding, and if we can keep in touch, it just grows over the years. Kaelin is a successful real estate agent in the Santa Cruz area, and I have really enjoyed seeing her grow professionally along with the creation and growth of their family. Here’s a few of my favorite photos from their most recent family portrait session at Capitola Beach:

Capitola Beach Senior Portrait Photography - Peyton

Capitola Beach Senior Portrait Photography - Peyton

Peyton's senior high school year has arrived, which means PHOTO time! She brought her childhood stuffy to the shoot, but mostly showed off her goofy, fun, flair-for-the-dramatic side for the rest of her senior portrait session at Capitola Beach. The weather was great, Peyton was fantastic in front of the camera with multiple outfit changes, and I think we ended up with a few keepers that Peyton and her family will treasure forever. Here's a few of my personal faves from the senior session:

Vylet - Newborn Photography in Capitola

Vylet - Newborn Photography in Capitola

It just seems like a couple weeks ago I shot Tea and Paul's maternity shoot (squints eyes... yes, it was exactly 10 days ago!) – and now we have this new, beautiful human being to adore. Photographed in their Capitola home, I hung out with these tired new parents and got to know Vylet and her various moods. Such a cutie! Enjoy the pics below.

Capitola Beach Maternity Portrait Session

Capitola Beach Maternity Portrait Session

She's ready to pop! Only two weeks to go, but Tea was in great shape for today's maternity portrait session. We shot at Capitola Beach with her husband Paul and their two little pups, which we included in the shoot. We did a mix of natural light (hour before sunset) and "lit" shots with my off-camera Profoto B1, the best on-location setup in my opinion. Can't wait to meet the little one at our next portrait session!