As a family photographer, there are few things more magical than witnessing the bond between loved ones come to life through the lens of a camera. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family—a mom, dad, son, and daughter—at Little Corona Beach in Corona Del Mar. Their vacation to Newport Beach was the perfect opportunity to capture some unforgettable moments, and despite the initially gloomy weather, the session turned out to be one of the most heartwarming and visually stunning shoots I've had the privilege to conduct.

The Perfect Setting: Little Corona Beach

Little Corona Beach is a hidden gem nestled in Corona Del Mar, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere. Unlike the busier beaches in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Little Corona offers a more intimate setting, ideal for family photoshoots. The rocky tide pools, sandy shores, and dramatic cliffs provide a variety of backdrops, each one more breathtaking than the last. This secluded beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s easy to see why.

Embracing the Gloom: A Silver Lining

On the day of the photoshoot, the weather was overcast, casting a soft, diffused light over the beach. While some might see a gloomy day as less than ideal for a photoshoot, I knew that the soft light would actually create a beautiful, ethereal quality in the photos. Overcast skies can be a photographer's best friend, as they eliminate harsh shadows and create a flattering, even light.

As we began the session, the sun started to break through the clouds, casting a warm, golden hue over the beach. This unexpected burst of sunlight created the perfect lighting conditions, adding a touch of magic to the already stunning scenery.

Capturing the Essence of Family

From the moment the family arrived at Little Corona Beach, their excitement was palpable. The children, a lively son and a curious daughter, were eager to explore the tide pools and climb the rocks. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious, setting the tone for a fun-filled session.

We started with some candid shots of the children playing by the water's edge. Their laughter echoed across the beach as they splashed in the shallow pools and collected seashells. These moments of pure joy and spontaneity are what make family photoshoots so special. Capturing these genuine interactions is essential in telling the story of a family’s unique bond.

Posed Yet Natural

While candid shots are wonderful, it’s also important to get some more structured, posed photos. We moved to a rocky outcrop where the family could sit together, framed by the ocean behind them. The mom and dad sat close, with their son and daughter nestled between them. The love and warmth between them were evident, and I encouraged them to talk and laugh with each other to keep the mood relaxed and natural.

A Playful Session

The session continued with a mix of playful and tender moments. The family chased each other along the shoreline, their footprints trailing in the sand. The son found a particularly interesting rock formation and proudly showed it to his parents, who admired it with exaggerated awe. The daughter, not to be outdone, found a beautiful shell, and we captured her delighted expression as she held it up to the camera.

To keep the children engaged, I introduced a few simple games. We played “Simon says” and had a small relay race, with the parents cheering their kids on. These activities not only resulted in joyful, dynamic photos but also helped the children feel comfortable and involved in the session.

The Magic of Little Corona Beach

As the session drew to a close, we took advantage of the beautiful golden hour light that had emerged from the earlier gloom. The setting sun bathed Little Corona Beach in a warm glow, creating a dreamy backdrop for the final shots. We took some photos of the family walking hand in hand along the beach, their silhouettes illuminated by the setting sun. These images, with their soft light and stunning scenery, perfectly encapsulated the magic of the day.

A Perfect Ending

Our photoshoot at Little Corona Beach ended with the family sitting together on a large rock, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The children snuggled close to their parents, their faces reflecting contentment and happiness. It was a serene and poignant moment, capturing the essence of their bond and the beauty of their surroundings.

Reflections and Takeaways

Photographing this family at Little Corona Beach was a reminder of why I love family photography. It’s about more than just capturing beautiful images; it’s about preserving moments of connection, joy, and love that families will cherish for years to come. The unique setting of Little Corona Beach, with its blend of natural beauty and serene atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for this session.

For families considering a photoshoot in Corona Del Mar, I highly recommend Little Corona Beach. Its diverse landscapes and intimate setting make it an ideal location for capturing unforgettable family memories. Whether the day is sunny or overcast, this hidden gem offers endless opportunities for beautiful photography.

Conclusion

Our family photoshoot at Little Corona Beach in Corona Del Mar was a testament to the magic that can be found in unexpected moments. Despite the initial gloom, the light broke through at just the right time, creating a perfect setting for capturing this family's joy and love. The session was filled with laughter, play, and genuine connections, resulting in photos that the family will treasure forever.

If you’re planning a family photoshoot in Newport Beach, consider the serene beauty of Little Corona Beach. Its unique charm and picturesque scenery make it an ideal location for creating lasting memories. And remember, the true essence of a family photoshoot lies in the moments of connection and joy that are captured through the lens—moments that tell the story of your family’s unique bond.

By focusing on genuine interactions, embracing the natural beauty of your surroundings, and keeping the session fun and relaxed, you can ensure a successful and memorable photoshoot at Little Corona Beach.