Last summer, I had the pleasure of photographing the VanTornhout family at Cherry Beach (13897 S Cherry Beach, Harbert, Michigan), a hidden gem near New Buffalo. This peaceful spot is a perfect place for family photos, and it’s not too crowded, making it a special retreat for those who discover it.
A Windy Yet Beautiful Beach Session
Although the evening was windy, we made the most of it! The wind added a playful element to the session, and we still enjoyed a stunning sunset. The natural beauty of the beach, combined with the love and energy of the VanTornhout family, made this photoshoot one of my favorites.
A Child-Led Approach to Photography
During every session, I take a child-led approach to ensure the experience is fun and stress-free for everyone. If your child wants to collect rocks, we’ll take a moment for that. If they need to run and play, we’ll do it! A dance break? Absolutely – just let me know the song, and we’ll have a blast!
As a mom of two toddlers, I understand that kids’ moods can be unpredictable during photoshoots. Don’t worry if your child isn’t cooperating or isn’t feeling camera-ready. It’s completely normal, and I embrace it! I’ve learned to be flexible, patient, and playful because I want both parents and kids to enjoy the session as much as possible.
Staying Calm and Positive: The Key to a Successful Session
The most important tip I give to parents is to stay calm and positive. Kids are incredibly perceptive, and your mood affects theirs more than you might realize. Keeping a relaxed, happy attitude will help your child feel comfortable and make the session more enjoyable for everyone.
A Rockstar Kid: Proof That Bedtime Doesn’t Always Mean a Meltdown
During this session, the sweet little girl you see in the photos was well past her bedtime (thanks to those late summer sunsets!). Despite that, she was a total rockstar. Honestly, if it were me, I’m not sure I’d be in as good a mood if I were sleep-deprived and followed around by a stranger with a camera. But she was amazing, and it made for some truly special moments.
Are you ready to set up your summer photo session with me? Click here! 🙂
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