One of my favorite things about summer is traveling to New Buffalo, Michigan for beach family sessions. There’s just something about Lake Michigan sunsets. The soft light, the warm breeze, and the way kids naturally come alive near the water. That makes these sessions feel effortless and full of heart.

Last summer, I had the absolute joy of photographing Josh, Paige, and their daughter Daisy during a golden-hour beach session in New Buffalo. From the very beginning, this session felt relaxed, playful, and true to who they are as a family. Exactly the kind of photos I love to create.

A Perfect Summer Sunset on the Beach in New Buffalo, MI

We scheduled their session right around sunset, which is hands-down my favorite time to photograph families on the beach. The sun was low, the light was soft and glowy, and Lake Michigan gave us the dreamiest backdrop. Sunset sessions allow for flattering light, cooler temperatures, and that warm, nostalgic feel that photographs so beautifully.

Daisy spent most of the session exploring the beach, collecting little treasures, and holding tight to her parents’ hands. Instead of stiff poses, we focused on movement—walking along the shoreline, snuggling close, and letting moments unfold naturally.

Candid Family Photos by the Water

As the sun dipped lower, we wrapped up the session by heading straight into the water—and honestly, this is where the magic really happened. Barefoot, laughing, splashing, and completely in the moment, this family gave me some of my favorite candid beach photos from the entire summer.

These playful, unscripted moments are what make New Buffalo beach family photography so special. Kids don’t feel like they’re being photographed—they’re just being kids. And those genuine laughs, splashes, and in-between moments turn into images that feel real and full of life.

Why I Love Photographing Families in New Buffalo, Michigan

New Buffalo is such a perfect location for family photos, especially for families visiting during the summer. The wide sandy beaches, gentle shoreline, and stunning sunsets make it an ideal spot for:

• Family beach photo sessions
• Vacation family photography
• Candid, lifestyle family portraits
• Sunset photos on Lake Michigan

Whether you’re visiting for a week or making New Buffalo a yearly tradition, it’s the perfect place to document this season of life.

Planning Your Own New Buffalo Beach Family Session

If you’re looking for a New Buffalo, Michigan family photographer who specializes in relaxed, child-led, and candid sessions, I’d love to help you plan something similar. I travel to New Buffalo each summer to photograph families on the beach and focus on creating images that feel natural, joyful, and true to your family.

Sunset sessions are especially popular and tend to book quickly during the summer months, so I always recommend reaching out early to reserve your date.

If you’re dreaming of barefoot beach photos, golden light, and memories that feel like summer—you’re in the right place 🤍

Ready to book your New Buffalo beach family photography session? Click here to get in touch and start planning your summer photos on Lake Michigan.