Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a blended family at Erieau Beach, and it was nothing short of magical. Blended families are a tapestry of new beginnings, shared stories, and unique dynamics, and capturing these moments against the backdrop of Erieau Beach added a layer of charm that made this lifestyle session one of my favourites of the summer.
One of my favourite locations: Erieau Beach
Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Erieau Beach offers a blend of tranquility and vibrancy that perfectly matched the mood of our session. The evening light creates a golden hour glow, ideal for capturing candid moments and genuine emotions. This crew borrowed a family friends cottage, but there is tons of public beach access that I use frequently for clients!
Blending Families: A Beautiful Journey
Blended families come together from different walks of life, each bringing their own histories, traditions, and quirks. Coming from a blended family myself, I have a huge appreciation for the complexities that can come into play. This crew was super engaged and loving – and it shows!
The beauty of a lifestyle session is that it captures families in their natural state. Instead of rigid poses and forced smiles, this type of photography focuses on spontaneous moments and genuine connections. For a blended family, this means capturing the laughter while splashing in the lake, the quiet moments of reflection while walking along the shoreline, and the loving interactions that define their unique family dynamic.
Highlights of the Session
- Family Bonding Through Play: One of the most heartwarming aspects of the session was watching the kids engage in playful activities. Whether they were running along the beach, splashing in the waves, or throwing rocks their interactions were filled with joy and spontaneity.
- Quiet Moments of Connection: Between the energetic bursts of play, there were also quieter, more intimate moments. Parents and children shared hugs, exchanged loving glances, and walked hand-in-hand along the shore. These serene snapshots of connection are just as important as the action shots, offering a complete picture of the family’s life together.
- The Power of the Landscape: Erieau Beach’s natural beauty enhanced the photos in a way that a studio setting simply couldn’t. The gentle waves, the vast expanse of the lake, and the soft, golden light created a sense of peace and togetherness that mirrored the family’s own journey. The scenery wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a part of the story being told.
Tips for a Successful Beach Photography Session
- Timing is Everything: Early morning or evening provides the best lighting for beach photography. The soft, diffused light during these times creates a flattering glow and reduces harsh shadows.
- Comfort and Flexibility: Encourage family members to wear comfortable, relaxed clothing that reflects their personalities. Avoid overly formal attire, as the beach setting calls for a more casual, carefree look.
- Embrace the Environment: The beach can be windy and sandy, so embrace the natural elements. Let the kids run freely, and don’t worry too much about perfect hair or neat clothes. Sometimes, the most memorable photos come from moments that are a little bit tousled and unplanned.
- Focus on Connection: While posed family shots have their place, the heart of a lifestyle session is capturing genuine interactions. Encourage family members to interact naturally and let their personalities shine through.
A lifestyle photography session at Erieau Beach with a blended family is more than just a photo shoot—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the unique journey of coming together as a family. The images captured serve as a beautiful reminder of the love, laughter, and connections that define their shared story. For families navigating the complexities of blending lives, these photos are a cherished testament to their unity and joy!
If you’re considering a lifestyle session for your blended family, I highly recommend Erieau Beach as your backdrop. It’s a place where natural beauty and heartfelt connections come together, creating a perfect setting for capturing the essence of your family’s journey. Get in touch today to plan your next extended family session with me!
