Santa Cruz Summer Family Photos

As a Santa Cruz family photographer, Ashton + Levi’s Santa Cruz photos at Natural Bridges Beach were an absolute blast to capture!

Ashton and I have known each other for years. We went to high school together, and were on the same colorguard team for several years. We reconnected after she had Levi, and wanted some family photos in Santa Cruz.

My goal going into their session was to capture their love in an authentic way. Toddlers make that easier, as they tend to show exactly how they’re feeling. Luckily, Levi was in a great mood and just wanted to explore. I began their session by letting him do just that in a wooded area closer to the beach.

Part of the reason I love being a Santa Cruz family photographer is that you have so many spots to choose. If you want to do the beach route, mountain vibes, or city landscape (or all three) we can make them happen within miles of each other.

Levi let us know after ten minute of exploring that he was ready to go to the beach. He did so very authentically by pulling Ashton towards the beach.

Once we got on the beach, Levi realized he wasn’t into the sand. I get it – sand isn’t my favorite either. Ashton braved his mood and held onto him for their entire session. 

Since Levi didn’t want to be on the ground, I knew I had to be more creative with my angles and backgrounds to get them a diverse album. I accepted the challenge, and even did some photos in direct sunlight.

Confession time: direct sunlight usually isn’t my favorite. However, I enjoy that colors in direct sunlight tend to be more warm and bold! The shadows can also have an artistic effect in the light.

Ashton + Levi, thank you for your flexibility and willingness to go with the flow. I’m so glad we got to show off Levi’s silly side and your patient mama side in your Santa Cruz family photos.

Family photos can often feel like something that can and should be skipped. Expenses are tight, you don’t feel super great about yourself, etc. However, family photos are 100% worth the investment.

Someday those family photos you didn’t want to take will be cherished heirlooms from an era that went by way too fast. 

You’ll want those photos to look back through to remember such a sacred and memorable time in your family’s life.

Head here if you’re ready to discover more details about preserving those moments.