When it comes to family photos, there’s something so special about watching families grow and change over the years. Capturing this La Jolla Beach family session was an absolute JOY, especially since I’ve had the privilege of photographing this family multiple times as they’ve grown and evolved. Each family session we do together brings something new, and this one was all about celebrating playful moments together on the sand.

We spent the afternoon letting the kids take the lead, which meant lots of running near the water, playing jump rope, and getting a little sandy. La Jolla Beach is one of my favorite places for family sessions—between the soft, golden sand and the beautiful waves, it’s the perfect spot to let loose and capture those natural, unposed moments. And with fall bringing that warm, gentle light, we had the perfect backdrop for this family’s playful energy!

Family sessions like these are such a powerful reminder of the importance of play and being present. When you focus on just having fun together (instead of posing), you’re able to actually relax and enjoy the experience together. All of those genuine laughs, the quick glances, and all those in-between moments come together to tell a story that feels true to each family.

I am so looking forward to seeing where the next chapter takes this sweet family!

If you want to check out another fun playful family session for some inspo, head on over to this Balboa Park family session!