If there’s anything that can be said about 2020 and 2021 it’s that you can’t take a moment for granted. When Sarah and Alex reached out to have another family session together during their trip to Santa Barbara I was elated. I’ve been taking family photos for this sweet crew ever since mom and dad were pregnant and wondering what parenthood would bring them. Turns out it brought them the cutest kid on the block, their sweet son Elliott. 

We met at East Beach, a perfectly expansive beach along the coast that is just classic California in every direction. We took our usual approach, candid and authentic, relaxed and playful. What could be better? Elliott had an absolute blast, shy at first, but eventually he opened up as any child might when copious amounts of seaweed and waves are around.  This is why I love lifestyle photography so very much. Nothing felt forced, no one felt the need to fit into some rigid pose or structure, they just got to play as a family, and I was lucky enough to witness their love for one another and document it for them to enjoy in the years ahead. 

East Beach didn’t disappoint. I love it so much because it has a playground for kiddos, a little outdoor shower area (a godsend for toes full of sand), and a restroom, so it’s perfect for family shoots! Plus there’s a bike path and walkway that follows the ocean that is nice and flat for walkers of all ages.  I’m so grateful for each chance I get to help someone capture these moments. The splashing toes, the running giggles, and the warm Southern California breezes will live on in these images.