Locations Guide

family ponto dog

At the end of the day, the most important part of your session is your family—being together, loving on each other, and just enjoying the time.

The locations below are meant to give you a feel for the different directions we can go. I have a handful of favorite spots within each style, and I’ll help guide you toward what fits your family best once we start planning.

There’s no perfect choice—just what fits your season of life and the kind of images you’re drawn to.

family

Beach Sessions

cardiff family

Open, bright, and a little unpredictable—in the best way.

The beach gives us soft light, space to move, and that classic coastal look. It photographs beautifully, but it does come with a few variables.

Wind, shifting light, sand everywhere, and kids who either love the water or want nothing to do with it—all completely normal.

We’ll work with whatever the beach gives us and keep things moving so it still feels easy.

2025 stewart porter family cardiff

What to wear:
Barefoot works best. Neutrals, soft blues, and light tones photograph beautifully. Flowy pieces tend to move well with the wind.

Trails, Parks & Grove Sessions

grove extended family Meryl Kerby 030726

Warm, textured, and naturally beautiful.

These locations give us filtered light, depth, and a more grounded feel. We’ll usually be on dirt paths or natural terrain.

They change quite a bit with the seasons—spring tends to be green with taller grasses and wildflowers, while later in the year shifts more earthy and brown.

They’re beautiful either way, just a little less polished—think uneven ground, dirt, grasses, and the occasional bug or critter. It’s part of the setting.

We’ll keep things simple and guided so we can move through it without it feeling like a hike.

grove family

What to wear:
Neutrals and richer tones (mustard, plum, soft coral) photograph really well here. I’d avoid too much green so you don’t blend in. Shoes you don’t mind getting a little dusty are a good idea.

Classic California Vibes

Judd 1739 sq

Clean, simple, and easy—with a classic Southern California feel.

These spots have a mix of paths, greenery, and light architecture. They’re the most predictable option and the easiest to move through.

There are a couple variations—some are very close to parking and minimal walking, others have a bit more space and variety—but all keep that same clean, polished look.

Cooper 2844 sq

What to wear:
You can wear just about anything here. Neutrals, soft tones, or more classic pieces all work well. I’d avoid going overly casual—slightly elevated tends to photograph best in these spaces.

Newborn Sessions at Home

home newborn

Calm, simple, and focused on connection.

We’ll use the spaces in your home with the best light and keep everything minimal. No need for a deep clean—just a quick tidy so the focus stays on your family.

Everything moves at a slower pace here.

bunker newborn home

What to wear:
Soft, neutral tones and comfortable pieces. Bare feet, simple textures, and anything that feels easy to wear.

Family Life & Activity Sessions at Home

family home

Relaxed and completely your own.

These are less about posed photos and more about what your family naturally does—playing, reading, being together.

We keep things simple and let it unfold.

family home

Vacation Stays & Airbnb Sessions

shauna gamett airbnb 062121 extended family 2021

Easy and meaningful—especially with little ones.

We can often stay close to where you’re already staying, which keeps things simple and familiar.

It’s a good option if you want to avoid extra driving or transitions, especially during a busy trip.

airbnb extended family

Outfits + Location

Sometimes outfits lead the decision, sometimes the location does.

Either way works.

I’ll help you make sure everything feels cohesive, comfortable, and fits the setting you choose.

san elijo lagoon family raleigh san elijo lagoon location page
ponto dog family erin naviaux family locations page

Pets

If you’d like to include your pet, we’ll choose a location that works well for them.

I do recommend bringing someone to help so you can stay relaxed and present during the session.

Your Littles

This is usually the deciding factor.

Think about where your kids will feel the most comfortable—that’s what makes the biggest difference.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Sand, wind, or mess tolerance
  • Need for stroller access or bathrooms
  • Whether they like to explore or stay close

There’s no right answer—just what works best for your family.

extended family cardiff
family grove

If you’re not sure which direction to go, I’ll help you choose something that fits your family and how you want this to feel.

I have a handful of go-to spots, and I’ll guide you to what works best.

I’m really looking forward to it. 💛

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