family photo shoot

I was so excited when my cousin's wife asked me to shoot their family photos a couple of weeks ago. Her oldest daughter and her family were going to be in town from Washington state and she wanted to use the opportunity to get some family photos of not only them but of their new granddaughter, Riley. I snapped up (punn entended!) the offer faster than you can say 'SMILE!'.

Yesterday was the big day and we decided to meet at this beautiful beach near Santa Cruz called Natural Bridges. This beach has special meaning to me because it was where my husband took me on our first date and where we had our engagement pictures taken. It has pretty greenery, small rocky hills and this gorgeous rock formation about 100 yards from shore.

We were in luck with the weather as it was overcast, perfect for photos and it wasn't hot, it was actually a little chilly but I took it! We made our way down the beach and decided upon this little spot just before the wet sand met the dry sand. The family coordinated their clothes and all wore blue jeans and white shirts, even baby Riley did! After figuring out a good position and several different poses and group (or couple) combination's, this is what I captured...

The proud new momma and Riley

The beautiful new family

 Grandma and her happy girl

Daddy and his girl

I had such a fun time shooting for them and I'm having an even more fun time editing them and getting them all ready for the family. I can't wait until the next shoot!