An Early Morning at Avila Beach | Senior Portrait Session
Vanessa and her mom made the trip down from Northern California to beautiful Avila Beach for her senior photos, and from the very beginning, I knew this session was going to be special. I truly love the seniors and families I get to work with. They turned the whole experience into a fun little mother-daughter getaway, which honestly made it even sweeter.
From our very first email exchange, Vanessa knew exactly what she wanted her photos at Avila Beach and a sunrise session. If you know me, you know I’m usually a sunset girl through and through… but there’s just something so peaceful and magical about morning sessions by the beach. The quiet shoreline, soft light, and slower pace make it feel extra special.
Of course, the weather tried to throw us a curveball. We were hit with rain and some seriously wild wind. A few sprinkles? We could absolutely work with that. But the wind had other plans. Thankfully, we were able to move her session to the next morning, and it ended up being perfect in its own way; cloudy skies, calm air, and the prettiest soft light.
We started up near the pier and shops before slowly making our way down the beach throughout her session. Vanessa was so easygoing and truly trusted me every step of the way. She just soaked in the experience and let herself be present in the moment, which always makes for the most genuine photos.
One of my favorite parts of her session was her senior jersey look. It matched the beach town vibe perfectly and added such a fun, personal touch to her photos. I seriously love it when seniors incorporate something meaningful, like a school jersey, into their session. It captures this season of life in such a fun and authentic way.
After we finished her casual look, Vanessa changed into a dress for the beach portraits, and wow… beach dresses never disappoint. The movement and the softness, it all photographs so beautifully. She looked absolutely stunning.
More than anything, I’m just so honored I got to capture this season for Vanessa and her mom. Senior year goes by so fast, and getting to preserve these memories is something I never take lightly. Watching moms soak in these moments with their daughters and seeing seniors celebrate who they are right now is one of my favorite parts of this job.
Vanessa, thank you for trusting me, for going with the flow, and for making the trip down the coast for your session. I know you have such an exciting future ahead of you, and I’m so grateful I got to be a small part of this chapter. Wishing you all the best in whatever comes next!
