A Playful Beach Family Session at Crystal Cove | Hall Family

There’s something about photographing families on vacation that just feels extra special. Everyone’s a little more relaxed, a little more sun-kissed, and totally ready to soak up some real, beautiful moments. That’s exactly how it felt photographing the Hall family last night at Crystal Cove. ✨

Before the session, Mama Hall filled out my getting-to-know-you form (which I love because it helps me tailor each session), and I could instantly feel how much she cherishes her little ones. She mentioned that her toddlers might take a little time to warm up—Marin, age 3 (same as my Macy!), and sweet Landon, 1.5. But when they pulled up from their vacation in Arizona, these babies were ready.

Marin hopped out of the car like a curly-haired ray of sunshine. We talked about her painted fingernails, made silly guesses about her brother’s name (Chicken? Monkey? Chase? Nope—it was Landon 🥰), and just like that, we were fast friends. Landon jumped out with a full-body smile and a squishy ball, and within seconds, he was holding my hand as we walked to the sand like old buddies.

This is why I love photographing little ones.

There’s no pressure, no posing—just following their lead. As soon as we hit the beach, the shoot turned into a twirling party. Marin spun in the sand, Landon fell giggling into it, and their parents joined in with snuggles and squeezes and all the goofy moves that bring real smiles.

We ran down to the water, played like birds, splashed in the waves, and climbed over the rocks (Landon even got a little toe scrape and didn’t blink—such a tough guy!). And yes, we ended with the classic "Mom and Dad" shot, because these moments are just as much about the love that started it all as they are about the little ones.

Crystal Cove is one of my favorite spots for sessions like this.
It has that perfect mix of wide open beach, soft light, and natural backdrops that let kids be kids and families be together. For the Hall family, a half session was just right—short, sweet, and full of connection.

If you’re visiting Southern California and want to remember the feeling of these fleeting days with your littles, beach photography is magic. Reach out and let’s capture something real together. 🌊

XO, Laurel