Tag Archive for: Laguna Beach photographer

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Alta Laguna Park Family and High School photo session

Alta Laguna Park Family and High School photo session

The perfect Location for a Blue Sky’s senior and family photography session in Laguna Beach

Combining family photography with high school senior portraits, the Cooperrider Family created a session brimming with joy and heartfelt moments. As a seasoned Laguna Beach photographer, I had the privilege of capturing these special memories against the breathtaking backdrop of Alta Laguna Park. This location’s natural beauty provided the perfect setting to document the unique bond between family members while celebrating a milestone in their lives. If you’re looking to create timeless portraits that capture both the essence of your family and the excitement of a senior’s final year, Alta Laguna Park offers the ideal canvas.

a family of four posing together for their family photoshoot outdoor at alta laguna

Combining Family Photography with High School Senior Portraits

When the Cooperrider family reached out for a photography session, they had a unique idea in mind: to blend a family photography session with high school senior portraits for their eldest child. This combination allowed for a seamless experience, capturing both family togetherness and the special milestone of graduating high school. Alta Laguna Park provided a beautiful backdrop, with its scenic vistas and lush greenery enhancing each shot.

High school senior daughter posing with a natural, relaxed expression.Wind blowing through the hair of a high school senior during outdoor portraits.

Casual and Comfortable Clothing Choices

The Cooperrider family chose casual outfits for their session, which added a relaxed and authentic feel to the photos. Casual clothing allows families to move comfortably and naturally, making it easier to capture candid moments and genuine expressions. The simple yet coordinated outfits ensured that the family looked cohesive without appearing overly formal, perfectly reflecting their everyday charm.

Mom with two daughters at a family photography session at Alta Laguna Park in Laguna Beach

How we Handle a Windy Weather on the day of Photoshoot

Weather can be unpredictable, and on the day of the Cooperrider family session, it was quite windy. However, this challenge turned into an advantage. The wind added a dynamic element to the photos, giving movement to hair and clothing that added to the natural, spontaneous feel of the images. As a photographer, it’s crucial to embrace the elements and use them creatively to enhance the storytelling aspect of the session.

Casual family photo capturing genuine expressions and laughter.Family dressed in casual outfits, enjoying their time together outdoors.

Just Mom and Dad Moments

One essential aspect of any family photography session is taking time to capture images of just mom and dad. The Cooperrider family session was no different. These moments are incredibly important as they highlight the foundation of the family. The love and connection between parents serve as the bedrock for the family’s strength and unity. These intimate shots of just the couple provide a beautiful narrative of their relationship and add depth to the overall family album.

Mom and dad sharing a moment alone during the family photoshoot.

Capturing both family moments and senior portraits together made this session truly special. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate your family’s connection and your child’s achievements all at once. If you’re thinking about doing something similar, or just want to capture your family’s unique story, I’d love to help. Let’s make some beautiful memories together—reach out to book your session with Blue Sky’s Studio!

For more locations we love for family and senior session, check out this post: https://www.clickingwithkristin.com/san-clemente-state-beach-session-family-and-senior-portraits/

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FAQ: Combining Senior and Family Photo Sessions

1. Can you combine a senior photo session with a family photo shoot?

Yes, absolutely! Combining a senior session with a family shoot is not only possible, but also a great way to capture multiple milestones in one go—especially when everyone’s schedule is hectic.

2. Why combine senior and family portraits?

Combining sessions:

  • Saves time and money

  • Takes advantage of rare family togetherness

  • Gives your senior portraits more emotional depth

  • Captures multi-generational memories in one shoot

It’s a win-win for busy families juggling school, work, and distance.

3. How do we plan a combined photo session with a busy family schedule?

Plan 4–6 weeks in advance and:

  • Use a group scheduling app like Doodle or Google Calendar

  • Choose a weekend or holiday when everyone’s home

  • Book your photographer early—they fill up fast during graduation season!

Bonus tip: Have a rain plan or indoor location backup.

4. How long should a combined senior + family session last?

Set aside 1 to 1.5 hours. A typical flow looks like:

  • 30–45 minutes for senior portraits (solo)

  • 30–45 minutes for family portraits (groupings and candids)

Photographers can alternate between shots to keep things moving and fun.

5. What should we wear for a combined family and senior photo shoot?

Choose coordinated but not matching outfits:

  • Stick to a color palette (neutrals with a pop of one or two colors)

  • Seniors should wear a standout outfit (cap and gown, letterman jacket, dressy look)

  • Comfort is key—avoid clashing patterns or logos

Pro tip: Plan one outfit change if time allows.

6. What are some photo ideas for a combined senior and family session?

Popular ideas include:

  • Senior with parents (close-up + walking together)

  • Candid group hug or laughter shot

  • Then-and-now recreations (childhood pose redone)

  • Grandparents and seniors together

  • Senior with siblings (fun, silly, or sentimental)

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Ultimate Guide to Booking a Beach Photography Session in Laguna Beach

Ultimate Guide to Booking a Beach Photography Session in Laguna Beach

Welcome to Blue Sky’s Studio, your top choice for capturing unforgettable moments along the stunning shores of Laguna Beach. Whether you’re scheduling a family session, senior photoshoot, or engagement shoot, Laguna Beach offers the perfect backdrop. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from permits to the best beach locations, and why you should hire a professional photographer.

Family photo session at Picnic beach at sunset in Laguna Beach.

Permit Matters: A Must for Laguna Beach Photography

First, before heading to the beach, make sure to secure your Laguna Beach photography permit. The city prioritizes environmental conservation, so a permit is necessary. Simply visit the Laguna Beach City website or contact the Parks and Recreation Department. Make sure to apply early to guarantee your ideal date.

Mother Daughter portrait session on the beach at Tablerock beach in Laguna Beach.

Why Choose a Professional Photographer for Your Beach Session

While smartphones are convenient, professional photographers offer key advantages:

  • Expertise: They understand beach lighting, composition, and location.
  • Quality Equipment: Expect sharp, vibrant photos with top-of-the-line gear.
  • Creative Vision: They bring out the best of Laguna’s beauty.
  • Experience: Professionals excel at capturing genuine moments and emotions.

Everything you need to know about a photography session in Laguna Beach.

Four Stunning Beaches in Laguna

Laguna Beach boasts several picturesque beaches perfect for a photography session:

  • Tablerock Beach: Known for its unique sea caves and natural beauty.
  • Crescent Bay Beach: Ideal for panoramic shots and rocky landscapes.
  • Victoria Beach: Famous for the iconic Pirate Tower.
  • Picnic Beach: A peaceful spot with coastal views and lush greenery.

What you need to have before booking a session in Laguna Beach

Booking a Laguna Beach photography session is the perfect way to create lasting memories with family or loved ones. With careful planning—obtaining permits, choosing the best beach location, and hiring a professional photographer—you can ensure a seamless and successful session.

At Blue Sky’s Studio, we specialize in capturing the magic of Laguna Beach and the joy of your most cherished moments. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, engagement shoot, or just a fun day at the beach, we’re here to help you preserve those memories.

Contact us today to book your Laguna Beach photography session and create unforgettable moments that you’ll treasure forever. Let’s turn your beachside dreams into reality!

Book your session now!

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Heisler Park High School Senior Portraits

Heisler Park and Picnic Beach Senior Portrait Session

Heisler Park is located on a gorgeous bluff overlooking picnic beach.  It is a perfect location for a High School Senior portrait session.  Orange County high school seniors always want a lot of variety in the background.  Since this park in Laguna Beach has both lush foliage and wide beaches it has the perfect variety.  With amazing vistas, gorgeous rock formations and long sandy stretches of beach your high school senior will get a variety of looks without having to go very far.

A few weeks ago I photographed the beautiful Alyssa both at Heisler Park and at the beach.  I just love Alyssa’s style and her big beautiful eyes.   The last session we celebrated with their family was 8th grade graduation, so seeing her change and grow into such a confident adult made my heart happy.  Here are just a few of my favorite images from her session.

High School senior portrait session at Heisler park in Laguna Beach High school senior portrait session in Laguna Beach at bluff overlooking Rockpile beach High school senior girl photographed on Picnic beach in Laguna Beach High school senior girl photographed on the beach in 80s fashion in Laguna Beach High school senior lifestyle portraits on picnic beach in Laguna beach Dana HIlls High school senior portraits on the beach in downtown Laguna beach Orange County High school senior pictures taken in a tree overlooking Laguna Beach Orange county senior at Rock Pile in Laguna Beach getting portraits taken. Natural Light high school senior pics in Laguna Beach at sunset Golden hour portraits of a high school senior girl in Laguna Beach High School senior girl portraits taken at sunset in Laguna Beach located in Orange County Sunset beach high school senior beach portraits photographed at Picnic beach in Laguna beach Orange County

To book your session with Blue Sky’s Studio, please click here.

 

Blue Sky’s Studio is a family, high School senior and branding photography studio that specializes in magazine quality photography in Orange County, California.  Kristin loves photographing Orange County families, high School seniors and Orange County businesses including corporate headshots.   To schedule a session with Blue Sky’s Studio, in Laguna Beach or other Orange County surrounding areas, you can send an email to Kristin@blueskysstudio.com.  We are now booking for the Fall Portrait session 2020.  We are taking special precautions because of Covid-19 to ensure that you are safe and healthy.

Blue Sky’s Studio specializes in photographing on location in the following areas, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Newport Coast, Newport Beach, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente, Coto De Caza, Dana Point, The Ritz Carlton, The Montage Resort, the Surf and Sand resort and the Monarch Beach Resort.

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Orange County Family Photographer: The Super Bloom

As an Orange County Family Photographer, my focus is always on documenting local families throughout the years. That means, often I start photographing a family when their children are young, and then continue the sessions all the way through their high school senior portraits. Sometimes this even includes their kid’s weddings!

This is such a magical part of being a photographer. I love people and creating connections and long term bonds with them. There is nothing better to me than having a Mom cry over the beautiful portraits of their high school senior, Or Dad laughing at a silly face their young child always makes.

Recently, I have fallen in love with moving portraits of my clients. These are small snippets of video that help more completely tell the story of the family as it changes and the kids grow over the years. I only regret that I didn’t think of this sooner (with the help of my videographer Rebekah Pantel), so I could have had these videos for my kids as they grew up.

There is no better place to do one of these session than in the open fields of Laguna Beach, San Juan Capistrano or Upper Newport Back Bay. The yellow mustard is gorgeous and the soft water in the background makes the images really dreamy. All of the rain this year has lead to the “super Bloom” with flowers we may not see again for another 10 years.

This month, anyone that books a portrait session with Blue Sky’s Studio will have a videographer at their session to help tell their complete family/ senior portrait story. This is a $99 value is free if you book by May 30.

Here is a sample of a moving portrait video of the gorgeous Sofie Salvino!

And more favorite still images from the session!


To book your session or inquire about one, and include a videographer, click here or email me at kristin@blueskysstudio.com.

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LAGUNA BEACH STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY – VALENTINE’S LOVE

Kristin captured one of our favorite models, Miss Brooklyn, in a fun array of super cute Valentine’s Day looks in the studio for Valentine’s Day cards. It’s the season of love and we love how cute Miss Brooklyn’s photos turned out! A big hank you to Brooklyn and her equally beautiful mom for such a fun session and for the the adorable clothing!

xoxo
Sriti

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