Last summer, my family and I visited the Pacific North West (PNW) for a combination family vacation and a photographer meet-up. Although we only got to spend a few days in Oregon, I’m so happy we visited. Having grown up in New Jersey and spent summer vacations at the New Jersey shore, I’ve always loved NJ beaches, as much for the fond memories they evoke, as for their beauty. But, I also love mountains and big rocks, so I especially loved the stunning seascapes along the Oregon Coast, and was thrilled to photograph a few families in such an incredible setting.

I’d hoped for an evening with gorgeous golden light for the family sessions, but as luck would have it, heavy fog rolled in just in time for my first session with another family photographer.

If you’re familiar with my work, you know that I’m drawn towards beautiful light. Overall, my style is bright and vibrant. But as an on-location photographer who shoots outdoors in New Jersey, as well as in homes, I know that natural light is not always abundant. Whether it’s a cloudy and overcast day, or a dark home, I’ve learned to lean into the type of lighting I encounter in each session. So that’s what I did during these family sessions. I embraced the fog, the clouds, cold, and moody vibes.

Day 1 – Ecola State Park Family Session in the Fog

My first session was with a fellow photographer and her sweet family. We’d chatted on-line before and met for the first time on an August evening just before sunset at Indian Beach in Ecola State Forest. I love the windblown hair and movement of mama’s dress as it catches the breeze.

Day 2 – Photographer “Shoot-Out” Session

On our last day in Cannon Beach, I met up with a group of 10 other lifestyle family photographers for a “shoot-out”. It was great to meet and spend time with some other photographers who all share a similar passion for capturing images full of love, joy and connection. We took turns directing the family into actives and poses to keep them moving and engaged with each other. It was another overcast evening but without the fog. It was also a lot colder than it looks!

If you’ve never been to the Oregon Coast and are considering visiting, you might enjoy reading Highlights from My Trip to the PNW. And, if you’d like to learn more about the outdoor lifestyle family sessions or in home newborn sessions I offer, you might enjoy Three Things to Love about Lifestyle Photography.

Are you ready to book your lifestyle family session? I’d love to connect! Get in touch with me here.