A Windy, Joyful Virginia BeachFamily Session | The Clarke Family

Some families you just feel so comfortable with, and the Clarke family is absolutely one of them.

We love them so much. Hunter has been our home loan lender a few times now, and I will never, ever use anyone else — he’s incredible. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing so many milestones for this family, starting with newborn photos of Brady and then each of the kids’ first birthday parties. I’ve been waiting patiently to finally get them all in front of my camera together as a full family — puppies included — and in mid-November, it finally happened.

We planned a Virginia Beach family photography session at the ocean, and the forecast was looking great. It wasn’t terribly cold, and we came prepared with a blanket and coats just in case. But when we walked up the dunes… it was another story entirely. Dark clouds rolled in quickly over the ocean, the wind picked up fast, and suddenly we were in the middle of a little squall.

And honestly? It was magic.

Every single person — including little Sutton — made the absolute best of it. The lighting and colors that came out of those fast-moving clouds were some of the best I’ve ever worked with, and I mean that with my whole heart. These photos are treasures not just because the Clarke family was so sweet and cooperative, but because they truly showcase the beauty of being flexible, candid, and willing to go with the flow.

So many people tell me they want candid family photos, but sometimes hesitate when I prompt something that feels a little “weird.” I talked about this on Instagram recently, but I once had a client tell me flat-out, “I’m not doing that, it’s dumb,” which is totally fine — these are your photos. But I’ll always be honest: photographers know what looks good. We know there are only so many photos you need of everyone standing still, looking at the camera, and smiling.

What we’re really chasing are moments like these… unhurried, unposed, joyful, authentic, real. The Clarke family session is exactly what I think so many photographers strive for. It’s laughter in the wind, kids being kids, parents leaning in, and moments that feel like memories while they’re happening.

This is so much of why I love being a family photographer, especially in Virginia Beach… creating special memories while having the beach as our backdrop.

If you’re looking for a photographer to capture those moments in life that we can’t get back…whether that’s couples, maternity or family, I’d love to have the opportunity to chat with you.