Family Mini Sessions in Virginia Beach: October Recap
I loved meeting new families and reconnecting with returning ones during these mini sessions. One trend I’m seeing more and more — and absolutely love — is parents choosing to share fewer photos of their kids online. Because of that, I focused on creating beautiful images of just mom and dad, along with some sweet “back-of-the-head” shots that still capture the moment while keeping little ones more private.
I’m so grateful for the time I had with each family and for the variety we created on the most gorgeous October day at Pleasure House Point — one of my favorite spots in Virginia Beach. We had lots of young families joining in, especially through my collaboration with Mom Walk Co. of Chesapeake, and it made the entire day so fun!
I had to start with this sweet family because Brianna sent me the kindest message after receiving her gallery, and it completely melted my heart. She wrote:
“Victoria,
I just wanted to send you a quick email about our family pictures. We've done our fair share of family portraits before with different photographers for a maternity session, mommy and me sessions, and other family fall sessions. But I have never loved our pictures as much as I did when I saw the ones you took. I normally criticize everything and just deal with the fact that I don't love the ones we have had before. I genuinely love these ones so much and I cannot express to you how grateful I am that you were able to work us into your schedule.“
Receiving words like this means more to me than I can explain — it’s the biggest reminder of why I love what I do.
Next up was Zach and Maddie…and oh my gosh, they LOOKED SO GOOD. We captured so many perfect Christmas-card options I honestly don’t know how they’ll choose. Maddie and I actually went to school together, and it turns out her husband Zach knew my husband from their school days. Such a small world, and it made the session feel even more fun and full circle.
Next up was this adorable crew! Lauren owns Jazzercise in Chesapeake, and she brought her two BEAUTIFUL boys who were truly such a delight. And Miles’ smile?? Come on… it was impossible not to melt.
This family goes to our church, and I just adore them! Stephanie is so sweet, and she homeschools her kids as well. I loved watching how the kids interacted with one another; they listened so well and truly had fun during the session.
This family has become such fast friends of ours since Katie joined the same small group I’m in over a year ago. Her boys are close in age to my middle two, and we just have so much in common! I love this friend of mine, and I’m so grateful she came out for these photos.
Rachel and her husband are expecting their first baby in just a few months, and I’m over the moon for them! We met at a Godly Gal Pals (insert IG link) meetup one evening and instantly connected — we couldn’t stop chatting about pregnancy, babies, and life in general. This was my first time meeting her husband, Craig, and he was SO nice and so involved. (I know how much men love photos…) but truly, he acted like he was enjoying every minute, which is such a HUGE blessing. When everyone is having fun, the photos always show it!
Alden and I are sorority sisters from CNU (Go Delta Gamma!!!), and it was so wonderful to catch up with her and hear about life since college. I also got to meet her husband, Shane, and their ADORABLE son, Watson, who literally wouldn’t stop smiling the entire session. Such a joy to spend time with this family!
I had the joy of chatting with Denise about her MIRACLE baby from God and how everything happens in His perfect timing. She’s expecting another sweet little girl soon! Her husband, Justin, was so kind and involved throughout the session, and they even brought along their adorable doggie, Nori, who added so much personality to their family photos.
This family just welcomed a brand new addition, and this session was the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful images of their family of four! And can we talk about Emily? She looks absolutely incredible — and she just had a baby!
Last but not least, Hailey and Zach with their precious little boy! I’ve had the honor of photographing their engagement session in Shenandoah National Park, microwedding in Pungo, and now capturing them as a family of three. It’s been such a joy to watch their journey grow!
What an incredible day it was, filled with laughter, smiles, and so many beautiful moments. I feel so grateful to have spent time with each of these families and to capture memories they’ll cherish for years to come. Mini sessions like these are such a special way to freeze a moment in time, and I can’t wait for the next one!