Sunrise at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront Jetty | Kayla + Zach
There’s something about a winter sunrise at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront jetty that just hits differently.
This session almost didn’t happen. We had postponed it several times thanks to unpredictable weather, and with how frigid it had been lately, I half expected another reschedule. But somehow, this morning felt like a gift — still cold, yes — but warm compared to the bitter days before.
And I’m so, so glad we didn’t postpone again.
A Freezing-Clear Virginia Beach Morning
The rocks along the jetty were coated in ice, glistening in the early light. Waves crashed against frozen edges while surfers dotted the horizon, already out chasing the sunrise. There’s something magical about seeing “tons of surfers out” when the rest of the world is bundled inside — it adds so much life and movement to an otherwise quiet winter morning.
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront never disappoints at sunrise. Even in the coldest months, it delivers color, texture, and that peaceful coastal stillness you just can’t recreate anywhere else.
Kayla + Zach’s Story
Kayla and Zach met in college at Regent University — a full-circle detail since this session took place just miles away at the oceanfront.
Zach comes from a large family originally from Romania, where they have served as missionaries for many years. Kayla grew up right here in Chesapeake and even went to high school with some of my siblings (small world moments are my favorite).
Now they’re building their life together back in Chesapeake, where Kayla grew up. Zach works at Christian Broadcasting Network on the beloved children’s series Superbook — which my own kids absolutely love. How sweet is that connection?
A Long-Awaited Maternity Session
This session felt especially meaningful because of how many times we had to push it back. The “clock was ticking” feeling is real when you’re planning maternity photos — especially in winter. But waiting for the right morning made all the difference.
The icy jetty.
The golden sunrise.
The surfers in the distance.
The quiet joy of a growing family.
Everything aligned exactly as it was meant to.
Growing Families + Winter Beach Sessions
Winter maternity sessions at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront are underrated. Yes, it’s cold — but you get:
Soft, golden sunrise light
Fewer crowds
Dramatic ocean texture
Unique details like ice along the rocks
A cozy, intimate feel you don’t get in summer
Kayla and Zach handled the chill like pros, and the result was a gallery that feels peaceful, joyful, and full of anticipation.
So Excited for Their Growing Family
Watching couples step into parenthood is always special — especially when you’ve seen their story unfold from college days to now building a home and family together.
I am beyond excited for Kayla and Zach and the beautiful life they’re creating in Chesapeake. Their baby is already so loved.
And I’ll always remember this icy, glowing sunrise at the Virginia Beach jetty — the one we almost rescheduled.