Candid family portraits on the beach in La Jolla? Yes, please. Give me windblown hair, sandy toes, and unposed giggles any day of the week. That’s where the magic lives. I’ve had the absolute joy (and yes, I mean that in the most non-corny way possible) of photographing this sweet family for over six years now. We’re talking baby toes to beach runs, tiny hands holding onto mama’s fingers to full-on sprint races across the shore. It’s been a beautiful ride watching them grow—through my lens and in real life.

Then, cue the heartbreak: they moved across the country. Like, gone. No more annual photoshoots in La Jolla, no more “Let’s meet at the same spot as last year.” I felt it. But this year, plot twist—they reached out during a two-week visit to Del Mar and asked if I could squeeze in a beach family session in La Jolla again. Um, yes. Always yes. I would’ve canceled my dentist appointment and skipped my morning matcha for them. (Okay, maybe not the matcha.)

We met up for their session on one of my favorite stretches of beach in La Jolla—because when you’re a La Jolla family photographer, you know exactly where to go for that dreamy light and those candid, can’t-stop-smiling kind of shots. These girls? Wild in the best way. They are not sit-still-and-smile types, which I love. I mean, give me joyful chaos over stiff poses any day. Their energy, their laughter, the way they crash into hugs and run into the waves—it’s pure gold for a candid beach photographer.

What I love most about these sessions is that nothing feels forced. We capture real moments: sandy foot races, giggles that turn into belly laughs, and the quiet in-between seconds when mom wraps her arms around her daughters and time seems to pause. This isn’t just about family portraits—it’s about holding on to the feeling of this season of life.

Being a San Diego beach photographer, especially a La Jolla family photographer, means knowing how to roll with the waves (literally and figuratively…I’m checking the tides constantly), catch the perfect light, and create a space where families can just be themselves. No stress, no pressure—just play, connection, and all the real stuff that makes life beautiful.

Every time I photograph this family, I’m reminded why I do what I do. It’s not just about pretty pictures (though, spoiler alert: they turned out gorgeous). It’s about legacy, connection, and freezing moments that go by way too fast. And for this family, I’m so honored to keep being a part of that story—even from across the country.

Want your own Candid Family Portraits?

If you’re dreaming of having your own candid family portraits on the beach in La Jolla, let’s make it happen. Whether you’re visiting San Diego for a quick getaway or lucky enough to call it home, there’s no better way to capture your family’s energy, love, and wild joy than with a relaxed beach photoshoot. As a La Jolla family photographer with years of experience chasing light, laughter, and sandy little feet, I’ll help you freeze those real, unscripted moments you’ll want to hang on every wall. Ready to create your own sun-soaked memories? Let’s chat and plan your perfect beach session in La Jolla.

Lisa G (Elle G) is a San Diego beach photographer based in Pacific Beach, CA. Proudly serving San Diego’s coastal communities: La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, Point Loma and Coronado. 858-344-1068. To chat about booking your own portrait session click HERE.