Vacation family portraits in La Jolla, CA? Yes, please—serve them up with sunshine, salty air, and a side of unforgettable memories. Almost two years ago, Kaitlyn reached out with the sweetest idea: a dreamy maternity session on the beach in San Diego. Cue the visions of windblown dresses, ocean waves, and golden light wrapping around that perfect baby bump. But then COVID happened. And like so many good things in life, it had to wait.

Fast forward to now, and Kaitlyn came back—this time not just with a baby bump, but with the whole beautiful crew in tow. We’re talking full-family, all-in, ready-to-make-up-for-lost-time energy. I was so here for it. We met on the stunning shores of La Jolla Beach, one of the most iconic locations for vacation family portraits in San Diego. As a La Jolla family photographer, I know a good beach when I see one—and this stretch of coastline brings the drama in the best way: dramatic cliffs, soft sand, and that light that makes everyone look like they’ve been gently kissed by the sun.

But wait, there’s more. This wasn’t just a family shoot—it was a celebration. Two members of the group had just gotten engaged (cue the “awwws” and happy tears), and the vibe was pure joy meets “let’s make this a core memory.” We joked, we played, and we captured a ton of candid, in-the-moment shots that tell the real story. No stiff poses or awkward smiles—just real connection, big laughs, and those blink-and-you-miss-it moments that make a photo feel like a time machine.

I love photographing vacation family portraits in La Jolla, CA because the beach brings out the best in people. Everyone’s relaxed, unplugged, and fully in the moment. And when you add a celebration like an engagement into the mix? Pure magic. It’s sessions like these that remind me how powerful photography can be—not just to document how you look, but to capture how it felt.

Vacation family portraits while your visiting San Diego?

If you’re planning a trip to San Diego and want to come home with more than just souvenirs, let’s talk. I specialize in creating unforgettable vacation family portraits in La Jolla that feel effortless, authentic, and 100% you. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, making up for lost time, or just want to freeze this chapter of your family’s story, I’d be honored to be your La Jolla family photographer. Let’s turn your beach day into art—and memories that last way longer than your tan.

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.