Very seldom do I plan my photo sessions at sunrise. Most of my clients prefer to sleep in and not have to rush so early in the day. However is you can only plan for a morning shoot, you can still get that golden hour effect during the hour of sunrise.

Anastasia and Will wanted their photos to be done at the beach. My go to beach for family, engagement, and maternity photography is Windandsea beach in La Jolla. It’s located in a small residential area and has some great rock structures to hang out on. Plus it’s super easy to make it down to the water. Make sure to use the bathroom and get dressed prior to arriving. There are no public restrooms, but located near shopping area if needed.

The morning before our shoot, Anastasia messaged me saying how excited she was. It hit me that I would have to leave my house at 4am to get there in time. I spontaneously told Rosie to pack her bags because we were going to get an airbnb in San Diego and make a vacation out of it. We had a great time and plan to make more trips like that when my work takes me out of town.

The morning of the shoot was amazing. We got there a few minutes early and walked along the beach as the marine layer was clearing and the warm sun was peaking through.

After we finished at that location, we went to La Jolla cove and sought out any form of shade we could find. The rocks provided for some amazing texture and really complimented the gleaming water.

I’m looking forward to more photography sessions at the beach this summer!