Laguna Beach Family Photographer – Velez Family Photos

A MORNING AT TREASURE ISLAND WITH THE VELEZ FAMILY

Father lifts toddler daughter during Laguna Beach family photo session
Grandfather hugs two grandchildren at sunrise on Treasure Island Beach.

Laguna Beach family photos don’t need to feel posed or perfect to be meaningful. For the Velez family, Treasure Island gave us just the right mix—tide pools, open sand, and space for three generations to be themselves. We walked, we laughed, we let the kids run. And somewhere in all that motion, we found the quiet moments too. This session shows what happens when you don’t overthink it—you just show up, stay present, and let it unfold. If you’re curious about family photography in Orange County, this gallery is a great place to start.

Three sisters in white dresses standing together on Laguna Beach cliffs

Shooting at Treasure Island, Start to Finish

I’ve photographed dozens of families at Treasure Island over the years, and I keep going back for a reason. It’s one of the most photogenic beaches in all of Laguna—open space for kids to run, tide pools to explore, and hidden corners that make each gallery feel different. You’ve got cliffs, rocks, and even grassy spots above the sand. It’s versatile without being chaotic, and it photographs beautifully from almost every angle.

WHY TREASURE ISLAND WORKS SO WELL FOR FAMILY SESSIONS

Happy young girl poses for family portraits on the beach in Laguna Beach, California.

BEST TIMES OF DAY FOR LIGHT + TIDES

The best light here is usually right after sunrise or about 60–90 minutes before sunset, depending on the tides. Lower tides expose more beach and make the tide pools safe to shoot around. I always check tide charts in advance to make sure the timing matches what your session needs—whether it’s space for toddlers, wide scenic shots, or calmer surf for movement.

Two brothers teasing each other during candid family photos in Orange County.

A LITTLE HISTORY + ACCESS TIPS

Treasure Island wasn’t always open to the public. It became accessible in 2003 after the Montage Resort was built, and now it’s one of the most thoughtfully maintained beaches in Laguna. There’s a parking lot just north of the resort, plus public bathrooms, outdoor showers, and a well-kept walking path that leads straight down to the sand. It’s easy to reach and surprisingly private during weekday mornings.

Playful young girl in a white dress holding sand on a sunny beach at Montage Resort & Spa.
Family photoshoot with two sisters and their children on the beach in Laguna Beach, California.
Family beach portrait with photographer Venya Manzyuk in Laguna Beach, California.
Two young brothers with matching white shirts laughing together during a family photo session at Laguna Beach.
Father lifting his toddler daughter in the air, creating a heartwarming portrait.
Happy family of four smiles for a portrait on the beach at the Montage Laguna Beach. Mom wears a flowing white dress.
Happy Italian family enjoying a sunny day at Laguna Beach during a professional photoshoot.
A smiling Italian couple swings their young daughter between them, her laughter echoing across the sand.
Loving grandpa sharing grapes with his granddaughter on a sunny day.
Smiling girl holding a bowl of grapes, walking on the beach during a family photoshoot at Montage Laguna Beach.
Young kids rinse sandy feet at beach shower after photo session.
A young boy rinses sand from his feet at a beach shower in Laguna Beach, California.
Playful cousins wrestle on the beach during a family photoshoot in Laguna Beach, CA.
Playful Family Photoshoot on Laguna Beach: Children gather around their sister enjoying the sand.
Joyful children laughing together during a family photoshoot in Laguna Beach, California.
Serene young girl with eyes closed, enjoying the peaceful moment in Laguna Beach.
Two women pose for a portrait.
Extended Family Portrait in Laguna Beach Cave.
Sweet little girl with hands clasped, smiling softly for a portrait.
Laguna Beach family photoshoot. Grandmother and grandchildren embrace with ocean view. By Venya Manzyuk.
Close-up portrait of a happy young girl with a bright smile.
Parents embrace sons at Montage Laguna Beach.
Father playfully tosses daughter in air as siblings cheer during photo shoot.

Session Details & Pricing

Sessions at the beach last up to two hours. I keep things relaxed, with just enough guidance to get you comfortable and moving. We shoot a mix of candid family photos and lightly posed images—nothing stiff, nothing rushed.. You’ll end up with a gallery that feels like your family, not a Pinterest checklist.

I. HOW IT WORKS

You’ll receive a curated online gallery of 50–70 edited, high-resolution images—ready to download, share, or print. I handle all the logistics: tide timing, location planning, and shoot pacing. You just show up ready to hang with your people.

II. WHAT’S INCLUDED

Family sessions start at $600. A 50% retainer is due at booking, with the remaining balance due on the day of your shoot. No hidden fees, no upsells. If you’re planning something a little different—extended family, multiple locations, or something custom—just ask. We’ll make it work.

III. PRICING

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Laguna Beach works almost year-round, but fall and late spring usually give you the best combo of good light, smaller crowds, and mild weather. I keep an eye on tides and timing so your session feels easy—whether you're booking in July or October.

  • That’s the point. I don’t expect anyone to sit still. We move, we explore, we let the session breathe. Most of the best moments happen in between the “posed” ones anyway. I’ll guide just enough to keep things flowing—and let the rest unfold naturally.

  • Just reach out through the inquiry form and let me know what you're thinking. I’ll get back to you with availability, walk you through location and timing, and send over next steps. A 50% retainer locks in your date.