Treasure Island Beach Family Photos | Mott Family Session

THE MOTT FAMILY SESSION AT TREASURE ISLAND BEACH

Parents embracing toddler for family portrait at Treasure Island Beach

I met the Mott family for their photo session at the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach, then we walked down to Treasure Island Beach. Hande had first reached out after seeing the Todd Family photos I shot there a few months earlier and decided it was the perfect spot for her own family. The afternoon was relaxed and fun, with Hande, her husband, and their baby girl playing in the sand while her sister, brother-in-law, and mom joined in. The mix of perfect weather, an energetic crew, and the stunning coastline made for a collection of candid and posed moments that quickly became one of my favorite family sessions in Laguna Beach.

Toddler looking over shoulder in golden hour light on Laguna Beach

Why Treasure Island Beach Is Perfect for Family Photos

BEAUTIFUL, CLEAN BACKDROPS

Everywhere you look there is something worth photographing, from the smooth shoreline to the coastal rocks and the open ocean view. Nothing feels cluttered or distracting, so the focus stays right where it should be on the people in the frame. If you like this look, you might also enjoy my Crystal Cove family photos for another spot with equally beautiful scenery.

Mother holding toddler at Treasure Island Beach during Laguna Beach family session

GREAT LIGHT FROM START TO FINISH

Whether we were near the Montage Resort walkway or down by the waves, the light at Treasure Island was beautiful the entire time. The mix of soft shade and warm glow made it easy to move around without rushing, which kept the Mott family relaxed and present in the moment.

Parents walking barefoot on the sand with their toddler at Laguna Beach
Smiling toddler holding parents’ hands during Laguna Beach family photoshoot

PLENTY OF ROOM TO EXPLORE

From the wide sandy stretch to the rocky tide pools, there is so much space here for families to spread out and enjoy the beach. The Mott family could move freely without feeling crowded, which made it easy to capture real moments without forced smiles or long periods of standing still. You can see more examples of open, spacious locations in my Orange County family photography sessions.

Mom carrying toddler while dad walks beside them at Treasure Island Beach
Mother helping toddler dip toes in the water at Treasure Island Beach
Toddler standing in wet sand by the shoreline at Laguna Beach
Family smiling together on the beach during Laguna Beach photo session
Toddler exploring the shoreline at Treasure Island Beach during golden hour
Parents and toddler drawing in the sand together at Laguna Beach
Close-up of toddler’s hand holding tissue while sitting on parent’s lap at the beach
Extended family group portrait on the sand at Treasure Island Beach
Couple laughing together in a playful lift at Laguna Beach
Couple embracing against coastal rock formation at Treasure Island Beach
Husband and wife sitting together on rocks at Laguna Beach during sunset
Black and white portrait of smiling couple sitting on beach rocks
Couple smiling at each other in warm evening light at Laguna Beach
Family members posing near unique coastal rock arch formation
Close-up of toddler looking curious while sitting with family at the beach
Three generations of women posing with toddler by the ocean rocks
Toddler standing near rocky cliff at Treasure Island Beach
Toddler walking toward smiling mother at Laguna Beach during sunset
Parents kneeling and smiling while toddler stands between them at beach
Three generations of women holding toddler and laughing at Laguna Beach
Close-up of smiling toddler in mother’s arms at Treasure Island Beach
Parents holding toddler while standing at the shoreline in Laguna Beach
Black and white photo of mother lifting toddler in the air at the beach
Mother holding toddler during family photo session at Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach
Smiling mother and toddler enjoying the shoreline at Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach

Planning Your Treasure Island Session?

I. BEST TIME & LIGHT

We start at Treasure Island Beach about 2 hours before sunset, then head down to the sand for Golden Hour. This gives us two distinct looks in one session without rushing.

II. PARKING & ACCESS

Park at the Montage Resort public lot or along PCH. The ramp down to the beach is paved and stroller-friendly, making this one of the most accessible beaches in Laguna.

III. WHY FAMILIES LOVE IT

It’s cleaner and more manicured than other beaches. You get the luxury resort vibe mixed with rugged rock formations, and the tide pools are a massive hit with kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Late afternoon into golden hour is ideal. The light is softer, the colors are richer, and it creates a relaxed atmosphere. For the Mott family, we started earlier at the Montage Resort and walked down to the beach as the light got better, which gave us variety in the gallery.

  • Absolutely. Having grandparents, siblings, or in-laws adds to the story and gives you a wider range of memories to look back on. The Mott family brought along extended family members, and it made the photos even more meaningful.

  • Neutral and soft tones work beautifully against the sand, rocks, and ocean. Avoid busy patterns or neon colors that can distract from the scenery. Coordinated outfits that are comfortable will help you move easily and feel confident throughout the shoot.