This was my first time actually photographing a family in Monmouth Beach, even though I've driven past this area more times than I can count. It's funny how you can pass a place over and over without really stopping to look at it as a location for a photo session. When I finally did, I wondered why I hadn't used it before.
It was a little windy that day, and the sky was completely overcast, but honestly, I couldn't have asked for much better light. People sometimes think you need a bright, sunny day for good photos, but an overcast sky can be perfect for photography. The light is softer, there aren't harsh shadows across everyone's faces, and you can photograph comfortably without having to worry about the sun being too bright.
The wind added a little challenge here and there, but that's part of working outdoors. You adjust, work with what's in front of you, and sometimes those imperfect conditions end up adding a little character to the photos.
As always, we got some of the family portraits everyone wants, but I also like leaving room for the session to unfold naturally. Some of my favorite moments happen in between the posed photos, when people start relaxing and interacting with each other instead of thinking about the camera.
That's what I enjoy most about family photography. I want people to have the photos where everyone looks great, but I also want to capture the personalities and little interactions that make the pictures feel like them.
I'm glad I finally stopped at this spot in Monmouth Beach and got to photograph a family there. It's a beautiful location, and after this session, I can definitely see myself coming back.
Sometimes a place you've passed a hundred times turns out to be exactly what you've been looking for.
