Minnesota Beach Family Photo Sessions
Capture the magic of summer and lake life!
At some of the most stunning beaches Minnesota has to offer, ideal for families, maternity, couples, or child portraits. Dress up, play in the water - or do both! Contact us if you would like to add an earlier time for young children.
Park Point, Duluth, MN
Excelsior Beach, Excelsior, MN
Cedar Lake Beach, Minneapolis, MN
Lake Minnewashta, Chanhassen, MN
Whether you're documenting this summer or want refreshed portraits in golden light, these sessions are designed to be relaxed, natural, and gorgeous.
Each session includes my signature child portraits, lifestyle photography, and traditional family poses. For the golden hour light, be sure to look at the later sessions.
With decades of photography experience, I ensure sessions are fun and efficient. Kids love the freedom to explore, and parents love that it doesn't take too long! We'll create a large gallery of images for you to select from after the session.
Looking for a custom session at your cabin?
I'll have 1-2 dates available in Duluth in August, more in the Twin Cities area. Please contact me at hello@lisaposeley.com
Why Choose a Beach Photo Session?
Each location is carefully chosen for its stunning blend of beach and landscape, providing unparalleled settings for summer family photos. The soft evening light and natural beauty create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for playful, candid shots. As you can see from the lovely family below, the beaches provide a fantastic space for kids to be themselves, explore, and enjoy the moment.
Meet Your Photographer: Lisa Poseley Photography
With over 20 years of experience behind the lens, I've dedicated my career to capturing genuine connections and priceless family moments. I'm honored to be an award-winning photographer, recognized for my passion and skill in creating stunning, heartfelt images.
My approach to photography is deeply personal and focused on your family's unique story. Every session includes those much-coveted close-up child portraits that truly capture their fleeting expressions and individual personalities. My goal is to make your photo session not just about taking pictures, but about creating an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone.
Your Stress-Free Photo Session Experience
The best photos come from happy, relaxed subjects. That's why my beach sessions are fun and stress-free! Children particularly enjoy them because we don't force stiff poses. Instead, I encourage them to run around, play, and just be themselves. I often find that when kids have some freedom and are empowered by helping to select a spot or even posing for their parents, their true personalities shine through, leading to the most authentic and joyful images. To add to the fun, we can even end your session with your family standing or playing in the shallow water!
Optimal Lighting: Golden Hour & Flexible Scheduling
These beach sessions are typically scheduled to take place leading up to and during Golden Hour. At this time, just after sunrise or before sunset, the softest, most flattering light is cast, creating a beautiful, warm glow that enhances colors and produces stunning, luminous portraits. This is when the light is at its most beautiful, avoiding harsh shadows and squinting eyes.
I understand that Golden Hour can sometimes be challenging with young children's bedtimes or routines. If you prefer an earlier session that better suits your family's schedule, please don't hesitate to reach out! We can arrange a time that works best for your family to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
What to Wear for Your Beach Photo Session
Choosing outfits can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be! For beach sessions, I generally recommend comfortable clothing that allows for movement. Here are a few tips to help you choose:
Complementary Colors: Consider a palette of 2-3 colors that complement each other rather than matching exactly. Soft neutrals (creams, whites, light grays, tans) mixed with muted blues, greens, or even a pop of pastel can look beautiful against the natural backdrop of the beach.
Avoid Busy Patterns: Large logos, busy prints, and neon colors can be visually distracting. Solid colors or subtle textures tend to photograph best.
Comfort is Key: Ensure children's outfits are comfortable, allowing them to move freely and engage in activities such as running, sitting, and playing. Uncomfortable kids rarely produce happy photos!
Layering: Adding light layers can add dimension and versatility to your photos.
Footwear & Style: You have options! While shoes are perfectly welcome and can complement a more dressed-up look, we can also incorporate barefoot shots depending on your chosen attire and the desired feel of your images. Whether you prefer a casual, beachy vibe or something a bit more formal, we'll make it work beautifully. For women and girls, the flowing fabric of a summer dress or skirt adds lovely movement and an ethereal quality to the images, especially when caught by a gentle breeze.
Remember, after booking, you'll receive a comprehensive prep guide with more detailed suggestions, and I'm always here to provide personalized advice on wardrobe to ensure you look and feel your best!
Ready to Book Your Summer Photo Session?
Don't let another summer slip by without preserving these precious memories. Whether you envision a playful evening at Excelsior Beach, Lake Minnetonka, or a relaxed session at Cedar Lake Beach, Minneapolis, I'm here to help.
Lisa Poseley Photography is currently booking summer photo sessions at both these incredible locations. Spaces fill up quickly, so I encourage you to reach out soon to secure your preferred date.
Use the link below to book online or contact us to set up a custom time for your family. Book your family beach photo session and create lasting summer memories!