A trip to the beach with two little girls under four is never going to go entirely to plan. And that's exactly how I like it.
I met this lovely family for a beach session on the North Coast of Northern Ireland. We were at one of my most favourite places, the Whiterocks beach, Portrush.
Straight into the water
The eldest was more than happy to get stuck in. She had a brilliant time playing in the water, splashing about and making the most of being at the beach. At three, there's not much need for encouragement when there's water to play in!
While she was busy exploring, Mum and Dad had their hands full keeping up with both girls, looking after the baby and enjoying some time together as a family.
I love photographing families at the beach because there's always something happening. Children are free to run about, explore, collect things and get as wet and sandy as they like. There's no need to organise much. Just let them get on with it.
The reality of family life
Documentary family photography is about observing and photographing what actually happens, as it happens. I'm not there to direct the day or create moments for the camera. I'm there to watch, notice the little details and capture the interactions, the chaos, the fun and all the ordinary things that make up family life.
From the first nappy change to splashing in the sea, it's all part of their beach day, and I want the photographs to tell that whole story.
Family beach photography on the Causeway Coast
Living and working on the North Coast means we're lucky to have some brilliant beaches right on our doorstep. From Portstewart and Portrush to the wider Causeway Coast, there are so many lovely places to spend time together as a family.
A beach family photography session is a great option for family adventures, whether you are everyday beach goers, rain, hail and snow, or more of a summer sandcastle building and ice cream family, these are core family memories, with a fantastic backdrop!
If you're looking for a documentary family photographer in Coleraine, Portrush, Portstewart or elsewhere along the Causeway Coast, I'd love to hear from you.