There’s something truly special about watching a family grow through the lens of my camera. Recently, I had the absolute joy of photographing a family I’ve worked with a few times now. Each session feels like a little time capsule, capturing fleeting moments that reflect both change and continuity. This latest session at Iona Beach Park near Richmond, BC, was no exception—it was magical.
Familiar Faces, New Memories
One of the best parts of working with families over time is the privilege of seeing their children grow. Every year brings new personalities, new interests, and new sparks of joy to capture. This family has two incredibly photogenic daughters who made my job feel effortless. Their energy was contagious, and their playful personalities lit up every frame.
Their parents brought a sense of calm and ease to the session—you could tell they’ve done this before. It’s not always easy to be comfortable in front of the camera, but these two made it look like second nature. The result? Authentically beautiful moments that felt natural and timeless.
The Perfect Backdrop at Iona Beach Park
Iona Beach Park provided the perfect setting for this golden hour shoot. Located right by the airport, the park offers such a diverse mix of scenery that it’s a photographer’s dream. We started the session along the beach, where soft sand, gentle waves, and endless blue skies created a serene atmosphere.
The weather couldn’t have been better, with just enough natural light pouring in to make everything glow. Golden hour at Iona Beach is an experience in itself—the way the sun dips just low enough to cast a warm, flattering light on everything it touches is nothing short of magical.
Once the beach portion of the session wrapped up, we headed to an open field nearby. There, the mountains framed the background with quiet strength, while wildflowers added vibrant pops of color. It was the kind of scene you’d imagine in a dream—natural, untouched beauty that feels like it’s been waiting just for you.
Why Golden Hour Makes Every Photo Shine
Golden hour is often referred to as a photographer’s best friend, and for good reason. The soft, diffused light during this time brings a warm glow to skin tones, adds depth to landscapes, and eliminates harsh shadows. It’s flattering, forgiving, and creates an atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly.
For this session, golden hour allowed us to capture photos that were not just visually stunning but also emotionally rich. There’s a certain intimacy in golden-hour light; it wraps around people in a way that feels both gentle and powerful. This makes it perfect for family photography, where connections and emotions are the true stars of the show.
Treasuring the Details
While the big picture moments—like the family walking hand-in-hand along the beach—are always beautiful, it’s the smaller details that often stand out the most. The way the youngest daughter’s laughter caught the light, the affectionate glance the parents shared, or the way the older daughter gently fixed her sister’s hair—all of these moments came together to tell a story of love, growth, and connection.
And oh, those wildflowers! Sprinkled throughout the field, they added just the right touch of whimsy to our sunset backdrop. The vibrant yellows, purples, and whites created a stunning contrast against the golden tones of the setting sun.
More Than Just Photos
What I love most about sessions like this is how they remind us all of the importance of capturing life as it happens. These aren’t just photos—they’re memories, pieces of a family’s story that will be cherished for years to come.
One day, those girls will look back at these images and remember not just how they looked, but how they felt. They’ll remember the warmth of the sun on their skin, the comforting presence of their parents, and the simple joy of a summer evening spent together.
A Session to Remember
This golden hour family session at Iona Beach Park will stick with me for a long time. Not just because of the stunning backdrop or the perfect light, but because of the people in front of my camera. Getting to document their lives and preserve these moments is a privilege I’ll never take lightly.
If you’re thinking about updating your family photos—or if you’re just looking for an excuse to spend a dreamy evening together in a beautiful location—I’d love to help you create memories like these. Because time moves fast, but a photograph lasts forever.
