Welcome!
If you’re here, that means you’re officially on my email list and already thinking about next year’s memories. Which I’m so excited about! Spring and summer carry a special kind of magic that asks us to slow down. To breathe a little deeper. And let the light sink in.
Whether your session is filled with movement, quiet tenderness, or the in-between glances you never want to forget, this guide is here to help you prepare with ease and intention.
My hope is that it makes your session feel simple, inspired, and true to you – and that you walk into your photos feeling held, supported, and excited for what we’ll create together.
I’m so grateful you’re here. Let’s get into it!
Why Spring & Summer Are Pure Magic
There’s something about this time of year. Long golden hours, water that feels like relief, barefoot adventures, kids being kids, and a pace that finally softens. These seasons are made for honest storytelling… where your family or partnership simply gets to be itself.
This guide gathers my favorite locations, wardrobe inspiration, pro tips, and fun session ideas to help you dream up the session that feels most like you.
Locational Magic — Where We Can Go
Creek & Forest Spots
These are cool, quiet, and made for families who want to splash, play, and not worry about crowds.
Across Spring, The Woodlands, and Huntsville are tucked-away creeks with shaded trails. Cool, quiet, and perfect for privacy.
Why They’re Great:
✧ Natural shade
✧ Cool water
✧ Minimal crowds
✧ Kid and dog friendly
Best For:
– Nature lovers
– Kids (and dogs!) who want to splash
– A slower, gentler session
Galveston-Specific Locations
Big skies. Wide water. Boardwalk nostalgia. Galveston brings so much variety that we can shape your session into anything you want. Dreamy, playful, romantic, adventurous.
Beach by Pleasure Pier
Soft sand, endless water, and the pier in the distance. A calmer version of the boardwalk energy.
Best For:
– Sessions focusing on the bond with your dog
– Families wanting connection and play
– Epic sunrises & sunsets
Tips:
✧ Sunrise = pastel skies + empty beach
✧ Bring a sand-friendly blanket
Pleasure Pier
Bright colors, nostalgic lights, and the hum of the boardwalk. Perfect for couples and families who want a lively, story-rich session with movement and texture.
Best For:
– Playful couples
– Families who don't mind a little bustle & play
– Saturated color + evening glow
Tips:
✧ Weekday sessions = fewer crowds
✧ Bring a light layer, the wind can pick up in the evenings
The Strand
Historic charm, textured brick, and pastel storefronts – a coastal downtown full of character.
Best For:
– Folks looking for an urban feel near the water
– Families/couples who love exploring
– Variety in backdrops
Tips:
✧ Early morning for soft light (early afternoon works well on overcast days!)
✧ Bonus: coffee at MOD + photos = the perfect morning
East Beach
Wide, breezy, more peaceful — a quiet stretch with room to run and breathe.
Best For:
– Folks who love the beach
– Active families, couples & dogs
– Movement-heavy sessions
Tips:
✧ Less crowded than the beaches by the pier, but still busier in peak summer
✧ Great for warm golden hours
Make a Day of It!
Listen, I know that Galveston is a bit of a drive for all of us. My advice? Skip the hustle and bustle of ensuring you leave before weekend traffic to the beach, and plan to make a day out of it all.
Here are some recommendations I have (that we could even include as part of your session!):
Breakfast at Sunflower Café • Moody Gardens • The Aquarium • Arcade time on the pier • A stroll along the seawall with ice cream in hand
Other Session Ideas (That Don’t Need An Overcrowded Beach)
Backyard Water Play
Sprinklers. Cold fruit. Popsicles. Water balloons. Nothing staged, just real joy.
Boat Ride or Lake Visit
Canyon Lake, Lake Conroe, or any smaller private lake. Think sun hats, bare feet, cool water, and that soft glow bouncing off the surface.
Studio Sessions
Bright, air-conditioned, and flexible for mid-day timing.
Studio options:
The Creative Photographer & Warehouse Houston are two of my favorites to work at!
A Day-in-the-Life Adventure
Arcade, museum, bookstore, your favorite cafe, your home – anywhere you already make memories.
If you have an idea, big or small, I’d love to help dream it up with you.
Wardrobe Inspiration (Scannable + Simple)
Overall vibe:
Light, breathable, movement-friendly, and cohesive without matching.
For Adults:
– Linen, cotton, gauze
– Flowy dresses / relaxed button-downs
– Neutrals + soft summer colors (sage, clay, cloud blue, sand)
For Kids:
– Comfy, flexible, quick-drying
– Avoid logos and neon
– Bring backups if water is involved
For Dogs:
– Quick-dry collars
– A lightweight bandana if you want a pop of color
– Long leash in case the location requires it
Session Tips for Warm Weather
✧ Sunrise is your friend — soft light, empty spaces, cooler temps
✧ Pack water, snacks, and maybe extra clothes
✧ Embrace getting wet / sandy / messy
✧ Let kids (and dogs!) lead, the best photos come from play
✧ For couples: think movement, softness, touch
✧ For families: think connection over poses
Let’s Dream Up Your Warm-Weather Story
Whether you’re imagining a salty beach morning, a creek adventure, or a documentary-style outing, I’d love to help you create something unforgettable.