The Licari Family - Three Generations, Nine Grandchildren, and a Beautiful Evening in Duck

Some family sessions remind me exactly why I love what I do, and the Licari family was one of those evenings.

We met in Duck, North Carolina for an early evening 5:00 PM family photography session. While that isn't my typical golden hour start time, the dunes provided just enough shade to create beautiful portraits while everyone stayed comfortable. With 17 family members to photograph, getting an earlier start also gave us plenty of time to work through every combination without anyone feeling rushed.

This wonderful family included three generations and an incredible nine grandchildren. There was never a dull moment! Between toddlers discovering the sand, cousins laughing together, and grandparents soaking in every second with their growing family, there was so much genuine joy to capture.

One of my favorite parts of large family sessions is watching the personalities of each family shine through. We photographed the entire group together, each individual family, the cousins, grandparents with the grandchildren, and plenty of smaller combinations along the way. Every group had its own energy, and every portrait told a different piece of the family's story.

I especially enjoyed photographing the grandchildren together. Nine kids ranging from toddlers to older children could easily sound intimidating, but they were fantastic. The cousins clearly enjoy spending time together, and those natural smiles made for some wonderful photographs that I know their grandparents will treasure.

Before heading to the beach, we also gathered everyone on the front steps of their vacation home for a few portraits. I always enjoy incorporating the beach house whenever possible because it becomes part of the family's vacation story. Years from now, they'll remember not only the beach but also the place where everyone gathered under one roof.

Sessions like this are a perfect reminder of why so many families choose the Outer Banks for their annual vacations. There are few places where multiple generations can slow down, spend time together, and create memories that last long after the week is over.

Thank you, Licari family, for allowing me to spend the evening with all of you. It was a pleasure photographing your beautiful family, and I hope these images help you relive this special week in Duck for many years to come.