Wester Family - Corolla Beach Family Photography

One of my favorite parts of photographing families on the Outer Banks is discovering the connections I have with the people I meet. During the Wester family's session in Corolla, I found out that Dad and I are both Virginia Tech graduates. It's always fun finding those unexpected connections while spending an evening together on the beach.

We met for a 7:30 p.m. family photography session in Corolla, where the skies were filled with soft clouds that created beautiful light from beginning to end. The cooler temperatures and gentle breeze made it a comfortable evening for everyone, especially with two little ones joining us.

Like many sessions with young children, things didn't begin perfectly. Their youngest needed a little extra time to settle into the evening, and that's completely normal. One thing I've learned after photographing families on the Outer Banks for more than 25 years is that patience almost always wins. There is never any need to rush a child who simply needs a few minutes to feel comfortable.

Once everyone relaxed, the evening really came together. Their oldest son was full of smiles and energy, especially when Dad lifted him high into the air, creating one of my favorite photographs of the session. Their youngest quickly joined in on the fun as well, giving us some wonderful expressions while safely tucked in Mom and Dad's arms. Before long, we were able to capture a beautiful variety of family portraits, individual photographs of each child, relaxed images of Mom and Dad together, and plenty of natural moments in between.

One of my favorite images from the evening is the family walking hand in hand down the shoreline. It perfectly captures what an Outer Banks vacation is all about: slowing down, spending time together, and making memories that will become even more valuable as the years pass.

Thank you, Wester family, for trusting me to capture your time on the Outer Banks. It was a pleasure meeting another Hokie family, and I hope these photographs always remind you of your vacation together in Corolla.