There’s something magical about Oceanside, California. Its laid-back charm, wide sandy beaches, and iconic pier make it a standout destination for families looking to relax and reconnect. Whether you're visiting for the first time or making it a yearly tradition, Oceanside offers something for everyone—and it’s also an incredible place to document your memories with professional photography.

There’s something uniquely magical about this stage of life: the endless energy, the mood swings, the giggles that come from nowhere, and the fierce declarations of independence (even if they’re still figuring out how to zip their own jacket). Toddlers are a whirlwind of personality, and capturing that on camera can feel equal parts exciting and intimidating.

One of the most common questions I get asked before a newborn session is: What should we wear? And honestly, I love that you’re thinking about it because your photos should reflect you at this sweet, fleeting moment in your family’s story. But here’s the thing: You don’t need to overthink it. Let’s talk about what works and why.

10 years…

was how long doctors estimated it would take my kidneys to fail.

I was 20 at the time.

It took 9.

POV: A photographer who knows the best photos happen when kids are free to be themselves. Whether they’re running, jumping, giggling, or making silly faces, I welcome the chaos. Because those wild, unfiltered moments are where the magic lives—the joy, the connection, and the memories you’ll treasure forever.

Most people only feel that having pictures taken should happen when their children are little. Because they grow so fast, and change so much, having family pictures taken feels like a must. As parents, we just don’t want to forget anything. But as kids become teens and even young adults, yearly family photos don’t get prioritized.