Fall Beach Family Photos at Atalaya Castle
As a family photographer, few things are more rewarding than being invited back to capture milestone moments in a family’s journey. This past fall, I had the privilege of photographing the Bloomfield family again for their beach family photos at the stunning Atalaya Castle.
I’ve worked with April and Jordon for years. It began with documenting their engagement and wedding. Then, their baby shower and Tyler’s lifestyle newborn session. It’s been incredible to watch their family grow, and this session was especially exciting since Tyler had just turned one and was starting to walk!
A Historic Backdrop: Atalaya Castle
Before diving into the photo session, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beautiful location. Atalaya Castle, located in Huntington Beach State Park, is a hidden gem in South Carolina. This Spanish-inspired historic site was built in the 1930s by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Archer was a wealthy philanthropist, and Anna was an accomplished sculptor. They designed Atalaya as both a home and a studio, where Anna could work on her sculptures while Archer could work on his writing. “Atalaya” comes from the Spanish word “watchtower,” as the castle was designed to look out over the surrounding land.
Over the years, Atalaya Castle has become one of the most picturesque spots in the Lowcountry, offering stunning views of the lush grounds and the ocean. It’s no wonder that families like the Bloomfields love having their photos taken here. Whether you’re capturing portraits in the castle’s historic courtyard or along the beach, Atalaya provides the perfect mix of nature and architecture for a memorable session.
Preparing for a Fall Family Photo Session on the Beach
Fall family photos at the beach are always a great choice but require special planning. The crisp autumn air and golden sunset light make for gorgeous photos, but the weather can also be unpredictable. Here are a few tips for dressing and preparing for a fall family photo session on the beach.
1. Layering Is Key
Fall weather can be cooler in the mornings or evenings, but the afternoon sun can warm things quickly. Layers are the best way to stay comfortable and stylish. Fortunately, this late September beach family photos at Atalaya Castle was a warmer day. April wore a green flowy dress that perfectly fit the surroundings. Jordon and Tyler had coastal vibes with their sage green shirts and khaki bottoms.
2. Choose Earthy Tones
The beach in fall is filled with rich, warm colors—think golden yellows, deep oranges, and earthy greens. For family sessions like this one, choosing clothing colors that complement natural surroundings is essential. The Bloomfields nailed this with their fall-inspired outfits.
3. Consider Footwear
You want to keep practicality in mind when it comes to beach family photos. Avoid shoes with heavy heels or anything too formal. The Bloomfields wore comfortable footwear for this session. Tyler’s tiny shoes were a cute addition and perfect for his newfound walking abilities. If you’re planning a beach session, opt for barefoot or simple shoes that won’t sink into the sand or distract from the natural beauty around you.
4. Keep the Kids Comfortable
One of the most important aspects of any family photo session is keeping the kids happy and comfortable. Since Tyler was just learning to walk, we wanted to ensure his outfit allowed plenty of movement. April and Jordon also brought a few toys and snacks, keeping him entertained during the shoot. A comfortable child will be much more likely to smile and interact with the camera.
Capturing Tyler’s Big Milestone
One of this session’s highlights was capturing Tyler’s recent milestone: walking! We were determined to make this an essential part of the photos. Watching him take his first steps along the beach was magical. The way his parents cheered him on and the look of pride on their faces created such a beautiful moment. Seeing this little one walking confidently across the sand was heartwarming, and we captured it from multiple angles.
Tyler is already a curious and lively little boy. He’s full of energy, and it was clear from the moment we started the session that he was ready to explore every inch of Atalaya Castle and the beach. We took advantage of the scenery, capturing the family near the castle’s exterior and then moving to the shoreline, where the soft light of the fall sunset created a glowing atmosphere.
A Family Affair: Extended Family Joined the Session
Another unique part of this session was having extended family join in. April’s grandparents, mom, and stepdad were all present, which added another layer of joy to the photos. There’s something so special about having multiple generations together in one frame. The love and connection between family members were evident. These kinds of images will be cherished for years to come.
We took family portraits with everyone, highlighting the bonds between grandparents, parents, and little Tyler. These moments captured the strong family ties and the tender interactions that make each family unique. It was an honor to document such a special day for the Bloomfield family, with many people they love gathering together.
Wrapping Up the Session with Beachside Memories
As we wrapped up the session on the beach, the warm glow of the setting sun cast a beautiful light on the sand and water. Tyler, now more comfortable walking, explored the sandy surroundings. We snapped candid moments of him laughing and playing with his family. These images are always some of my favorites, showcasing the authentic, unscripted moments that families will cherish forever.
Why Fall Beach Family Photos at Atalaya Castle Are So Special
The fall beach family photos at Atalaya Castle offer the perfect blend of history, nature, and family connection. The stunning architecture, the serene beach backdrop, and the love shared among family members made this session unforgettable. I’m grateful to have captured this chapter of the Bloomfield family’s journey.
If you’re considering a family photo session on the Carolina coast, I highly recommend the unique setting of Atalaya Castle and the surrounding beaches. Whether you’re looking for a classic, timeless portrait or candid beach moments, this location offers something for everyone. And don’t forget—fall is the perfect time to schedule your session for that warm, golden light that makes your family photos even more magical.
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