Family Session at St Clair Beach, Dunedin
After moving to Dunedin, one of the first things I noticed was how close everything is to the coast. St Clair Beach quickly became one of my favourite places to visit, whether for a walk, a coffee, or simply to enjoy the ocean views.
I'd had this location on my list of places to photograph for a while, and when I arrived for this family session, I was reminded why. While St Clair Beach is known for its beautiful shoreline, we actually spent most of our session away from the sand, in an elevated area overlooking the beach. Surrounded by large trees and with sweeping views of the ocean below, it felt like the perfect mix of coastal and natural scenery.
The children loved exploring the area, climbing up the paths and investigating their surroundings. One of the things I enjoy most about family photography is allowing kids the freedom to be themselves. Rather than expecting them to stand still and smile at the camera, I encourage families to interact naturally, play together, and enjoy the experience.
As the session unfolded, we captured a mixture of candid moments and relaxed portraits, all while taking advantage of the beautiful light filtering through the trees. The combination of the greenery and views across St Clair Beach created a stunning backdrop that felt uniquely Dunedin.
You don't always need to be right on the beach to enjoy the beauty of the coastline. Sometimes the best spots are the ones tucked away from the crowds, where families can relax, explore, and simply spend time together.
