Beach Family Photos with the Petruzels

As the founder and lead photographer at Delgado Studios, one of the most rewarding parts of my work is when I get to reconnect with past wedding couples and capture new chapters in their lives. As an NJ family photographer, I really look forward to photographer a former wedding couple’s new chapter in their lives. Recently, I had the chance to do just that with the Petruzel family. Kelsey and AJ, a couple I photographed on their wedding day, invited me back into their lives to document an exciting new season—this time with their beautiful 20-month-old daughter, Willa. We met in Ortley Beach, NJ, just two blocks from their home, to create a stunning set of beach family photos during a perfect early fall evening.

A Special Reunion on the Jersey Shore

I remember photographing Kelsey and AJ’s wedding and how effortless they were in front of the camera. Seeing them again years later, now as parents, felt like coming full circle. It’s always an honor when couples trust me to continue telling their story beyond the wedding day, and this family session was a true reflection of that trust.

Ortley Beach holds a special place in their lives, being not only their home but also the backdrop of so many family memories. The beach in early fall has a unique charm—quieter, with softer sunsets and a gentle breeze that makes everything feel calm and timeless. It provided the perfect canvas for their beach family photos.

Introducing Willa

Meeting Willa was the highlight of the session. At just 20 months old, she already had so much personality—playful, curious, and absolutely adorable. Photographing toddlers is always an adventure, and I love the spontaneity they bring. Willa’s laughter and little bursts of energy gave the images a genuine and joyful feel. Whether she was holding onto her parents’ hands, exploring the sand, or giggling at the waves, every moment was filled with authenticity.

As a photographer, I always strive to balance posed portraits with candid moments. With families, especially with young children, the magic often happens in those unscripted interactions. Willa leaning into her dad’s arms or Kelsey brushing the hair from her daughter’s face—those little gestures become timeless memories. And in the glow of the fall evening, these beach family photos felt even more meaningful.

Natural Light Meets Paparazzi Flash

One of the things I wanted to bring into this session was a creative mix of lighting. The natural sunset gave us that soft golden glow, perfect for warm and classic family portraits. But to give the gallery a modern edge, I incorporated unique flash photography to create the trendy “paparazzi flash” look that has become so popular in lifestyle and editorial photography.

This combination of natural light and bold flash added variety to the session. Some images felt timeless and serene, while others had a fun, fashion-inspired energy. The contrast between the soft pastel sky and the sharp pop of the flash made for a gallery that not only told the Petruzel family’s story but also gave them a collection of beach family photos that truly stand out.

Why Beach Sessions Are So Special

As a photographer, I’ve always believed that the location plays a powerful role in shaping the story of a family session. The beach, in particular, offers something unique. It’s a place where kids can run, parents can relax, and families can just be themselves. The sound of the waves, the open skies, and the endless horizon create a backdrop that is both calming and dramatic.

For the Petruzel family, Ortley Beach wasn’t just a pretty setting—it was their home. Being able to photograph them in a place so personal made the session even more special. The result was a gallery of beach family photos that reflected not just their love for each other, but also their love for the shore.

The Importance of Continuing the Story

What makes sessions like this so meaningful for me is the continuity. Photography isn’t just about capturing single milestones—it’s about documenting the journey. I had the privilege of photographing Kelsey and AJ as they started their life together as a married couple, and now I’ve had the chance to capture them as parents, embracing this new chapter with Willa.

It’s a reminder of why I do what I do. Families change, children grow, and moments pass quickly. But through photographs, we preserve those fleeting seasons. These beach family photos will forever remind the Petruzels of Willa’s toddler years—the way she looked up at her parents, the way she played in the sand, and the joy that filled their lives in that season.

Closing Thoughts

Photographing the Petruzel family in Ortley Beach was a session I’ll always treasure. It combined everything I love about photography—connection, storytelling, and creativity. From the golden glow of the setting sun to the edgy flash-lit portraits, their gallery became a celebration of love, family, and place.

If you’re looking to capture your own family’s story, whether at the beach, in your home, or anywhere meaningful to you, I’d love to help you preserve those memories. These are the moments that matter most, and they deserve to be remembered beautifully.

For inspiration or to learn more about booking your own beach family photos, visit Delgado Studios.