Gasparilla Island has become one of our favorite places on earth.  Not only is it an incredible location to visit for a beach day, but it is also perfect for photographing family sessions!  The unique variety in backdrops, with its epic banyan trees, gorgeous architecture, and crystal clear teal water always provides for the most amazing portraits. The breathtaking tropical colors of the setting are beautiful no matter what the time of day, but we especially love the warm hues of golden hour just before sunset.  

The evening that we met Courtney’s family at Boca Grande on the island could not have been more stunning, and the soft golden light was totally out of a dream.  We began the session among the banyan trees and walked through the streets together as we made our way to the beach.  Courtney’s family’s outfits were complete perfection, and we loved the way they both coordinated with the setting!  Their daughter was absolutely adorable, and it was so much fun to capture her smile as she explored with her parents and grandparents.  Her family had travelled from Texas to spend time together, and capturing their photos was such an honor!

The waves were calm as the sun began to set, and we finished up the session as their sweet, adventurous little girl explored and played in the water.  The beaches of Southwest Florida are the best place in the world to watch kids take in the vast beauty of the ocean.  The sound of the waves and the tiny wonder of seashells along the shoreline is about as magical as it gets.  We hope that these images are a treasure to this beautiful family as they watch their daughter grow, and that they enjoy many more years of making memories together on the beaches of Gasparilla Island!