Shooting couples at Florida’s gulf beaches is always an enjoyable experience. Weeks before our photo session Rhianna and I were facebooking back and forth preparing for the engagement photos. I had suggested we shoot a picnic setting on the white sandy beaches of Honeymoon Island. I sent the email hoping that they wouldn’t think it too cheesy. When Rhianna responded that she thought it was a great idea I was excited! This general theme would allow them to loosen up and create a romantic environment while still not restricting them by directing them from photo to photo. They supplied the blanket, picnic basket, wine, strawberries, and grapes. It was just like a picnic they would have planned without me, but I was able to just slip in and document it. Then to make things even better, Honeymoon Island was a place that they both spent a lot of time at as a couple. I love when everything comes together so perfect!

Both Rhianna and Jared were so easy going it made for such a great shoot. It’s great when there’s an empty palette as far as artistic expectations with wedding photography. It seems that photographs come out better when there’s ability to flex with real world conditions.

I had a great time meeting Rhianna and Jared. I’m so excited about shooting their wedding next year!

Wow is all I can begin to say! These are by far some of my favorite family images to date!

We had scheduled a late afternoon shoot but as we all know in the Tampa during the summer at 4pm a thunderstorm can roll in at any minute. Well that’s just what happened! We decided that the next morning would be our best bet for keeping dry. Small price to pay when you get to shoot an amazing group of people in an excellent location like the beaches of Florida.

This first set is mostly images from the picnic area at Honeymoon Island. There were some great palm trees and a field of flowers that made for great shade and happy kids. In the next few days I’m going to be uploading a second sec of the beach shots. Lots of splashing in the water and exploring the boulders on the coast in the radiant summer sun!