If your family is a little adventurous (and not afraid to get a bit wild with the ocean breeze), then a family photoshoot in Big Sur might be your kind of thing. That’s exactly what R + L did with their three boys—and it was the perfect mix of chaos, fun, and sweet moments.


These boys were silly, rambunctious, and full of energy—basically everything you’d expect from three brothers. And that’s exactly what made this session so fun. R + L wanted photos that felt real, not stiff or overly posed. They wanted something to remind them of the California coastline they’ve called home for years. Since they’ll eventually be moving, these photos are their way of holding onto this season of life: the boys being wild and goofy, the sound of the waves, and the rugged coastline that feels so “Big Sur.”


Three people walking together on a scenic trail surrounded by evergreen trees and coastal brush at sunset.
People holding hands and walking down a winding path surrounded by brown brush in moody natural lighting.
A Special Family Touch


One of the most meaningful parts of this session was something R + L brought with them—a handmade blanket. It wasn’t just any blanket though. It was created by L’s great-grandmother, who had a tradition of gifting one to the family as soon as each of her grandchildren got married. She has since passed away, but bringing that blanket along was such a beautiful way to include her presence in the photos.


The kids curled up in it during the session, and it added such a heartfelt layer to their story. You could feel the love stitched into every square, and it was the sweetest reminder that family photos aren’t just about the people who are present—they’re about honoring the connections that last through generations.


Two people in cozy white sweaters share an intimate moment along a rocky coastline with blue ocean waters and cliffs.
A romantic black and white portrait of a couple in sweaters embracing along a rocky coastal landscape with mountains.
A family plays with a white blanket along rocky coastal cliffs with blue ocean waves and mountains in the background.
Why Soberanes?


Big Sur has a lot of amazing spots for family photos, but Soberanes is a special one. It’s not your calm, sandy beach type of location—it’s cliffs, rugged trails, crashing waves, and wide-open ocean views. It feels raw and real, which makes it such a beautiful backdrop for families who want something a little different.


But here’s the thing: Soberanes isn’t for every family. There are cliffs and uneven trails, so it definitely requires kids who can follow directions (and parents who aren’t afraid of a little adventure). If your family fits that description though, wow… the payoff is unreal.



Dramatic coastal landscape at sunset with rocky cliffs overlooking a rugged Pacific Ocean shoreline and distant islands.
Family enjoying scenic coastal views along rugged Big Sur cliffs with Pacific Ocean and rocky coastline in background.
Dramatic coastal cliffs and rocky shoreline of the Big Sur coastline in California during sunset.
R + L’s Session


R + L knew their boys could handle it. And they totally rose to the occasion. Sure, there was a lot of silliness—funny faces, running around, climbing rocks—but that’s exactly what made the photos feel so true to who they are.


One of my favorite things about photographing families at Soberanes is how the scenery adds to the story. The boys were goofing off, Mom and Dad were laughing, and meanwhile, you’ve got this dramatic Big Sur coastline wrapping around them. The result? Photos that feel both natural and epic at the same time.


Tips for Families Considering Big Sur Photos:


  • If you’re thinking about a family session in Big Sur, here are a few things that make the experience go smoother:


  • Pick the right spot for your crew. If your kids are tiny and love to run free, a flat sandy beach might be a better choice. If they can handle a little adventure, Soberanes is incredible.


  • Don’t stress about perfection. The best photos usually come from kids being themselves—laughing, exploring, maybe even being a little silly.


  • Dress for the vibe. Big Sur is moody and coastal. Earthy, neutral tones always look amazing here (and layers help when the wind picks up).


  • Trust the process. Family sessions are about capturing connection, not stiff smiles. The candid moments are usually the ones you’ll love most later.


Takeaways:


R + L’s session at Soberanes was everything I love about family photos in Big Sur: adventurous, playful, meaningful, and full of genuine moments. With their boys running around, the rugged cliffs behind them, and that handmade blanket tying in family history, the photos tell a story that’s bigger than just one day—it’s about love, legacy, and this little slice of California they’ll always carry with them.


So if you’re looking for a spot that’s a little wild, a little adventurous, and a whole lot of beautiful—Soberanes might just be calling your name.

A group capers playfully along a scenic coastal path with rugged cliffs and blue ocean waves in the background.
Black and white photograph of people gathered on a scenic coastal overlook with rugged cliffs and ocean views.
Two people walk up rocky volcanic terrain towards a hilltop observatory against blue sky and clouds.
A family enjoys a scenic coastal view while sitting on a cliff overlooking the rocky Pacific shoreline on a sunny day in Big Sur.
People walking along a scenic coastal trail with dry brush and ocean views at sunset.
A row of coastal rock formations and cliffs at sunset with natural light illuminating the rugged landscape.
A series of family members walking on a winding dirt trail through coastal brush at sunset.
People walking along a scenic coastal trail overlooking mountains and ocean views in California.
Three people pose playfully on a hiking trail with mountains and blue sky in the background.
A family walks together on a scenic trail surrounded by evergreen trees and brown grasses at dusk.
A child runs along a hiking trail at dusk while two figures can be seen in the background.
A group of people standing together on a coastal path with evergreen trees in the background at dusk in Big Sur.

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