Cape May, New Jersey, is a treasure trove of picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks, but one gem that stands out is the Cape May Lighthouse. Nestled at the southern tip of Cape May Point State Park, this iconic beacon not only offers stunning views but also serves as an ideal backdrop for unforgettable family portraits.

The Cape May Lighthouse: A Historical Marvel

Standing tall since 1859, the Cape May Lighthouse is a testament to the rich history and maritime heritage of New Jersey. Its towering structure, with its classic red and white exterior, provides a striking contrast against the azure sky and rolling ocean waves. The lighthouse’s presence is not just a visual delight but also a symbol of guidance and hope, making it a meaningful setting for capturing your family’s precious moments.

The Nature Trail: Cape May’s Best Kept Secret

One of the most enchanting features of the Cape May Lighthouse area is the nearby nature trail. Often described as Cape May’s best-kept secret, this trail meanders through lush greenery, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet songs of native birds providing a soothing soundtrack.

The nature trail allows you to experience the best of both worlds: a peaceful nature exploration and the mesmerizing beauty of the beach. Imagine your family portraits with the historic lighthouse in the background, framed by the vibrant flora of the trail – a perfect blend of nature and history that creates a cinematic beauty.

A Cinematic Beauty You Can’t Miss

Whether you’re a New Jersey resident or a visitor, the Cape May Lighthouse is a destination that can’t be missed. The location’s unique combination of historical charm and natural splendor makes it a prime spot for creating timeless memories. As a family portrait photographer, I can attest to the magic of this place. The golden hour, when the sun casts its warm, golden light, transforms the lighthouse and its surroundings into a scene straight out of a movie.

The Importance of Documenting Your Family in Summer

Summer in New Jersey is a special time. The salt air kisses your face, and the warm sun wraps you in gentle hugs, creating the perfect atmosphere for family gatherings and adventures. It’s a season of growth, joy, and togetherness. Documenting these moments is crucial because children grow quickly, and each summer brings new changes and milestones.

Family portraits at the Cape May Lighthouse during the summer capture more than just smiles; they capture the essence of the season, the love shared among family members, and the beauty of your unique story. These photos become cherished keepsakes that you’ll look back on fondly, remembering the laughter, the adventures, and the love.

Book Your Session Today

Don’t let this summer pass without capturing your family’s special moments at the Cape May Lighthouse. Whether it’s an intimate session on the nature trail or a grand portrait with the lighthouse standing tall in the background, I am here to help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Book your session today and experience the cinematic beauty of Cape May Lighthouse – a place where history, nature, and family come together in perfect harmony. Click this link to book your session: https://bokehlovephotography.net/2023/07/13/extended-family-beach-session/

I absolutely loved Jamie and Connor’s Beach Wedding at the Deauville Inn. But first, let me tell you about their love story…

Jamie and Connor’s love story is one that feels straight out of a romance novel. Their journey began on a summer night in Avalon, NJ, on July 3, 2018, which also happens to be Connor’s birthday. It was a night filled with celebration and serendipity. Connor was renting a shore house for the summer with one of Jamie’s college roommates. Jamie decided to visit her friend, and they ended up celebrating Connor’s birthday at a local bar. Jamie insists she wasn’t playing matchmaker, but sometimes fate has its own plans. Jamie and Connor met, exchanged numbers, and felt an instant connection that night.

Over the next few weeks, their connection deepened as they chatted constantly.

Their first date was at Tria Wine Bar in Philadelphia, where Jamie recalls feeling an immediate bond with Connor. He was charming, easy to talk to, and had her laughing all evening. From that first date, Jamie knew Connor was someone special. The more she got to know him, the more she fell in love with him.

Their relationship blossomed, and on August 19th, 2021, Connor proposed.

After a long day at work, Jamie had planned dinner reservations at a new restaurant in the city. Little did she know, Connor had his own plans. In the cozy intimacy of their living room, Connor proposed, and Jamie said yes, marking another unforgettable moment in their journey together.

Together, Jamie and Connor share many passions—traveling, trying new restaurants, watching sports, and attending concerts. Jamie describes Connor as fun-loving and positive, with a great sense of humor that draws everyone to him. Their love is vibrant and infectious, a testament to their deep connection and shared joy.

Jamie had one special request for their wedding day: romantic sunset beach portraits.

We made sure to capture that magic! Their wedding was held at the Deauville Inn on September 10, 2022, in a luxurious tent on the beach, just steps away from the water. The sunset was breathtaking, and we walked out on a dock to get the perfect view for their portraits. The evening was capped off with sparklers, adding a fabulous sparkle to their unforgettable day.

Jamie and Connor’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of their love, surrounded by family, friends, and the stunning backdrop of the beach. Their plans to travel to Greece for their honeymoon, a place that perfectly captures their love for the beach and adventure, will surely create even more beautiful memories.

Thank you, Jamie and Connor, for trusting me with your memories! I wish you nothing but love, luck, and success in your marriage together!

Vendors/Creatives:
Venue: Deauville Inn
Photographer: Bokeh Love Photography
Videography: Scarlett Creek Productions – Nick Marmarou
Day of Coordinator: Judy Brenna @ Deauville Inn
Florist: A Garden Party
Cake: Deauville Inn
DJ: Dinardo brothers – Mike Dinardo
Makeup Artist: Your Day Your Way – Jess Spina
Hair Stylist/Artist: Niki Bachman
Wedding Dress: Simplicity Boutique
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Tux: Suit Shop

 

 

Beach Portraits at the Ventnor Fishing Pier in New Jersey are some of my favorite. It’s more than just an evening at the beach; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories and capture the moments of our children’s growth through photography.

The Importance of Family Time

In our fast-paced lives, it’s crucial to carve out time to spend with our children. These moments of togetherness are the building blocks of their childhood, the memories they’ll carry into adulthood. The beach provides a perfect backdrop for these moments. The laughter as we build sandcastles, the joy in their eyes as they chase waves, and the warmth of the sun on our faces—all these little things matter.

Creating Memories

Each year, we notice the subtle changes in our children. They grow taller, their faces mature, and their personalities develop. These changes are beautifully captured in your annual family beach photography session. The Ventnor Fishing Pier, with its rustic charm and panoramic views, offers a picturesque setting to freeze these moments in time.

Photography allows us to look back and remember the fun we had, the milestones we achieved, and the love we shared. It’s a way to hold onto the past while embracing the future.

The Tradition of Family Portraits

Making family portraits a yearly tradition is a wonderful way to document the passage of time. As our children grow and change, these photos become a visual diary of their childhood. Each year, we all look forward to seeing how they’ve grown not just physically but also emotionally and mentally.

These sessions aren’t just about the perfect picture. They’re about capturing the essence of who you are as a family at that moment in time. They remind us to celebrate the now and appreciate the journey we’re on together.

The Beach: A Happy Place

The beach has always been a place of joy and relaxation for families. There’s something magical about the sound of the waves, the feeling of the sand between your toes, and the endless horizon that brings peace and happiness. The beach is a place where we can unwind, have fun, and connect with each other away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Every season at the beach brings its own unique beauty and experiences. From the bright, sunny days of summer to the serene, misty mornings of fall, the beach is a place to be celebrated year-round. Sessions  with Bokeh Love Photography capture these seasonal changes and the beauty of nature, reminding us of the ever-changing yet constant joy the beach brings.

 

Book your session:

Your Beach Portraits at the Ventnor Fishing Pier are more than just pictures. They are a celebration of your family, a way to cherish your time together, and a reminder of the happiness the beach brings. As your children grow and change, these photos become priceless treasures, capturing the love and joy we share. So, make it a tradition, a yearly celebration of family, growth, and the beauty of life at the beach.

Click here to book your session: https://bokehlovephotography.net/2023/07/13/extended-family-beach-session/

Family Portraits at Ridley Creek are always my absolute favorite! As a photographer with a yearly permit for Ridley Creek, I’m privileged to capture beautiful family moments in one of the most stunning locations in the area. Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Ridley Creek offers a breathtaking backdrop that transforms with the seasons, making it an ideal location for family portraits all year round.

A Year-Round Paradise

Ridley Creek is a lush haven of natural beauty, showcasing a diverse array of seasonal flowers and gorgeous trees. Whether it’s the vibrant blooms of spring, the rich greenery of summer, the warm hues of fall, or the serene beauty of winter, the park provides a picturesque setting that enhances every photograph.

Nature’s Beauty Meets Historic Charm

One of the unique features of Ridley Creek is its perfect blend of natural beauty and historic charm. The park boasts a variety of hand-crafted stone structures, including historic steps and arches that add an element of timeless elegance to any photo session. These features not only provide a stunning contrast to the lush greenery but also tell a story of their own, adding depth and character to your Family Portraits at Ridley Creek.

My Favorite Spots

• Water Features: The gentle flow of water adds a serene and dynamic element to photos. It’s perfect for candid shots of families enjoying the natural beauty around them.
• Historic Steps and Arches: These features provide a touch of historical charm and make for beautiful, structured backdrops.
• Seasonal Blooms: Each season brings its own palette of colors, from the pastels of spring to the rich, warm tones of autumn. These natural elements make every session unique.

Perfect for Families Who Appreciate Nature

Ridley Creek is more than just a beautiful location; it’s a place where families can connect with nature. The park’s expansive grounds and diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for families to explore and create memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of handcrafted stone structures set against a backdrop of natural splendor, Ridley Creek has something for everyone.

In the whirlwind of parenthood, every milestone achieved by our little ones feels like a victory worth celebrating. From those first tentative steps to the blossoming of their personalities, each moment holds a special place in our hearts. Among these cherished milestones, a child’s second birthday stands out as a significant event marking the transition from babyhood to toddlerhood. It’s a time filled with wonder, growth, and boundless joy, making it the perfect occasion for a dedicated 2nd Birthday Portrait Session.

With any 2nd Birthday Portrait Session, you may have some crying, screaming, laughing and bursts of energy and lots of asking for snacks! Listen, it happens. But, if we are patient with these amazing little people, then we are 100% going to get some amazing portraits out of it.

Why is a 2nd birthday photo session so important? Let’s delve into the reasons why capturing these moments and documenting milestones matter:

1. Personalized Creativity: 2nd birthday photo sessions provide an opportunity for creativity, allowing parents to customize the session to reflect the child’s personality, interests, and favorite themes, resulting in unique and meaningful photographs. In my most recent session, Mom and Dad brought their own birthday banners that said “Two Groovy!”. Their 2 year old was wearing the most adorable flower sunglasses and floral bell bottoms to match!
2. Creating Tangible Memories: In today’s digital age, it’s easy to rely solely on smartphones and social media to capture and share memories. However, there’s something truly special about holding a physical photograph in your hands. Printing tangible memories from your 2nd birthday photo session allows you to create a keepsake that can be treasured for years to come. These printed photographs serve as a tangible reminder of the love, laughter, and joy that filled the air on your child’s special day.
3. Celebrating Growth and Achievements: A 2nd birthday photo session is not just about capturing adorable smiles and silly antics; it’s also a celebration of your child’s growth and achievements. Each photograph tells a story, showcasing the milestones reached and the obstacles overcome during their journey from infancy to toddlerhood. By documenting these moments, you’re not only preserving memories for yourself but also creating a legacy that your child can look back on with fondness in the years to come.
4. Capturing Personality: At two years old, children begin to develop their own unique personalities and quirks, and a photo session captures these traits, allowing parents to look back and reminisce about their child’s individuality.
5. Sharing with Loved Ones: Photographs from the 2nd birthday photo session can be shared with friends and family, near and far, allowing them to participate in the celebration and witness the child’s growth and development. You can share your online gallery with virtually all of your family members. This is especially wonderful if they aren’t close enough to visit in person.

And you know what, with every portrait session (but mostly… 2nd birthday photo sessions) I always make the mistake of leaving some prop out, that I should have known the toddler would want! Can you guess what it was? If you didn’t know, ALL KIDS, just LOVE the tractor I have in my studio. Well, I think it was a good reward for sitting nice for some pictures. After all, it’s give and take right? Little smile here, BIG reward of getting to ride the tractor!

I’d say it matched her outfit pretty well, and I think it went with the theme! (Why not, right? Just LOOK at her smile!) And Mom & Dad will always remember that time her 2 year old little soul, just wanted to ride the tractor. One day they will look back at it, and say “wasn’t that a funny moment?”

2nd birthday photo sessions are more than just an opportunity to capture cute photos; they’re a chance to document milestones, create tangible memories, and celebrate the remarkable journey of parenthood. So why not capture the magic of this precious moment and treasure it for years to come? After all, childhood is fleeting, but the memories captured in photographs last a lifetime.

So there you have it, folks! If you’re ready to take your little one’s second birthday celebration to the next level, don’t hesitate to hire a professional photographer for a themed portrait session so you have amazing images to display for their party that’s sure to be “Two Groovy” for words. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Ready to book? Click the link here for the contact page on my website, so we can discuss your vision: Click here!