Eleven years ago, I had the privilege of photographing Jenny’s daughter at her matric dance on the South Coast - a milestone moment filled with excitement, anticipation, and family pride. When Jenny reached out again, this time for her son Rene’s matric dance at Zimbali , I was honoured to be invited back to capture another unforgettable chapter in their family’s story.

Since our last session, the family has moved from the South Coast to vibrant Salt Rock on the North Coast. Rene now attends Curro School Salt Rock, and his matric dance was held at the stunning Zimbali Beach Club - a perfect backdrop for such a special occasion.

On the day, Rene was joined by Kate, who looked absolutely gorgeous in her elegant dress.

Rene himself was every bit the dashing young man, ready to celebrate this milestone with style and confidence.
Together, they made an unforgettable pair.

There’s something truly special about being invited back by families over the years. It’s a reminder that professional photography isn’t just about beautiful images - it’s about preserving memories, witnessing growth, and celebrating life’s milestones together.

Thank you, Jenny, for trusting me once again to capture these precious moments for your family.

To Rene and Kate, wishing you all the best for finals, later this year.

There’s something truly magical about a proposal on the beach—especially when it’s wrapped in a little mystery, a dash of rain, and a whole lot of love.

Earlier this week, I received a message from Taylor. He wanted to propose to his girlfriend, Lechelle, and hoped I could help capture the moment. The catch? He needed it done at short notice, and the weather had been anything but cooperative—days of strong winds, overcast skies, and rain.

But sometimes, the weather has its own plans. As the afternoon unfolded, the rain eased, and the wind died down, leaving us with soft, moody skies—perfect for a beachside love story.

With my camera in hand, I headed down to South Port Beach. While waiting, I snapped a few photos of my wife, keeping an eye on the shoreline. In the distance, I spotted a couple walking along the beach—Taylor and Lechelle, about 500 metres away, slowly making their way toward me.

As they approached, I casually introduced myself and asked if they’d mind if I took a few photos. I showed them my Instagram page, and they were instantly keen. What Lechelle didn’t know was that Taylor and I had already planned everything behind the scenes.

We started with a few relaxed shots, letting the couple settle into the moment. Then, I asked Lechelle to turn her back to Taylor for a quick pose. While she was facing away, Taylor quietly dropped to one knee.

“Lechelle, turn around,” I said, camera ready.

She turned, surprised and emotional, and found Taylor waiting with a ring. Her answer was an immediate, joy-filled yes.

Congratulations, Lechelle and Taylor! Thank you for trusting me to be a part of your story. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness and adventure together.

Thinking of proposing?

If you’re planning a special moment and want it captured forever, get in touch. I’d love to help tell your story—rain or shine.

Thuli recently celebrated her birthday with a portrait session at Studio039.

She wore a gorgeous red outfit and brought along a beautiful cake and fresh flowers, adding a personal touch to her shoot. We kept the session relaxed, focusing on capturing her personality and the joy of the occasion.
Happy birthday, Thuli—thanks for letting me be part of your celebration!

Thinking about marking your own milestone? Book your studio session and let’s create memories you’ll treasure for years to come.

We’ve all seen those adorable, perfectly posed newborn photos online—tiny hands tucked under chins, babies curled up in baskets, every detail just so. Luke this photo by Marissa Amick Photography. (https://marissaamickphotography.com/).

Trust me, I’ve tried them myself!

But over time, I realized that posed newborn sessions just aren’t what I offer, and here’s why:

Why I Don’t Offer Posed Newborn Sessions
Time & Patience: Posed newborn sessions can take up to four hours (sometimes even longer), all depending on how the baby feels on the day.
Safety First: Traditional posed newborn photography often requires supports, props, and very specific positioning. If not done correctly, it can be unsafe. I believe the baby’s well-being always comes first, and without specialized training, I’d rather avoid those setups.
Specialized Skills: Posed newborn photography is a niche that requires dedicated training, a lot of patience, and sometimes even assistants. My expertise and passion lie in family, maternity, and lifestyle photography—so that’s where I focus my energy.
Authenticity: My newborn clients are drawn to natural, honest images. They value real moments—tiny yawns, sleepy cuddles, family togetherness—over perfectly posed, prop-heavy photos.

Why I Prefer Lifestyle Newborn Sessions
Lifestyle (or documentary-style) newborn sessions are about capturing genuine connection, emotion, and the everyday beauty of life with a new baby.

Here’s what makes them special:

Natural Connection: Instead of perfect poses, I focus on the bond between baby and family—snuggles, tiny hands wrapped around fingers, the way parents look at their newborn.

Comfort for Baby: Babies are happiest in their parents’ arms or in their own crib. Lifestyle sessions avoid over-handling, keeping things calm and safe.

Family-Centered: The story is about the whole family, not just the baby. Siblings meeting their new brother or sister, parents rocking the baby to sleep—these are the moments that matter.

True-to-Life Memories: Years from now, you’ll look back and remember what those first weeks really felt like—the cozy chaos, the quiet cuddles, the little routines that filled your days.

No Stress About Posing: Babies do what babies do - sleep, yawn, stretch, or cry. Instead of trying to control every moment, lifestyle photography embraces it all and finds beauty in the unscripted.

Timeless Storytelling: These images carry a deeper emotional value because they capture real life at home—something that only becomes more meaningful with time.

If you’re looking for newborn photos that feel honest, relaxed, and true to your family’s story, a lifestyle session might be just what you need.

Whether at home or in my studio, I’d love to help you remember these early days, just as they are.

Weathering the Unexpected
Family getaways on the South Coast always have a bit of adventure, and this one was no different. The forecast called for rain, but on the morning of our session, the sun made a surprise appearance - just long enough for us to make the most of it at Umtentweni Beach.

Capturing a Unique Family Chapter
This session was all about blending family fun with the anticipation of welcoming a new little one. Mom and Dad arrived with their two daughters—one full of energy, the other still quite young and, understandably, not always in the mood for photos. These honest moments are part of what makes family photography so meaningful.

Classic & Lifestyle Portraits: We mixed timeless family poses with relaxed, candid shots—letting the family’s personalities shine through.



Maternity Moments: Gentle, natural poses with Mom, using beautiful lighting to highlight her anticipation and the family’s excitement for their new arrival.

Sibling Connection: While one sister was eager to explore, her younger sibling sometimes needed a break. We embraced these real moments, capturing both the giggles and the quieter, more reflective times.

The Magic of Light and Patience
Good lighting can transform any session, and we made the most of that brief window of sunshine—using both natural and studio lighting on location to create soft, flattering images. More importantly, we worked at the family’s pace, allowing time for the little ones to warm up and feel comfortable.

Why These Images Matter
Although we aim for that perfect portrait, sometimes it’s just about capturing your story as it unfolds, with all its genuine emotion. From the playful moments to the ones that take a little patience, every image is a piece of your family’s journey.

Strawberry-Themed Cake Smash – Peyton Turns One

Peyton celebrated her first birthday with a strawberry-themed cake smash session at Studio039.

Before the main event, her parents joined her for a few relaxed family portraits, capturing the excitement of this milestone.

Peyton wore a cute pink dress with strawberries, perfectly matching the playful décor styled by Michelle. The highlight was a chocolate cake, which Peyton enjoyed smashing and tasting—resulting in joyful, candid photos that capture her personality and the fun of turning one.

Studio cake smash sessions are a wonderful way to mark your child’s first birthday, combining family moments with creative themes in a comfortable environment.

If you’d like to book a themed milestone session for your child, contact me to reserve your date.

Some wedding days are remembered for their sunshine. Others, for their stories. Simoné and Johan’s Lake Eland celebration was the latter—a day wrapped in rain, laughter, and a bit of magic.

Simone got ready at the Kraal Bridal Suite with her two bridesmaids and flower girl, with her mom joining in to help with the dress. These quiet, behind-the-scenes moments always feel special—full of anticipation, excitement, and a few happy nerves.

Johan got dressed at a cottage close by with his two groomsmen. It was a relaxed start to the day, with a bit of quiet anticipation before everything began.

It rained…and rained…and then rained some more. But Simoné and Johan took it all in stride, never letting the weather dampen their spirits. As the ceremony ended, the rain finally eased just enough for us to step outside and start capturing their first moments as a married couple.



We made our way toward the cliffs, umbrellas in hand, with the gorge covered in mist. The atmosphere was calm and a little surreal—perfect for photos that felt both honest and timeless.

A quick shoutout to Leandre and Michelle, who made sure the bride and bridesmaids looked incredible, no matter the weather. Their work brought an extra touch of elegance to the day.

Simoné and Johan, thanks for trusting me to document your story—rain, mist, and all. Here’s to many more adventures together.

Family Sunset Session – Jadine & Saveshan, Southbroom

It’s been an incredible journey watching Jadine and Saveshan’s family grow.

Since meeting them in 2018 for a couple session, I’ve had the privilege of photographing their wedding, two maternity sessions, and three family sessions.

This latest shoot took place in Southbroom, in an open field surrounded by bush. As the sun set, we created a series of portraits that captured both the landscape and the family’s connection. The session was also a celebration of their daughter’s 5th birthday—Jadine brought a number 5 balloon to mark the occasion.

Thank you, Jadine, for always trusting me to capture your family’s milestones.

If you’d like to book a family or milestone session, contact me to reserve your date.

Family Sunrise Session – Ramsgate Beach, South Coast

I first had the privilege of photographing Donna and her family just after the Covid regulations eased in 2020.

It’s always rewarding to see returning families, and this time, there was a new addition - a little girl joining the family.

The session took place on a beautiful August morning at Ramsgate Beach. Despite a slight chill in the air, we had a stunning sunrise and plenty of relaxed, natural moments. The family embraced the early start, and the light made for a great variety of portraits.

It’s a pleasure to help families like Donna’s document their memories over the years.

If you’d like to book a sunrise family session on the South Coast, get in touch to reserve your date.

Studio Maternity Session – Nosipho and Family

Nosipho visited Studio039, situated in Sea Park just 10km outside Port Shepstone, for her maternity session with her husband and son.

She brought three different outfits, including a beautiful maternity dress hired from Maxine Willimse Designs. The session included a mix of solo maternity portraits and family images.

Studio sessions at Studio039 offer the flexibility for outfit changes and a comfortable environment, making it easy to capture a variety of looks and moments.

It’s always a privilege to help families celebrate and remember these milestones.

If you’d like to book a studio maternity session at Studio039, contact me to reserve your date.

Emily’s Matric Dance – St Michaels, South Coast

Emily’s matric dance shoot took place at an estate in St Michaels, a village on the South Coast. The location included bush, green grass, and a swimming pool. The shoot was held at midday—except, unlike the ideal golden hour, we worked in both shade and full sunlight to get a variety of images.

Emily wore a green dress and looked confident and poised throughout the session, like a supermodel.

Service providers included:
Hair: Caressa Marie Redzz
Makeup: Nargis
Nails: Beauty by Shanez

Despite the challenging light, we captured a range of portraits that reflected Emily’s style and personality.

If you’re planning a matric dance or special event, get in touch to book your session.

Unit 28 Laguna, Uvongo – Holiday Accommodation Photography

I recently photographed Unit 28 Laguna in Uvongo for Van Heerden Letting.

The unit features three bedrooms and an open plan lounge and kitchen, making it a comfortable option for holiday accommodation on the South Coast.

One of the highlights of this property is the sea view, which can be enjoyed from the verandah.

To showcase the features of the unit, I used a combination of natural light and studio lighting throughout the shoot.

This approach ensured that every room appeared bright, welcoming, and true to life.

Professional images help holiday accommodation stand out in a competitive market and give guests a clear sense of what to expect.

If you need professional photography for your accommodation or property listing, contact me to discuss your requirements.

Kirsten’s Family Sunrise Session – Trafalgar Beach, South Coast

I first photographed Kirsten and her family in 2021, so it was great to see them again for a sunrise session at Trafalgar Beach. Early mornings mean an early start, but the light at sunrise is always worth it.

Kirsten, her husband, and their 6-year-old son made the most of the quiet beach and soft morning light. We captured a mix of relaxed family moments and classic portraits, with the sunrise giving everything a warm, natural feel.
Returning clients like Kirsten are always a pleasure to work with, and it’s rewarding to help families create memories they’ll look back on for years.

If you’re interested in a sunrise family session, contact me to book your date.

It’s been 14 months since my last blog post, and for that, I’d like to start with an apology. Life has a way of sweeping us up, and while I’ve been busy capturing memories for so many of you, I’ve neglected this space where I get to share my heart and thoughts. Today, I want to change that by sharing something deeply personal — my "why" for family photos.

Let’s rewind to 1989. I was 17 years old, still in school and we were living on the Kwazulu Natal South Coast. During a quick visit to my grandparents (who lived in Gauteng at the time), a photo was taken. The photo is of me, my sister, my grandparents, and my mom. My dad was behind the camera, a Kodak film camera to be exact. The photo isn’t a studio portrait or a meticulously planned shot; it’s more of a snapshot. But here’s the thing — this is the only family photo I have that includes all of us. Just one.

No other memory preserved of our family in this way.

My grandparents are no longer with us, but I am blessed to still have my parents with me today.

When I look at that photo now, it means the world to me. It’s more than just an image; it’s a connection to a moment in time, a glimpse into the people who shaped my life, and a reminder of love that transcends years and absence. It’s a snapshot of history — my history.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I had the privilege of photographing a beautiful family. The grandparents, two of them, surrounded by their seven grandchildren. The photo was taken at Umzumbe Beach on the KZN South Coast at sunrise, the light soft and golden, wrapping the family in a warm embrace. These grandchildren are young, scattered across the world, each one bringing their spark of life to the photo. The occasion? A visit to celebrate the grandmother’s birthday. It was a fleeting moment, like so many in life, but now it’s frozen in time — a moment that will undoubtedly be cherished for generations.

This is why I do what I do.

Because these moments matter. They matter more than words can express. Family photos aren’t just about pretty pictures; they’re about connection, legacy, and the stories we leave behind. They’re about celebrating the now while preserving it for the future.

When I look at that photo from 1989, I’m reminded of the value of what I create for my clients today. It’s not just about the composition, the lighting, or the technical skill (though those are important); it’s about the emotion, the love, and the essence of family that I strive to capture.

So, if you’ve been putting off that family photo session, let me encourage you — don’t wait. Life moves quickly, and these moments are fleeting. Whether it’s a quick visit to the grandparents or a grand celebration, take the time to document it. You’ll never regret having those memories to look back on.

To all my clients and followers, thank you for allowing me to capture your stories through family photography. Your trust and support mean everything to me. Let’s keep creating memories together — because every family deserves a story that lives on forever. Whether you’re looking for professional family photo sessions, sunrise portraits, or legacy photography, let’s make it happen. Your cherished memories and generational photos are worth preserving.

When it comes to family photography, the debate between candid and posed shots is often at the forefront.

While candid photos beautifully capture the spontaneous joy and genuine emotions of a family, posed photography holds its significance in preserving the essence of each family member's personality. Understanding the importance of posed family photography can help you appreciate the artistry and effort that goes into crafting these timeless moments.

Let's delve into why posed family photography is more than just striking a pose.

Carefully curated family portraits capture the essence and elegance of relationships.

While candid photos are cherished for their spontaneity, posed family portraits often become cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. These carefully composed images, displaying your family in their best light, become tangible memories that stand the test of time. Imagine your grandchildren flipping through an album, marveling at the timeless elegance and love encapsulated in these meticulously posed family portraits.

Posed family photography isn't just about creating picture-perfect moments; it's about capturing the connections and dynamics within a family. By gently guiding families into various poses, a skilled photographer can highlight the unique bonds between parents and children, siblings, and even extended family members. These intentional poses often showcase the love, affection, and unity shared among family members, creating lasting memories that reflect the warmth and joy of being together.

Posed family photography allows you to document the milestones and growth of your family over the years. From the first steps of a toddler to graduation, each stage of life can be beautifully immortalized through carefully curated poses. These photographs serve as a visual timeline, reflecting the evolution of your family and providing a nostalgic reminder of the precious moments that have shaped your journey together.

Posed family photography allows for the creation of elegant and sophisticated images that capture the essence of grace and poise. From the gentle tilt of a head to the subtle placement of hands, each pose is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of refined beauty. These portraits not only showcase your family's elegance but also serve as a testament to the artistry and skill of the photographer in capturing these moments with finesse and creativity.

In conclusion, while candid moments hold a special place in our hearts, posed family photography adds a layer of artistry and elegance that preserves the beauty and essence of your family's connections and milestones.

As a photographer experienced in both candid and posed family photography, I understand the value of capturing the natural, spontaneous interactions within a family, as well as the importance of crafting carefully curated poses that reflect your family's unique dynamics and personalities. My approach blends the authenticity of candid shots with the artistry of posed portraits, ensuring that every aspect of your family's story is beautifully preserved and celebrated.

Embrace the beauty of both candid and posed family photography and create timeless keepsakes that will be treasured for generations to come.

You have searched online and found a photographer whose work you like. You have communicated via email and booked the photographer for your photoshoot.

How do you know they are trustworthy?

I have heard some horror stories in my 18-year career.

There are a few things you should look out for before handing over any money.

1. Do they have a website?
   A website is one of the most important assets a professional photographer has. Not only does it showcase the photographer’s portfolio, but it has other important information that is important for clients to review. These include: 
   1. The website domain name. Is it a free website, or does the name of the website correspond to the domain name? In my case, my website is Sean van Tonder Photography and my domain name is www.seanvantonder.co.za.
   2. “Contact” page - should have an address or contact number?
   3. “About Me/Us” Page. The “About Me” page will introduce you to the photographer and provide you with a little more insight as to who they are.
      
      
2. Is their business listed on Google/Bing?
   1. A quick Google/Bing Search of the photographer’s business name will provide you with important information.
      See the diagram below.
      
3. The photographer’s business name on Facebook and Instagram
   1. Do they have a Facebook or Instagram page?
   2. Are they active on their social pages?
   3. Check their reviews.
   4. Are their contact details the same on their website and their social pages?
      
4. Is your photographer available during office hours to chat?
   We live in a digital era, where we mostly communicate via email or text messages. Is your photographer available to chat during office hours? Do they answer the cell phone or if they missed your call, do they call you back?
   At times photographers are busy, but they should at least return your call within 24 hours (max).
   1. Reach out to your photographer at least two weeks before your shoot date (even sooner if it is a wedding). Make sure they have your date and time scheduled.
   2. If you are still concerned, give your photographer a call on the phone or set up a meeting(video or in person).

There are a lot of "fly-by-nights" out there. Please research your photographer before making a decision.

I have lived on the South Coast for most of my life and have been shooting weddings for over 18 years and never had the opportunity to work at Umtamvuna River Lodge near Port Edward on the KZN South Coast, until recently.

Chanelle and Willie recently exchanged vows in this beautiful setting. It was a very humid day, quite strange for November on the South Coast.

Chanelle looks gorgeous.

Willie looked handsome.

The ceremony took place in the garden of the river lodge overlooking the mighty Umtamvuna River.

While taking family photos, the clouds started rolling in from the south, the rain was on its way.

A short boat right to the beach (thanks Kevin for your great skipper skills).

We had the most beautiful light when we arrived on the pristine beach.

I love the large scapes.

Arriving back at shore, it was starting to drip with rain. A few quick shots that Chanelle wanted.

The reception was celebrated with friends and family. It was raining quite hard and we had to finish off the evening with some night photos.

Thank you Chanelle and Willie for an amazing day. Thanks, Kevin and Nicole for being amazing hosts.

Caitlyn and Zaybe exchanged vows at The Packshed in Margate on 17 September.

Overcast weather and a possibility of rain were predicted for this wedding. They truly got it wrong. The day started with meeting Zayne and the guys at Margate Country Club for a round of golf. While chatting to them a few drops of rain fell. I thought to myself that the rain was only predicted for the afternoon and we were in for a wet day.

A little later, I met Zayne as he was getting ready to go and meet his bride.

Caitlyn's hair was done by Jolene and makeup by Kendra. She looked gorgeous wearing a dress by Shona and Belle.

The ceremony and reception were beautifully decorated by Bree from Ivy Events.

The moment arrived for Caitlyn to go and meet Zayne. The beautiful ceremony was officiated by Dianne Visser.

The bridal party was waiting eagerly for their photo session. The afternoon light changed from overcast to beautiful warm colours.

Everything about this day was perfect. The food was delicious. The party went on long into the evening. 

Thank you, Caitlyn and Zayne for allowing me to be part of your very special day. 

On the 10 September, Chaney and Jade exchanged vows at the The Packshed in Margate on the Kwazulu Natal South Coast.

The morning started out with prefect weather and I met Jade at his home after he had just been out for a ride.

Chaney looked gorgeous wearing a stunning dress from Bride and Co.

The couple had a beautiful ceremony officiated by Dianne Visser.

As the afternoon progressed, it became overcast and quite glooming, but that did not stop us from creating amazing images.

Décor and flowers was beautifully created by Ivy Events. 

Congratulations Chaney and Jade, what an incredible evening!

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

As you prepare for your little one to enter the world and join your family, your to-do list is probably a mile long. Having a professional maternity photoshoot may seem like just another item to add to your list, but it can be a perfect time to remind you of the ability and beauty of your body during your pregnancy journey.

You deserve to have this incredible moment in your life to be documented, to celebrate with your partner and family the joy of a new baby entering the world.

I have put together this handy guide to assist you to make the most of your maternity photoshoot and get images you will love.

WHEN TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION

At approximately 20 weeks, you will establish the sex of the baby, that's if you want to know. This is the ideal time to schedule your booking. Certain photographers are booked quite for in advance so it’s important to book as early as possible to make sure they are available.

PLAN TO BOOK IN THE THIRD TRIMESTER

The best time to take your photos is in your third trimester, between 28 and 32 weeks. At this point, your bump will be showing well and it will look great in photos. You will still want to be able to move around and pose comfortably. While you can do your maternity session later in your pregnancy, there’s a good chance you will have more trouble posing and standing for long periods of time.

TALK TO YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER ABOUT YOUR DESIRES

Every photographer is different and every mom-to-be is different as well. If there are specific images you would like, be sure to let your photographer know. Talk to your photographer about what images are important to you and whether you’re interested in doing partial or implied nudes. It’s important to let your photographer know what you’re comfortable with before your session so they can better plan out what shots and poses to do.

PAMPER YOURSELF

Your hands will appear in almost all of your images, so you want them looking good! Your maternity session is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself a little with a professional manicure.

HAVE YOUR HAIR DONE

Continue the pampering with a visit to your hair stylist. If you’re not sure how to have your hair done, think about what you want your photos to look like. If you are going for a more casual look, a loose and simple hairstyle may be the perfect option. But if you want your images to look a little more formal, don’t be afraid to go dramatic with an elegant look. I can assist with putting you in touch with some amazing hair stylists.

CONSIDER GETTING YOUR MAKEUP DONE

You want to look your best and I highly recommend a professional makeup artist. They will know how to highlight your best features for photos. If you decide to do your makeup yourself, you want to go a little bolder with your makeup than you normally would to make sure your eyes and lips are well-defined in your images.

REST THE NIGHT BEFORE

It can be hard to have any decent sleep during pregnancy. Go to bed early and try to get a full night’s sleep. That way, you will be refreshed and relaxed at your session the next day.

STAY HYDRATED AND DON'T SKIP BREAKFAST

It’s critical to drink plenty of water both before and during your session. Hydrated skin will look fresh, and staying hydrated will help retain your energy throughout the shoot. Even if you may have a case of nerves about stepping in front of the camera, be sure to eat breakfast before your session. (yes I know it might be early, but you need to maintain your energy levels).

DECIDE WHO YOU WANT IN THE PHOTOS

Your family members are absolutely welcome at your maternity session, especially if you want to include your spouse or other children. Just keep in mind that extra people can be a distraction and can even make you feel less comfortable in front of the camera, so avoid bringing friends and extended family members along. It's important to let your photographer know about who will be participating in your photoshoot.

BRING ALONG SENTIMENTAL ITEMS

Anything special you want to include in your photos is a great addition. Whether that’s a family heirloom, your ultrasound, or even your own baby blanket or favorite childhood toy, these mementos can add special meaning and a personal touch to your images.

CHOOSE WHAT TO WEAR

Whether you want to keep it casual or wear a flowing maternity dress, take time before your session to choose your outfits and make sure they fit and look the way you want them to look. You should pick out clothing for any other family members who will taking part and make sure to choose outfits that coordinate and don’t clash with your own.

There are a few companies that hire maternity outfits, if you need assistance, get in touch with your photographer.

KEEP YOUR COLOURS SIMPLE

You and your baby bump will be the primary focus of your images, so you don’t want to wear any bright colors or loud patterns that will distract. Instead, stick with neutral colors and pastel tones that will look great with any background and any skin tone.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT UNDERWEAR

Give some thought to your underwear and bra as well. For example, if you’re wearing a white dress, don’t wear dark underwear that will show through the fabric. If you plan on doing partially nude images, make sure to bring along lacy undergarments that will look good in your photos. I always recommend nude underwear and strapless bra.

PREPARE THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SESSION

The evening before your session, make sure to pack a bag with a light snack and drink plenty of water.

USE NON-GREASY LOTION

The night before your session, take time to apply some non-greasy lotion to reduce any dry spots on your skin. Be sure to avoid using any artificial tanners or spray tans as they may give your skin an unnatural orange look.

DON'T WEAR ANYTHING WITH AN ELASTIC

While you should definitely dress in comfy clothes to go to your session location, be sure to take off any clothes with elastic bands at least an hour before your shoot. Elastic leaves marks on your skin, and your skin should look naturally smooth. Be sure to remove any hair ties or other tight bands from your wrists.

DON'T STRESS

It’s easier said than done, but do your best to relax and not worry about your session. Your photographer will walk you through every pose and position. All you have to do is be your natural, beautiful self!

CONSIDER BOOKING A NEW BORN PHOTOSHOOT

Once baby arrives, life gets busy. I remember when my son was born, it was crazy. We were new parents and not really sure what to expect. Time flew past and when we looked again, he was 3 months old.

The ideal time to have a newborn photoshoot is within the first two weeks. They are too precious at this time. They have little muscle memory and it is amazing how supple they are.

I wish you all the success with your pregnancy.

If you would like to book your maternity or newborn photoshoot with me, please get in touch.

Get in Touch

Best Time for Beach Photos

I’ve spent most of my life living on the coast, and I absolutely love the beach. KwaZulu-Natal has some incredible beaches, and I’ve photographed at nearly every beach between Salt Rock on the North Coast and Port Edward on the South Coast.

Since I’m often asked about the best time for beach photos—whether it’s a couple, wedding, maternity, or family session—I’ve put together this little guide to help you plan.

One thing I’ve learned: you can never predict the weather weeks in advance. I usually check forecasts a day or two before the shoot for the most accurate prediction, but even then, weather apps can get it wrong!

That said, here’s what my years of experience have taught me:

Best Time of Day

The absolute best time for beach photos is during the “golden hour”—the hour just after sunrise or the hour before sunset.

• Mornings are usually more predictable, with less wind and fewer people on the beach.
• Afternoons can be beautiful too, but the wind tends to pick up, especially certain times of the year.
• Outside of these hours, the light is harsh, it gets hot, and the beaches can be crowded—so early is almost always best!

Best Months

• August & September: Our windiest months. Sunrise shoots work best.
• October: Start of the rainy season—weather is the most unpredictable.
• October to January: Unpredictable weather, forecasts change quickly.
• December: Often overcast, not always sunny. (I do about 30 family shoots this month, constantly rescheduling for the best weather!)
• February & March: Humid but beautiful, with hot days and little wind.
• April & May: Cooler mornings, but generally fantastic weather.
• June & July (Winter): Chilly mornings, but very predictable and stunning conditions—occasional cold fronts, but otherwise great.

No matter the month, I truly look forward to creating memories for you!

If you have any questions about timing or want advice for your specific date, just let me know. I’m always happy to help you plan the perfect beach photoshoot.

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