Whether you’re vacationing on the Crystal Coast or you live here year-round, the beaches of Atlantic Beach and Emerald Isle in North Carolina are the perfect backdrop for family photos.

• The soft sand and golden light? Dreamy.
• The dunes? A timeless backdrop.
• The quiet evenings? Perfect for candid, heartfelt moments without the crowds.

Extended Family Photos on the Beach

This session was all about togetherness: the grandparents who started it all, their children, and one sweet baby girl who brought everyone closer than ever.

If you’re planning a trip to Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle with your family, don’t miss the chance to document it. These beaches are more than just vacation spots—they’re the backdrop for real, unscripted memories to be made.

This session was a perfect example: one set of grandparents, their two adult children and spouses, and the very first grandchild—just six months old—who instantly became the center of everyone’s attention. The joy, pride, and deep connection between them all made this session feel effortless and full of heart. The soft evening light, barefoot walks, and laughter carried on the ocean breeze gave us the most beautiful canvas to work with.

Creating a Stress-Free, Luxury Beach Session Experience

I specialize in lifestyle, prompted-candid sessions that take the pressure off and allow families to relax and truly enjoy the moment to create lasting memories. With wardrobe help, prep guides, and even hair and makeup coordination if needed, everything is designed to be easy from the start. Whether you’re a local or traveling here for a summer escape, these beach sessions are a way to turn your vacation into memories—ones you can hold in your hands, not just scroll past.

Thinking about booking your own extended family photos in Atlantic Beach or Emerald Isle?

I’d love to help you plan something relaxed, meaningful, and truly timeless. Click here to learn more about the MZP Family Photo Experience.

Madison Z Photography provides newborn and family photography in Eastern North Carolina for busy moms who want a stress-free and luxury portrait experience. Also offering maternity, milestone, and baby photography. Based in Kinston, NC, I serve families in Greenville, Goldsboro, New Bern, Washington, Jacksonville, and all throughout Eastern North Carolina.

I offer a high-end, full-service experience including pre-session preparation, exclusive access to the carefully curated Client Closet, a beautiful gallery of emotion-filled images, and an array of family heirlooms such as albums, prints, custom framing, and more to pass down to your children. If you are searching for the perfect maternity, newborn, milestone, or family portrait photographer near Greenville, NC and want to create heirlooms for your family, I can’t wait to serve you!