Do you want to know the secret to the best family photos?

Real-life family hangs.

I know. It just seems too easy. But it’s true.

When I photograph a family, I always plan an activity. This helps facilitate those real, candid, memory-making-filled moments!

One of the very best ways to facilitate memorable family photos with your little ones is to involve FOOD. Luckily, that works out pretty well for my beach mini sessions because there are a few great food options nearby. Whether you want to use the treat as a reward for your kiddos during your photo shoot, or you want to grab a warm beverage to keep you cozy for your walk on the beach, I AM HERE FOR IT.

There is a cute little ice cream shop nearby - photographed above. It is walkable to the beach, where we can start and end your session. A Ballard icon, Little Coney ice cream shop sits on the marina, overlooking the beautiful views and rows upon rows of boats. The iconic pink and brick building with a teal door makes for the cutest backdrop for your family photos!

Little Coney does have coffee, so you have options to keep everyone in the family happy! But if you’re looking for espresso nearby, Jibe Espresso Bar is a great spot. Espresso, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, soups, and sandwiches, this place has it all. Walkable to the beach and also has some indoor seating if you want a warm place to sit and enjoy your meal with your sweet fam.

A popular grab-and-go option is Cafe Fiore in Sunset Hill. If you want to make a stop prior to your Spring Beach Mini Session, this is a great spot. Your choice of coffee, tea, treats from local bakeries, and a very cute, modern design, all inside a classic Ballard brick building. If you love the vibe of PNW coffee shops, this one is for you! You can even walk the Golden Gardens stairs down to your session. But, be warned. As many of the locals would tell you, this is not an easy jaunt. On any day in North Seattle, you will find the locals walking the Golden Gardens stairs for a good dose of exercise.

If you’re looking to stay super local - zero walking required, Miri’s at Golden Gardens is the spot for you! Only open on the weekends, they are perfect for my Golden Gardens Spring Beach Mini Sessions. Grab a quick warm beverage, keep the kiddos happy with some delicious poffertjes - dutch mini pancakes with ample topping options. Miri’s is located in the Golden Gardens Bathhouse, right next to the tree grove where we will start your family portraits!

Food keeps spirits high and brings us together. The perfect combo for family pictures! I would love to photograph you at the beach, spending time with your favorite people on the planet, supporting local businesses, and making memories to last a lifetime - with photos to prove it!

Love your photographer,

Anna

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