Black and white family photos have a way of pulling us in—past the surface smiles and curated details, straight into the emotion of the moment. They strip away the distractions of color and leave only what truly matters: connection, expression, and the energy between the people in the frame.

Okay, let’s be real. Summer is beautiful… but long. And if your kids are anything like mine, they’re bouncing between “I’m bored,” “I’m starving,” and “Don’t talk to me” about 12 times an hour while being glued to a screen of some kind. So here it is: my lovingly curated list of magical (and some free!) things to do this summer with your kids in San Diego.

Styling your family for a photo session can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're dreaming of a soft, earthy palette, something a little more bold and fashion-forward, or timeless neutrals with beautiful texture, you have so many options. And good news: they don’t all involve shopping from scratch.

You know those summer days that don’t ask anything from you? Just a breeze in your hair, sun on your skin, and time that stretches like warm caramel? That’s the energy we want for your photos. So if you’re wondering what to wear for summer photos, come sit by me. I’ve got you.

Tucked into the golden hills of Del Mar, I spent a dreamy morning photographing a family of five—mom, dad, one bright-eyed boy, and two giggly daughters. We began inside their home, where the light fell gently through the windows and laughter echoed off the walls.

Every year, as the days stretch longer and the air warms, my family and I make our annual pilgrimage to the strawberry fields. It’s one of those traditions that’s woven itself into the rhythm of our lives—the sticky fingers, the red dribble down our chins, the whispered reminder to try not to eat more than we buy. The summer sun meets a sky so massive and blue it feels like a dream, while rows of green stretch before us, bursting with tiny red jewels.