Everything you need to know about your
LBI PHOTOGRAPHER
I can show you all my favorite hidden gem locations!
LBI PHOTOGRAPHER
engagement, wedding, family & seniors
Sandy toes and salty air is my favorite part of the 18 miles I call home. Long Beach Island is a beautiful place to have your professional photos done. If you are looking for photo session with a local who will show you their favorite spots, offer a stress free experience while working with all the beauty that LBI has to offer you have come to the right place!
GET TO KNOW LEANNA
Beach Haven and Holgate are directly next to each other and can be found on the southern end of Long Beach Island. From weddings and nights out at the Sea Shell Resort to a quick bite at Barrys to home made ice cream at the Woo-Hoo there is always something happening in Beach Haven. Once you see the sun begin to set and the lights on the ferris wheel you know you are in the right place. Just a few minutes drive away is the quiet and relaxing town of Holgate that feels like a different world. Beach Haven traces its history back to the late 19th century when it was developed as a resort community. It quickly became a popular destination for vacationers seeking sandy beaches and oceanfront accommodations. The town's growth was spurred by the extension of the railroad in the late 1800s, which facilitated easier access for tourists from nearby cities like Philadelphia and New York. Today, Beach Haven retains much of its historic charm with Victorian-era architecture, while offering modern amenities and attractions for visitors. Historically, Holgate served as a vital area for commercial fishing and shipping due to its proximity to the Barnegat Inlet. Over time, it has evolved into a tranquil residential area and a popular spot for beachgoers looking to escape the crowds further north on the island. Holgate Beach is known for its pristine sands, birdwatching opportunities, and as a nesting ground for endangered shorebirds, contributing to its reputation as a serene and natural retreat on Long Beach Island.
BEACH HAVEN
BeAUTIFUL BEACHES, SHOPPING & NIGHTLIFE
The perfect spot for your photo session.
Ship Bottom, located on Long Beach Island in New Jersey, is a charming borough known for its central location and beautiful beaches. Named after an incident where a ship allegedly sank off its coast, Ship Bottom offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, vacation rentals, and businesses catering to tourists. It's famous for its access to the ocean and bay, making it a popular spot for fishing, surfing, and family-friendly beach outings. The borough also boasts a variety of dining options, shops like the famous Ron Jons, and recreational activities, making it a vibrant and inviting destination along the Jersey Shore. Home to the hole-in-the-wall bar where I met my husband (The Porthole) and the beach I went to growing up (17th) and my husbands childhood summer home (5th) Ship Bottom holds a very special place in my heart! Ship Bottom is also home to my. favorite spot for morning photo sessions. If this is where you are staying you will love the clean beaches and how your photo session turns out here!
SHIP BOTTOM
right over the bridge
The spot that welcomes you to LBI
Many things changed in the LBI area after superstorm Sandy. One particular walkway and foliage survived the storm and is a favorite location for photo sessions. Surf City has a long history as a seaside community. Originally settled in the late 19th century, it grew around its beautiful beaches and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The town's name reflects its appeal to surfers and beach enthusiasts, drawing visitors seeking relaxation and water sports. Over the years, Surf City has evolved into a popular destination with a mix of charming beach cottages, vacation rentals, and local businesses. Its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly environment continue to attract tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf on the coast of New Jersey. Enjoy quick and easy dining at the famous Wallys or a fine dining experience at the Yellow Fin while on vacation.
SURF CITY
MY FAVORITE PRE SANDY WALKWAY
Superstorm Sandy changed many things on LBI
Weddings, family sessions and engagements are my most popular types of photo sessions on LBI. No matter what town you are staying in, I am happy to help you pick the perfect location for your session. Most people are on vacation to the area and it can get very confusing for them as the entire island (just about!) has the same zip code so they aren't sure exactly where they are staying since it often populates the wrong town. Long Beach Township includes: High Bar Harbor, Loveladies, North Beach, Brant Beach, Beach Haven Crest, Brighton Beach, Peahala Park, Beach Haven Park, Haven Beach, Beach Haven Terrace, Beach Haven Gardens, Bay Vista, Spray Beach, North Beach Haven, Beach Haven Heights and Holgate. The majority of these are tiny towns that get swept into the next closest. It can be very confusing since these towns are over the spread of the entire island with other townships in between. Most time I ask for a landmark (store or restaurant) and I will let you know the closest and best location. It is very common to use the street you are staying on to help make things easier and less travel for you! Be careful to purchase a beach badge for the appropriate township, it is very easy to get confused!
LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP
A random collection of towns
Pristine and sandy beaches in every direction
I would like to say I am in charge but that is a lie, Mother Nature always runs the show. The weather on LBI for your photo session will always change. I don't worry about the weather until I see the hourly forecast the morning of. Each type of weather has it's own set of pros and cons. Full sun leads to vibrant colors in your photo gallery. Overcast skies allow for more background options and less squinting. Storm clouds rolling in can be an awesome backdrop. Sunset is always beautiful when there is a clear sky. As long as it is not a straight west wind (the flies are unbearable), super windy (over 15-20 MPH) or full on rain I can always make any session beautiful! When you email me for your photo session for the first time I provide deep and detailed information about all of our options and how rescheduling works if it is required. Usually we are able to make your session work no matter what the situation! The humidity and wind are the biggest factors for how most people style their hair so keep that in mind and the rest will work out! All of this changes if you are staying in the "Beach Haven Bubble", ask me more about this!
WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?
LBI weather is ever changing
Don't worry, I know how to handle it
We all know how busy life can be. Some families love to schedule a photo session on Long Beach Island while they are all here on vacation. Other families say they are going to but never make the time. One day you will look back and wish you did the photos. You may not remember that extra night you went out to dinner but a 45 minute block of your vacation insures that you capture these memories for the rest of your lives. The sandy toes of your little ones, the laughs from your parents or the moment you propose are all heightened when captured by a professional. Sure, we all have iphones with great cameras now but nothing compares to a true, professional photo session on LBI. Many families that come to vacation are large groups here you can read about what you can expect for an extended family photo session.
FAMILY PHOTOS
WHy SHould you have them done
How often are you all togther?
When preparing for family photos, it's best to coordinate outfits that are cohesive in style and color scheme without being too matchy-matchy. Opt for timeless and comfortable clothing choices that reflect your family's personality and the setting of the photoshoot. Solid colors or subtle patterns tend to photograph well, avoiding large logos or busy prints that can distract from the focus on faces. Layers and textures can add depth to the photos, so consider adding accessories like scarves, hats, or jackets if weather permits. Ultimately, choose outfits that make everyone feel confident and complement each other, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing family portrait. I suggest that no one wears dresses or shirts that have a "flounce" of short material or layer over top. This will often blow on the windy beaches and can be frustrating during a session.
WHAT TO WEAR
Coordinate, DONT MATCH
I love shades of blue, white and gray,
So much goes into planing your vacation, let booking with me be the easiest part of it. Using the contact page of my website reach out and you will get a detailed response that answers all of the basic questions you have. From there we pick a date, time and location and solidify the details for your photography session. I do work in areas other than Long Beach Island so don't be shy about inquiring! Upon arrival of your session we will over the family dynamics or any other details we need to discuss. I will check in with you often through out the session and will ask several times before I leave if there is anything else you feel we need. I am a mother and understand if children are involved it can be tough but don't worry, I will do my best to help you keep them engaged and happy! Usually about a week or so after our session you will have your full gallery of edited images to use as you please!
MORE DETALS
FROM AN LBI PHOTOGRAPHER
I will make this easy for you.
On Long Beach Island the sun rises over the bay and sets over the beach. No matter what town you are staying in there is a place to find spectacular views. Sunrise and sunset on Long Beach Island are breathtaking experiences. At dawn, the sun paints the sky with hues of pink, orange, and gold, casting a serene glow over the tranquil waters and sandy shores. As the day progresses, the island comes alive with the warm rays of the sun, creating a perfect backdrop for beach activities and relaxation. In the evening, the sunset transforms the horizon into a canvas of vibrant colors, reflecting off the gentle waves and leaving a lasting impression of natural beauty and peace.
LBI LANDSCAPE PHOTOS
GOLDEN HOUR OR SUNRISE at IT"S FINEST
Long Beach Island has the best views!
There sre so many options for great places to stay on LBI! If you are lucky enough to have a shore house here or a family member that does, as the saying goes you are lucky enough!
HOTELS ON LONG BEACH ISLAND
FOR YOUR JERSEY SHORE GETAWAY
Airbnb and VRBO are great also
Hotel LBI
350 W 8th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 Great for all ages and has a pool!
The Mainland
151 NJ-72, Manahawkin, NJ 08050 Great for all ages and close!
Drifting Sands
119 E 9th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008. A more budget-friendly option.
Surf City Hotel
800 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City, NJ 08008 A more budget-friendly option.
Sea Shell Resort
10 S Atlantic Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008 A great spot! Beach views, awesome food, and locally owned!
