There’s a special kind of pressure—and an even bigger honor—in being asked by another photographer to do a session for them. That’s exactly how I felt when my dear friend and fellow photographer Amy of Amy Buelow Photography invited me to photograph her daughter Maya’s senior session. And not just Maya—her whole beautiful family and their sweet pup joined us for the shoot. 🐾
This session was such a joy from start to finish. The light was absolute perfection, especially toward the end, and the beach location we chose gave us everything: rocky coastline, soft sand, glowing skies, and just enough wind to give Maya’s flowy wardrobe that magical, effortless vibe.
Photographing a Photographer’s Family
Photographing another photographer’s family is a little like cooking for a chef—you know they’ll appreciate the nuances, but you’re also praying the soufflé doesn’t collapse. 😅 Amy is not only a friend but someone whose work I admire, so being asked to capture this moment for her daughter meant the world to me.
Luckily, Maya made it easy. She’s stunning, grounded, and brought such a peaceful energy to the shoot. The soft pinks and neutrals she wore were just perfect for the beach setting—simple, classic, and right at home with the landscape.
Family Photos with a Senior Session? Yes, Please.
One of the best parts of my custom senior sessions is the flexibility to include the people—and pets—who matter most, if you choose. For Maya, that meant capturing not only her senior portraits, but also sweet moments with her siblings, parents, and their adorable dog, Bailey. 🐶
Whether it’s the last time everyone’s home before college starts, or just a chance to capture this season together, adding family photos to a senior session is something I always encourage. These photos aren’t just about the senior year milestone—they’re about honoring the whole story.
Custom sessions are truly your session, and we can structure them however you’d like. Want to focus 90% of the time on your senior and just squeeze in a quick family photo at the end? Perfect. Prefer to work the whole family into the flow of the session? We can do that, too. In Maya’s case, we went all in on the family connection—capturing sibling groupings, individual shots of Maya with each parent, and beautiful moments with the whole crew. It’s all about telling the story that matters most to you.
Planning Your Boston Beach Senior Photos
Thinking about senior portraits by the water? Whether your style leans toward sandy beaches or rocky coastlines, I’ve got you. I photograph seniors up and down the coastline—from Massachusetts to New Hampshire and even southern Maine—and each spot has its own kind of magic.
Wardrobe-wise, Maya nailed the look: soft colors, flowy silhouettes, and textures that moved with the breeze and glowed in the sun. For beach sessions, I always recommend light fabrics, earth tones or pastels, and minimal patterns. They photograph beautifully and never distract from you.
The best beach senior photos feel natural, timeless, and personal—like your favorite summer day, captured forever.
Let’s Make Something Beautiful Together
If you’re dreaming of beach senior photos with a relaxed, editorial feel (and maybe your dog tagging along!), I’d love to connect. My senior sessions are all about capturing who you are right now, with all the little details that make your story unique.
You can learn more and see full galleries over at www.cristenfarrell.com/seniors. I limit the number of beach sessions I take due to distance, and my calendar fills up quickly in those golden light months (late spring and early fall are beach gold), so reach out soon if you’d like to reserve a spot.
Let’s make your senior photos feel as effortless and unforgettable as you are!
Cristen Farrell is a Boston Senior Portrait Photographer offering a variety of Senior Session packages, but a Custom Session is the way to go for the most personalized experience and variety of photos. Cristen will capture you in a natural and authentic style, and you will have fun along the way! If you are looking for Boston Area Senior portraits, a North Shore Senior Photographer, or beach senior photos, reach out to Cristen by clicking on the contact form on this page. Don’t forget to follow Cristen Farrell Photography on Instagram, too!
