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Extended family of ten people candidly interacting with each other during their family photos in Carlsbad
Sunset silhouette of a family of 4 looking out towards sunset at their family photos

LOCATION INFORMATION

DEL MAR DOG BEACH
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

get YOUR GUIDE
"WHAT TO WEAR"

THANK YOU

North Beach in Del Mar, often affectionately referred to as Dog Beach, holds the distinction of being the sole area where dogs can enjoy off-leash freedom on Del Mar city beaches. Stretching from 29th Street north to Solana Beach, dogs can frolic without constraints, though during the summer months, leashes are required. The primary section of this beach is situated on the north side of the San Dieguito River Lagoon entrance, adjacent to Camino Del Mar. Along the beach has some breath taking cliffs and rock formations for great backdrops for lovely family photos.

Welcome

As a Del Mar family photographer, one of my favorite spots to shoot is Del Mar Dog Beach—locals know it as North Beach. The mix of coastal cliffs, rocky textures, and soft sandy shores creates the kind of backdrop that makes photos feel alive with depth and beauty.

 

Add in the ocean stretching out behind you, and every direction feels picture-perfect. I’ve photographed families, maternity sessions, and engagements here, and without fail, the reactions are the same—pure awe when clients see just how stunning their portraits turn out.

Del-Mar-Dog-Beach-Family-Photo

LET'S MEET HERE

Paid parking is available along Camino Del Mar, but let's meet by the volleyball courts

THINGS TO BRING

A color coordinated blanket in case we find a spot to sit for the whole family or just the children. Also, bring snacks for the little ones.

WHAT TO WEAR

Please follow my Pinterest Board for great ideas. Also, wear comfortable walking shoes in case we walk a bit.

DINING

LET'S MAKE SOME LASTING MEMORIES
FOR YOUR FAMILY

Del-Mar-Dog-Beach-Family-Photo-mom-daughter

My Approach to Family Photography in Del Mar

Your family is the heart of your world—the ones who make you laugh, challenge you, and remind you what love is all about. Those moments deserve more than a quick snapshot; they deserve to be preserved in timeless photographs you’ll treasure for years to come. That’s where I step in. As a Del Mar family photographer, I specialize in capturing the laughter, connection, and unique personality of your family. Every photo session is designed to feel personal, relaxed, and true to you. Together, we’ll choose the perfect location—whether it’s the beach, a scenic trail, or a place that holds special meaning for you—and I’ll gently guide you when needed while allowing your family’s natural connection to shine through.

 

My goal is always the same: to show the real beauty of your family dynamic. All the personalities, quirks, and love that make you you come together in one story told through images. Many families even walk away from their session feeling closer, more connected, and reminded of just how special their bond really is.

 

know the value of these moments because I lived them myself. Growing up, some of my favorite memories were the simple ones—family walks along the beach or exploring old forts on the San Francisco coast. Those little moments became part of my story, and I’d be honored to help capture yours here in Del Mar.

Testimonials

Profile photo of Juanita Osborne from her Google review of Cary Pennington Photography

J. Osborne

Choosing Cary for our photography needs was undoubtedly one of the best decisions we've ever made. Having seen his work span over the years—from engagement photos to family portraits—he has consistently delivered exceptional results
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