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LIFE THROUGH THE LENS
Photographic Journey with Cary Pennington

South Ponto Beach Family Photos - Carlsbad Family Photographer Cary Pennington

  • Jan 3, 2024
  • 4 min read

Updated: Sep 2

There’s just something magical about photographing families at the beach during golden hour—especially at South Ponto Beach in Carlsbad. The Yen family brought all the love, laughter, and energy, and the evening couldn’t have been more perfect.


From the very first shot, their personalities came to life. Mom had that warm, nurturing presence, dad kept everyone laughing, their daughter’s giggles were completely contagious, and little brother was just soaking up all the love (and stealing the show, as babies do). It felt less like “posing” and more like just hanging out together on the sand—exactly how family photography should be.


A mother sitting on a log with her baby son on her lap and her young daughter next to her.


A smiling family of four sits on a wooden log at the beach. Parents wearing pink and blue hold young children. Lush greenery in background.

Father sitting with his young daughter and baby boy during Carlsbad beach family photos.

The Magic of South Ponto Beach

One of my favorite things about South Ponto Beach is how much variety it offers in just one location. There’s a pretty little pathway leading you down from the parking lot, beach rocks scattered along the shoreline, and of course those massive jetty rocks that kids love to climb. Pair that with wide stretches of golden sand and the calming sound of waves rolling in, and you’ve got one of the best backdrops for family photos in Carlsbad.


For the Yen family, we mixed it up—each spot gave us something different, but together it told their story in such a natural way.


Parents kissing on a log, each holding a child. The woman in pink holds a crying baby; the man in blue holds a toddler. Greenery in background at Ponto beach.



Mom sitting with her young daughter and baby boy at a Carlsbad beach.

Smiling family of four at the beach; parents holding a baby and toddler. Sandy ground, greenery background. Casual attire, relaxed mood.

Golden Hour Glow

And then there’s the light. If you’ve ever been to the beach during golden hour, you know it’s pure magic. About 30 minutes before sunset, everything softened into the prettiest glow. The golden tones wrapped around the Yen family like a warm hug, making every little laugh, every hug, and every loving glance feel extra dreamy.


As the sun slipped closer to the horizon, the sky exploded into pinks and oranges, and I couldn’t help but smile behind my camera. This is why I love what I do—it’s not just about taking photos, it’s about capturing those fleeting, genuine connections that families will hold onto forever.


Mother and father sitting with their young daughter and baby boy at South Ponto Beach.
Mother sitting in the sand twirling her daughter during a family session at the beach.
Mother sitting in sand twirling her daughter at the beach for family photos.
Parents sitting with their two young toddlers, Mom kissing baby boys head during beach family photos.


Mother and father sitting with their young daughter and baby boy, mom and dad and boy looking at each other.

Young girl laughing during a family portrait session.

A mother sitting on her knees in the sand looking down at her baby boy in her lap at Ponto beach.

Tips for a Stress-Free Family Beach Session

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little things that can make a big difference when you’re planning your Carlsbad beach family photography session. Here are a few of my favorite tips:

  • Bring a blanket that complements your outfits. Not only is it great for sitting on the sand, but it also ties your photos together beautifully.

  • Pack snacks. Hungry kids don’t always want to smile for the camera. Pouches like Once Upon a Farm, small snacks, or even a few treats tucked away can save the day.

  • Don’t forget a comfort item. Whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal or a small toy, having something familiar nearby helps kids feel relaxed and adds an extra layer of personality to your photos.

The goal is to keep it fun and low-stress so your family can just be themselves—that’s when the magic really happens. Check out these 5 Secrets for amazing family photos in Carlsbad.



Smiling family sitting on sandy beach; woman in pink dress holding baby, man in blue shirt holding toddler in beige dress, sunny day.


A family of four sitting on the beach. Parents are holding a baby and a toddler. The mood is joyful and relaxed, with soft pastel colors.

Young girl sitting in sand holding baby brother during a family photo session.


A family of four stands on a pebbled beach. The parents smile, holding a baby and a toddler. The sky and ocean form a serene backdrop at South Ponto beach.

A Celebration of Connection

Sessions like this are why I adore being a Carlsbad family photographer. The Yen family reminded me that the best photos aren’t about perfect poses—they’re about capturing the laughter echoing across the sand, the quiet little glances between parents, and the way kids just dive headfirst into being kids.



Family of four stands on a rocky beach at sunset, holding hands, facing the ocean. The sky is vibrant with orange and yellow hues.


A couple kisses on a rocky beach at sunset, holding children. The sky is vibrant with orange and yellow hues, creating a serene mood.


Silhouetted couple lifts children against a colorful sunset on a beach, creating a joyful and warm family moment at Ponto beach, CA

Photographing the Yen family at South Ponto Beach was an absolute joy. Between the natural beauty of the beach and the love this family shared, it was the perfect recipe for timeless portraits they’ll treasure for years to come.


Family photos aren’t just about looking at the camera and smiling—they’re about freezing the little moments you’ll want to remember forever. The way your kids run barefoot across the sand, the way your partner looks at you when you’re all together, the joy and chaos of this season of life. These photos become your family’s legacy, something your kids will look back on years from now.

If you’ve been thinking about booking your own session, there’s no better time. Let’s create images that feel like you—authentic, connected, and full of love. Learn more about my Carlsbad family photography sessions and let’s start planning your story.


For more inspiration and planning tips, check out my blog on

stunning family portraits at the beach—a step-by-step guide to making the most of your session.




FAQ's - South Ponto beach family photos


How is the parking at South Ponto beach?

At the southernmost end of South Carlsbad is a pay lot ($15 per vehicle during peak season). There’s actually a limited amount of free parking on the outer edge of South Ponto Beach.

What time of the day is good for Ponto beach family photos?

That hour before sunset "the golden hour" is usually best lighting for photos. Unless there is a cloud cover then anytime is good. Other option is early morning hours 6-8am.

Should we bring anything to our family photo session?

If the children are young, then bring little snacks or treats and something to drink. Also, bring a blanket if needed for sitting photos.

Are dogs allowed on the beach at Ponto beach, Carlsbad?

Unfortunately, no dogs allowed any where on South Ponto beach. Unleashed or leashed.


Do you want a stress free family photo session, get your:

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