I met Amanda three years ago and had no idea that one day I’d be photographing her family for these New Smyrna Beach family photos—but I’m so glad I did! This session was especially meaningful, not only because of the gorgeous light, dunes, and ocean backdrop, but because of all the memories this place holds for Amanda and Roman.

A Friendship That Started through Homeschool Hybrid

I met Amanda through our homeschool hybrid school, where she was very involved and where our two oldest kids are in the same grade.

I remember thinking, “She seems like someone I’d love to be friends with.” Not long after that, Amanda messaged me and asked if I wanted to chat on Marco Polo (which, for the record, I absolutely love).

We quickly realized how much we have in common, and I’ve come to deeply value our heartfelt friendship.

A Family with a Heart for Adventure

Amanda and Roman have always had a dream of traveling the world—introducing their kids to new cultures, languages, and experiences. So when she told me they were planning to move out of the country, I was so sad!

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In the middle of all the planning and wrapping things up here in Florida, I asked her when the last time was that they had family photos taken. She told me it was when their oldest was 18 months old!

I practically begged her to do a session before they left—the place where Amanda grew up, where she and Roman got married, and where they’ve raised their kids.

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The Kiddos!

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A Meaningful Setting for New Smyrna Beach Family Photos

We decided to shoot at Grayce K. Barck Park in New Smyrna Beach.

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It’s one of my favorite spots for New Smyrna Beach family photos, with its soft dunes, boardwalk, and the way the light glows at golden hour. But beyond its beauty, it’s where Amanda and Roman got married!

Photographing their family in the same spot where they said “I do” felt so symbolic—capturing not only who they are now, but where their story began.

Heartfelt Moments and Radiant Connection

You don’t have to scroll far to see how much this family adores one another. The way the kids look at Roman, the way Amanda’s eyes light up when she laughs—it’s all so heartfelt and real.

Their love is expressive, playful, and full of energy.

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The kids jump on their parents’ backs like it’s part of their daily routine, and it’s so refreshing to see that Amanda and Roman are still so into each other after all these years. Their connection is both radiant and graceful, a joy to photograph from every angle.

Capturing the Essence of Family

My goal in every session—especially when photographing New Smyrna Beach family photos like these—is to highlight the chemistry, relationships, and personality that make each family unique. I want you to look back at your photos and remember not just what you looked like, but how it felt to be together in that season.

Because if you’re a parent, isn’t it just like real life when you’re having a moment with your spouse and your kids happen to want to be part of the moment too?! I love these photos below!

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Amanda and Roman, I’m so honored to have captured this heartfelt chapter in your family’s life before your next big adventure. Thank you for trusting me to tell your story—it truly means the world.

If you’ve loved this post and are inspired by Amanda and Roman’s session, I’d love for you to browse a few of my other family blogs here. Or reach out to say hello—I’d love to help you plan your own session before your little ones grow up any more!