Extended Family Portraits at New Smyrna Beach

When you’re celebrating something as meaningful as a 50th anniversary, gathering everyone for extended family portraits at New Smyrna Beach is a perfect way to honor the occasion. This beautiful session was held at the family’s beachfront rental house—and while the weather threw us a wild curveball, the reward was pure Florida magic.

I met up with this family on a summer evening at their beach house rental in New Smyrna Beach. It was the kind of location photographers dream about: direct beach access, gorgeous dunes, and a big, happy group ready to celebrate their parents’ milestone anniversary. Little did we know the skies had an unexpected show planned for us too.

A 50th Anniversary Worth Celebrating

Fifty years of marriage is something worth pausing for. It’s more than just a number—it’s a lifetime of shared memories, raising children, and now watching grandchildren run around the beach laughing. This family was full of joy, love, and connection. Every interaction was sweet and meaningful, and it was clear how much this milestone meant to them.

Their extended family portraits captured grandparents with grandkids, sibling groups, couples, and of course, the couple of honor. The whole session felt like one big celebration—and as someone lucky enough to be there, I was honored to capture it all.

From Rainstorm to Rainbow Skies

Florida weather loves to keep us on our toes. As we were setting up, out of nowhere came a sudden downpour. But this family had the best attitude—they stayed dry under the porch, cracked jokes, and waited it out with me. And let me tell you: it was so worth it.

As soon as the storm passed, we were rewarded with some of the most spectacular skies I’ve ever seen. A rainbow appeared, the sun peeked out, and then came the real show—a cotton-candy sunset that turned the sky all shades of peach, lavender, and gold. It was the perfect ending to a session full of love, laughter, and just a bit of unexpected adventure.

Why Beach Rentals Are Perfect for Extended Family Portraits

Doing extended family portraits at New Smyrna Beach while staying at a beach rental is the best of both worlds. You get:

• A private location without needing to travel anywhere
• Comfort and amenities for little ones or older family members
• A chance to include the home you’ve made memories in during your stay
• Easy access to both beach views and house settings for variety

We took photos by the dunes, in front of the house, along the water, and under that stunning sky. It was the kind of session that perfectly blended posed portraits with candid, storytelling moments.

Tips for Planning Your Own Extended Family Beach Session

1. Pick a time with flexibility – Florida can be unpredictable, so scheduling earlier in your trip gives us more backup options in case of weather.
2. Coordinate outfits – Neutral tones, soft blues, and whites work beautifully on the beach and complement colorful skies.
3. Bring towels, snacks, and good attitudes – You never know when you might be caught in a little rain, and being prepared keeps everyone comfortable and smiling.
4. Celebrate your “why” – Whether it’s a milestone anniversary, reunion, or first beach trip together, take time to reflect on what you’re capturing. It shows in the photos.