One of the biggest topics discussed in session planning, is the location. The location of your photography session will set the stage for the entire session. You’ll most likely base your outfits off of it and your energy with the surroundings will be what takes the session off.
There are SO many amazing locations to shoot at in Virginia Beach. So if you are a photographer looking for a new location or someone looking for the perfect place to host your session, read on to see my top 7 places to shoot at in Virginia Beach.
1) Sandbridge Beach – I shoot here A LOT in the summertime. I get a lot of families who travel from all over the country visiting Virginia Beach and stay in Sandbridge. It’s the perfect little strip of beach away from the hustle and bustle of the Oceanfront but with beautiful, pink skies at sunset, a pier and grassy dunes. If you are staying at a house in Sandbridge, triple bonus points because you can utilize the less crowded beaches near the house you are staying at.
2) Pleasure House Point – I probably shoot here 65% of the time. I can’t help it! It’s just so perfect! Tall grass, sandy trails but with water and trees. There are so many nooks and crannies here and the way the light pours in at Magic Hour. OhMEEGOSH!! I’ve actually had families contact me for a session requesting this location because they have seen it in my blogs so much.
3) Regent University – The landscape here is just gorgeous. Beautiful buildings with large steps and large spots of grassy fields. The little ones love the fountain in the middle of the property and it’s usually a win for all. Extra bonus points, I have used this location when it has rained and we couldn’t reschedule the session. The large overhang near one of the buildings, comes in handy during rainy weather!
4) Fort Story – This is an joint base off of Shore Drive. It’s much easier to get on if you and your clients are military and have a military ID, but anyone can go to it. You’ll just have to get checked and go through a main gate. It’s worth it! A beach with large rocks, amazing dunes, a lighthouse and the magic hour light LOVES this place! This is a go to for sure!
5) First Landing State Park – There are two sides to this park. Sometimes I will use the beach side which houses more sandy dunes, and one of the spots in the VB you can watch the sunset sink behind the horizon. Or there is the trail side of Virgina Beach (I typically use the 64th street entrance). This place is perfect for getting some water, as well as trees and trails.
6) Stumpy Lake Natural Reserve – I am a huge fan of large fields. Really that’s all you need. And this place is perfect! The Stumpy Lake Golf Course is part of the land you see in the back, and the sun sets right in back there and I like the dimension that it gives. There’s also a tiny bridge off to the right with some trails, so you can get a different look as well.
7) Your own home or neighborhood – I know your house isn’t pretty enough right? So wrong! Your own house and being in your own element is perfect! When I schedule a full blown lifestyle session, I always push to do it at the family’s home. As this is their surroundings and where the joy of your family takes place. It’s what makes it you! We can even take a trip around your neighborhood!
So there you have it! My top seven locations in Virginia Beach for a family or children’s photography session! I have a large array of places I use in addition to these all over Hampton Roads. Find what works for you. You can make ANY location work with good light, family love and giggling children. If you are interested in booking your 2017 Spring/Summer session, weekend spots go quickly and I only have a handful of spots left through August. Contact me at jessica@nicellaphotography.com so we can start planning your dream session. xo.
