A golden hour to remember at Long Jetty Wharf

Elisha Campbell
May 16, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Aug 30, 2025

There's something incredibly special about photographing families at the beginning of a new chapter. My first family session was one I'll never forget - filled with love, laughter and layers of heartfelt connection.

Set against the rustic charm of Long Jetty Wharf on a softly clouded afternoon, this shoot captured a family celebrating not one but two milestones: a recent engagement and the joyful news of a new baby on the way.

A Story of Love, Growth, and New Beginnings

The couple's story is the kind that fills your heart. Each brought along their son and it was easy to see how seamlessly they had come together - one united, joyful family.

With nan and pop also present, this session turned into a multigenerational celebration. There were sweet moments between grandchild and grandparent, playful banter between dad and his son and tender, stolen glances between mum and dad that said, "This is where we're meant to be."

Mum and dad stand hand-in-hand on the jetty, facing the camera. Mum wears a flowing green dress while dad wears tan shorts and a white shirt, both smiling gently.

The Beauty of Cloudy Skies at Sunset

Photographers often chase sunny skies, but the cloud cover at Long Jetty that evening created a moody, diffused light - perfect for capturing natural, emotive portraits. The golden tones of the setting sun peeked through just enough to wrap this family in a warm, gentle glow.

We wandered along the famous jetty, captured giggles on the shore, and finished with a quiet moment out on the wharf - all of them huddled together, with the still water behind them and the sky reflecting soft grey hues. It was one of those moments where time feels like it pauses, just long enough for everyone to soak it in.

Why This Session Meant So Much

As my very first official family session, it reminded me why I do this work. Family photography isn't about posing perfectly or forcing smiles - it's about honouring the real, the raw, and the beautifully unscripted moments that tell your story. This family brought all of that and more.

Whether it was the boys playing, nan laughing at pop's jokes or mum and dad stealing a quiet second to rest a hand on a growing baby bump - it was all pure joy. And it reminded me that every family is unique, every chapter worth capturing.