Every photo session tells a story, but sometimes the most meaningful story happens behind the lens.
Recently, during a family photo session at sunset on the beautiful beaches of Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste, I was reminded why creativity and connection matter just as much as technique.
The parents and grandparents had been looking forward to capturing memories together by the ocean. But as the session began, I noticed something important: the youngest member of the group, an 8-year-old girl, was clearly uncomfortable. She wasn’t a fan of taking photos, and her mood reflected that. Time was moving quickly, the sun was slowly setting, and I knew I needed to adapt.
Instead of forcing the moment, I paused and asked myself a simple question:
What can I do to turn this around while keeping the experience authentic and joyful for everyone?
I walked over to her and said:
"“What if you help me run this photo session and take the family photos with my camera?”"
—The Photographer
Her face changed instantly. She smiled and said yes—it sounded like a great idea to her.
I gently placed the camera strap around her neck, showed her how to hold the camera, and adjusted all the settings so she only had to press one button.
Then I explained our plan:
“We’ll work together, but with one small condition. After every photo you take, I’ll need you in the next photo with your parents and grandparents—with your biggest smile.”
She laughed and replied, “Deal.”
From that moment on, everything changed.
Here are some of her photos:
First familly shoot
After this photos she start to be part of the whole photoshoot
Eyed on the details
She noticed the shoes and instantly captured this memory.
Natural Ligth and natural smiles
I kept the photo exactly as she captured it, without any editing, so the family could have the photo she took.
The session began to flow naturally. She became confident, focused, and incredibly creative. She paid attention to moments I might have missed—and one photo, in particular, completely surprised me. She decided to photograph all the sandals lined up in the sand. It was simple, thoughtful, and full of meaning. That image became one of my favorites from the entire session.
This experience reminded me that every photoshoot comes with its own challenges, especially when working with families and children. But when we approach those moments with patience, imagination, and openness, we can create something truly special—without losing the authenticity that makes family photos timeless.
Thank you for taking the time to read this experience.
Below, I’m excited to share some of the photographs from this unforgettable sunset session in Playa Flamingo 🌅📸
Guanacaste Photo Session.
-Carlos Avellán, Photographer.
