Authentic, Timeless Photography for Families Who Value Real Moments
One minute, they’re tiny and holding your hand everywhere you go.
The next, they’re borrowing your shoes and rolling their eyes at your jokes.
Time moves fast, but photography lets you hold onto the moments that matter.
I’m Heather, one of the most trusted Oceanside CA photographers,
creating natural, joyful portraits for families visiting or living in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and all of North County.
Many of my clients come to me looking for an Oceanside photographer who offers a full-service experience—from styling to wall art.
As a North County local, I know the best hidden gems from Oceanside & Carlsbad to San Diego,
the perfect lighting and backgrounds, and how to make your session feel natural and fun.
From planning to finished artwork, I make the process simple, so you can focus on what matters most—
being present with the people you love.
Planning your session? Learn more about my family portrait experience.
Expecting? Check out my natural studio maternity sessions.
Hi, I’m Heather!
I’m based in Oceanside and specialize in capturing family connections with a clean, bright, and natural style. Whether you’re drawn to studio or an outdoor location (I know all the best spots!), my goal is to create images that feel true to you.
As one of the most experienced Oceanside CA photographers, I specialize in creating timeless images for families. I make the process easy and enjoyable, so you can relax and focus on the people who matter most. Let’s create something special together!
Get in touch—I’d love to chat.
testimonials
BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS THAT TELL YOUR STORY...
THROUGH NATURAL LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Vallentyne Photography is a San Diego-based family photographer specializing in natural, joyful portraits for families in Oceanside, Encinitas, and the North County coastal communities. Whether we’re capturing beach photos in Oceanside, warm golden light in Carlsbad, or timeless portraits in our studio, my sessions are designed to create meaningful art you’ll be proud to display. I offer full-service photography experiences, including custom-designed wall art and high quality albums that celebrate the people you love most.
Full-Service Photography for Families in Oceanside, Carlsbad & Beyond
Vallentyne Photography is a portrait studio in Oceanside, CA, serving North County and San Diego. With 20 years of experience, we specialize in natural, timeless portraits for families, maternity, newborns, and seniors—capturing genuine moments on location or in our beautiful portrait studio.
We’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable. Let’s start with a quick chat about what matters most to you. We’d be honored to create portraits you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
There’s something magical about the way newborns settle into sleep. Each baby has their own way of curling up or stretching out, and I love capturing those little details that make them them. 💛
A moment that changes everything.
One second, you’re just two people in love. The next, you’re saying yes to forever. Let’s capture the joy, the surprise, the way your hands shake just a little—because this is a moment you’ll want to relive again and again.
Motherhood Mini Sessions are here.
Just one day. ✨
Saturday, May 10 (the day before Mother’s Day) in my beautiful studio.❤
The old adage “the days are long, but the years are short” is never more true when applied to family life.
This is for the mamas who are always behind the camera. The ones with toddlers on their hips, snack crumbs in their purse, and hearts stretched wider than they ever thought possible.
You deserve beautiful memories of you and your children. We all know how fast children grow so much each year... I want you to always have a recent photo of your family that you love.💕
Come as you are—messy, soft, tired, radiant.
I`ll take care of the rest.
Tap the link in bio to grab your spot. These will go fast.
#vallentynephotography #CarlsbadPhotographer
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#EncinitasFamilyPhotographer
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#SanDiegoFamilyPhotographer
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#mothersday #motherhood #love #mothersday2025 #mothersdayminis
Let’s be honest—the family dog always steals the show. 🐶😂
The kids might give me their best smiles, but this guy? He’s bringing his A-game with the ultimate goofy face. And honestly, we love them just as much for it.
Because family photos wouldn’t be complete without every member of the family—especially the ones who never say no to a snack. 😉
Who else has a dog that’s basically their favorite child? (It’s okay, I won’t tell.) 🐾💛
Your baby is already perfect, and your family’s love is the most beautiful thing in the world. Let’s create photographs that feel natural, timeless, and full of meaning. 📷
Anniversary sessions + dogs? Say no more—I’m in. 🐶💛 Because the best love stories include a little fur, a lot of laughter, and moments worth remembering. #DogPeopleAreMyPeople #AnniversarySession #couplesphotography
