Carlsbad family photographer
through natural lifestyle photography
Because Time Moves Fast—Let’s Capture It Now
It’s easy to put off family photos—there’s always something else on the to-do list.
Maybe you’ve been meaning to schedule a session for years,
or the idea of coordinating outfits and wrangling the kids feels like too much.
That’s where I come in. I make the process easy, relaxed, and even fun—
so you can focus on what matters most: being together and capturing this moment in time.
A Family Portrait Experience Designed for Busy Parents
I specialize in natural, lifestyle family photography in Oceanside, Carlsbad and surrounding areas of San Diego County—
helping families create beautiful, genuine images without the hassle of DIY.
Whether your kids love the camera or would rather be anywhere else,
I know how to bring out authentic smiles and real connections you’ll treasure forever.
As a full-service photographer, I handle everything—from planning your session to delivering stunning, ready-to-hang wall art.
Meaningful images your family will enjoy every day.
Not ready yet?
All of my friends were blown away!“
Family Photos, Made Easy
Worried about what to wear, how the kids will behave, or finding the time?
You’re not alone—that’s exactly why I make the process simple and enjoyable.
From outfit guidance to choosing the perfect location, I handle the details so you can relax.
Never hired a photographer before? No problem. I’ll walk you through everything.
And when your session is done, your photos won’t just sit on a hard drive—
I’ll turn them into beautiful, tangible artwork your family will enjoy every day.
Just Beautiful Memories—Here’s How I Help:
Worried about what to wear?
I provide a simple outfit guide with easy tips to make your photos look amazing.
No idea where to take photos?
I’m an North County local and know all the best locations,
from the beaches of Oceanside & Carlsbad to the trails of San Diego.
Feeling nervous in front of the camera?
Don’t worry! I naturally guide and direct every step of the way so nothing feels stiff or awkward—
just effortless, natural moments.
Too busy to print and frame?
I take care of everything, delivering portraits ready to hang and enjoy—
no extra work required.
Worried your kids won’t cooperate?
The great thing about my process is that you only purchase the images you love.
Even if your kids aren’t thrilled about the session,
I always capture great moments that you get to choose from!
Have a big family group to photograph?
I love working with extended families!
Getting everyone together in one place is rare and absolutely worth celebrating.
Whether you’re local or here on vacation, I’ll make sure we capture beautifully composed group shots for everyone involved.
Best of all, I don’t charge extra for large family sessions or per person—just one session fee for priceless memories.
They Only Get More Valuable With Time
Right now, your kids are at an age
you’ll never get back.
It’s hard to see it in the moment, but trust me—
you will treasure these photos more with each passing year.
As they grow, these portraits
become priceless
reminders of the way they laughed,
held your hand,
and fit perfectly in your arms.
Natural, Timeless, and Full of HeartInvest in memories that last a lifetime—
because they grow and change in the blink of an eye.
Let’s Make This Happen
There’s never a perfect time for family photos—
but you’ll never regret having them.
Let’s create something beautiful.
Ready to start?
Fill out the contact form,
and I’ll take care of the rest.
Not quite ready?
Why Families Trust Me
(and keep coming back!)
I specialize in natural, joyful family portraits throughout Carlsbad, Oceanside, and North County San Diego.
Whether you’re planning a sunset beach session or classic studio portraits, I create full-service photography experiences designed to help you preserve what matters most—
with beautiful wall art and heirloom albums for your home.
Planning a vacation in San Diego? You can find great ideas for things to do on the San Diego Tourism Authority website.
Many of my clients stay in coastal resorts like Ocean Palms Beach Resort, just steps from the sand in Carlsbad.
If you're still exploring options, check out my family portrait photography experience.
Expecting a little one? I also offer natural maternity photography natural maternity photographynatural maternity photography sessions.
Planning a couples getaway? Take a peek at my proposal & couples sessions.
Vallentyne Photography is a portrait studio in Oceanside, CA, with a newborn studio in Carlsbad, 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.
Coordinating an extended family session can feel overwhelming—schedules, outfits, toddlers, grandparents—but it’s always worth it. These are the people who shaped you, who cheer you on, and who will mean even more years from now. That’s why we take the time to make it happen.
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Almost every parent walks away from their session thinking, “There’s no way we got anything good.”
But I promise you—we did.
In between the wiggles and snack breaks, there are always moments of connection: the way your toddler grabs your hand, the way they laugh when you chase them, the way they melt into your arms when they’re done.
Those are the moments that make the best photos. And those are the memories you’ll want on your walls years from now.
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If you’re worried your toddler won’t cooperate during photos, you’re not alone. Every parent tells me the same thing before their session.
Here’s the truth: toddlers are busy, unpredictable, and full of opinions. And that’s exactly how they’re supposed to be.
I’ve spent years photographing families with little ones, and I know how to work with it. We keep things moving, we play, we take breaks, and we roll with whatever happens.
You don’t need a perfectly behaved toddler to get beautiful family photos. You just need to show up—I’ll handle the rest.
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The holiday season sneaks up fast—and it’s the perfect time to update your family portraits.
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I get it—being pregnant can feel overwhelming. You’re tired, you’ve got a million things on your list, and the thought of planning a photo session might feel like one more thing to manage.
That’s where I come in.
From helping you choose what to wear, to finding the perfect location, to guiding you through every pose—I’ve done this hundreds of times. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to show up, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Because these months go by faster than you think. And when they’re gone, you’ll want to remember the way it felt to be here, waiting.
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I know the questions already circling in your mind.
Will your toddler melt down?
Will you have time to pull outfits together?
Will your partner run out of steam?
I’ve thought of all of it—and planned for it, too.
Whether you’re preparing for maternity portraits or welcoming a newborn, every detail is handled. From wardrobe styling to location planning to gentle direction during your session, I’ll meet your family right where you are.
You don’t need to arrive perfectly polished—you only need to arrive. I’ll take care of the rest.
✨ Ready to turn these fleeting moments into timeless art for your home? Send me a DM or click the link in bio to reserve your session today.
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