orange county family photographer

Orange County Baby Photographer | In-Home Six Month Milestone Session in Newport Beach, California


Orange County Baby Photographer | In-Home Six Month Milestone Session in Newport Beach, California | Cori Kleckner Photography

Six months is made of details.

The kind families do not always think to document because they are small and ordinary and happening every day.

The chubby rolls at the wrists.

The way she dangles comfortably off her mama’s hip.

Learning her own neck support.

The tiny saliva bubbles she makes when she pushes air through her lips, so proud of what she just discovered.

As an Orange County baby photographer, this is one of my favorite stages and one families often skip. They photograph newborns and then suddenly it is the first birthday.

But 6 months is magic.

Helen was once a newborn in front of my lens. Wrapped up, sleepy, brand new. And now she is grabbing at her mama’s hair , making steady eye contact and full of the biggest smiles.

These in home baby sessions in Newport Beach are my favorite because they feel real. Feeding moments in the kitchen. Mom pacing and soothing her around the house. A bottle mid morning in soft window light. Everyday motherhood documented in a way that feels elevated but honest.

Styling matters too. I love mimicking the look of black and white film, the softness, the contrast, the timeless quality. I adore shooting film, but it is not always cost effective when running a business, so I create that same natural, film inspired aesthetic digitally.

The texture of Helen’s little scalloped edge sweater.

The little bloomers that let her baby rolls peek through.

Mom’s ruffled eyelet blouse from DOEN.

All of it chosen to feel timeless.

Babies wearing bloomers is one of my favorite things,

their little legs, their belly, the way mom leans in to kiss it.

Those details matter.

If you are searching for a Newport Beach baby photographer or an Orange County baby photographer for a six month milestone session, do not skip this stage.

It disappears quietly.

It passes faster than you think, and documenting these small details , the chubby hands, curious expressions, and growing independence , preserves a season that disappears quietly.

Orange County Baby Photographer

Huntington Beach Sunset Session | Huntington Beach Family Photographer | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

Huntington Beach Sunset Session | Huntington Beach Family Photographer | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

If you’re planning family photos in Huntington Beach, sunset is one of my favorite times to photograph here. Those pastel skies, sometimes with the moon peeking through, always get me. I feel genuinely inspired every time. I also love how the light translates on skin tones, keeping everything creamy and soft while avoiding the harsh shadows that come with bright sun. I photograph Huntington Beach at all different times, including morning, midday, and even full afternoon sun, but sunset will probably always be my preference. It is the most consistent, the most flattering, and it gives me the freedom to shoot almost anywhere without fighting the light.

A lot of times clients assume you cannot make something beautiful from a flatter beach like Huntington without cliffs or rocks, but I actually see Huntington Beach as an open canvas. Families are usually pleasantly surprised when they get their gallery back and realize Huntington Beach is an incredible backdrop for family photos. It is one of the beaches in Orange County that gets overlooked, and it often stays less crowded than Laguna Beach or Newport Beach. It also gives kids so much more space to spread out, run, play, and explore, and with toddlers, we all know how helpful that openness can be. If you’ve been overlooking Huntington Beach for your family photos, this is your sign.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY CALIFORNIA PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Montage Laguna Beach Family Photos | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

Montage Laguna Beach Family Photos | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

This sweet session at Montage Laguna Beach was a fun one to shoot with the Miller family. We started with soft sunlight breaking through clear skies and eased into pastel purples as the evening settled in, with the coastline stretching behind us. It’s just a really gorgeous beach and one I love photographing for family sessions because it offers so much variety , from rocky areas and cliffs to open sand and water moments.

I first photographed Sophia as a newborn, so coming back to document her again at six months felt especially full-circle. And honestly, this age is one of my absolute favorites , the chubby cheeks, the little rolls, the expressions that change by the second. It’s that in-between stage that often gets skipped when families jump from newborn photos straight to one year, and I’m always a little sad when it’s missed. Six months holds so much sweetness and personality, whether they’re sitting with a bit of support, standing while holding onto mom’s hands, or melted right into her hip , it’s such a special stage worth documenting.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Laguna Beach Ice Cream Shop Motherhood Session | SoCal Summer Photo Magic | South Swell Ice Cream | Cori Kleckner Photography |

Laguna Beach Ice Cream Shop Motherhood Session | SoCal Summer Photo Magic | South Swell Ice Cream | Cori Kleckner Photography


More ice cream shop shoots in summer please 🍦☀️ There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the sticky fingers, salty air, and the slow joy of doing absolutely nothing but soaking it all in. That’s the magic I wanted to bottle up during this Laguna Beach motherhood photo session and let me tell you, this mama and her little one truly brought it to life.

This dreamy lifestyle shoot took place at South Swell Ice Cream in downtown Laguna Beach, one of my favorite hidden gems for authentic, documentary style photo sessions. I had a vision: mama in flowy linen, baby in tow, melting cones in hand, strolling along the charming sidewalks of Laguna just doing simple summer things. No stiff posing, no forced smiles — just real, sun drenched moments.

As a Laguna Beach family photographer, I’m always looking for ways to blend natural light with candid emotion, and this session delivered everything I love most: melting cones, sandy toes, sun kissed baby cheeks, and that golden hour glow that feels like pure California magic. 🌊

We wandered around downtown, popped into the ice cream shop, and captured the kind of images that tell a story. The soft forehead kisses, giggles between bites, the quiet pauses where mama just soaked it all in. These are the moments that matter. These are the moments I live to photograph.

So if you’ve been dreaming of a Southern California motherhood session, especially one with a little ice cream and a lot of heart, let this be your sign. These fleeting seasons deserve to be frozen in time just like that first lick of a melting cone on a hot summer day.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

San Clemente Family Session | Surfside Strolls an Golf Cart Rides | Honest, Playful Storytelling on the Coast | Cori Kleckner Photography

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San Clemente Family Session | Honest, Playful Storytelling on the Coast | The Burge Family | Cori Kleckner Photography |

This session felt like summer in motion. The family hopped into their golf cart and we started with a few shots right in their neighborhood, which already set the tone for how relaxed and connected this session would feel. From there, we made our way down to Riviera Beach in San Clemente, one of my favorite spots in South Orange County. It has everything I love; open sand, rocks to climb, a view of the San Clemente Pier, and the kind of laid back energy that lets kids just be kids.

They showed up barefoot in cozy knits and denim, already laughing and fully in the moment. We wandered, explored, and let things unfold naturally. The whole session felt like an extension of their everyday rhythm, which is exactly what I hope to capture.

I have always had a soft spot for those ethereal, golden hour portraits, and I still do. But lately I have been leaning into something more grounded, more colorful, and more reflective of what life actually feels like. Think surf culture, slow beach mornings, backyard chickens, scooters to the coffee shop , all the little things that make up a family’s rhythm.

As a photographer, I’m drawn to documenting the in-between moments, the barefoot adventures, the spontaneous play, the slice-of-life scenes that feel specific to your family. If you are dreaming of a session that captures your family’s unique vibe, whether that is soaking in your everyday SoCal life or chasing the tide at your favorite beach, I would love to create something honest and lasting for you.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Nostalgic Backyard Family Session with Chickens | Orange County Lifestyle Photographer | Michelle+Landon+Liam | Lifestyle Session with Chickens and Baby Chicks | Cori Kleckner Photography

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Nostalgic Backyard Family Session with Chickens | Orange County Lifestyle Photographer | Michelle+Landon+Liam | Lifestyle Session with Chickens and Baby Chicks | Cori Kleckner Photography

I’ve had the honor of photographing both of these boys since they were newborns, and watching them grow, watching the way they move through their world now, feels like flipping through the pages of a story I’ve been lucky enough to document from the beginning.

We let the morning unfold outdoors in their yard, under trees, alongside free-roaming chickens and laughter. Liam rode his little John Deere tractor like a pro, scooping up baby chicks and hauling them around like old friends. Landon climbed trees barefoot, wild and free, with that kind of ease that only childhood allows.

We photographed the baby chicks separately, since they were still too little to safely be around the older hens.

The vision for this session was rooted in nostalgia. I drew inspiration from vintage motherhood imagery, something timeless, like 1940s farm life but modernized in a soft, documentary way. Michelle wore a classic Doen blouse. Liam in denim Zara overalls and, not to be dramatic, but I’m pretty sure Zara Kids owes him a check. Somebody call them. He’s ready.

Climbing trees, chasing chickens, barefoot in the grass—this is the kind of childhood I love to photograph. The kind that doesn’t need posing or prompts. The kind that exists whether I’m there or not.

Why these sessions matter: legacy, honest childhood, storytelling that lives on long after the perfect poses fade.

This is the work I want to make more space for.

The kind that’s quiet.

The kind that holds.

The kind that says, this is what our life looked like.

Warning: I will be oversharing this session unapologetically.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

A Golden Hour Beach Session with the Dufreche Family | Huntington Beach Family Photographer | Huntington Beach Vacation Photography | Cori Kleckner Photography | Orange County Family Photographer

A Golden Hour Beach Session with the Dufreche Family | Huntington Beach Family Photographer | Huntington Beach Vacation Photography | Cori Kleckner Photography | Orange County Family Photographer | Huntington Beach Family Photos at Sunser

If you’re visiting Southern California and looking for a Huntington Beach family photographer to capture your vacation memories, you’re in the right place! The Dufreche family did just that, and I had the absolute honor of documenting their beautiful evening by the coast.

As a fellow creative and photographer, Ana Dufreche knew the value of preserving this special time with her family while visiting California. They traveled here for a getaway, and what better way to remember it than with a sunset family session at Huntington Beach? For many families, vacations are a rare opportunity to slow down, soak in the moment, and spend uninterrupted time together. Capturing these fleeting memories ensures they’ll have them to look back on long after the trip ends. Whether you’re visiting from out of state or just taking a break from everyday life, having professional vacation photos lets you relive those golden moments.

We planned their session right at golden hour, when the California sun is low in the sky, casting the softest, warmest light. The Dufreche family started their session playing together in the sand, laughing and cuddling in that dreamy glow. As the sun dipped lower, we moved closer to the water, letting the ocean waves add a little magic to the session. The result? A collection of timeless, sun-kissed family portraits that truly reflect their joy, love, and connection.

If you’re planning a family vacation in Southern California or just want to capture your time in Huntington Beach, I’d love to document your family’s story. Whether you’re looking for a sunset beach session, a Southern California vacation photographer, or candid, natural family photography that feels like YOU, I’d be honored to capture those moments for you. Reach out to book your session today and let’s create something beautiful together.

📍 Now booking family sessions in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and beyond!

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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The Hughes Family | Sarah & Harry | Irvine Cove Beach Family Session Laguna Beach Family Photographer | Motherhood Photography | Cori Kleckner Photography |

The Hughes Family | Sarah & Harry | Irvine Cove Beach Family Session Laguna Beach Family Photographer | Motherhood Photography | Cori Kleckner Photography |

There’s something incredibly special about watching a little one grow up through my lens, and Harry and his mama, Sarah, are no exception. I have had the privilege of photographing this beautiful mother and son duo since Harry was little, watching their bond deepen with each session. Sarah, a devoted single mom, pours so much love into her son, and it radiates through every frame. As a single mother myself, I know all too well how often we’re the ones behind the camera, capturing life but rarely stepping into it. That’s why, when I get a mama like Sarah in front of my lens, I make sure to create images that feel like timeless keepsakes—photos her son will treasure for a lifetime.

Sarah and Harry just melt into each other, laughing, playing, and embracing without hesitation.Harry made a heart-shaped necklace just for his mom, a sweet little token of love that she’ll undoubtedly treasure. The way he beamed with pride as he held it up and the way Sarah instinctively reached to brush something off his face—those little in-between moments, the ones that often go unnoticed, are the ones I live to capture. Because motherhood is made up of these quiet gestures—the small, fleeting details that may seem ordinary now but will one day mean everything.

Photographing Sarah and Harry at Irvine Cove Beach in Laguna Beach felt extra special, knowing how much history this place holds for them. The soft golden light, the open space for Harry to run free, and the kind of connection between them that speaks volumes without words—these are the moments I hope they’ll look back on for years to come.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Orange County In-home Lifestyle Newborn Session with The Pontius Family | Cori Kleckner Photography | Newport Beach Newborn Photographer

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Orange County In-home Lifestyle Newborn Session with The Pontius Family | Cori Kleckner Photography | Newport Beach Newborn Photographer

Orange County Family Photographer | Documenting the Pontius Family’s Beautiful Journey

As an Orange County family photographer specializing in newborn and maternity photography, one of the greatest joys of my job is documenting the evolving stories of families over the years. The Pontius family holds a special place in my heart, and this latest session was no exception as we celebrated the arrival of their third baby.

There’s something so magical about capturing a family in their home. A home isn’t just a structure—it’s the heartbeat of a family’s story. It’s where milestones are reached, love grows stronger, and memories are created. With three children now filling their space with laughter, curiosity, and love, the Pontius family’s home radiated warmth and togetherness.

Why In-Home Sessions Are So Meaningful

The home is more than a backdrop; it’s the setting where memories unfold.

This past week has brought sobering thoughts as devastating fires swept through parts of Los Angeles. My heart is heavy, wondering if some of the cherished homes I’ve photographed may now be lost. It’s a poignant reminder of how fleeting life and spaces can be. Homes hold the stories of our lives—spaces where so much love has grown, and it’s a privilege to be able to capture these moments before they pass.

The Beauty of Preserving Family Stories

The Pontius family’s session was full of heartfelt moments: the way the boys marveled at their new baby sibling, the laughter they shared playing basketball in the backyard, and the quiet connection they felt as they cuddled together in the living room. Every corner of their home tells a story—stories of late-night feedings, playful chaos, and the love that binds them.

For families in Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego, these in-home sessions provide a unique way to capture authentic moments. Whether you’re welcoming a newborn, celebrating a milestone, or simply wanting to preserve this chapter of your life, these photos serve as a reminder of the beauty within your walls.

As a family photographer serving Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego, I aim to preserve these fleeting moments for families to cherish forever. If you’re searching for an Orange County newborn photographer, Los Angeles maternity photographer, or San Diego family photographer, I’d love to help you tell your family’s story.

To the Pontius family: Thank you for trusting me to capture your story once again. Watching your family grow over the years has been a true honor.

If you’re ready to document your family’s unique story in your home, don’t wait. The fleeting nature of these moments is why I’m so passionate about what I do. Let’s create timeless photos that preserve the heart of your home and the people you love most.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Palos Verdes Beach Family Session with the Harvey Family | Los Angeles Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography | Palos Verdes Beach Family Photos |

Palos Verdes Beach Family Session with the Harvey Family | Los Angeles Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography | Palos Verdes Beach Family Photos

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Orange County, Los Angeles, or San Diego, a beach session in Palos Verdes might be the perfect choice! Recently, I had the joy of photographing the Harvey family, who just moved to Palos Verdes. This session was a wonderful way for them to “break in” their new location and celebrate this exciting new chapter with the stunning coastal backdrop of their new home.

Palos Verdes offers a unique beach environment that brings both a natural and intimate feel to family photos, creating timeless images for your family to cherish. The rocky shoreline and soft, ocean-kissed light created a breathtaking setting, and the Harvey family’s photos are filled with genuine, heartfelt moments. As an Orange County family photographer, I aim to capture families in the places they feel most connected to, whether that’s at a nearby beach, in the comfort of your home, or at a special local spot.

If you’re searching for a family photographer in Los Angeles or looking to capture beautiful beach family photos in San Diego or Orange County, I would love to be a part of your family’s story. Beach sessions are perfect for creating natural, carefree images, and Southern California offers endless options for beautiful coastal scenery. With a focus on natural light and authentic interactions, my goal is to provide you with stunning images that you’ll proudly display in your home.

Whether you’re interested in a Palos Verdes family session or a beach session in Orange County, I’m here to help create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact me to book your session and let’s capture the beauty and love of your family in one of California’s gorgeous coastal locations.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Huntington Beach Family Session | The Knight Family | Orange County Family Photographer | Timeless Golden Hour Photo

Huntington Beach Family Session | The Knight Family | Orange County Family Photographer | Timeless Golden Hour Photo

I recently had the joy of photographing the Knight family on the flat sands of Huntington Beach, and I have to say, this session is one of my favorites. The beach offers such a simple yet stunning backdrop for family photography, and as an Orange County family photographer, I’m always drawn to the soft, golden light that Huntington Beach provides. It’s perfect for creating timeless, heartfelt images.

What made this session even more special was the Knight family’s thoughtful wardrobe choice. Their neutral tones worked perfectly with the natural surroundings, giving all the photos that creamy, light, and airy feel that’s ideal for beach sessions. I always encourage my clients to invest a little time in planning their outfits, or even letting me offer suggestions. The right wardrobe can really elevate the overall aesthetic of a session, making the photos feel cohesive and timeless.

The best part of this session was the way the family interacted. The kids ran around freely while mom and dad joined in, creating real, authentic moments that are so much fun to capture. Huntington Beach is such a great location for this—it’s wide open, giving families plenty of space to play and connect. As a family photographer in Orange County, I love finding locations that allow for both intimate moments and joyful, playful interactions.

If you’re considering booking a family photography session in Orange County, I highly recommend Huntington Beach as one of the top locations. The light, the open space, and the peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for capturing memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for candid moments or more traditional portraits, we can create something beautiful together.

As a Huntington Beach native, I’ve spent my entire life soaking up the sun and salty air along these shores. Growing up here, I developed a deep connection with the beach and its natural beauty. Huntington Beach isn’t just a location for me—it’s home. That love and familiarity with the area helps me capture the true essence of this stunning beach, allowing me to create images that feel authentic and timeless for families who share this beautiful space.

Ready to book your family session? Contact me buy clicking here to schedule your session and start planning! You can also explore my family photography portfolio here for more inspiration. As an experienced Orange County family photographer, I’m here to guide you through every step—from choosing the right location to planning your session. Let’s capture some unforgettable moments!

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Fisher Family | Palos Verdes Family Photos | Beach Family Photos | Neutral Family Wardrobe Ideas | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

The Fisher Family | Palos Verdes Family Photos | Beach Family Photos | Neutral Family Wardrobe Ideas | Orange County Family Photographer | Cori Kleckner Photography

There’s something so special about family sessions at Malaga Cove Beach in Palos Verdes. This stunning location offers breathtaking cliffs, ocean views, and natural scenery that set the perfect backdrop for timeless family photos. For the Fisher family, this was the ideal place to capture their connection, laughter, and joy.

From the soft, neutral wardrobe choices to the candid moments shared between parents and children, this session was truly a reflection of the Fisher family’s love for each other and the beauty of the beach. It’s these kinds of sessions that remind me why I love what I do. Capturing the natural interactions and the small, intimate moments that you’ll cherish forever—it’s what makes beach family photography so magical.

Malaga Cove is one of my absolute favorite locations for family sessions because it provides so many diverse spots to shoot—from sandy shores to the rocky cliffs. Whether your family is looking for a casual, laid-back session or a more stylized, elegant look, this beach has it all.

If you’ve been considering booking a beach family photo session in Palos Verdes, now is the perfect time. As we head into the holiday season, there’s no better way to capture your family’s memories than with a session by the water. I specialize in lifestyle photography that reflects the real connection between your family members, so if you’re looking for authentic, candid moments, I’d love to work with you.

CORI KLECKNER PHOTOGRAPHY IS AN ORANGE COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER SPECIALIZING IN MATERNITY, NEWBORN, BABY, FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY