Relaxed & Joyful Multi-Generational Family Portraits in Akumal

Photographing the way it felt to be together

This relaxed portrait session in Akumal brought together parents, their adult children, and a young grandchild for an joyful evening on the beach. The multi-generational family was staying at Las Casitas Akumal, so we started right there, no driving around, no rushing, just meeting at their villa and easing into the session at a comfortable pace.

We started with classic family group photos, then as the light softened, I suggested heading down to one of my favourite nearby sunset spots. Living in Akumal for over 10 years means I know exactly when and where the light works, and on a clear day like this one, my favorite secret sunset beach is magic. 

Once the formal portraits were done, everyone relaxed. The adult siblings began joking with each other, the grandparents slowed down, and the youngest member of the family took it all in. Every time I turned around, there was another moment worth photographing.

I like to photograph family sessions starting with the must have group shots, then easing into combos of parents and kids, individual shots and ending up with relaxed and playful family interactions. Those candid moments, laughter, movement and play are the images people connect with most years later, because they don’t just show what your family looked like, but how it felt to spend that time together.