Photographer Anna Goddard

ANNA GODDARD / GODDARD STUDIOS ; INSET : COLLIN GODDARD

“ When you know each other so well , you ’ re not in each other ’ s way and it made sense for us to work together , especially on weddings ,” Goddard says . “ However , family portrait photography is something I started doing on my own .”

The inspiration for this branch of the business came about from realizing she could do something many other photographers couldn ’ t . “ I noticed that so many family portraits at the beach were too staged . I didn ’ t see any great lifestyle shots — the amazing moments that can and should be achieved — that any family deserves to have . Photos need to show happiness , personality [ and ] connections between family members , [ plus ] have movement and great energy . I felt like I was able to give that to people , and that ’ s what made me want to shoot family portraits .”

You ’ ll find Goddard shooting all over town , from the stunning beaches to Moulton Meadows , Heisler Park and even the golf course at The Ranch at Laguna Beach . While she says that her clients sometimes pick the location , they usually leave it up to her , allowing her freedom to experiment and find the outdoor venue that suits the family best .

These outdoor settings , she says , were a natural progression away from the limitations of a photo studio . “ It only makes sense that people want a great outdoor backdrop in which they can move around freely ,” Goddard adds . “… An outdoor location … [ is a more ] relaxed setting , which is great for lifestyle photography and amazing portraits .”

One of her favorite things about working with families is facing the difficulties that arise , from trying to make everyone feel at ease to providing high-quality images . “ I

never want to rush them ; if a child is having a moment , I ’ ll just wait ,” she reveals . “ It ’ s a balance between my guidance and what naturally … evolve [ s ] during the photo shoot , and I ’ m always ready to capture the special moments that … occur .”

Goddard sometimes also likes to include props that are relevant to her subjects ’ interests , like a surfboard , or items that enhance the scene , like seashells on the beach .

The result is beautiful photographs that showcase the essence of a family , which she says is a great keepsake . “ Instead of having a framed photo in your living room , you can now share … [ family portraits ] on

social media , have digital slideshows and easily make beautiful holiday cards and albums online ,” she adds .

The joy that can be found in these photos stems from the families , but the idyllic location doesn ’ t hurt . “ The weather can ’ t be beat —[ Laguna has ] great sunsets and it allows for great lighting even when it ’ s overcast ,” Goddard says . “ Any location you pick in this town will provide an amazing backdrop . g

GODDARD STUDIOS : 949-499-4200 ; GODDARDSTUDIOS . COM

Goddard tries to capture lifestyle shots that are more spontaneous than staged .

LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 73