Golden Light | Gold Coast Family Photographer | Mike & Ella

I regularly pinch myself that we call this picturesque pocket of the world home. I’ve travelled to and lived in some seriously enviable locations—including the postcard-worthy mountains of British Columbia in Canada to some of the world’s most famous beaches smattered throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Yet, I’m always humbled by the scenery here, and love the contrast of green valley vibes in close proximity to our squeaky soft-sand shoreline.    

Sourcing locations to shoot—with backdrops that simply light up as the sun dips towards the horizon—has been one of my favourite elements of this photography journey. A friend recently pointed me in the direction of this lakeside neighbourhood in the Currumbin Valley. Here the sun drops behind the hinterland much earlier than if we were taking photos at the beach. It’s perfect for a not-too-late-for-the-kiddos golden hour session, that’s also really peaceful and secluded. I love these photos of Mike and Ella taken as they explore and pluck the long grass, and the sunshine catching in Ella’s blonde locks is just magical.