A few months ago, I had a young lady reach out to me (she found me through a Google search!) about planning a family session while they were going to be around Lake Erie. I eventually found out that it was actually for her boyfriend’s family. They’ve been dating for years and they wanted to surprise his mom with a family session. The mom found out beforehand and the family all chipped in together to give her this session. I loved shooting this summer family session at South Bass Island! This area off Lake Erie has some gorgeous views and there is always plenty to do!

The Saddler Family is from Troy, Ohio, which is just north of Dayton, Ohio. They traveled up to Put In Bay, Ohio for a little family vacation over Memorial Day weekend and wanted to get some family pictures taken on a beach. Put In Bay, also called South Bass Island, is a HUGE tourist attraction. You can only get over there by boat, either with your own or you can travel on one of the two ferries, The Miller Boat Line or the Jet Express. The Jet Express is just for people while the Miller Boat Line is mainly for vehicles.  

Once you get over to the island there is so much to do, and for the whole family! People rent golf carts and cruise around the island. If you want accomodations, you have to book that MONTHS in advance! The Saddler Family specifically wanted beach photos. When I’m not familiar with an area, I research to see the types of locations we can use for a session. While I couldn’t find a sand beach, I found a few stone beaches. I picked the one that had the sun setting behind them.

This location was perfect for photos!! With the sun shining and the large cliff and Lake Erie behind them, their images turned out beautiful! After we took some photos on the stones, we went up above and took some pictures on the grass. I love documenting extended families! There are so many options because you have the opportunity to capture images of each part of the family and as a whole.

Thank you to the Saddlers for allowing me to capture your summer family session on South Bass Island! It gave me the oppotunity to witness your special love and connections while you were on vacation, as well finding a new location for future photoshoots around Lake Erie. If your family has a vacation booked on the island, be sure to contact me about pictures!