In this guide
A family photography session at The Westin Reserva Conchal is about much more than taking beautiful pictures. It’s about preserving a chapter of your family’s story while you’re exploring one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful destinations together.
When the Wendt family reached out, they were planning their very first trip to Costa Rica. Traveling with two young children, ages eight and four, they wanted more than traditional family portraits. They wanted photographs that reflected the joy, curiosity, and adventure of discovering a new country together.
Instead of rushing through a quick photo shoot, they chose my Adventure Family Session, giving their children the freedom to explore Playa Conchal, play, laugh, and simply enjoy being kids. Those unplanned moments often become the most meaningful photographs, creating memories that feel just as real years from now as they did that evening.
Family Photography at Westin Playa Conchal
A Quick Planning Guide
If you’re staying at The Westin Reserva Conchal and would love natural family photos during your vacation, here’s what I recommend.
1. Plan your session early in your trip
Scheduling your session during the first days of your vacation gives you flexibility in case the weather changes and lets everyone relax for the rest of the trip.
2. Choose sunset
The golden hour before sunset offers the softest light, cooler temperatures, and a much more comfortable experience for children.
3. Let kids be kids
Young children rarely enjoy standing still for long. The best photographs happen when they’re exploring, running, collecting shells, or simply spending time with their parents.
4. Wear comfortable clothing
Neutral colors, flowing fabrics, and barefoot walks on the beach always photograph beautifully while keeping everyone comfortable.
5. Think of it as family time
The goal isn’t to create perfect smiles. It’s to capture genuine connection during one of your family’s greatest adventures together.
Why Playa Conchal is Perfect for Family Photography
Playa Conchal is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic beaches, known for its crystal-clear water, gentle waves, and shoreline made of tiny white shells instead of sand.
The area around The Westin Reserva Conchal offers a wonderful variety of scenery within a short walk, including:
- tropical forest
- open beaches
- rocky coastline
- palm trees
- colorful sunsets
- quiet corners perfect for children to explore
It provides enough variety that every gallery feels unique while remaining easy to access for families with young children.
My Approach to Photographing Families
Since becoming a father, my perspective on family photography has completely changed.
I’ve learned that children don’t want to spend an hour posing for a camera.
They want to discover.
They want to run.
They want to ask questions.
They want to play.
Instead of asking children to constantly look at the camera, I create space for them to explore naturally while gently guiding the family through the experience. That patience allows genuine moments to unfold naturally, resulting in photographs that reflect your children’s real personalities rather than forced smiles.
Parents often arrive worried that their kids won’t cooperate.
By the end of the session, they’re surprised by how much fun everyone had.
And that’s exactly the experience I want every family to remember.
We also created a guide for Weddings in Costa Rica, full of details that can help you plan your wedding in this paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place for family photos at The Westin Reserva Conchal?
Playa Conchal is the most popular location thanks to its beautiful sunsets, calm shoreline, and easy access from the resort.
What is the best time for family photos?
About one hour before sunset offers the most flattering light and the coolest temperatures, especially for young children.
How long should a family session last?
For families with young children, I recommend my Adventure Family Session. It gives everyone enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
What should children wear?
Comfortable clothing in neutral or earthy tones photographs beautifully against Costa Rica’s tropical landscapes. Avoid matching outfits and instead choose complementary colors.
What if my children don’t cooperate?
That’s completely normal and expected. I never expect children to perform. The session is designed around their energy and curiosity, allowing them to play naturally while I capture authentic moments.
Do you travel to resorts in Guanacaste?
Yes. I photograph families throughout Guanacaste, including The Westin Reserva Conchal, Four Seasons, Andaz Peninsula Papagayo, JW Marriott Guanacaste, W Costa Rica, and many other beach resorts.
Ready to Capture Your Story?
Family vacations pass quickly, but the memories stay with us for a lifetime.
Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica for the first time or returning with your growing family, my goal is to create photographs that feel honest, joyful, and timeless. No forced poses, no pressure, just genuine moments shared in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
If you’re planning a stay at The Westin Reserva Conchal or anywhere in Guanacaste, I’d love to help you document this chapter of your family’s story.
