The Mickle Family: A Sullivan’s Island Session in Charleston
I caught up with Nicole, Deno, and their three daughters on a beautiful day in Charleston, SC, and what unfolded was one of my favorite family sessions in a long time.
Exploring Sullivan's Island
We spent the afternoon exploring Sullivan's Island together, chasing light and candid moments between this beautiful family. There's a rhythm to how families move once they forget the camera is there, and this one settled into it fast.
Unique family portraits, not the traditional beach shot
Deno and Nicole both served as members of the United States Air Force, and their vision for this session was to capture something different than the traditional, posed family beach portrait. That was right up my alley — I love finding the magic in the moments between the posed shots. It was important to them to showcase the deep love and connection they share, and how that co-exists inside the beautiful chaos of raising three daughters. You can see it in every frame: this family has an amazing dynamic, and they clearly just enjoy each other's company.
That kind of ease is exactly what I chase in a family session. Rather than lining everyone up and calling out smiles, I hung back and let the girls run, let Nicole and Deno steal glances at each other, and let the ordinary in-between moments become the photos that mattered most. Sullivan's Island gave us the perfect backdrop for it — wide open beach, soft light, and none of the crowds you’d find on a busier stretch of coastline.
If you're looking for family portraits that feel like you rather than a template, I'd love to help you capture that on the Carolina coast.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sullivan’s Island?
Sullivan’s Island is a coastal town just outside Charleston, SC, known for its beaches and relaxed, small-town charm — a favorite spot for family sessions.
Do you photograph military families?
Yes — I’ve had the honor of photographing several military families, including the Mickles, who both served in the United States Air Force.
What makes your family portraits different from traditional beach photos?
I focus on candid connection over stiff posing, capturing the real moments and dynamics between family members rather than a formulaic beach lineup.
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