Celebrating over 20 Years of Friendship: A Wingaersheek Beach Photoshoot

There’s something magical about old friends—those who have seen you through every phase of life, from the awkward high school years to the joys and challenges of adulthood. When I was asked to photograph this extraordinary group of five best friends, who’ve shared over 20 years of laughter, tears, and countless memories, I couldn’t have been more excited. These beautiful women go way back; they navigated the ups and downs of high school together, and now, as grown-ups, some with families of their own, they gathered to celebrate the enduring power of friendship.

This session wasn’t just a photoshoot—it was a reunion, a celebration, and a joyful reminder of how far we’ve all come. We chose Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester, MA, a stunning location that perfectly matched the occasion. With its soft light sand, green dunes, and a shallow ocean that beckons to be explored, the beach provided the perfect backdrop. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the still ocean mirrored the shifting colors of the sky, creating an atmosphere of serene beauty that felt almost surreal.

The beach was alive with the energy of 9 adults, 3 teenagers, 6 kids, 1 toddler, 1 baby, and 1 enthusiastic dog. We captured a bit of everything: group shots that radiated the joy and warmth of long-standing friendship, individual family portraits that showcased each family’s unique dynamic, sweet moments between moms and their kids, and of course, just the kids being their playful, carefree selves. Candid shots were plentiful, with laughter and genuine smiles lighting up each frame.

As the sun began to set, we decided to let the kids do what they do best—have fun! We ended the session with the children splashing in the water, their laughter mixing with the gentle sound of waves. It was the perfect way to close out a day filled with love, friendship, and the kind of memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Photography and capturing memories like this are so important. You don’t need a special occasion or life event to schedule a photoshoot; all you need is the desire to capture moments that matter. One day, photos will be all that remain of someone, and having those memories preserved in such a beautiful way is an incredible gift. This session is a testament to the value of freezing time, even just for a moment, to remember this phase of life.

This shoot was a beautiful reminder that while time may pass, true friendships only grow stronger. To have captured this milestone for a group of women who mean so much to me was a privilege I will always treasure.