Yokohama Bay Photography | Fun at the End of the Road

For the Love of Skateboarding

“My boys have a lot of energy”, Jessica told me in a slightly exasperated tone. We were brainstorming possible locations for their upcoming family photo session. “We love the beach, the park, skateboarding …” I couldn’t help but cut her off. “Skateboarding sounds like an amazing idea!” I squeaked in excitement.

My kids never fell in love with skateboarding much to my dismay because it’s so much fun to photograph. In fact, a family from the north shore tantalized me a few years back with the idea of photographing them at home where they had built their own well-loved skateboard ramp. Visions of gritty kids shredding made my heart flutter. I giddily began to storyboard and plan both the photos and video that I would capture to highlight the family’s connection to skateboarding. Sadly, they changed their minds last minute and opted for a beach session instead. I’m pretty sure that when I dragged my own kids to the local skate park.

So, yes, I latched onto the idea of skateboarding and when they told me their favorite spot was Yokohama – the end of the road on the leeward coast – it sounded like the perfect plan. We would start early with beach photos and when the boys tired of the sand, we would switch to skateboards.

A Ticking Clock

The air was still and hang heavy with humidity when I arrived at Yokohama Bay. I emerged from the car and stretched attempting to shake off the long drive. It promised to be a beautiful, but brutally hot morning.

Just as advertised, the boys tumbled from their car in a bundle of chaotic energy that made me smile. I knew I had to think fast to coral their energy and keep them engaged. They tackled the games I suggested with dizzying speed – playing each to the fullest before asking for more.

After an hour of intense play, we hit a serious energy dip. Alarm bells were going off for Jessica who from experience estimated we had about 10 minutes left before the boys crashed. We quickly shifted gears to snacks and skateboards, but the clock was ticking. Half-heartedly, they picked up their boards and maneuvered slowly down the empty road. Golden rays of light filtered through the mountain tops illuminated the road for a magical feel. I snapped away at a feverish pace knowing we had only minutes. And in a flash, the session was over and they were driving home for a much-needed nap.

Does Your Family Have a Favorite Activity?

Does your family have a special place or activity that’s meaningful? As much as I would love for you to say skateboarding, anything that helps tell your story is equally rewarding. Contact me today so we can plan your own memory-making day.