Black and white photograph of a silhouetted figure leaping over a puddle, casting a reflection in the wet pavement.

Main image (Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare, 1932) from the Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation, Magnum Photos

People exploring tide pools along a rocky beach shoreline during golden hour sunset.

Boy in action, rock hopping...

Historical Inspiration & Beach Family Session 🌊✨


Every now and then, I find myself going back through past galleries — the ones I might have rushed through at the time or even quietly tucked aside. Recently, I stumbled across this family beach photography session (see portfolio) with two siblings exploring the rock pools, and it completely stopped me in my tracks. 🪨👣


There he was — the little brother mid-flight, leaping between rocks, full of energy and joy. This kind of candid moment is exactly why I love lifestyle family photography: real connection, movement, and play. Not every photograph needs to be posed or polished; sometimes the most treasured ones are those unexpected frames that feel alive. ✨📸


A Very Loose Parallel with a Photography Great 📚🖼️

When I first saw this image again, I couldn’t help but be reminded of one of my favourite photographs by the legendary Henri Cartier-Bresson. His work often captured what he called “the decisive moment” — those fleeting, chance encounters that tell an entire story in a single frame.


I first discovered Cartier-Bresson’s work while studying at the Photography Studies College (PSC) here in Melbourne, and it’s stayed with me ever since. Decades later, his influence feels just as strong, shaping the way so many photographers — myself included — see the beauty in everyday, unposed life.


Of course, I’m not comparing myself with one of the greats — far from it! But this photograph made me do a double take (and laugh a little too 😅). It’s a beautiful reminder that even in the images we almost pass over, there’s magic waiting to be found. My only little regret? I didn’t capture the whole shadow! 🌞


✨ If you’d love your own Melbourne family photography session full of candid, playful moments, let’s create some magic together click here. Whether at the beach, in the park, or at home, your story deserves to be captured in all its joy and movement. 💛


Thanks for reading, this made me giggle

xx Laura May Photography

(No copyright intended for the image by Henri Cartier-Bresson).