Blog | Debbie Markham Photography in Cambria // Wedding Photographer // Family Photographer // Cayucos Photographer // Morro Bay Photographer // Los Osos Photographer // Templeton Photographer // California Central Coast

March 9, 2026March 9, 2026

Cal Poly and Cuesta Graduation Portraits

As a San Luis Obispo photographer, I love capturing college graduation portraits that honor not only the achievement itself, but also the energy, pride, and possibility that come with this season of life. Logan graduated from the nursing program at Cuesta College, Nate and friends graduated from Cal Poly, and David graduated from Cal State East Bay… allexciting milestones worth celebrating in a big way.

These graduation sessions in San Luis Obispo are such a fun way to celebrate. Bring a friend or a whole group of friends, a few bottles of champagne, or any props that feel personal to you. The photos are beautiful, but the best part is the memory of being together, laughing, celebrating, and documenting this unforgettable chapter with college graduation portraits you’ll always treasure.

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January 31, 2026January 31, 2026

Cambria Family Photographer

Cambria photographer, family photographer, family of 6 photo session, kids, beach, vacation, fun, family friendly, family photos, Debbie Markham

As a Cambria family photographer, I get a front-row seat to the kind of joy you can’t stage, you can only catch. This week’s session was a family of six with four kids under ten, tumbling through a beach morning like a happy little weather system: salty hair, sand-speckled cheeks, and that unstoppable vacation energy. And honestly, vacation is the best time to take photos. Everyone’s already exhaling. The schedule is softer, the mood is lighter, and the ocean does half the work by turning even “regular moments” into something frame-worthy. We wandered the coastline, paused where the cliffs curve just right, and let the kids be kids, because the best family images usually happen in the in-between: the hand squeeze, the giggle attack, the sprint back to mom.

One pro tip that saves the day (and your patience): bring treats. Photo shoots are fun, but they can feel long for little bodies after posing eight times in eight different spots along the beach and coastline. A small stash of easy snacks, a favorite candy, or even a “photo shoot treasure” can turn the whole experience into a game instead of a grind. I’ll guide you through the posing quickly, then we’ll keep moving, keep it playful, and keep the focus on connection over perfection. The result is a gallery that feels like your family, not a stiff version of you, and that’s the magic I feel lucky to document again and again here on the Cambria shore. 🌊📷

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January 2, 2026March 9, 2026

Family Photo Shoots in Cayucos

This Thanksgiving, I had the joy of photographing many beautiful family reunions along our Cambria and Cayucos coastline. Beautiful trees, small coves and sweeping views while wandering the bluff trail. Playful adventure with twirls, piggyback rides, and snuggles overlooking the ocean. There are endless locations and fun to be had!

I’m always amazed by the traditions woven into these sessions, sentimental classics, goofy “outtake” poses, the same shots from 8 years ago as kids grow taller. However we shape the time together, it’s always delightful. I drive home feeling so grateful to be invited into these moments and to witness, again and again, how much love lives within a family.