Summer Magic: A Chicago Family’s Photo Session at The Cloister at Sea Island
There’s something magical about the way Southern charm meets coastal elegance at The Cloister at Sea Island. When this delightful family of five from Chicago reached out about a photo session at the Cloister in Sea Island, I knew we were in for a special session among the resort’s stunning grounds.
From the moment we met, their energy was contagious. The three children’s excitement to explore the property matched their parents’ enthusiasm for creating lasting memories of their time in this iconic coastal Georgia setting. As a photographer, there’s nothing better than working with clients who bring such genuine joy to their session.
The Cloister Resort Grounds
The Cloister’s grounds provided us with an endless array of picture-perfect backdrops. We began our journey through the flowering gardens, where bright blooms created natural frames for family portraits. The children couldn’t resist stopping to admire the butterflies dancing between the flowers – moments I quickly captured to preserve their genuine wonder.
As we wandered along the garden pathways, the afternoon light filtered through the Spanish moss-draped oak trees, creating a dreamlike quality in every frame. These ancient oaks, standing as silent sentinels along the marsh, offered the perfect setting for both posed family portraits and candid shots of the children playing hide-and-seek behind their massive trunks. Another perfect spot at the Cloister is The Cloister Chapel.

The Pathway Along the River at The Cloister
The beautiful paver pathway along the river behind the Cloister provided elegant architectural elements that contrasted beautifully with the natural landscape. We captured stunning images of the whole family together, with the marsh serving as a serene backdrop. The changing light as the sun rises into the day cast a golden glow across the scene, adding warmth to every photograph.
What made this session particularly special was the family’s willingness to embrace every moment. Whether it was balancing along garden walls, twirling on the terrace, or sharing quiet moments on a bench beneath the oaks, their authentic connections shone through in every shot.
Photographers Dream Backdrops at The Cloister
Photo sessions at the Cloister at Sea Island offers photographers an embarrassment of riches when it comes to locations. The property’s thoughtful blend of formal gardens, wild coastal nature, and Mediterranean-inspired architecture creates a stunning tapestry of backgrounds. Each turn in the path reveals another perfect spot for capturing family memories.
As our session drew to a close, watching this Chicago family laugh and play against the backdrop of coastal Georgia’s natural beauty reminded me why I love what I do. Their session perfectly captured the essence of a family vacation – the joy of being together in a beautiful place, creating memories that will last a lifetime. P.S. – scroll down to the end of this post to see the crazy photos we took with a frog the children found. No worries – he was returned safe and sound to where he was found!
Photo Session at The Cloister?
For families considering a photo session at The Cloister, I cannot recommend it highly enough. The variety of locations, the beautiful natural light, and the overall ambiance of the resort create the perfect setting for family portraits that feel both timeless and fresh.
To this wonderful Chicago family – thank you for allowing me to capture your Sea Island memories. Your joy, laughter, and love for each other made this session truly special.
Looking to capture your own family memories at The Cloister at Sea Island? Contact us to learn more about our resort photography sessions.