Timeless family photography in San Diego.
Timeless family photography in San Diego.
Relaxed, natural family photo sessions
Relaxed, natural family photo sessions
Where you can laugh, run, cuddle and enjoy being together. I'll take care of the rest.
Where you can laugh, run, cuddle and enjoy being together.
Have you noticed how quickly moments slip away?
The laughter. The closeness. The beautiful mess of everyday life.
The laughter. The closeness. The beautiful mess of everyday life.
The laughter. The closeness. The beautiful mess of everyday life.
We’ll create space for your family to relax, play, and simply be together, so the moments that matter most can unfold naturally and stay with you for years.
My approach
I create a calm, unhurried space where your family can relax and be together.
Reading your rhythm, I offer gentle guidance when needed and step back when it matters.
Nothing to perform, nothing to prove, just time that feels like yours.
I notice the quiet things, the way your child leans into you, the warmth in a smile, the ease between you.
Those moments gently become photographs you will recognize as your own.
My approach
I create a calm, unhurried space where your family can relax and be together.
Reading your rhythm, I offer gentle guidance when needed and step back when it matters.
Nothing to perform, nothing to prove, just time that feels like yours.
I notice the quiet things, the way your child leans into you, the warmth in a smile, the ease between you.
Those moments gently become photographs you will recognize as your own.
My approach
I create a calm, unhurried space where your family can relax and be together.
Reading your rhythm, I offer gentle guidance when needed and step back when it matters.
Nothing to perform, nothing to prove, just time that feels like yours.
I notice the quiet things, the way your child leans into you, the warmth in a smile, the ease between you.
Those moments gently become photographs you will recognize as your own.
Heart Behind the Camera
There is a quiet beauty in the way families move together.
In the soft laughter, small gestures, and the natural warmth that appears when no one is asked to pose. This is the heart of how I work and why I photograph families the way I do.
I am Ellen Manilova, a family photographer working along the San Diego coast from Carlsbad and Encinitas to Del Mar and Oceanside.
Kids lead the way. Parents can simply be themselves. The camera blends into the moment, capturing life as it truly feels.
A calm way to begin
Contact
Reach out for a relaxed chat about capturing your family's story. No commitments, just genuine conversation.
Personalized Plan
I'll craft an approach that honors your family's rhythm, blending playfulness and authenticity.
Sessions
We'll meet in a serene setting where genuine connections unfold naturally into lasting images.
Simple,
Convenient, Effective
A calm way to begin
A calm way to begin
Initial Contact
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and see if my approach is right for you. No pressure - just a conversation.
Contact
Reach out for a relaxed chat about capturing your family's story. No commitments, just genuine conversation.
Contact
Reach out for a relaxed chat about capturing your family's story. No commitments, just genuine conversation.
Personalized Plan
I’ll create a customized plan that aligns with your goals, whether you’re managing anxiety or improving your broken relationships,
Personalized Plan
I'll craft an approach that honors your family's rhythm, blending playfulness and authenticity.
Personalized Plan
I'll craft an approach that honors your family's rhythm, blending playfulness and authenticity.
Online Sessions
Join one-on-one sessions from anywhere, using secure video calls. We’ll work together to overcome challenges and track your progress.
Sessions
We'll meet in a serene setting where genuine connections unfold naturally into lasting images
Sessions
We'll meet in a serene setting where genuine connections unfold naturally into lasting images
Choose your session format
Every family moves at its own pace.
Investment begins at $280.
Personal Portrait
Family Story
Day in the Life
For families who want to keep their memories
• 60–90 minutes together
• Up to 6 people
• Pre-session guidance for location, outfits
• 80+ edited images
• Online gallery for viewing and download
Personal Portrait
Family Story
Day in the Life
For families who want to keep their memories
• 60–90 minutes together
• Up to 6 people
• Pre-session guidance for location, outfits
• 80+ edited images
• Online gallery for viewing and download
Personal Portrait
Family Story
Day in the Life
For families who want to keep their memories
• 60 to 90 minutes together
• Up to 6 people
• Pre-session guidance for location, outfits
• 80+ edited images
• Online gallery for viewing and download
What people say
Real reviews found on Google
Things you might want to know
How much does a session cost and what’s included?
Sessions are offered in a few clear formats, each designed for a different pace and experience.
Pricing depends on the session format you choose. You can view all available options on the Sessions page, or reach out if you’re unsure what feels right for your family.
What should we wear?
Choose comfortable clothes you feel good in. Soft tones, natural colors, and simple textures work beautifully.
After booking, I’ll help you prepare so everything feels easy and natural.
How do we prepare, especially with kids?
There’s very little to prepare.
Kids don’t need to behave or perform. I follow their energy and create space for them to be themselves. Calm parents help the most.
What if the weather is bad?
If the weather isn’t right, we’ll adjust.
That might mean rescheduling, shifting timing, or choosing a more sheltered spot. We’ll decide together, calmly and without stress.
Can we include grandparents, pets, or extended family?
Absolutely. These moments matter.
Each session is planned for a specific number of people so everything stays calm and unrushed.
Additional family members can be included for $25 per person.
How much does a session cost and what’s included?
Sessions are offered in a few clear formats, each designed for a different pace and experience.
Pricing depends on the session format you choose. You can view all available options on the Sessions page, or reach out if you’re unsure what feels right for your family.
What should we wear?
Choose comfortable clothes you feel good in. Soft tones, natural colors, and simple textures work beautifully.
After booking, I’ll help you prepare so everything feels easy and natural.
How do we prepare, especially with kids?
There’s very little to prepare.
Kids don’t need to behave or perform. I follow their energy and create space for them to be themselves. Calm parents help the most.
What if the weather is bad?
If the weather isn’t right, we’ll adjust.
That might mean rescheduling, shifting timing, or choosing a more sheltered spot. We’ll decide together, calmly and without stress.
Can we include grandparents, pets, or extended family?
Absolutely. These moments matter.
Each session is planned for a specific number of people so everything stays calm and unrushed.
Additional family members can be included for $25 per person.
How much does a session cost and what’s included?
Sessions are offered in a few clear formats, each designed for a different pace and experience.
Pricing depends on the session format you choose. You can view all available options on the Sessions page, or reach out if you’re unsure what feels right for your family.
What should we wear?
Choose comfortable clothes you feel good in. Soft tones, natural colors, and simple textures work beautifully.
After booking, I’ll help you prepare so everything feels easy and natural.
How do we prepare, especially with kids?
There’s very little to prepare.
Kids don’t need to behave or perform. I follow their energy and create space for them to be themselves. Calm parents help the most.
What if the weather is bad?
If the weather isn’t right, we’ll adjust.
That might mean rescheduling, shifting timing, or choosing a more sheltered spot. We’ll decide together, calmly and without stress.
Can we include grandparents, pets, or extended family?
Absolutely. These moments matter.
Each session is planned for a specific number of people so everything stays calm and unrushed.
Additional family members can be included for $25 per person.
I’d love to hear from you
Based in San Diego
Sessions at the beach, your home, or your favorite spot.