6th Annual Beach Mini Sessions at Rocky Gap – July 8th, 2025
Weather backup date: July 9
Rocky Gap Beach | Benton Harbor, Michigan
It’s happening—Beach Minis are back for their 6th year, and I’m thrilled to share that we’re heading to a new location this time around: Rocky Gap Beach in Benton Harbor, Michigan. After three wonderful summers at Jean Klock Park, it felt like the right moment to mix things up and offer something a little different for my returning clients (and fresh inspiration for me, too!). These short-but-sweet sessions are perfect for families, couples, seniors, and sweet little babes—basically anyone who wants a dose of Lake Michigan magic without the full session time or price tag.
Our official session date is Tuesday, July 8, with Wednesday, July 9 reserved as the weather backup date. Being right on the shoreline, our two biggest challenges are rain and wind. While a little breeze is part of the beach charm, if we’re looking at gusts strong enough to blow sand around or leave you brushing hair out of your face every other frame, I’ll call it. Same goes for rain—if the forecast shows a 50% chance or higher, I’ll make the final decision by 4:00 PM the day of. I’d rather say, “Let’s wait,” and have it turn out perfect than try to power through and end up damp, sandy, or frustrated. Your photos—and your experience—are worth the patience.
Beach Minis are fast, focused sessions—just 10 to 15 minutes—created to deliver beautiful, clean, portrait-style images with the breeze in your hair and the lake at your feet. I’ll absolutely grab a few loving, candid moments of you connecting with your people, but the focus of these sessions is portraits. If you’re looking for that more relaxed, storytelling vibe (think splashing in the waves, barefoot walks, big moments unfolding naturally), a full session is a better fit.
These sessions are great for families (all sizes welcome—larger groups are totally doable, just keep in mind it’s a “we get what we get” kind of pace), seniors looking for a few bonus beach shots, couples wanting something low-key and sweet, maternity sessions with that beautiful Lake Michigan glow, or quick updates of the kids before they shoot up another inch.
While I adore photographing kids and have plenty of tricks to pull smiles, 15 minutes can be a challenge for little ones who are shy, slow to warm up, or easily distracted—especially at the beach. If your child tends to need extra time or space, I’d recommend booking a full session instead. It gives us room to connect, move at their pace, and create something really special without pressure.
For those of you who’ve joined me over the past few summers—thank you for coming back year after year. We’ve spent the last three Beach Minis at Jean Klock Park, so this season felt like the right time to switch it up. Rocky Gap Beach offers a fresh perspective with a new stretch of walkway, a more intimate feel, and some unique architectural detours in the wave breaks. Set in historic Benton Harbor, this beach gives us the same golden Lake Michigan light, with a slightly different frame for your story. Benton Harbor’s shoreline is one of Berrien County’s hidden gems, and I love bringing my returning families new spots to keep your galleries feeling fresh while still true to the Southwest Michigan vibe.
This is my 6th summer hosting Beach Minis, and it’s wild to think about how much has changed since year one. Some of your kids have practically grown up in front of my lens, and watching your families evolve over the years has been one of the sweetest parts of this job. To celebrate, I’m sharing a few favorite throwbacks from past Beach Minis at the end of this post—so scroll on down and see if you spot a familiar face, a sandy little grin, or a younger version of your own crew.
I’m also officially booking full-length family sessions in Berrien County and along Lake Michigan this summer. If you’ve been hoping for something slower-paced, more customized, or just want more time to play and connect—now’s your chance. Pricing is up at amberkarrels.com and spots are limited, so don’t wait to grab yours.
Let’s make something beautiful together.
— Amber
Amber Karrels Photography
Berrien County Family & Beach Photographer | Southwest Michigan Portraits
