There’s something timeless and tender about mother-daughter sessions.
When Farhat reached out through the Ritz-Carlton concierge to plan a special photo session for her daughter Mylah’s third birthday, I knew we were about to create something special for them. Every year, Farhat takes a trip with just her daughter, making space to create individual memories, and photographs to match.
This year’s destination? Turks and Caicos. Their first time on the island. And what a magical way to celebrate Mylah turning three.
Why Turks & Caicos is the Perfect Place for a Mother-Daughter Getaway
With its calm beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury accommodations, Turks and Caicos is one of the top locations in the Caribbean for families seeking a peaceful and elegant escape. For this trip, Farhat and Mylah stayed at The Ritz-Carlton, Grace Bay – a modern, high-end resort known for its impeccable service, beachfront location, and proximity to shopping, dining, and water activities.
The Photoshoot: A Little Shyness Before The Smiles
I met at The Ritz’s lobby, just steps from their suite. At first, Mylah was shy (as many toddlers are), clinging to her mom and unsure of the camera. But it wasn’t long before her playful spirit began to shine.
Before heading to the beach, we started with a few portraits in the resort gardens to add some variety to the gallery with the greens and palms as the backdrop. With some encouragement, little Mylah warmed up and cosied up to her mom for some adorable pictures.
It was then time to head to the beach, and with both mom and daughter dressed in charming outfits, they were ready for beach photos. Farhat, who was looking gorgeous and stylish, made the session all the more special, knowing how much she’d end up treasuring these special moments with her eldest daughter.
Birthday Traditions Worth Keeping
What I love most about this session is what it represents: intentional motherhood. Farhat told me she makes a point to capture images on every mother-child trip. Not just for Instagram, but for the wall at home. That means every image I created wasn’t just for now, it was for the future. For memories. For legacy.
Thinking of doing the same? Turks and Caicos offers endless opportunities for any celebration, from birthday portraits to generational family gatherings. Whether you’re staying at a villa or luxury resort, we’ll help you choose the best setting and timing for your portraits.
What to Do With Kids in Turks & Caicos: A Local Photographer’s Recommendation
Chatting at the end of the shoot, Farhat asked me for kid-friendly ideas during their stay. For Mylah, I recommended the Undersea Explorer, a semi-submarine experience out of Turtle Cove Marina. It’s perfect for young children who aren’t ready for snorkeling but still want to see the reef, turtles, and tropical fish. Through the viewing windows, they can see everything, including finding a real life mermaid! I found out afterwards, they’d booked it and needless to say, Mylah loved every second of it.
Explore this unique experience here:
🔗 Undersea Explorer Turks & Caicos
A Client’s Review That Moved Us to Tears
After sending the final gallery, I received one of the most heartfelt reviews which just makes what I do all the more worthwhile. It had been a windy day on the beach, so they wanted to retouch a few wind-blown stray hairs and some seaweed debris in the sand.
“Oh my GOODNESS!!!! It’s actually taken me a good 10 minutes to compose myself so I could write this email. I have never, ever seen such phenomenal retouching work. This is truly amazing Alex and I am just shocked as to how natural they look. I agree they are great!! And… if it’s even an option… now I’m thinking to get a few more images retouched and want to go back to the others to review. Is that possible??? The sand work is so subtle and not a clean untouched beach which is what I was worried of! Ocean too. Let me know if it’s possible to do a quick review of another one or two I may want. Thanks for such brilliant photos! I am crying Alex!”
Awww… It’s for moments like this why I do what I do.
Planning Your Own Portraits in Turks & Caicos?
Here are a few quick tips to make it perfect:
- Book early during peak season (December to April). Dates fill quickly.
- Coordinate outfits that allow movement and reflect your setting—neutrals and light tones work beautifully.
- Let toddlers lead the way. If they want to run, splash, or roll in the sand—that’s where the magic lives.
- Capture connection. Whether it’s a kiss on the forehead or a shared laugh, those are the images that last a lifetime.
📸 Want to document your next family trip, birthday, or milestone in Turks & Caicos?
Let’s create images that are timeless, joyful, and as beautiful as the memories behind them.
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