Southern Smiles at Eden Gardens

If I could bottle up the smiles from this session and sell them, I would be a billionaire! Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Ally and her two children at the majestic Eden Gardens State Park. This location never fails to provide a backdrop that feels both grand and intimate, perfectly suited for a family as beautiful as this one.

Perfect Styling for a Majestic Setting

Ally was absolutely amazing and looked incredible in a dress I almost wanted to steal for myself! The entire family’s choice of light-colored, coordinated clothing was the perfect match for a January day in the gardens. Little Blakely was precious in her floral headband, and her brother Brody was a natural model—handsome as can be and so easy to photograph.

Why We Love Eden Gardens in the Winter

While many people think of the Emerald Coast only for its summer beaches, January at Eden Gardens offers a unique, crisp light that highlights the moss-draped oaks and historic architecture beautifully. As an Eden Gardens photographer, I love how the manicured lawns and the white pillars of the Wesley House create a sophisticated, timeless aesthetic that stands apart from a traditional beach session.

Capturing the “In-Between”

Beyond the posed portraits, we focused on the genuine connection between Ally and her kids. From shared laughs on the porch to quiet moments under the sprawling oak branches, these images capture the heart of their family dynamic. These are the portraits that become true heirlooms, telling a story of a beautiful day spent in one of Florida’s most scenic state parks.


Dreaming of a garden session? Eden Gardens offers a stunning, sophisticated alternative to the beach for your next family session. If you love the look of mossy oaks and Southern charm, let’s connect and start planning your visit!

Hi, I'm Amanda Eubank — a premier Emerald Coast photographer specializing in family, senior, engagement, maternity & newborn portraits along Florida's most iconic coastline. For more than a decade, I've been capturing the natural beauty and easy magic of Destin, 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Rosemary Beach, Watersound, Seaside, Watercolor, and the surrounding sugar-white shoreline. Every gallery is tailored to reflect the people in front of the camera — warm, candid, and connection-driven — designed to feel less like a photo shoot and more like a memorable time with your favorite people. Whether you're planning a vacation session or marking a milestone, I'd love to create timeless, emotive images that feel like the trip itself. I'd love to hear from you.