The JOURNAL

A family of three stands in Trabuco Canyon in Orange County. They are all holding hands and posing for family photos with Kate Noelle Photography.

FAMILIES

Last fall, I hosted a special round of family photos mini sessions in the picturesque beauty of Trabuco Canyon.  This hidden gem of Orange County is a wilderness oasis that lies just north of Rancho Santa Margarita. Nestled in the heart of a quiet subdivision, it’s just a short trip from the coast and the […]

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A White family of five laugh together at eucalyptus grove during an Orange County Mini Session. A dad, mom, two daughters, and a son.

FAMILIES

When it comes to picking locations for my Orange County Mini Sessions, it’s so fun finding beautiful spots off the beaten path.  These eucalyptus groves have become one of my favorite secret spots, providing a tranquil backdrop- and that forest is just magical. Not to be annoying and redundant, but I really mean that forest […]

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A family of a mom, a dad, and two boys smile together at Laguna Beach. Their heads are all pressed together.

FAMILIES

You’d be hard pressed to find a better spot for family photos than Laguna Beach. One of Orange County’s hidden gems, it contains seven-miles of breathtaking cliffs amid the tide pools, tranquil morning waves, and even fun climbing spots for the kids. Shooting with kids at the beach adds a bit of magic that is […]

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Kate holds up a photo book and smiles

MY THOUGHTS

If you’re looking for the best holiday photo gift ideas, I’ve totally got you.  I’ve found that gifting your family photos in unique ways makes for the MOST remembered and cherished gifts. They can be enjoyed far beyond the moment, and brighten the receiver’s day every time they pass it. Far-away family members especially benefit, […]

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black and white father and son playing at the beach

FAMILIES

Family photos at the beach are so special. Not everyone has the privilege of growing up near the beach, but for those who do, it’s really such a magical place to spend family time. For exactly that reason, Sarah Ellen and Juan Carlos wanted to have photos of their little family together in a place they love– Carlsbad State Beach in Southern California. We felt the sand in our toes, chased waves, we played and laughed, and watched the sun go down over the Pacific Ocean. These moments with those we love pass by so fast, so it’s especially sweet to have these memories documented forever.

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FAMILIES

The first light of day creeps through the curtains and little bodies begin to stir at the sounds of early chirping birds. The smells of morning coffee waft in spirals, dancing with the whispers of good morning. Blankies are dragged and little hands find yours to hobble down the stairs. Activities and breakfast start soon […]

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Adorable-family-lifestyle-portraits-in-home-california-kohlenberg

FAMILIES

These San Diego family lifestyle portraits are #familygoals and just the most adorable thing you’ve ever seen. Since they just finished moving in and renovating their beautiful new home, we decided it would be fitting to take some relaxed family photos of the four of them before baby boy number three joined the party. Again, […]

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california-family-photographer-schneider-family

FAMILIES

The Schneider family began with just the two of them, then Ezra Monkey joined the party, and now with Kolja bear they are four. Though life looks a little different with their two little munchkins than it did when it was just the two of them, there’s still a “sameness” to it. Music still holds the baseline to their […]

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Behind the Camera

Kate Noelle

Kate Noelle is a Southern California wedding photographer with nearly 20 years of experience, celebrated as much for her art as she is for the way she is loved by clients, their families, creative partners, and publications alike. Named Best Photographer in Orange County by California Wedding Day Magazine three years running, she is known for her calm presence, refined artistry, and ability to navigate high-stakes moments with confidence and discretion.

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Named 'Best Wedding Photographer in California' by California Wedding Day, and Proudly featured by

“Always fresh, fun, and fashionable, Kate Noelle's work attracts editors and discerning couples alike. Sought after in Southern California and luxury destinations around the world, she is trusted by other top professionals and adored by her clients who can't say enough good things about her work.” 

From Blair deLaubenfels, Editor at Worlds Best Wedding Photos —

“Sought after in Southern California and luxury destinations around the world, she is trusted by other top professionals and adored by her clients who can't say enough good things about her work.” 

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