What started as a typical summer plan quickly became a trip I’ll never forget. Our son asked if he could go to camp with our previous church in North Carolina. Since we weren’t quite ready for him to travel alone, we decided to build a little adventure around it. While Hezi enjoyed camp, we planned a getaway with Emma and looked forward to exploring a few new spots in Virginia and North Carolina.

What we didn’t expect? A mini family reunion. My parents, brother, and his kids flew up from Florida to meet us at my sister’s farm in Blackstone, VA. What a gift! I knew our time together would mean the world, and I didn’t want to miss the chance to document it. So I brought my camera and captured the kind of joy-filled moments I’ll always treasure.

As a photographer mom traveling through Virginia with kids, this trip turned into one of the sweetest chapters of our summer.

Things to Do in Blackstone VA with Kids

Blackstone may be a quiet town, but it gave us space to slow down and reconnect. We spent our days on the farm watching cousins chase chickens, feeding the animals, and playing games after dinner. Conversations stretched long into the night, and bedtime came later than it probably should have. One of my favorite memories? “Emma and Coraline’s Ultimate Dance Party” on our final night—a full-family dance session to their curated playlist.

If you’re dreaming up a Virginia summer vacation with kids, Blackstone offers room to exhale. There’s no pressure for big itineraries or busy schedules. We especially loved Richlands Creamery, where homemade ice cream met a charming shop filled with locally made goods.

Colonial Beach: Slowing Down by the Water

After farm days, we headed to Colonial Beach for a change of pace. We loved the open skies, gentle waves, and simple afternoons filled with sun-soaked play. The kids (and grown-ups!) soaked in the slow rhythm. No agenda. Just togetherness.

Colonial Beach invites you to be fully present. I’m so glad I had my camera out for those quiet, joyful moments.

Day Trip to Richmond VA with Kids

On our last day in Virginia, we explored Richmond with the kids. The city offered a beautiful mix of Southern charm and old-world character. From the beautiful State Capitol to the cobblestone streets, it definitely felt photo-worthy. I will say—it was hot the day we visited, and our little explorers were fading fast by late afternoon…as you will see from the photos. 🙂

A Note from a Photographer Mom

This wasn’t a styled shoot. These weren’t perfectly posed. But these photos—this trip—they hold something so much more important to me: connection, laughter, and the kind of joy that sneaks up on you.

Thanks for following along on this little slice of our summer. Whether you’re planning your own trip or just dreaming of simpler days with the people you love, I hope these photos encourage you to take the detour, pack light, and keep your camera close.

Central Texas Wedding & Portrait Photography

If you enjoyed reading this post, you can follow me on Instagram or join my email list for more fun and updates. Previously a North Carolina Wedding Photographer, I’m now based in Central Texas and available for wedding photography in Central Texas, North Carolina and Virginia. If you’re planning a celebration that’s full of meaning, love, and family, I’d be honored to capture it. I believe in telling stories that feel personal and true—just like this one.