Hey milspouse photographer! If you’re preparing for a PCS to Jacksonville, NC, then I’m excited to connect you with Tiffany Rudy Photography. Tiffany has been stationed at Camp Lejeune two separate times and has so much to share with you. Let’s jump in to this Jacksonville, NC Photography Spotlight.
This spot will always have my heart. The soft dunes, calm waves, and slower pace make it such a peaceful setting for beach sessions. Whether it’s a sunset maternity shoot or a playful family session with sandy toes, Topsail gives that laid-back coastal vibe I love capturing.

There’s something so special about capturing families in the place they’ve made their own (even if just for a season). For military families, home is often temporary, but the memories made there are anything but. If you haven’t photographed an in home session, give it a try! It is a great option in the winter when it is just too cold and windy to head to the beach!

This one is iconic. The mix of ocean views, pier structure, and salty breeze gives every session an effortlessly cool, coastal feel. Whether it’s a golden hour glow or a moody overcast day, it never lets me down.

Summer and fall are the peak seasons for sessions in North Carolina! Summer is packed with beach-loving tourists coming from near and far for family vacations, military families trying to squeeze in photos before PCS season, and those dreamy golden hour evenings. Fall is just as busy, as we finally get gorgeous weather and everyone is prepping for holiday cards.
You’re in luck! Both beaches and downtown Jacksonville don’t require permits!
Spend a lot of time exploring and finding your favorite hidden locations. Also, if you can avoid it, do not attempt to schedule sessions near Surf City Pier during Memorial Day Weekend or July 4th weekend!!! It’s impossible to find parking and you’ll end up spending hours photoshopping the endless amount of people out of the background!
Enjoy the community. There is no where else like it!
Website: https://www.tiffanyrudy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffrudyphoto/
Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!
If you enjoyed this Jacksonville, NC photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!

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I HAVE A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOU!
I've been navigating military life with my family since 2008. In that time, I went from a full-time classroom teacher to an online course designer to a photographer. Actually, I still teach a little math on the side because I just love it too much!
Through it all, I've discovered how passionate I am about connecting with military families. Whether it's taking photos at a retirement ceremony, coaching a fellow milspouse photographer, or just grabbing coffee with a new squadron friend, I love this community. And as a teacher at heart, I'm excited to use this space to share what I've learned about business and life with you.
I'M ERIN.