Ela and Joel’s California beach engagement session was one of those evenings where everything came together beautifully. Warm light, a quiet stretch of coastline, and plenty of time to wander along the beach without rushing from one spot to the next.
We started near the cliffs before making our way down to the shoreline as the sun got lower. Ela’s white pleated dress caught the breeze as they walked barefoot through the sand, and the golden light gave the entire session a soft, relaxed feel.
With their wedding at Kohl Mansion quickly approaching, it was such a fun way to spend some time together before the wedding day.
Golden Hour for a California Beach Engagement Session
The hour before sunset is one of my favorite times for a beach engagement session. The light gets softer as the evening goes on, and there is plenty of room to walk, move, and let things unfold naturally.
For Ela and Joel, we kept things simple. We explored the rocks, walked along the water, and took advantage of the last bit of sunlight coming through the cliffs.
The combination of the warm light, neutral tones of the beach, and Ela’s flowy white dress photographed beautifully without needing much else.
What to Wear for Beach Engagement Photos
The coast is one of those places where simple outfits tend to work best.
Ela chose a lightweight white dress with plenty of movement, while Joel wore a light blue button-down with dark pants. Their outfits complemented the sand and ocean while still feeling casual enough for walking barefoot along the beach.
For a California beach engagement session, I always recommend choosing something you can comfortably move in. Wind, sand, and uneven terrain are all part of the experience, and being comfortable makes it much easier to relax in front of the camera.
Keeping Engagement Photos Relaxed
Engagement sessions do not need to feel like an hour of posing for the camera.
I give direction when it is needed, but I also want couples to have space to walk, talk, and interact naturally. Some of my favorite photographs from Ela and Joel’s session came from those simple moments in between.
The beach was especially perfect for that. We could move between the cliffs and shoreline while letting the changing light guide where we went next.
Next Stop, Kohl Mansion
I’ll be photographing Ela and Joel again for their wedding at Kohl Mansion. After their relaxed evening along the coast, I’m looking forward to photographing them in a completely different setting surrounded by the mansion’s historic architecture and gardens.
I’ve photographed at Kohl Mansion before, including this chateau-inspired Kohl Mansion wedding editorial, and I’m excited to return for Ela and Joel’s wedding.
If you are looking for a San Francisco engagement photographer and dreaming of a romantic coastal setting, I would love to help you plan something beautiful. Get in touch to inquire about availability.
