Carrie & Ethan

Carrie and Ethan were living in NYC and planning on traveling to Los Angeles for some wedding related to-do’s, so it was the perfect time to schedule their engagement session. Their wedding is at the gorgeous, Bel Air Bay Club and they wanted a beach engagement session in Pacific Palisades.

We starting brainstorming some location ideas and ultimately decided on Palisades Park and Will Rogers Beach. Palisades Park is a personal favorite location of mine because of the gorgeous ocean views and the iconic walking paths lined with giant palm trees. The final part of their engagement session was at Will Rogers Beach, which made for some dreamy golden hour beach vibes.

Carrie and Ethan’s engagement session was photographed in the winter and even though we’re in southern California, it was an unusually cold day. Like pro’s, Carrie and Ethan handled the cold like champs (aka, like New Yorkers). They ran up and down the beach to warm up, which made for some fun, candid photos! Working with Carrie and Ethan was a DREAM and I’m so excited to share their beautiful wedding blog soon!

Tips for Beach Engagement Sessions

Timing is Everything: Schedule your session during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times creates a flattering, romantic atmosphere and enhances the natural beauty of the beach.

Dress for the Location: Choose outfits that complement the beach setting. Light, flowing fabrics in neutral or pastel colors work well. Also, consider going barefoot or wearing casual sandals which adds to the relaxed beach vibe.

Embrace the Elements: It is good to be prepared for changes in temperature, wind and water. Use the wind to your advantage by adding it into your poses by letting hair and clothes flow naturally. Don’t be afraid to get wet — playing in the waves can create fun, candid shots. Also, water shots are best towards the end of the session.

Use Props Wisely: Simple and real props can enhance the beach theme without overwhelming the photos. Consider items like a neutral blanket, a beach cruiser or even a vintage surfboard.

Plan for Comfort: Bring essentials like water, towels, and a change of clothes. Being comfortable will help you relax. Also, know your location beforehand to identify the best spots and crowded areas.