Some engagement sessions feel like hanging out with two people who really enjoy each other. Bella and Carter’s La Jolla Shores session was exactly that: playful, a little romantic, and so much fun from the first minute to the last. We shot during golden hour, and the warm, glowing light made the whole gallery feel soft and dreamy.
Bella and Carter booked me for both their engagement session and their wedding, which is coming up in December. Getting to know a couple before their wedding day is one of my favorite parts of a package like this. By the time the wedding comes around, we’re already comfortable with each other.
A Simple, Classic Look:
They kept their outfits simple with just one look, and it worked beautifully. Bella wore a cute white dress, and Carter paired khaki pants with a light blue, linen-style button-down. The soft, coordinated colors looked effortless in the golden hour light against the ocean, and the simple outfits kept the focus on the two of them.
Three Backdrops, One Location
One of my favorite things about La Jolla Shores is how much variety you get in one spot.
Scripps Pier in the background for that iconic La Jolla look
Just the open ocean behind them for clean, timeless portraits
The cliffs in the background for a little extra depth and texture
Bella and Carter were up for every pose and prompt I gave them. They laughed through most of it, and the candid moments in between are some of my favorites from the gallery.
Tips for an Engagement Session at La Jolla Shores
Plan for golden hour. The hour or so before sunset at La Jolla Shores gives you warm, flattering light on the water, the pier, and the cliffs. It’s the best time of day for this location.
Choose a weekday if you can. This area is popular for good reason, and it can get very busy, especially on weekends. A weekday session means fewer people in your photos and a more relaxed experience.
Keep your outfits simple. Soft, ocean-friendly colors like whites, light blues, and neutrals look lovely against the water, and one great outfit is plenty.
Go in ready to have fun. The best engagement photos come from couples who laugh and enjoy each other. If you can do that, I’ll handle the rest.
Ready to Plan Your San Diego Engagement Session?
I photograph engagement sessions and weddings across San Diego, La Jolla, Coronado, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and throughout Southern California. Whether you want a classic beach session or something more personal, let’s connect and start planning.
[Inquire here → seagravephotography.com/contact]