Not your average engagement shoot: We set sail—with a pup and some petals.
When Mary & Ian told me they wanted their sailboat engagement photos at the San Diego Yacht Club, I didn’t just say yes—I mentally cleared my schedule. As an engagement photographer San Diego couples call when they want something classic with a personal twist, this was chef’s kiss perfect. Bonus: they were bringing their chocolate lab. Yes, please.

We started on land—specifically, the flower-coated trails near the club that looked like they’d been Photoshopped by spring itself. It was soft, golden, and smelled faintly of salt and wildflowers. Their pup trotted happily ahead of us, sniffing every bloom like he was the star of the shoot (and honestly, he kind of was).

Dog walk first. Boat later. Best of both worlds.
After a laid-back stroll and some sweet, slightly shy portraits among the flowers, we gave their furry third wheel a break and made our way to the boat. Marys dad keeps it docked at the San Diego Yacht Club—aka the ultimate flex and the perfect backdrop for golden-hour magic.

Once we stepped on board, the energy shifted. Still relaxed, still very them, but now with a bit of adventure baked in. They even hopped into the little dinghy for a spin around the harbor. Pro tip: if you want your engagement photos to feel effortless, throw in a small boat and a little breeze. It’s instant romance (and killer hair lighting).

Slightly posed. Totally them.
Mary & Ian weren’t the “twirl me in the air and pretend we’re laughing at nothing” kind of couple. They were sweet, reserved, and totally present. So we leaned into that. No forced giggles. Just hand-holding, quiet moments, and real connection. And let’s be honest—when the background is the San Diego Bay and your family sailboat, you don’t need to overdo it.

Why the San Diego Yacht Club? Because it means something.
This wasn’t some Pinterest-inspired boat rental. This was their place. Mary grew up around this dock. The boat belongs to her dad. It’s layered with memories, and now—engagement photos. That’s the kind of personal detail you just can’t fake.

Thinking about sail boat engagement photos?

If you’ve got a place that means something to you—go there. Take the dog. Wear the comfy shoes for the trail and kick them off when it’s time to board. Make it yours.

If you’re searching for an engagement photographer San Diego couples trust to keep things relaxed, meaningful, and just the right amount of “wow,” I’m your girl. Let’s tell your story—on land, sea, or both.

Lisa G (Elle G) is a San Diego beach photographer based in Pacific Beach, CA. Proudly serving San Diego’s coastal communities: La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, Point Loma and Coronado. 858-344-1068. To chat about booking your own portrait session click HERE.