1. RELAX! No, seriously. Have fun with it.

I mean it. You might be thinking a San Diego beach engagement shoot is all about posing in awkward positions, forcing smiles, and moving from one spot to another. But, oh no, my friend. Engagement photography is about capturing your true essence through movement, laughter, and those spontaneous, in-between moments. So take a deep breath, let loose, and let your San Diego photographer work their magic. If you’re man is still uptight about it, a shot of whiskey might help.

2. Let’s get real.

Forget bribing your fiancé with promises of cooking dinner or Netflix binges for enduring the shoot. They’re not a kid and this isn’t a trip to the dentist. Speak about the photo shoot as a fun, memorable experience. You’re creating memories, not enduring a chore! Laughter, piggy back rides and running in the sand are all standard practice at Elle G Photography.

3. No bickering on the way over.

I cannot stress this enough. DO. NOT. FIGHT. ON. THE. WAY. OVER. Yes, you might be running late, or maybe someone forgot something important. Leave it all behind as soon as you step out of the car. The camera picks up on tension faster than a relationship counselor. You want these photos to reflect love and joy, not that argument over who left the stove on.

4. Timing is everything (hello, golden sunshine!).

Although we wont be exactly in the golden hour, you’ll be in that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset when the light is perfect. Think soft, flattering light instead of harsh shadows and squinting. Trust me, it’s worth setting the alarm or planning your dinner around it. Photographing your engagement session 2 hours prior to sunset allows you to still have that golden light but it leaves time for you to enjoy the sunset on your own right afterwards.

5. Ditch the heels and go barefoot.

This isn’t a black-tie affair but feel free to dress up for your beach engagement session if you want to! Lose the shoes though and let your toes feel the sand though. You’ll be more relaxed, more comfortable, and more you. When you’re free to move, run, and play, the real magic happens. You’re feet will definitely be getting wet and if you want to frolic deeper in the ocean, even better!

6. Make a day of it.

Don’t just swing by the beach for the shoot and then rush off. Plan to spend the day. Enjoy the area, grab a bite at a cute café nearby, or just lounge and soak in the sunset afterwards.

Looking for your own beach engagement photos?

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.