An Adventurous Big Sur Engagement Session | Catie + Nick
In the heart of California’s rugged coast lies a place where cliffs meet the sea in a dance of nature. It’s here, right in Big Sur, that Nick and Catie’s love story unfolded, in an adventurous, romantic, and timeless way. As their photographer, I had the honor of capturing their engagement session, weaving their story into the fabric of this stunning landscape. I want you to enjoy their images but also soak in these tips on how to create your own memorable Big Sur engagement session. From choosing the perfect attire to selecting dreamy locations, celebrating this special occasion, and capturing the essence of your love, you’ll come out of this with some peace of mind.
Four Tips for a Seamless Big Sur Engagement Shoot
Clothing Choices
When selecting attire for your Big Sur engagement session, opt for neutral tones that blend with the coastal landscape, such as soft blues, earthy greens, or sandy beiges. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors that could detract from the natural beauty around you. Instead, choose pieces that complement the surroundings, allowing your love to take center stage. Consider layering with sweaters, jackets, or scarves to add texture and depth to your photos, creating a timeless and cohesive look that enhances the ethereal beauty of Big Sur.
For Nick and Catie’s session, it was a beautiful, warm day along the coast, with young love, and a sense of adventure. Nick had a broken foot, but was still willing and wanting to hike and explore. Wearing comfortable shoes, so that we can go off trail is always key for the best photos.
Choosing a Dreamy Location
Big Sur offers a magnificent backdrop for your engagement session. Rugged cliffs, ocean views, and deep forests give you nearly any vibe to choose from. Consider iconic locations Bixby Bridge (best in the winter season), McWay Falls, or Pfeiffer Beach, each offering a unique setting. Embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings by incorporating movement and interaction into your photos, whether it’s walking along the coastline hand in hand or sharing a quiet moment sitting on the rocks. Let the landscape inspire you as you create timeless memories. For this particular session, Nick knew he wanted a few photos with Bixby Bridge, as they had just finished watching Little Big Lies… so I took him off the beaten path to capture the bridge in the background.
If you’re planning a Big Sur wedding, this guide on Big Sur wedding venues will be a valuable resource!
Celebrate the Occasion
Don’t forget to celebrate your love and the occasion of your engagement by adding special touches to your Big Sur photo session! Bring a bottle of wine to share, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere even if the proposal has already taken place. Make the shoot a fun and celebratory experience, cherishing the moments as you explore the area together. Consider extending the celebration with a romantic dinner at one of the renowned restaurants in the area, such as the iconic Post Ranch Inn, Ventana, Deetjens, or Chez Noir in Carmel. There are so many incredible spots so you’ll certainly want to soak in your time here.
“Our shoot with Evynn was so memorable!” -Catie
Preserve the Moments
Lastly, remember you’re here to capture your adventurous spirits and deep connection for your Big Sur engagement. Embrace the natural beauty and dramatic lighting of the location. I will always encourage you to be present, playful, and authentic, allowing your genuine connection to come through. Let the surroundings and your love for each other inspire you to create images that are not just beautiful, but also deeply meaningful.
