An Outdoorsy Rodeo Beach Marin Headlands Engagement Session
Although the water isn’t always warm enough for taking a dip, Northern California’s rugged coastline is an utter gem! For Ashley and Brooks’ adventurous engagement session, we headed to Rodeo Beach in the Marin Headlands, just a 30 minute drive north of San Francisco. It’s the perfect spot if you love the great outdoors, are up for a hike, and want a stunning coastal location for your engagement session. This San Francisco couple brought their adorable golden retriever puppy along, Moose! His parents are head over heels in love and are clearly up for a life adventure together! Their chemistry just radiated and that always leads to a magical engagement session. The golden light from the sunset was perfect, and we had fun climbing around cliffs above the beach and along the trails on the bluff. Check out my 5 tips at the bottom for having an outdoor engagement session!
These two spend a lot of time hiking and exploring mountains together, so they weren’t shy about taking a little hike up the rugged cliffs!
It’s a good idea to bring layers to wear in case it’s cold!
Moose was happy to chew on a piece of driftwood while we took photos!
Up the pathway from the beach are AMAZING views of the ocean and the outcropping of the Marin Headlands.
The bride isn’t the only one that is wearing an engagement ring! Brooks’ ring is made up from different types of wood, including aspen. Brooks’ home state of Colorado is where the two will be having an intimate wedding ceremony.
I’m so excited to be photographing their beautiful summer wedding celebration at Paicines Ranch!
5 Tips for Having an Outdoor Engagement Session!
I want you to look and feel amazing together, so here are some tips for having amazing engagement photos in the great outdoors.
Wear comfortable shoes. Feel free to either wear cute but comfy shoes, or bring a stylish pair to change into. Be prepared for a bit of walking or hiking! If we head to the beach, be prepared to go barefoot (and have a towel handy for afterwards).
Your clothing choice should reflect your style, but also be comfortable to move in. Also consider if your location is windy in regards to your clothes. Ladies, a flowing dress looks great in the wind, but just make sure it is secured! Also, keep in mind the temperatures. If you’re cold, it’s harder to have fun and be in the moment. So bring layers.
Fuss-free hairstyles. Whether we hike a bit to a great scenic spot, or we head somewhere that is windy, keep in mind that the hair you styled before you left the house could be affected by the elements. So a no-fuss hairstyle is best!
Avoid bringing your cell phone and other personal items. I can hold onto your keys for you. I’d love for you to not carry anything, so you two are free to hold hands and be with each other. Plus phone, wallets, etc., will show in your pockets and also I don’t want them to get wet if you do decide to run into the water at the beach!
Communication. Let me know your comfort level with how adventurous you want to be! As your photographer I want these photos to represent you two and not push you to do anything you’re uncomfortable with. But if you want to jump into the creek, let me know!
Contact Sonya if you’re interested in booking your engagement session!