A Summer Love Story at Cannon Beach: Engagement Session

There’s something truly magical about Cannon Beach in the summer. The golden light dipping low over Haystack Rock, the rhythmic crash of the waves, and the cool breeze that carries the scent of saltwater and freedom—it’s a place that feels like a world apart. When Marissa and Kevin reached out to me about their engagement session, they described a vision that was more than just photos: they wanted to capture their love story in its purest form. And for them, that meant including two things they cherish most—a picnic under the open sky and their beloved Jeep, which has carried them on countless adventures.

Planning the Session: Bringing Their Vision to Life

From the start, it was clear Marissa and Kevin wanted their engagement photos to feel personal and authentic. “We don’t want anything too stiff or formal,” Marissa had said during our first call. “We want it to feel like us.”

After brainstorming ideas together, we settled on the perfect combination—a casual summer picnic on the beach, followed by playful shots with their Jeep at sunset. Their Jeep wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of their shared love for exploration, road trips, and spontaneous escapes. I loved how they wanted to integrate these meaningful elements into their photos—it was a reminder of why I love capturing love stories like theirs.

The Day of the Shoot: Sunshine, Sand, and Laughter

We met in the late afternoon when the sun was just beginning to soften. Marissa and Kevin had brought everything for their picnic: a plaid blanket, a basket filled with their favorite snacks, and a chilled bottle of rosé.

As they set up the picnic near the dunes, I watched the way they moved together—effortlessly, in sync, as if they were in their own little world. Marissa laughed as Kevin attempted to open the rosé with a little too much gusto, and the cork went flying into the sand. These small, unscripted moments are the heart of what I love to capture.

The session unfolded naturally from there. They shared bites of fresh fruit, clinked their glasses, and let loose with big, belly laughs. Between shots, we chatted about their favorite road trips in the Jeep, like the time they camped under the stars in Moab or drove along the winding roads of Big Sur.

Jeep Adventures at Sunset

As the sun dipped closer to the horizon, we turned our attention to the Jeep. Parked at the edge of the beach, it gleamed in the golden light—a rugged yet romantic backdrop for the next part of their session.

Kevin and Marissa climbed onto the hood and leaned into each other, looking perfectly at home. I encouraged them to be playful, and soon they were stealing kisses, laughing, and even tossing their shoes aside to run along the shoreline.

One of my favorite shots from the day was when they stood beside the Jeep, holding hands, with the vast ocean stretching behind them. The moment felt expansive, full of promise—a visual echo of the life they’re building together.

Why This Session Stands Out

What made this session so special wasn’t just the breathtaking scenery or the perfectly planned details. It was the way Marissa and Kevin were so unapologetically themselves. Their joy, their connection, and their love for adventure came through in every frame.

As the last light of day faded and we packed up, Marissa looked back at the beach and said, “This was perfect. It’s exactly how we imagined it.”

A Reflection

Cannon Beach has always held a special place in my heart, but sessions like this make it even more meaningful. It’s not just about the stunning landscapes—it’s about the stories that unfold here, the couples who make it their own, and the memories we create together.

If you’re dreaming of an engagement session that feels like you—complete with the moments, places, and things you love most—let’s make it happen. Because at the end of the day, your love story deserves to be told in the way only you can.

Are you ready to plan your own adventure-filled session or destination elopement? Let’s chat—I can’t wait to tell your story.

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