man and woman are affectionate
sunset photo of a man and woman in ocean

Audrey and Dakota's love for each other is palpable. Their joy in that love is contagious. Those two things spurred this shoot forward in the most tender ways! When I talk with my clients, I always ask what kind of vibe they are looking for, and being California natives these two were interested in having a beach setting be a foundation.


Ok, deal! I'd never played with the ocean like this before, but I am always happy to try something new.


We drove to Encinitas- A BEAUTIFUL spot to enjoy large beaches and smaller surf (plan for low tide). A bonus was that this was in the winter-so no crowds.


It being winter you might be surprised that we actually got IN the water. Their choice!! This just speaks to the life and spontaneity within their love for one another.


Some must haves for this session: when planning to get in the water, you want to incorporate this at the END of your session. Get comfy and work through a few prompts first. But hey! I like to let things evolve pretty naturally so we were in the surf within a few moments.


Additionally, make sure you or your clients bring a towel/dry change of clothes. A lot of my couples like to head to date night after a photoshoot, so a way to dry off is a must here.


I also discovered that bringing a gallon of water is awesome for beach shoots, so you can rinse the sand when you are done!


As far as what YOU the photographer should wear? I rolled my pants up, and committed to barefoot. Sometimes art gets a little messy, but that just added to the pure joy and authenticity of this lovely shoot.


My time with Audrey and Dakota was honestly SO life-giving. We laughed, splashed, and honestly just had a whole lot of fun. They are a joyful couple and this was truly  one for the books



man and woman dance by ocean in Encinitas, California, Oceanside in background
man and woman play by ocean in Encinitas, California
man and woman hold hands by rocks in Encinitas, California
man and woman kiss by rocks in Encinitas, California
man and woman walk in ocean in Encinitas, California
couple in ocean in Encinitas, California
couple hugging in ocean in Encinitas, California
couple in ocean in Encinitas, California
photo of couple on beach at sunset in Encinitas, California
couple hugging on beach in Encinitas, California
couple running together on beach in Encinitas, California
artistic portrait of couple on beach in Encinitas, California
man and woman sitting on beach in Encinitas, California
man and woman kissing on beach in Encinitas, California
man and woman runs on beach in Encinitas, California
man and woman on beach at sunset in Encinitas, California
man and woman dances on beach in Encinitas, California
man and woman on beach in Encinitas, California