I recently had the pleasure of photographing Sam and Ashley’s engagement session at the stunning beach by the Don CeSar hotel in St. Pete. This session was a thoughtful gift from their friend Brenda, who wanted to give them something truly special to cherish as they prepare for their upcoming wedding. I was thrilled to be part of this memorable moment, capturing their love in such a picturesque setting.
As we arrived at the beach, we were greeted by perfect weather. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden light over the sand and water, creating the ideal backdrop for a beach engagement session. Sam and Ashley looked incredible in their coordinating outfits that beautifully complemented the natural surroundings. But what truly stole the show was their adorable dog, Maple, who they had brought along for the session. I always encourage my clients to include their furry friends in their photos—after all, pets are an integral part of the family and deserve to be immortalized in these special moments.
Capturing the love between Sam and Ashley was effortless. Their natural chemistry radiated through every frame, making my job as their Tampa engagement photographer a joy. I focused on using timeless, organic poses that felt comfortable and authentic to them. My goal was to create a series of candid, editorial-style images that would tell the story of their love in a way that felt genuine and unposed.
Shooting on the beach always comes with its challenges, and this session was no exception. The wind occasionally picked up, blowing hair and clothing in different directions. But rather than fighting it, we embraced the wind, allowing it to add movement and energy to the photos. This spontaneity contributed to the organic, documentary feel that I strive for in all my work.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we captured some breathtaking silhouettes against the colorful sky. It was a magical moment, one that I knew would result in stunning, timeless images. I am incredibly grateful to Brenda for giving Sam and Ashley this gift and for allowing me to be a part of their journey as they prepare for their wedding.
I left the beach that evening feeling inspired and energized by the love and connection I had witnessed. Being a Tampa, Florida wedding photographer allows me to capture moments like these and turn them into lasting memories for my clients. It’s a privilege to do what I love and to create art that will be cherished for years to come.
If you’re considering a beach engagement session or want to learn more about including your pets in your photos, feel free to explore more of my work and get in touch. Let’s create something beautiful together!