Sunset Magic at The Don CeSar: Sam & Ashley’s St. Pete Beach Engagement Session
There’s a reason St. Pete Beach is a crown jewel of Tampa Bay, its sugar-white sands, turquoise waves, and iconic pink palace, the Don CeSar Hotel (doncesar.com), create a backdrop that feels plucked from a coastal dream. When Brenda reached out to gift her friends Sam and Ashley an engagement session here, I knew we’d craft something extraordinary. As a Tampa wedding photographer specializing in organic, editorial storytelling, I couldn’t wait to capture their love against this legendary landscape.
Why St. Pete Beach? A Tampa Bay Treasure
The Don CeSar isn’t just a hotel; it’s a symbol of Florida’s golden era. Built in 1928 and nicknamed the “Pink Palace,” its Mediterranean Revival architecture and sunset vistas make it a top choice for couples seeking timeless Tampa Bay engagement photos. Pro tip: Pair your session with a stroll along Pass-a-Grille or cocktails at the hotel’s Rowe Bar for a full Gulf Coast experience.
Golden Hour Romance: Sam, Ashley & Maple’s Coastal Moment
We began as the sun dipped low, painting the sky in hues of apricot and rose. Sam and Ashley arrived in effortless, coordinated neutrals that mirrored the beach’s soft palette, linen shirts, flowing dresses, and bare feet kissed by sand. But the true star? Maple, their golden retriever, whose joyful leaps and wagging tail added playful authenticity to every frame.
As a Tampa engagement photographer, I always encourage couples to include pets. They’re family, and their presence transforms posed portraits into living memories. Maple nuzzled Ashley’s hand during vows practice, sprinted alongside Sam, and even paused for a soulful gaze at the horizon, moments no human could script.
Embracing the Elements: Wind, Waves & Authenticity
Beach sessions come with quirks: salt-kissed hair, shifting sands, and the Gulf’s capricious breeze. When the wind swept Ashley’s dress into a graceful dance, we leaned in. “Walk toward the waves, let it carry you!” I urged, capturing candid laughter as Sam steadied her. These unscripted flashes are the heart of my documentary-style photography, raw, emotional, and utterly real.
Silhouettes & Sunset Portraits: Crafting Timeless Art
As twilight deepened, we waded into the shallows for silhouettes. Sam and Ashley stood chest-deep, the Don CeSar glowing behind them like a rose-gold mirage. With the Tampa Bay skyline faint in the distance, their embrace became a shadow against the water—a striking, editorial image destined for their walls.
Why Choose a Tampa Wedding Photographer Familiar with St. Pete?
Local expertise matters. Knowing the Don CeSar’s hidden nooks (like the secluded dunes north of the hotel) or the exact minute sunset dips behind Shell Key ensures your gallery is both breathtaking and uniquely yours. As a Tampa Bay wedding photographer, I blend intimate knowledge of these spots with a focus on organic connection, so your photos feel like you, not a Pinterest board.
For Couples Planning Tampa Bay Engagements
- Best Time to Shoot: Aim for 60-90 minutes before sunset to avoid harsh light and crowds.
- Pet Tips: Bring treats, a neutral leash, and a “handler” (like Brenda!) to manage your pup between shots.
- Wind Hacks: Flowy fabrics and loose hair embrace the breeze—avoid updos or stiff outfits.
Grateful Moments
A heartfelt thanks to Brenda for entrusting me with this gift. Sessions like these remind me why I love being a Tampa engagement photographer, the privilege of freezing time for couples as they step into forever.
Ready to Create Your Own St. Pete Beach Story?
Whether it’s an engagement at the Don CeSar, a vow renewal on Fort De Soto, or an intimate wedding at Vinoy Park, I’m here to craft images that feel as vibrant as Tampa Bay itself.
Explore more of my work or book your session:
- Website: Stills by Hernan
- Instagram: @stillsbyhernan
- Saint Pete Beach Engagement Session: Upham Beach Engagement Session
Let’s chase the sunset and make magic, your love story deserves nothing less. 🌅🐾