A Friendship Turned Love Story Captured in Iconic Saint Pete Locations
Trina and Zack are longtime friends who live in Orlando, but their engagement session brought us together in some of the most beautiful and vibrant spots around Saint Petersburg and Tampa Bay. I first met Trina through a mutual friend during a shoot, and over the years, they’ve become some of my most supportive friends. So when they got engaged, it was an absolute honor to document this special chapter of their lives.
Their engagement session was thoughtfully designed to capture their unique story and personalities across three distinct and stunning locations: my home in Riverside Heights, the trendy Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails in downtown St. Pete, and the breathtaking Fort De Soto Beach. Each location offered a different vibe and backdrop, creating a diverse and memorable gallery.
Riverside Heights: Intimate and Personal In-Home Session
We began the session in the comfort and warmth of my home in Riverside Heights, a charming neighborhood known for its historic architecture and tree-lined streets. The in-home portion gave Trina and Zack a chance to relax and be themselves, capturing candid moments that reflect their genuine connection. Including personal spaces in engagement sessions is a growing trend among couples who want to showcase their lifestyle and intimacy beyond traditional outdoor shoots.
Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails: Downtown St. Pete’s Urban Chic
Next, we headed to Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails, located at 1111 Central Avenue in the celebrated Edge District of St. Petersburg. This specialty coffee shop and craft cocktail bar is a local favorite, blending mid-century European and American café vibes with modern, minimalist design. The warm, inviting atmosphere and sleek interiors provided the perfect urban backdrop for stylish, editorial portraits.
Intermezzo’s unique ambiance, with its balance of tradition and innovation, made it an ideal spot for capturing the couple’s playful and sophisticated sides. The venue’s versatility also makes it a popular choice for engagement sessions and intimate events in Saint Pete.
Fort De Soto Beach: Natural Beauty and Dramatic Coastal Backdrops
We wrapped up the session at the iconic Fort De Soto Park Beach, a world-renowned beach located in Pinellas County. Known for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and diverse landscapes, Fort De Soto offers an incredible variety of photo opportunities:
- Historic Fort Ruins: The stone structures and staircases provide a dramatic, textured contrast to the soft beach scenery.
- Lush Greenery & Wild Wheat Fields: Offering natural, organic backdrops that complement beach portraits.
- Dog Beach & Recreational Areas: Great for couples who want to include their pets or enjoy a more playful vibe.
- Sunset Views: The west-facing beach delivers breathtaking golden hour light, perfect for romantic portraits.
Fort De Soto’s blend of history, nature, and coastal charm makes it one of the top choices for Saint Pete Beach engagement photographers and couples seeking a versatile, scenic location.
Why Choose a Multi-Location Engagement Session in Tampa Bay?
- Diverse Storytelling: Each location adds a new chapter to your love story-from cozy and personal to urban chic to natural beauty.
- Varied Backdrops: Mix architectural interest, vibrant city life, and stunning natural landscapes for a dynamic gallery.
- Personalized Experience: Incorporate places that are meaningful to you or showcase your favorite local spots.
- Flexibility: Weather or lighting changes can be accommodated by moving between indoor and outdoor settings.
Tips for Planning Your Saint Pete Engagement Session
- Time Your Session for Golden Hour: The hour before sunset offers the most flattering light, especially at Fort De Soto Beach.
- Coordinate Outfits for Each Location: Bring a few outfit changes to match the vibe of each spot-from casual and cozy to polished and chic.
- Include Personal Elements: Whether it’s your pet, favorite coffee shop, or a meaningful neighborhood, these touches make your photos uniquely yours.
- Work with a Local Expert: A Tampa wedding photographer or Saint Pete engagement photographer familiar with the area will know the best spots and lighting.
Why Book Stills by Hernan for Your Tampa Bay Engagement?
With years of experience capturing authentic love stories across Tampa and Saint Petersburg, I specialize in editorial, candid, and heartfelt photography. From intimate in-home sessions to vibrant downtown shoots and serene beach portraits, I’ll help you create a gallery that tells your unique story with artistry and soul.
Ready to Capture Your Saint Pete Engagement?
If you’re dreaming of an engagement session that combines the best of Tampa and Saint Pete’s urban and natural beauty, contact Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio today. Let’s create timeless images you’ll cherish forever.