The Ultimate couples photography guide for garrapata state beach


When Kaitlin and Lane flew in from sunny Arizona for their wedding anniversary, they traded the desert heat for Big Sur’s cool, coastal April weather. They couldn’t have picked a more magical time to visit—wildflowers and calla lilies were just beginning to bloom, painting the cliffsides with bursts of color.


From the start, they were all about embracing the change in pace and scenery. Their vision? A location that tied together Big Sur’s beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping mountain views—basically, the ultimate California coast experience.


Big Sur isn’t just a pretty place—it’s a mood. The winding Highway 1 views, the misty mornings, and the sound of waves crashing against rugged cliffs set the perfect stage for romantic couples and engagement photography. Whether you want cinematic, moody shots or golden sunset light, Big Sur gives you something unforgettable every time.


Of course, Big Sur weather is famously unpredictable. Kaitlin and Lane had hoped for some sunshine, but the coastal fog had its own plans. And honestly? It turned out even better. The soft, diffused light made their photos feel timeless and dramatic, and they loved the quiet intimacy it brought to the session.


We chose Garrapata State Beach for their photos—a spot that combines wide sandy beaches with rugged cliffs and rolling hills in the background. Kaitlin and Lane wore neutral, relaxed outfits that perfectly matched the cinematic feel of the landscape. The wind whipped, the waves roared, and in between the fog, little patches of sunlight broke through, giving us magical moments to capture.


Big Sur is more than just a location—it’s an experience. Whether the sky is clear or the fog rolls in, you’ll leave with photos (and memories) that take you right back to the cliffs, the salt air, and the sound of the Pacific.


Planning Your Own Big Sur Photo Session?

Whether it’s for your anniversary, engagement, or just because, Big Sur is the perfect backdrop. I’ll help you pick the best locations, work with the weather (because here, it’s part of the charm), and make sure your session feels like a fun adventure—not a photo shoot checklist.

A scenic coastline with dramatic cliffs and green hills provides a romantic backdrop for a couple.
Black and white detail shot of shoes on a textured surface.
A couple sits together overlooking dramatic coastal cliffs and crashing waves at sunset.
A misty coastal scene with steep cliffs overlooking the ocean where two people embrace on a foggy day.
A couple taking a romantic stroll on a rocky beach with sea stacks visible in the misty background.
Two people walking together on a foggy beach with large rocks visible in the distance.
Playful moment captured on a misty beach as one person carries another.
Two people holding hands while running along a misty beach with rocks in the background.
Joyful moment on a cloudy beach as two people play and laugh together.
A couple relaxing against dark rocky cliffs on a sandy beach.
Two people share an intimate moment on a foggy beach.
A couple poses together on a misty beach with dramatic coastal scenery.
Two people playfully running and laughing on a foggy beach with rocks in the background.
A couple playfully embracing on a foggy beach wearing casual attire.
A black and white photo of a couple joyfully spinning on the Garrapata beach.
A couple sharing a piggyback ride along a misty coastal trail with mountains in background.
A couple embracing and laughing together on a mountain trail surrounded by foliage.
A black and white intimate portrait of a couple sharing a tender moment outdoors.
A couple sharing an intimate moment on a mountain path surrounded by calla lilies.
A couple walking hand in hand along a mountain path with lush vegetation.
Close-up of hands displaying engagement rings against green foliage.
A couple standing together on rocky coastal shore during foggy weather.
A couple sharing an intimate moment on a wooden bench surrounded by calla lilies and mountain views.