Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ • Sessions by appointment only

Engagement Photography – Corona del Mar Photographer

A Session Filled with Personality

There’s something truly magical about an engagement session that feels like you. It’s not just about posing perfectly or finding the most picturesque spot—it’s about capturing the connection, the story, and the unique way two people fit together. That’s why I loved this recent engagement session in Corona del Mar.

When the couple told me they wanted their engagement photos to feel like them—a little bit of nature, a little bit of ocean, and a whole lot of adventure—I knew we were in for something special. They’re both outdoorsy at heart, with a passion for hiking and exploring, but their love for the beach is just as strong. One of their first dates was in the ocean with their fins, swimming together and soaking in that carefree, just-met energy. So, when they asked if we could end their engagement session by diving into the ocean together—I couldn’t say yes fast enough.

Personalized Engagement Photography – Corona del Mar Photographer

There’s something extra special about engagement photography when it’s personalized to the couple. It’s more than just beautiful backdrops; it’s about weaving in the little details that make your relationship unique. Whether it’s capturing your love for nature or revisiting a favorite spot that holds memories, making it personal adds depth to your photos.

For this couple, Corona del Mar was the perfect location to blend their love of hiking and the beach. We started with soft, romantic shots among the coastal paths, framed by the natural beauty of the area. The golden light filtering through the leaves made for dreamy, intimate portraits that felt effortless.

But the highlight? When they slipped on their fins and dove into the ocean together, just like they did on one of their first dates. It was spontaneous, joyful, and so undeniably them. That’s what makes engagement sessions like this so unforgettable—capturing the real, raw moments that reflect who you are as a couple.

Tips for Your Engagement Session: How to Make It Yours

When it comes to Engagement Sessions, making it personal is key. Here are a few tips to help you plan a session that feels authentic and true to your relationship:

1. Choose a Meaningful Location

Pick a spot that tells part of your story—like where you met, your favorite hiking trail, or a beach where you love to spend time together. Corona del Mar was perfect for this couple because it blended their love of nature and the ocean.

2. Wear What Feels Like You

Your outfits should reflect your style, not just the latest trends. If you’re beachy and laid-back, opt for flowy fabrics and earthy tones. If you’re more formal, don’t be afraid to dress up. The key is to feel comfortable and confident.

3. Incorporate Your Passions

Think about hobbies or activities you love doing together. For this couple, incorporating their love for the ocean was a no-brainer. Whether it’s hiking, cooking, or dancing, adding a personal touch makes the photos feel more genuine.

4. Be Open to Spontaneity

Sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones. Like when these two decided to jump into the ocean, fins and all. Trust your photographer to guide you while also letting your personalities shine through.

5. Embrace the Elements

Corona del Mar offers that perfect blend of rugged coastline and soft sand. Embrace the natural elements—wind in your hair, feet in the sand, waves splashing around. It all adds to the vibe and makes your photos feel more dynamic.

Why Personalized Engagement Photography Matters

At the end of the day, your engagement session should feel like you. It’s about capturing that just-said-yes energy before wedding planning takes over. It’s about holding onto the quiet, in-between moments before life speeds up.

You don’t need a milestone to book a session—just the desire to capture this moment, as you are right now. Whether it’s barefoot on the beach, hiking in your favorite spot, or diving into the ocean with your person by your side, these are the moments you’ll look back on and remember with a smile.

If you’re looking for an Engagement Photography – Corona del Mar Photographer who loves capturing real, unposed love stories, reach out today. Let’s make your session uniquely yours and contact Gilmore Studios for more info.

Meet the Gilmores:

Gilmore Studios is a husband and wife team that serves Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego areas. We specialize in fine wedding photography, family portraits, and newborn photography. Our studio has been in business since 2002.

Fun Facts:

PLace we call home:

Newport Beach

Number of kids:

3 boys

Years in business:

Since 2002

As seen in:

Wedding

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1. Keep posing gentle and natural.
At this age, kids don’t need stiff, formal poses. Simple prompts like “look over your shoulder,” “hold your dress,” or “twirl once” help them feel at ease and still keep the focus on the special meaning of the day.
2. Give them space to feel grown-up and little.
Eight is a magical age, old enough to understand the moment, but still so innocent. I like to sneak in a few detail shots of their hair, dress, or tiny hands to capture that in-between.
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Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ

Session by appointment only