Unique Photo Session Ideas: Haley and Conor’s Boat Engagement Photos
If you're looking for unique photo session ideas that truly reflect your personality as a couple, you’ve got to check out Haley and Conor’s boat engagement photos! I had the absolute pleasure of capturing their engagement session on Haley's dad's boat in beautiful Newport, CA, and it was like taking myself out on a date! Being on the water, the sun shining, and that salty breeze—SO me.
Watching Haley and Conor embrace the experience, laughing, cuddling up, and having so much fun on the boat made for the most perfect day. It was all about fun, love, and making memories in a place that felt like home.
Why Choosing a Unique Location Matters
When planning your engagement session, think about a place that’s meaningful to you both. Haley and Conor's decision to use her dad's boat as their setting wasn't just about the stunning water views; it was about creating a space where they could genuinely relax, have fun, and be themselves. Watching them hang out, laugh, and snuggle up on the deck, you could just see the love and comfort they have with each other. And that’s the kind of vibe you want for your engagement photos—a place where you’re at ease and can have a blast together!
Playing with Natural Light on the Water
Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of shooting on a boat! One thing you have to know about boat engagement photos is that lighting can be a bit of a challenge. When we first started, the light was bright. I mean, really bright—like, sunscreen-required kind of bright. But here’s the thing: the brightness gave us a chance to play with some cool, creative shots. Harsh light can be your best friend if you know how to use it right. It adds this crisp, vibrant look to your photos that feels super fresh and fun. And as the sun started to set, it was like a whole different world. The light got softer, warmer, and suddenly everything felt a little more romantic, a little more dreamy. We leaned right into that golden hour glow, and the results were pure magic.
Tips for Choosing Your Own Unique Engagement Session Idea
If you’re thinking about what kind of vibe you want for your engagement photos, here are some tips to help you nail down a location or theme that feels just right for you:
Think About Your Favorite Activities Together
What do you both love to do? Maybe it's hiking, cooking at home, or grabbing coffee at your favorite café. Haley and Conor loved the idea of a boat engagement session because they spend so much time on the water together. What’s something you do that brings you closer? That’s where you’ll find your perfect photo spot!Consider Sentimental Locations
Think about places that hold a special meaning for you. For Haley, her dad's boat wasn’t just a fun backdrop; it was a part of her family’s story, and now it’s a part of their story as a couple. Choose a location that speaks to your journey together—whether it’s the place you first met, the beach where you love to surf, or even your own backyard where you’ve spent countless nights under the stars.Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative
The more unique, the better! Engagement photos don’t have to be at a park or a landmark—they can be anywhere that feels like "you." Whether it’s a record store, a bar, a rooftop, or yes, even a boat, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The more personal and unique, the more your photos will truly feel like you.Leave Room for Flexibility
One of the best parts of Haley and Conor’s shoot? We left a little extra time for an impromptu stop at The Wedge! Since it was nearby, we hopped over and had 20 minutes of pure silliness in the waves. Allowing yourself some flexibility in your plan can open up unexpected opportunities for incredible shots and more fun memories.
Our Adventure at The Wedge
So, after capturing all those sweet boat moments, we decided to switch it up a bit and head over to The Wedge, just a short drive away. And OMG, it was the perfect way to end the day. Haley and Conor kicked off their shoes, splashed around in the water, and just had the best time being silly together. It was like they forgot I was even there with a camera, and that’s exactly what you want in your engagement photos—pure, unfiltered joy.
Why a Boat Engagement Session?
Why consider boat engagement photos for your unique photo session idea? For starters, being out on the water offers such a different backdrop than your typical engagement session. You’ve got that mix of sky, water, and natural light that gives you so many options to play with. Plus, there’s something so romantic and freeing about being on a boat—it’s just you, your person, and the open water. The photos capture this sense of adventure, fun, and intimacy that’s hard to replicate anywhere else!
Book Your SoCal Engagement Photographer !
If you’re loving the idea of a unique engagement session, whether that’s on a boat, at your favorite coffee shop, or in a spot that’s completely out of the ordinary, I’m here for it! I’m all about capturing those real, genuine moments that tell your story. Book me and let’s start planning your perfect engagement shoot, whether it’s on a boat, in a bar, or anywhere that feels like you!
See more of Haleys and Conor’s boat engagement photos below on film and check out more unique photo session ideas on Holly and Matts bar engagement blog!
