Windswept Engagement Session at Fort Cronkite & Rodeo Beach

Eva and Stefan’s story kicked off in the most down-to-earth way — grabbing pastries at Palio’s bakery at UCSF. He rolled in straight from work in his scrubs, and she was already there waiting. Nothing fancy, just good conversation and flaky pastries — the kind of first date that just feels right.

Fast forward to a windswept spring afternoon at Fort Cronkite — and here they are, walking the bluffs with these two as the sun melted into the Pacific. Eva and Stefan are getting married this fall in Marin, and this engagement session felt like the perfect prelude to their next chapter. As Bay Area wedding photographers, we love it when couples go for the raw, natural beauty of places like this — wide open views, moody skies, and that wind-whipped energy that makes everything feel a little more alive.

A Slow Warm-Up (And Why That’s Totally Okay)

Eva and Stefan describe themselves as more playful and silly than romantic — and we love that. But as with most introverted couples, it can take a minute to get comfy in front of the camera. But the moment they let go and settled into just being with one another, the real magic started to unfold.

That’s what we love most about engagement sessions: there’s no rush, no pressure. Just time to connect, breathe in the ocean air, and let the nervous energy dissolve.

Why Engagement Sessions Matter (Especially If You’re Camera-Shy)

If you’re reading this and wondering whether you really need an engagement session, here’s our take: yes, yes, a thousand times yes — especially if you’re feeling nervous about being photographed on your wedding day.

An engagement shoot is like a trial run, but way more fun. You get to see how we work, find your comfort zone, and ease into the rhythm of being photographed together. By the time your wedding comes around, the awkwardness is gone — and what’s left is real connection.

We always tell our couples: you don’t need to perform or be anyone other than your true selves. Whether you’re goofy and laid-back like Eva and Stefan, or passionate and romantic, we’ll meet you where you are and help you feel totally at ease.

If you’re dreaming up a similar engagement session in Marin or searching for a Bay Area wedding photographer who can capture you at your most natural and connected, we’d love to chat. Whether it’s foggy cliffs or golden beaches, we’ll help you plan a session that feels effortless, fun, and entirely you.

Planning your own San Francisco engagement session?

Let’s make it magic! Contact Us or browse our Engagement Portfolio