30A Engagement Photos | Beachy sunset Engagement photos in 30A, Florida
Steph and Declan’s engagement photos in 30A, Florida were an absolute dream come true. While planning the session, Steph and I shared countless laughs and moments of excitement over every detail. We began the engagement photoshoot at the Marina Bar & Grill in Sandestin and concluded with breathtaking sunset shots at Grayton Beach State Park. Everything about that day was incredible, from the carefully chosen locations to the relaxed, joyful vibe of the session. If you're looking for inspiration for your engagement photos, need tips for planning your engagement session, or simply want some beachy couples photo ideas, you're definitely going to want to keep reading!
Steph + Declan: Their Florida Love Story
Steph and Declan were an absolute joy to photograph and spend time with. They first met in Florida at the Marina Bar & Grill in Sandestin and got engaged a couple of years later on the beach in San Diego—two of the most fun and beautiful places, in my opinion. Steph reached out for engagement photos the same weekend they got engaged and started planning right away. Knowing they would be visiting their favorite place, 30A, and aware that Declan isn’t particularly fond of having his photo taken, Steph wanted the photos to feel very laid-back, as if we were all just hanging out at the bar where their love story began. Of course, mixed with their mutual love for the beach, we made sure to include those dreamy Emerald Coast sunset photos to wrap up the night.
Picking the Location for Their Laid-Back 30A Engagement Photos
Having the locations be meaningful to Steph and Declan’s love story was a super important aspect. We started with a few drinks and just hanging out at the Marina Bar & Grill. This was perfect because it allowed some time to just chill and let these photos feel more like documenting a date. It was also super cool for Steph and Declan to hang out with and chat with some of their friends they’d spent time with while living here at the bar. We did start a little earlier in the day than we had originally planned because it was bingo night, which tends to get busy. We discovered this when I called to make sure they were okay with us taking photos there and even got the option to come a little before opening. (Big advice: always call to make sure they allow you to take photos before just assuming. Most places I have asked have had no problem, but that is not the case everywhere, so it’s always best to call and ask.) It was so fun to hear stories about when they met and all of the memories they have here while taking photos. Because we went so early, we ended up just hanging out and chatting for a couple of hours while waiting for sunset.
For the sunset photos, we drove over to Grayton Beach State Park, which was stunning. We didn’t need any permits for shooting, but there is a $5 entrance fee per car. You can read up on the most up-to-date info about the park here if you are thinking of visiting! We spent about 45 minutes to an hour frolicking in the water and enjoying the sunset.
What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos
Every time someone asks me what to wear, my first piece of advice is this: make sure you are comfortable in it. These photos are supposed to represent you and your partner, and if either of you is uncomfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show. So, try it on and get something that makes you feel good and represents who you are. I’m all about vibes, so it just depends on what your vibes are. I don’t have all the details about Steph and Declan’s outfits, but if you are looking at buying something new, Steph found this cute linen-blend ruched square neck mini dress at Abercrombie that’s now sold out however their new wedding line is stunning and I have photographed a couple pieces from it recently, so that might be something to check out. Steph also had an incredible friend who mailed her a stunning long blue dress that photographed beautifully with the colors of the water and sunset. I’m all about a good flowy dress, a matching set, or even jeans and a t-shirt. Like I said, it’s all about vibes– haha. As for Declan’s outfit, he went with khakis and a white top and it matched both Steph’s dresses perfectly!
Why You Should Hire a Photographer Who Also Does Video
You probably saw the video at the top of this page of Steph and Declan’s engagement session and thought, "I thought I was reading about photography?" You were, but hi, I’m Maddie, and I am all about hybrid shooting—photo and video. I love photos; I think they are perfect and fun, and I don’t believe there is such a thing as taking too many. I feel the same way about video. Watching videos back is such a special way to relive those moments, and honestly, having a photographer/videographer who does both is a win because half the time you don’t even notice the video being taken. It makes everything so smooth and easy. I am so excited that Steph and Declan hired me to shoot their wedding, too, and we are incorporating some of their engagement session footage into their wedding film. It’s going to be stunningly beautiful.
30A, Florida Engagement Photographer and Videographer
Oh hey—you made it to the end! I hope this collection of engagement photos in 30A, Florida, brought you some inspiration and got you excited. Whether you want photos with the stunning blue water and crystal sand or want to take your engagement photos somewhere meaningful to your love story, I am totally there! I’m absolutely obsessed with any couple who is in love and wanting a laid-back, lifestyle photo experience. If that sounds like you, let’s chat! Take a look at my couples photo packages and pricing, and then drop me a message via my contact form so we can start planning the magic you’re dreaming up for your engagement session!
