Carmel-by-the-Sea Couples & Engagement Photographer
Cinematic, emotive couples portraits that celebrate your unique love, captured in the golden light and timeless charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Romantic, Coastal Sessions Inspired by Your Story
Whether you're celebrating your engagement, an anniversary, or simply the love you share, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers the perfect backdrop for a timeless and emotional photography session. With cobblestone streets, windswept beaches, cypress trees, and golden coastal light—Carmel is where magic meets romance.
I specialize in capturing couples in a way that feels authentic, natural, and full of connection—so you can relive this season of love every time you look at your photos.
Why Choose Carmel for Your Couples or Engagement Photos
Golden Light That Flatters Every Love Story
Carmel’s light—especially around sunset—is a dream to shoot in. Soft, warm, and romantic… it's what makes your photos feel cinematic and full of glow.
Iconic Backdrops and Hidden Gems
From the charming streets of downtown to the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, Carmel offers a mix of cozy, coastal, and elegant locations. I’ll help guide you to the perfect spots based on your vision—whether it’s beachy and barefoot or classy and dressed up.
A Local Photographer Who Knows the Best Spots
I’m based right here near Carmel and Big Sur, so I know exactly when the light hits just right, what spots are quiet and intimate, and how to make the whole experience seamless and fun.
What Makes My Couples Sessions Different
When you’re planning a couples or engagement session in a place as breathtaking as Carmel-by-the-Sea, you deserve more than just a photographer—you deserve an experience. Here’s how I go beyond the expected to give you something truly unforgettable:
A Local Who Knows the Magic Spots
I’m based right here near Carmel and Big Sur, so I know the tide schedules, lighting patterns, and hidden gems that tourists (and even some photographers!) miss. I’ll guide you to the best locations for your vision—whether it’s golden hour cliffs, misty cypress trails, or quiet beach coves.
Emotive Storytelling That Feels Like You
No stiff poses here. I gently guide you with movement-based prompts so your photos reflect the real connection you share. Think genuine laughter, tender moments, and scenes that look like they belong in a film—because your love deserves that kind of magic.
Seamless Planning & Stress-Free Experience
From my Carmel engagement location guide to outfit tips, timeline suggestions, and sneak peeks within 48 hours, I’m here to make the entire process feel easy and fun—whether it’s your first photo session or your fiftieth.
A Deep Respect for Your Story
My “why” runs deep. After losing my own mom, I know how important it is to preserve the moments and milestones that matter. I treat every couple I photograph with care, empathy, and the intention to create something truly meaningful.
Cinematic, timeless editing
Each image is hand-edited with care, resulting in soft, romantic, editorial-style portraits you’ll treasure forever.
Meet Your Carmel Engagement Photographer.
I’m Erin
Your local Carmel-by-the-Sea engagement and couples photographer, storyteller, and unofficial hype woman. I specialize in capturing wild, romantic moments that feel true to you—whether that’s barefoot at the beach, cozy in the cypress trees, or walking hand-in-hand down a charming Carmel street.
I’m based just minutes from Carmel and Big Sur, so I know all the best golden light, tide-friendly beaches, and secret spots that will make your session feel relaxed, meaningful, and effortlessly beautiful.
My approach is laid-back and intentional. I’ll gently guide you into natural poses that bring out real connection, laughter, and love—so you walk away with more than just photos. You’ll have memories that feel like you.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me hiking along the coast, sipping wine at a local Carmel tasting room, or obsessing over interior design and good skincare. Oh—and I’m always down to talk dogs, dreamy dresses, or your favorite love story.
Let’s make some magic in Carmel.
What’s Included in your Carmel by the Sea Couples Session
Fun, laid back experience
Location Guidance
Planning Consultation
Personalized Session Curation
Wardrobe Guidance
Carmel Couples & Engagement Packages
Package One
2 hours | 2–3 nearby micro-locations | 60+ edited images
For the wild-hearted couple who wants to turn their session into an experience.
Includes:
A mix of Carmel by the Sea locations (forest trail + cliffs + hidden beach, for example)
Outfit changes + extended golden hour light
More time for creativity, movement and variety
All logistics + permits handled
Full-resolution online gallery with print rights
$1,000.00
Package Two
90-minute session | 2 locations | 50+ edited images
Ideal for couples who want a balance of movement, scenery and storytelling.
Includes:
Two handpicked Carmel locations (e.g., redwoods + cliffs or beach + forest)
Unlimited outfit changes within time
Natural posing & candid direction
High-resolution online gallery with print rights
Planning call + styling & location guidance
Permit help + travel included
$850.00
*Most Popular Package
60 minute session | 1 location | 30+ edited images
For couples who want something beautiful, simple and heartfelt.
Includes:
One epic Carmel, CA location of your choice (cliffs, forest, or beach)
Relaxed, natural posing
Online gallery + print rights
Planning guide + wardrobe tips
Permit help + travel included
Package Three
$750.00
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Ready to Make Magic in Carmel?
If you’re dreaming of a session that feels romantic, effortless, and true to your relationship, I’d love to be your Carmel California couples photographer.
Let’s create something beautiful together.
FAQs | Couples & Engagement Sessions in Carmel-by-the-Sea
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Carmel is filled with stunning options—scenic beaches, dramatic cliffs, cypress groves, and charming cobblestone streets. I’ll send you my exclusive Carmel engagement location guide to help you choose the perfect setting based on your style and vision.
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Golden hour (about an hour before sunset) offers the most romantic light for engagement and couples photos. Early morning is also lovely if you prefer softer tones and fewer people around.
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You’ll receive my wardrobe guide with outfit tips tailored to Carmel’s soft, natural colors and coastal aesthetic. Flowy dresses, layered textures, and neutral tones always look amazing in this light. I'm happy to help you coordinate your looks!
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Not at all! Most of my couples feel this way at first. I’ll guide you with gentle direction and prompts to bring out natural connection, movement, and emotion—so your photos feel like you, not posed or stiff.
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You’ll get sneak peeks within 48 hours, and your full gallery of hand-edited images will be delivered within 2–3 weeks. All galleries come with a print shop and digital download options.
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Yes! My longer packages include time for multiple nearby locations, like Carmel Beach, Mission Trail, or forested areas around Point Lobos. I’ll help map out the best route so your session flows smoothly and you get a variety of backgrounds.
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While I’m based in Carmel and Big Sur, I’m happy to travel to nearby areas like Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Pebble Beach for your couples or engagement session. Travel within 30 minutes is typically included—just ask if you have a specific location in mind!
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The weather in Carmel is usually pretty mild, but coastal fog and drizzle can happen! I always build in flexibility and watch the forecast closely. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll reschedule or adapt—sometimes the misty coastal fog actually adds a dreamy, cinematic feel to the photos.
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It’s easy! Just fill out the inquiry form or email me directly. Once we’ve chosen your date, I’ll send over a contract and invoice to secure your spot. I typically book 1–3 months in advance, especially for golden hour sessions, so reach out early if you can!
See my latest work here.
