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

couple laying down in carmel california wildflowers

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.

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.

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.

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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 in Carmel by the Sea, 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 72 hours, I’m here to make the entire process feel easy and fun—whether it’s your first photo session or one of many.

✔️ 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.

A woman with long curly black hair and earrings leans her head on a man with short brown hair on a beach, both looking into the distance.
A dog sitting on a beach with two people holding hands in the foreground, the ocean waves and cloudy sky in the background.
A couple faces close together outdoors on a cloudy day, touching foreheads and smiling softly.
A couple stands on a rocky cliff overlooking a rugged coastline with waves crashing against rocks, green hills in the background, and an overcast sky.

Carmel Couples & Engagement Packages

Signature Story — $1,500

2 hours | 3 micro-locations | 60 edited images


For the wild-hearted pair who want an experience, not just photos.Includes:

  • Up to 3 micro-locations

  • Planning call to align on vibe, outfits, and timing

  • Custom mini-location plan with exact map pins + parking notes

  • Unlimited outfit changes within time

  • Natural posing and candid direction for movement-filled images

  • 72-hour sneak peeks (5 -10 images)

  • Online gallery with print rights (full gallery in ~2–3 weeks)

Coastal Classic — $1,200 (Most Booked)

90-minute session | 2 locations | 45 edited images


The perfect balance of scenery, movement, and storytelling.Includes:

  • Up to 2 Carmel locations (e.g., cliffs or beach)

  • Planning call to align on vibe, outfits, and timing

  • Custom mini-location plan with exact map pins + parking notes

  • Unlimited outfit changes within time

  • Natural posing and candid direction for movement-filled images

  • 72-hour sneak peeks (5 -10 images)

  • Online gallery with print rights (full gallery in ~2–3 weeks)

Petite — $950 (Mon–Thu)

60 minute session | 1 location | 30+ edited images

Something simple, beautiful, and heartfelt.Includes:

  • One epic Carmel, CA location of your choice (cliffs, forest or beach)

  • Planning call to align on vibe, outfits, and timing

  • Custom mini-location plan with exact map pins + parking notes

  • Unlimited outfit changes within time

  • Natural posing and candid direction for movement-filled images

  • 72-hour sneak peeks (5 -10 images)

  • Online gallery with print rights (full gallery in ~2–3 weeks)

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Carmel California Couples and Engagement Package (Add-Ons)

Video

  • Proposal Video Clip (add to Classic or short and sweet) — $200

  • BTS Social Video Add-On — $350
    Behind-the-scenes video captured alongside the session; perfect for sharing.

Florals

Bouquet options:

  • Petite $150

  • Classic $225

  • Lush $325

Picnics

Mini Picnic for Two — $395

Includes (60 minutes of enjoyment time):

  • Low beach picnic table with textured runner

  • Layered rugs + plush pillows (neutral palette)

  • Your choice of one beach umbrella (2 styles) with sand anchors

  • LED lanterns (no flame)

  • Styled place settings for two (plates, flatware, drinkware, napkins)

  • Sparkling water on ice

  • Full delivery, setup, and breakdown

Signature Picnic for Two — $525

Everything in Mini, plus:

  • Small seasonal florals (neutral palette) for the table

  • Upgraded tablescape styling details

Includes 60 minutes of enjoyment time (same as Mini).

Upgrades & Add-Ons

  • Charcuterie for two + $95

  • Dessert box + $85

  • Champagne service + $95 (Rosé $125 · Premium $165)

  • Extra enjoyment time + 30 minutes = + $100

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Meet Your Carmel Engagement Photographer.

I’m Erin

A woman in a black dress and wide-brimmed black hat sitting on a white couch with a beige fuzzy blanket, in front of a plain white wall.

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.

Make Your Carmel by the Sea Couples Session Uniquely Yours

Adventure

For couples who love to explore and chase breathtaking views:

  • Sailboat on Monterey Bay at sunset

  • Horseback riding on the beach at Moss Landing

  • Hiking Big Sur trails (Garrapata Bluff, Soberanes Canyon)

  • Kayaking in Elkhorn Slough with otters and seals

  • Glamping in Big Sur (Ventana, AutoCamp, Treebones)

  • Surf session or beach stroll with boards

Your love story deserves more than just pretty photos — it deserves an experience that feels true to you. Whether you’re dreaming of something adventurous, wildly romantic, or simply a cozy day together, Carmel by the Sea offers endless ways to make your engagement session unforgettable.

Romantic

For couples who want a dreamy, intimate setting that feels cinematic:

  • Styled beach picnic with The Carmel Picnic Co. (my signature offering — photo-worthy and effortless)

  • Private cliffside picnic overlooking the Pacific

  • Bonfire on Carmel Beach with blankets + s’mores

  • Sunset champagne toast on a sailboat

  • Redwoods vow reading with candles + charcuterie

  • Private chef dinner on the beach

  • Renting a vintage car for Highway 1 sunset photos

Lifestyle

For couples who love authentic, everyday moments with a touch of charm:

  • Cozy coffee shop or bookshop date in Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Wine tasting or picnic in Carmel Valley vineyards

  • Bike riding with flowers in the basket along the coast

  • Polaroid/selfie moments for a playful, modern twist

  • Dog-friendly beach stroll at Carmel Beach or Garrapata

  • Casual “at-home” inspired session at a cute rental or cabin

What’s Included in your Carmel by the Sea Couples Session

fun laid back photography session

Fun, laid back experience

photography location guidance

Location Guidance

photography session planning consultation

Planning Consultation

personalized photo session curation
photography session wardrobe consultation

Personalized Session Curation

Wardrobe Guidance

Testimonials

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Testimonials •

Testimonials

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  • The Most Magical Engagement Photos in Carmel!

    “Erin made us feel like movie stars. Every photo looks like a scene from a romantic film, and the golden light she captured on the Carmel cliffs was unreal. She guided us effortlessly, made us laugh, and caught so many genuine moments. We couldn’t have asked for a better Carmel engagement photographer.”
    — Samantha & Leo

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea Was the Perfect Backdrop—Thanks to Erin!

    “We were nervous because we’d never done a photo session before, but Erin made everything so easy. She recommended the most beautiful spots around Carmel-by-the-Sea that we never would have found on our own. Now we have stunning anniversary photos to remember this chapter in our lives. We’ll treasure these forever.”
    — Emily & Marco

  • Erin Knows the Best Carmel Engagement Photo Locations!

    “From the moment we contacted her, Erin was so helpful. Her Carmel engagement location guide was a lifesaver, and the final gallery took our breath away. We’ve had so many compliments, and the photos truly reflect who we are as a couple.”
    — Tara & Miles

Carmel by the Sea Couples Photography Inquiries

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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!

 
 

7th and Lincoln

Carmel by the Sea, California 93921

Hours
Monday–Friday
10am–6pm

Phone
(501) 519-2912