When Indra first reached out about planning a dual maternity and engagement photoshoot, I couldn’t wait to get started. I had some fresh ideas about how we could integrate the two while creating space to showcase each milestone individually. I wanted to make sure she and Chad felt like both were uniquely honored and celebrated. She envisioned a relaxed, cinematic style with plenty of movement and genuine emotion. Hug Point on the Oregon Coast immediately came to mind. With its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and expansive shorelines, it provides endless possibilities for storytelling and intimate moments.

But here’s the catch: February on the Oregon Coast doesn’t exactly promise sunshine and calm seas. Instead, it usually brings fierce wind, chilly temperatures, and waves that crash higher than normal. Sure enough, the day we arrived for Indra and Chad’s session, the forecast called for high surf warnings and moody skies. A gentle breeze would’ve been nice, but Mother Nature had other plans. Nonetheless, they rocked their session. Words hardly do this session justice, so I apologize for allllll the photos–but I have a feeling you’ll be just as enamored with them as I am.

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Preparing for the Elements at Hug Point

When scheduling a session on the Oregon Coast—especially in winter—the only thing guaranteed is the unpredictability. My first tip for couples planning coastal sessions is simple: embrace the unexpected. Pack layers, bring blankets, and keep backup clothing options handy. Indra and Chad understood this perfectly. They arrived prepared with layered outfits that looked beautiful yet functional in changing conditions. Their willingness to lean into the natural chaos made all the difference.

Authenticity Over Perfection

I know. Instagram makes us dream of clear skies and soft sunsets for engagement or maternity photos. But sometimes, overcast skies and wind-blown hair tell a more authentic story. Indra and Chad didn’t hesitate to immerse themselves fully into the rawness of the environment. Instead of worrying about wind-tangled hair, salty air, or sand-covered feet, they laughed, hugged, and celebrated. Their genuine connection became the heart of the session.

If you’re thinking about a coastal photoshoot, keep that adventurous spontaneity in mind. We’re not necessarily aiming for perfection or staged smiles. Instead, let your true relationship shine through in every frame. Indra’s anticipatory joy and Chad’s steady warmth brought their photos to life, communicating their bond far better than posed portraits ever could.

Leveraging the Moody Atmosphere

Don’t worry! Cloudy skies don’t ruin a photoshoot—they enhance it. The soft, muted lighting on cloudy days creates rich, dramatic images full of depth and moodiness. The clouds are like a natural softbox that diffuses the light and reduces harsh shadows. Indra specifically wanted cinematic storytelling, and the day’s conditions worked beautifully in our favor. Wind-whipped hair and flowing skirts added natural movement, amplifying the romance and drama of each image.

My advice? If your session lands on a stormy day, don’t fret. If we can wait out the downpour, trust your photographer’s creativity and vision. Overcast days offer unique opportunities to experiment with compositions, textures, and emotions. These moments blend seamlessly with intimate shots, enhancing the storytelling aspect of your photographs.

Exploring Hug Point on the Oregon Coast

Hug Point—just south of Cannon Beach—is one of my all-time favorite locations on the Oregon Coast. With its hidden caves, rugged cliffs, and spacious beaches at low tide, it’s perfect for adventurous couples. Indra and Chad navigated rocky cliffsides and wandered the sandy shores, completely comfortable exploring together despite the rolling surf and soaking mist.

If you’re planning your own coastal shoot, research the tides ahead of time. Low tide reveals hidden gems like secluded coves and caves, adding variety and adventure to your photos. Just double-check weather forecasts and tide charts before setting your session time.

**Note: Hug Point is aptly named. The first explorers had to “hug the point” to avoid the crashing waves. Navigating at high tide or with unpredictable waves can be challenging and even dangerous. No photo is worth putting yourself at risk, and there are PLENTY of gorgeous places to safely take photos in the area.

Capturing Meaningful Milestones

This shoot wasn’t just any romantic session—it marked two important milestones in Indra and Chad’s lives: their upcoming marriage and becoming parents. Capturing such meaningful transitions calls for genuine and intimate moments. Their willingness to laugh, embrace, and trust the experience created authentic memories they’ll cherish long past this season of life.

When documenting milestone sessions, we’ll avoid overly-posed setups. Instead, we will focus on real interactions and connections. Feeling a little camera shy? No worries at all. I promise to guide you throughout your session and prompt you toward fun and natural interactions so you can relax and forget you’re in front of the lens. I love to have fun with my couples, and it’s my goal for you to feel comfortable—like you’re taking photos with a friend…because you are!

Embracing Realness

By the end of our session, we were soaked from rain, mist, and ocean spray—but we couldn’t have been happier. Indra’s glowing smile and Chad’s deep love for his lovely partner and excitement for what’s to come stood out beautifully against the stormy backdrop. Their positive energy turned challenging conditions into the most joyful memories. They reminded me once again that attitude shapes the outcome more than weather ever could.

My final tip? Go into your photoshoot with an open mind and heart. Allow yourself to live in the moment, no matter the circumstances. Anyone can sing in the rain! If you’re willing to let go of expectations, you’ll leave with unforgettable photographs and meaningful stories to share.

Indra and Chad’s photoshoot on the Oregon Coast taught me—and hopefully inspires you—to celebrate the unexpected. Stormy skies or sunny days, every session has incredible potential and beauty when you approach it with flexibility, positivity, and genuine affection.

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