San Francisco Bay Area Engagement Photography
Your engagement is a magical time worth preserving with photographs that feel as authentic as your love story.
As a San Francisco-based engagement photographer, I create a relaxed, fun experience that brings out genuine moments, natural smiles, and the unique bond you share.
My approach combines candid storytelling with thoughtful direction to create engagement portraits that feel both effortless and extraordinary—images that perfectly capture this special chapter in your journey together.
Explore Engagement Portrait Galleries
L+D enjoyed the beautiful forest and sweeping vistas at the Sibley Volcanic Preserve in Oakland, CA
D+D hosted a love-filled engagement party at their family’s home with flush gardens
Engagement Photo Process
Every engagement session is thoughtfully designed around your unique story, personalities, and vision. Here's how we'll create engagement photos you'll treasure forever:
Step 1: Consultation
We'll start with a conversation about your vision—discussing your preferred locations, style, and the special details that make your relationship unique.
Whether you already have a location in mind or need suggestions for the perfect backdrop, I'll help guide you through the planning process.
Step 2: Your Session
Engagement sessions typically last 1-2 hours at your chosen location(s).
Don't worry if you're camera-shy—I'll provide gentle direction to help you feel comfortable while capturing both posed portraits and candid moments of genuine connection. Many couples tell me their session felt more like a fun date than a photoshoot!
Step 3: Your Gallery
Within 3 weeks, you'll receive a carefully curated online gallery of professionally edited images that tell the story of your engagement.
You can download high-resolution files, share with friends and family, and select your favorites for prints or save-the-dates.
Kind Words
“Kelsey was so lovely and kind. She was patient emailing back and forth to set up our photo shoot, reassuring about my first time (doing a photo shoot) jitters, and took incredible pictures that we will cherish for life! But, I will let the pictures do the rest of the talking!!”
- Linor & Danny • Oakland, CA Engagement Portraits
Engagement Photo Packages & Prices
Signature Engagement Package • $500
90-minute photoshoot at one Bay Area location (within 30 driving miles of Alameda)
Approximately 40-60 high-resolution professionally edited digital images
Online gallery for easy reviewing, sharing and downloading
Print release for personal use
Professional guidance on outfits, poses, and locations
One outfit change
Premium Engagement Package • $700
2-3 hour photoshoot at up to two Bay Area locations (within 30 driving miles of Alameda)
Professional guidance throughout the process
60-80 high-resolution professionally edited digital images
Online gallery for easy sharing and downloading
Print release for personal use
Up to two outfit changes
Session Add-Ons
Additional location: $150
Expedited gallery delivery within 4 business days: $150
Next day 10 photos: $200
Custom-designed save-the-date templates: $150
San Francisco Bay Area Engagement Photo Locations
As a photographer who knows the Bay Area intimately, I can help you find the perfect backdrop for your engagement photos. Some favorite spots include:
San Francisco:
Baker Beach with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views
Lands End beach and ocean views
Golden Gate Park's fields and gardens
Palace of Fine Arts for elegant architecture
Mission District for colorful streets
Sutro Baths for dramatic coastal landscapes
Urban cityscapes in downtown San Francisco
Pacifica coastline
East Bay:
Morcom Rose Garden, Oakland for beautiful flowers
Sibley Volcanic Reserve, Oakland for sweeping vistas and Mt. Diablo views
Redwood Peak, Oakland for forest vibes
Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley for water and SF cityskapes
Point Isabel, Berkeley for water and SF cityskapes
Crown Beach, Alameda for water and SF cityskapes
Have somewhere special in mind? I'm always excited to explore new locations that have meaning to your relationship.
Are you interested in a session outside of the San Francisco Bay Area? I’m happy to travel. Please reach out to get a quote!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we book our engagement session?
I recommend booking 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season (May-October). If you're planning to use photos for save-the-dates, schedule your session at least 6-8 weeks before you need to send them out.
What should we wear for our engagement photos?
Wear outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable! I recommend coordinating rather than matching, choosing complementary colors that reflect your personal style. Solid colors or subtle patterns typically photograph best. Avoid brand logos. I'll provide a detailed style guide after booking.
What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?
Almost everyone feels this way initially! My approach focuses on creating a fun, relaxed experience where you can be yourselves. I'll provide gentle guidance and prompts that encourage natural interaction. Most couples forget about the camera within the first 15 minutes!
Can we bring our pet to the session?
Absolutely, yes please! Pets are family members too. I recommend bringing someone who can take care of your pet when they're not being photographed.
What happens if it rains?
If weather conditions aren't ideal, we'll reschedule for the next available date at no additional cost. We can discuss this date when you’re booking.
When is the best time of day for engagement photos?
For outdoor sessions, I typically recommend shooting during "golden hour" - the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset when the light is soft and flattering.
Around San Francisco, we can also work with the fog for beautifully moody images if that appeals to your style.
Ready to capture your love story?
Let's create engagement photos that feel as authentic as your relationship! Fill out the form below with details about your dream photos.
