The Ultimate Guide to Engagement Photography in the Florida Panhandle

1. Why the Florida Panhandle?

The Florida Panhandle is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the country. Whether you choose to wander along the emerald coast in Panama City Beach, explore the dunes in Destin, or venture into the lush greenery of St. Andrews State Park, your photos will have a gorgeous natural backdrop that’s impossible to beat.

• Beachy Dreamers: If you love the idea of dipping your toes in the sand, we’ll catch that perfect golden-hour glow on the shore.

• Nature Lovers: Some of my favorite sessions happen in the hidden pockets of Florida’s state parks, where boardwalks lead to secluded trails and vibrant wildlife.

(Personal note: I’ll never forget the time a playful dolphin popped up just beyond the shoreline during a shoot—talk about a fairy-tale moment!)

2. Planning Your Engagement Session

A. Location, Location, Location

Choosing a spot that speaks to your personality as a couple is key. If you’re laid-back and love the beach, we might explore a quiet stretch of shoreline at sunset. If you’re more adventurous, let’s hike into a state park and snap photos in the beautiful pine forests or near a hidden lake.

B. The Perfect Time of Day

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) bathes everything in a warm, soft light. Trust me, it’s worth the early alarm clock or that extra hour in the evening—your photos will have that dreamy, romantic glow. Plus, the Florida heat is a bit gentler at these times of day!

C. Outfits & Props

Pick outfits that reflect your personal style while coordinating color palettes. Neutral or pastel tones often blend perfectly with the Panhandle’s natural scenery. Also, consider bringing props that capture your story: maybe a cozy blanket for a beach picnic or even your fur baby if they’re part of the family. These little touches make your images uniquely yours.

(Tip: Steer clear of super-busy patterns, as they can distract from your faces—and that’s what we really want to highlight!)

3. How to Stay Relaxed & Authentic

Look, I get it—being in front of a camera can feel weird at first! But my job is to help you feel comfortable so we can capture those genuine smiles and sweet moments. We’ll chat, laugh, and maybe I’ll tell a corny joke or two (apologies in advance!). The goal is to focus on each other, not the camera.

One of my favorite ways to bring out authentic smiles is to have you share a favorite memory or inside joke—those real laughs and expressions always photograph beautifully. By the end of the session, you’ll likely forget we’re even doing a photo shoot and just enjoy the time together.

4. Let’s Do This: Booking Your Engagement Session

Ready to create some incredible memories in the Florida Panhandle? I’d love to hear more about your dream engagement session—beaches, parks, dolphins, or even your favorite coffee shop pit stop. Let’s get creative and capture what makes your love story one-of-a-kind!

Contact Me

• Click here to fill out my quick contact form so we can start planning.

(Pro tip: The earlier you book, the more likely we can snag that perfect date and time for ideal weather and lighting!)

Final Thoughts

Your engagement is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and the Florida Panhandle is a dreamy place to celebrate it. Let’s turn your excitement and love for each other into keepsake photos you’ll treasure forever. If you have questions (big or small!) about location ideas, outfits, or what it’s like to have a photoshoot with me—don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Cheers to love, sunshine, and unforgettable engagement memories in the Florida Panhandle!