Santa Cruz California Adventure Session at Shark Fin Cove

Santa Cruz Engagement Session by Lauren Rae Photography

So… I’m not exactly known for being an extrovert.

I am super comfortable and outgoing around the people I already know and love, but when it comes to meeting new people, ESPECIALLY approaching strangers, I’m usually so shy. I’ve been trying to get more out of my comfort zone, because hello - breaking into a new market across the country and getting your business re-established means you have to be uncomfy sometimes. So when I saw this adorable couple on the beach in Santa Cruz and they asked me to take a photo for them with their camera, I decided to face my fears and ask them if they would like a little beach sesh with me.

I am SO glad that I did, because Kristen & Cisco were so sweet and so fun to work with - I wish we’d had time for a full session, but we wound up with only 5-10 minutes and it was still amazing.

Santa Cruz is a place I’ve wanted to visit for years, and it was an absolute out-of-body experience to be able to shoot at Shark Fin Cove. It’s unreal. I could’ve spent the entire day there (and I really wish we’d been there to catch a sunset, although we actually caught sunset that night at Steamer Lane, which was another bucket-list experience for me. Maybe I’ll share some surf photos sometime?)!

Please note that this location is rocky, the walk down from the parking lot is pretty steep, and the tide can be sketchy and dangerous at times. As always, if you choose to visit, please follow all Leave No Trace principles and be respectful.

Many thanks again to Kristen & Cisco for taking a chance on a stranger and letting me spend some time with them that afternoon!

Santa Cruz Engagement Photographer - Lauren Rae Photography
Santa Cruz California Engagement Session by Lauren Rae Photography
Santa Cruz Couples Session by Lauren Rae Photography
Santa Cruz Elopement Photographer - Lauren Rae Photography
Santa Cruz Elopement Photographer - Lauren Rae Photography
Santa Cruz Elopement Photographer - Lauren Rae Photography