For Nikki and Casey’s Santa Rosa engagement photography, we had originally planned to start at a local record store. But when we arrived, the doors were locked and rain had started to fall. Without a backup plan, we had to pivot. That’s when Casey suggested we check out a nearby cemetery. It wasn’t what we envisioned, but we decided to roll with it — and it turned out to be the perfect call.
Dressed in black, Nikki and Casey looked like they belonged there in the best way possible. The misty air, quiet stillness, and towering moss-covered headstones created an atmosphere that felt straight out of a romantic film. The way they held each other, walked through the overgrown pathways, and embraced the eerie beauty of the space made the whole session feel intimate and cinematic.
Their love for music and Halloween made the location even more fitting, creating a natural connection between them and the setting. What started as a last-minute decision turned into one of the most unique engagement sessions I’ve photographed.
This session was a reminder that the best moments often come from the unexpected. Engagement photos don’t have to follow a traditional mold. Sometimes, the most meaningful images come from simply embracing the moment and letting the story unfold naturally. Nikki and Casey leaned into that fully, and it made for an unforgettable experience. For more ideas, check out my 5 tips for amazing wedding photos.
If you are planning an engagement session and want photos that truly reflect who you are, let’s make it happen. Whether it’s a quiet forest, a moody cemetery, or somewhere completely unexpected, I’d love to capture your story in a way that feels real and meaningful to you. Reach out and let’s create something unforgettable.