I’ve always wanted to photograph an engagement session at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and after I met Emily and Matt, I knew it was the perfect location for them! Since she’s from the Santa Cruz area, Emily grew up going to the boardwalk with family and friends. Plus I knew that the rides, games, and treats would be a great addition to the casual and fun vibe that they wanted! It seemed like it was all meant to be when I searched the boardwalk calendar and found out that the amusement park and rides would be open that week for spring break!

On the day of their session we met a few hours before sunset so we would have extra time to get on some rides, play a few games, and explore all the colorful corners! The biggest challenge photographing in a crowded location like an amusement park is finding spaces where there aren’t a ton of people in the background, but I think we did a great job capturing some of those moments mixed with the full bustling boardwalk vibe!

We ended the day with an outfit and location change once the sun started to set. I love how all we had to do was step off the boardwalk and there was a beautiful beach with teal lifeguard stations nearby (and significantly less people)! No driving required!

This session was even more fun than I thought it would be because Emily and Matt have such a natural connection and infectious joyful personalities! These two have so much fun together! Thanks for letting me in on it! And thanks to Emily’s sister, Katie, for coming along to haul all the things and bring an extra dose of excitement and entertainment!

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If you enjoyed this post, you might want to check out this colorful disco themed engagement session with Oakland murals, or this colorful summer garden wedding in Palo Alto.