We started exploring the adorable downtown area and then made our way up to Ecola State Park for a stunning view of the coastline. The weather was gorgeous, which is not always guaranteed on the Oregon Coast. We even got an epic sunset at Haystack Rock to close out the session. It was one of those days that just fell into place perfectly.

Why Cannon Beach is Perfect for Engagement Photos

Cannon Beach is one of those places that just photographs beautifully. The town itself is charming and walkable. The beach is wide and dramatic. And Haystack Rock stands at 235 feet tall, making it impossible to miss in the background of every photo.

For couples who want a mix of beach, forest, and coastal views, this area truly delivers. You get so much variety without driving far at all.

What Makes This Location Special

• Haystack Rock as a natural backdrop
• Tide pools full of life and texture
• The dramatic cliffs and trees at Ecola State Park
• Golden hour light that hits the beach perfectly
• A charming little town to walk through before or after

If you want to see more great spots along the coast, check out these epic locations for photos on the Oregon Coast.

Ecola State Park: An incredible View

After the beach, we drove up to Ecola State Park. The views there are a whole different vibe. Tall trees, coastal cliffs, and sweeping ocean views make it feel almost dramatic. It is a great contrast to the wide open beach below.

Why Ecola State Park Works So Well for Engagement Photos

• Lush green trees create a forest feel
• The ocean overlooks give you wide, stunning views
• It is less crowded than the beach below
• The different environment gives you photo variety in one session
• Soft, filtered light works great even when it is partly cloudy

Haystack Rock: The Grand Finale

We finished out Brent and Kaylyn’s session right on the beach near Haystack Rock. The tide was low, which gave us plenty of space to move around. The tide pools added some really cool texture to the photos.

There is something about standing next to a massive rock on an open beach that makes everything feel big and romantic. The two of them were natural in front of the camera, which made the whole thing easy and fun.

The sunset that evening was one of the better ones I have seen on the Oregon Coast. The sky turned pink and orange, and the light on the beach was just right. Brent and Kaylyn were silhouetted against the whole thing.

It was the kind of ending to a session that feels like a gift. Not every session gets a sunset like that. This one did.

Tips for Shooting Near Haystack Rock

• Check the tide chart before your session
• Low tide gives you more beach and better access to the pools
• Go later in the evening for warm golden light
• Wear layers, the wind can pick up fast
• Bring a blanket or wrap for the cooler moments

Recommended Vendors

If you are planning a trip to Cannon Beach for your engagement session, here is a great place to stay:

Surfsand Resort sits right on the beach, just steps from Haystack Rock. It is a gorgeous spot to base yourself for the weekend. Staying close to the beach means you can walk out for golden hour without any stress.

And if you’re coming from out of town and would like a local expert travel agent to help you book your trip and guide you to all the hidden treasures, check out Kazandra Lewis who helped Brent and Kaylyn plan their whole Oregon trip! 

5 Tips for Planning Your Own Cannon Beach Engagement Session

Planning a Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park engagement session in Cannon Beach, Oregon takes a little prep work. Here are five things that will help make it go smoothly:

1. Book during golden hour. The light on the Oregon Coast is best in the last hour before sunset. It is warm, soft, and flattering for photos.
2. Check the tide schedule. Low tide at Haystack Rock gives you more beach to work with and access to the tide pools. High tide can cut off parts of the beach.
3. Dress in layers. The coast can be cool even in summer. Layers keep you comfortable and also look great in photos.
4. Plan time at both locations. Give yourself at least 30 minutes at Haystack Rock and 30 minutes at Ecola State Park. They are close to each other, but each spot needs its own time.
5. Stay close to the beach. Booking a place like Surfsand Resort means you are already right there. No long drives, no rushing. Just walk out and shoot.

FAQ: Cannon Beach Engagement Photography

What time of year is best for engagement photos in Cannon Beach?

Late spring through early fall tends to have the most stable weather. July through September often brings clearer skies and warmer temps.

Is Ecola State Park far from Haystack Rock?

No. It is only about a 10 to 15 minute drive from the beach in Cannon Beach up to Ecola State Park. It is very easy to do both in one session.

Do I need a permit for engagement photos at Ecola State Park?

Yes, Oregon State Parks may require a permit for professional photography. It is best to contact the park directly to confirm current rules before your session.

What should I wear for a Cannon Beach engagement session?

Think casual but put together. Light neutrals, soft colors, and layers work really well with the coastal setting. Avoid very bright colors or busy patterns.

How long should an engagement session at Haystack Rock be?

Most couples do well with a 1.5 to 2 hour session. That gives you enough time for both Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park, plus any golden hour light.

Is Cannon Beach good for elopements too?

Absolutely. If you are thinking about eloping on the Oregon Coast, take a look at this elopement at Cape Perpetua for some serious inspiration.

What if I am not near the Oregon Coast?

No problem. There are great options closer to home too. Check out these engagement session locations closer to Salem, Oregon if you want something nearby.

Ready to Plan Your Cannon Beach Engagement Session?

Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park engagement photographs in Cannon Beach, Oregon are truly something special. If you are a newly engaged couple, or just dreaming of a coastal session, this place is worth the trip.

I would love to be your photographer for it. Reach out here and let’s start planning your session together.

The post Brent and Kaylyn’s Engagement Photographs in Cannon Beach, Oregon appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

Who knew a graveyard could be so romantic? Deserie and James wanted their engagement photos to show off their darker, spookier style. So we headed to Pratum Cemetery outside of Salem as the sun was setting to capture their love in a way that truly fit their personalities. Deserie was worried that her request for spooky engagement photos in Salem Oregon would weird me out, but lucky for her, I’m all about doing something different and unique! And if you know these two, this was the perfect spot for their photos!

As night fell over the tombstones, we even played with some light writing to add an extra touch of magic to their photos. One tombstone had a message that fit their “till death” theme perfectly: “Death is eternal life, why should we weep?”

Looking for unique engagement session locations in Salem? Keep reading to see how this cemetery shoot came together!

Why Choose a Cemetery for Engagement Photos?

Perfect for Halloween Lovers

For couples who love all things spooky, a graveyard setting creates the perfect backdrop for engagement photos that stand out. The old tombstones, iron gates, and ancient trees add character you can’t find anywhere else.

Quiet and Private

Most cemeteries in Salem are peaceful and empty, giving you privacy during your photo session. This means you can be yourselves without strangers watching.

Stunning Architecture

Many old cemeteries feature beautiful stonework, statues, and paths that make for amazing photo backgrounds. The gothic feel adds a timeless quality to your pictures.

Unexpected Beauty

Cemeteries often have lovely landscaping, old trees, and flowers that create a strangely beautiful setting for romance photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it disrespectful to take engagement photos in a cemetery?

Not if done with care and permission. Be quiet, stay on paths, don’t move anything, and treat the space with respect.

What’s the best time of day for graveyard photos in Salem?

Late afternoon to sunset creates beautiful golden light, while dusk adds mystery. Check cemetery hours as most close at sunset.

What should we wear for cemetery engagement photos?

Dark colors work well against stone backgrounds. Black, deep reds, purples, or dark greens complement the setting.

Can we bring props to our cemetery photo shoot?

Yes, with care. Small items like flowers, lanterns, candles or books can add to your photos without being disruptive.

Will people think we’re weird for taking photos in a graveyard?

The right photographer will help you create tasteful, beautiful images. These photos show your unique personality as a couple! And I’m the photographer that says, EMBRACE YOUR WEIRD! It’s what makes you awesome!

5 Tips for Planning Your Own Spooky Engagement Photos in Salem Oregon

Want to create your own spooky-yet-romantic cemetery photos in Salem? Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Get Permission First – Always check with cemetery management before planning a photo shoot. Some have rules against photography or require permits.
2. Be Respectful – Stay on paths, don’t climb on graves, and keep voices down. Remember this is a place where people mourn.
3. Time It Right – Schedule your shoot for “golden hour” right before sunset for the best light, or go after dark for extra spookiness (with permission).
4. Bring Flashlights or Lanterns – These can be both practical and props for creating cool lighting effects as it gets dark.
5. Dress to Impress – Dark colors look amazing in cemetery settings. Think black dresses, suits, or even costume elements that match your style.

Ready for Your Own Spooky Engagement Photos?

If you’re looking for Spooky Engagement Photos in Salem Oregon that capture your unique style, I’d love to help! Cemetery photo sessions offer a one-of-a-kind backdrop for couples who want something different from the usual park or beach photos.

Whether you’re Halloween lovers, gothic style fans, or just want something unique, I can help create engagement photos that truly show who you are as a couple. Contact me today to book your own hauntingly beautiful cemetery engagement session in Salem!

The post Deserie & James’s Spooky Engagement Photos in Salem, Oregon appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

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“I’m a beach girl and Ben’s a mountain boy. So those spots on the coast where the trees reach all the way out to the coast really speaks to us. Those two worlds colliding – the forest and the beach meeting at a point – just makes us think of us. We are from two different worlds, we grew up very different, lived entirely different lives and have somehow been brought together and find that we have a connection and flow so naturally. It’s strange and unexpected.” – Leah

Looking for more resources for planning your Oregon Coast Engagement Session? Find more location ideas here.

The post Oregon Coast Engagement Photographer – Leah and Bennett appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

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The M family met me out at Baskett Slough Wildlife Refuge and we chased around their two darling children in the warm sunshine.

The post Baskett Slough Wildlife Refuge – Salem Oregon Family Photographer – M fAMILY appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

Astrid and Ben tromped through the woods with me for their engagement session at Silver Falls State Park. they told me about rare mushrooms, gold panning, fuzzy caterpillars and how much they love each other. It was completely lovely to capture who these two are and what they mean to each other in a beautiful spot!

The post Astrid and Ben’s | Silver Falls State Park | Salem, Oregon Engagement Photographer appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

Emily and Alex’s wedding at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Portland was absolutely lovely. I loved being part of their day. Enjoy some of my favorite moments from their beautiful spring wedding.

The post Emily and Alex’s Wedding | St. Mary’s Cathedral | Portland, Oregon Wedding Photographer appeared first on Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer.

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