I get it—stepping in front of the camera can feel a little nerve-wracking at first. But trust me: once we’re out there, with the wind in your hair, the light just right, and your person by your side, it all starts to feel natural. That’s the magic of planning an engagement session in California—especially up here in the wild, gorgeous expanse of Northern California.

Whether you’re newly engaged or just starting to dream up your shoot, here are my top NorCal engagement tips to help you make the most of the experience.

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1. Choose a Location That Feels Like You

Northern California has everything—from redwood groves and rugged coastlines to golden hills and quiet vineyard roads. As your photographer, I’ll help you pick a place that fits your vibe and tells your story.

Whether you’re looking for dramatic coastal cliffs or serene redwood forests, California engagement photo locations offer something for every couple. Some gravitate toward the rugged beauty of Big Sur or the windswept beaches of Marin. Others feel more at home in the foggy forests of Mendocino or the golden-hour glow in Napa Valley. No matter your style, planning an engagement session in California means choosing a setting that reflects your story.

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2. Let the Light Lead

Golden hour is the real MVP of engagement photos. That last hour before sunset brings the kind of soft, golden glow that makes everything feel more romantic and natural. It’s when the light wraps around you instead of blasting from above, and the colors of the landscape come alive.

We’ll time your session so you can settle into it, breathe, and enjoy those slower, more connected moments as the light shifts. And if the weather surprises us? Some of my favorite sessions have happened under overcast skies or just as the fog rolls in—moody, cinematic, and full of feeling.

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3. What to Wear for Engagement Photos in Northern California

I get this question all the time: What to wear for engagement photos in Northern California? The answer: something that feels like you—with a little extra intention.

Here are my go-to tips:

• Keep it simple and comfortable. Choose outfits you can move in—walk, spin, sit in the grass.
• Coordinate, don’t match. Think complementary colors and textures that reflect your personalities.
• Layers are your friend. Especially in NorCal, where the temperature can shift fast. A cozy sweater, a flowing dress, or a favorite jacket can add both warmth and visual interest.
• Avoid big logos or loud patterns. You want your connection, not your clothes, to be the focus.

And if you’re still not sure? I’ll walk you through it during the planning process. We’ll ensure your look complements the setting, lighting, and overall ambiance of the shoot perfectly.

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4. Make It an Experience, Not Just a Photo Session

Some of the best moments happen when you’re just being yourselves—laughing about the drive up the coast, kicking off your shoes to run barefoot through the sand. I always tell my couples: don’t overthink it. This isn’t about performing for the camera—it’s about celebrating your relationship in a way that feels honest and fun.

We’ll chat ahead of time about the vibe you want (laid back? adventurous? romantic?) and build the session around that. The best photos come when you feel like you’re just hanging out—with each other and with the place around you.

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5. The Afterglow: Seeing Your Photos for the First Time

Once we’ve wrapped your shoot and the light fades, the magic isn’t over. I offer a private reveal experience—a cozy, curated moment where you’ll get to see your images for the first time. And from there, we can talk through your options for prints, albums, or even designing a custom save-the-date that fits your story and aesthetic.

There’s something so powerful about holding a photo in your hands—about turning the page and seeing the way your love looked in that light, on that day, in that place

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If you’re planning your engagement session in California, think about what will help you move freely, feel confident, and connect in the moment. The right outfit isn’t just about style—it’s about telling your story through comfort and color in these naturally stunning landscapes.

I’m here to help you make the most of it—from location scouting to what to wear to simply being in the moment together.

Let’s create something you’ll never forget.

— Dan Berger Photography