Golden Hour, Glowing Hearts: Kassandruh + Rob’s Fisherman’s Wharf Engagement Session

I’ve been dreaming of shooting an engagement session at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco for so long—and this one? It was everything I hoped it would be and more.

Kassandruh + Rob absolutely brought the love, the laughs, and the natural connection that makes sessions like this unforgettable. We wandered through some of my favorite places along the Wharf—spots I’ve scouted dozens of times over the years—so I knew exactly how to make the most of the light, the movement, and the magic of this iconic San Francisco location.

One of my favorite things to do when I’m down at the Wharf is grab some clam chowder, sip a Biscoff coffee, and walk the waterfront, soaking it all in. So to get to share that space with a couple like this, who were so down for the adventure and truly present with each other? That’s the dream.

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Musée Mécanique & The Photo Booth Moment

One specific shot I had in mind for this engagement session was at Musée Mécanique, the antique arcade tucked into Pier 45. I had this idea of capturing Kassandruh + Rob sharing a moment in the photo booth while the world moved around them—people passing by in a blur. It took a little finessing, but we nailed it, and it’s easily one of my favorite shots from the session.

We followed it up with a few more playful arcade shots (because when in San Francisco’s best vintage arcade, how could you not?), and then made our way back out into the glowing late afternoon light.

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Alcatraz Views & A Surprise Proposal

The light was beautiful as we walked along the waterfront, and I couldn’t resist getting a few shots of Alcatraz Island in the distance, framed perfectly from Pier 41. Just then, the famous sea lions started barking—one of them out sunbathing in a pose Rob immediately pointed out as “exactly how I feel sometimes.” 😂 Naturally, we got the shot.

But here’s where the session turned into something extra special.

As we were lining up for a few shots with the SkyStar Wheel and North Beach neighborhood behind them, Rob leaned in and whispered to me… he was about to propose. Kassandruh had already proposed to him, and he wanted to return the favor. I gave him the signal and got everything framed. That moment? Pure joy.

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Carousel Romance & Sunset Magic

We continued on to Pier 39 where I had already coordinated with the staff at the carousel to make sure we could shoot there. After a quick outfit change and a short walk, we arrived—and the place was nearly empty. It felt like we had our own private fairytale.

They caressed and laughed in front of the glowing carousel lights, and I just clicked away as the moment unfolded naturally. It was cinematic, romantic, and a total blast.

As we made our way back toward the parking lot, the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky absolutely lit up. I had to stop for one last round of portraits with the SkyStar Wheel and the glowing Pier 43 Ferry Arch behind them. It was the perfect way to wrap up a shoot that reminded me exactly why I do what I do.

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Planning an Engagement Session at Fisherman’s Wharf?

Fisherman’s Wharf is such a vibrant and dynamic place for an engagement photo session in San Francisco. From the waterfront views of Alcatraz and the Bay, to the charming lights of the carousel, the nostalgic vibes of Musée Mécanique, and even spontaneous proposals—it has it all. Whether you’re planning to pop the question, capture save-the-date photos, or just want a fun, cinematic engagement session, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.

📸 Let’s make it happen. Reach out through my contact form or send me a DM on Instagram @danbergerphotography and let’s start planning your dream shoot at the Wharf.