If you’ve ever cringed at the idea of matching white shirts and jeans for beach photos, you’re not alone. So many couples want photos by the water but don’t want the cookie-cutter look that everyone else has. Cue: a nontraditional couples session at 30A. These are photos that actually feel like you.
As a documentary style photographer, these sessions are my dream!
This Henderson Beach session featured below is one of my favorites. The evening light was soft and golden, the waves rolled gently, and the energy was calm and playful all at once. Yes please!
My client wore a flowy yellow dress that worked perfectly with the warm vibes of golden hour. (Here’s a similar one if you love the style like I did!) And her husband kept it simple in a white shirt and tan pants. I love when my couples plan outfits so well together! Basically we got to meet up at the beach, kick off our shoes and these two ran & laughed in the sand all evening. Eventually, they almost forget there was even a camera nearby.
And that’s the goal of a nontraditional couples session at 30A.
When you think of typical beach photos, it’s easy to picture stiff smiles, forced poses, and the same look every time. No shade if you want the matching outfits and the posed smiles, that’s a valid style of photography. But that’s not what these sessions are about. These are documentary style, lifestyle photos that capture how you feel. These sessions are for those who want photos that feel connected, genuine, and a little imperfect. But in the best way.
I shoot on both digital and 35mm film, which adds a layer of nostalgia and texture you just can’t fake.
The film tones bring out the warmth of the sunset, the soft sand, and the emotion in each moment. Every frame feels like a pause. Like a memory you can hold.
These sessions are more like spending an evening on a date than a photoshoot. You can twirl in the surf, chase the waves, and sink into that easy rhythm you share with your person.
My prompts are movement-based and natural, so instead of stiff, perfected posing, you’re simply being together. Talking, laughing, touching, connecting. I walk you through a few tips and tricks at the beginning of our session, and then I let you do your thing. I might hop in with a few prompts, but mostly the time just flies by as you enjoy quality time together.
Your final images in your online gallery won’t be stiff or overly polished. You’ll see the wind in your hair, remember the sand on your feet, and the little glances that tell your story.
Every gallery includes both digital and film photos, so you have that fun mix of old school nostalgia (in the film!) and the crisp high resolution images to remember our time.
Here’s the thing: if you’re craving something relaxed, intentional, and real… consider this your invitation to skip the traditional photos. Choose something that reflects who you actually are. And have fun while you do it!
A nontraditional couples session at 30A are made for those who value connection over perfection. And that’s exactly where the magic happens.
If you’re ready to book your documentary style photos at the beach, let’s make it happen. Click here to reach out!
