On this beautiful and sunny San Diego winter morning, I met up with some of my wedding photographer friends to photograph Kye and Jordy, and the adorable golden retriever, Bowen! He splashed around in the water as we tried not to get our feet wet. Because the Pacific Ocean is COLD no matter what time of day. We basked in the golden sun and ran around capturing their wild and laughter-filled love.

They’re the sweetest couple ever, and you can tell that their love is soooo strong. They’ve been married for 3 years now and love traveling back and forth between their home in San Diego, CA and her parent’s vacation home on Maui, Hawaii. They have contagious smiles, joyful hearts, and a love for the ocean. 2023 Update: in fact, these two just had their first baby together!!! He’s so cute!

We all showed up in the early hours of the day, right before sunrise, for this shoot. Often, when the weather is nice in San Diego (which is like… all the time, especially now as it’s officially spring!!!), our beaches get really crowded with tourists and locals alike. Especially during sunset!

So, sometimes taking photos at sunrise is actually the best for photos! Not only is the beach empty, but the morning sun is absolutely stunning for pictures. That golden hour glow!!! (…and yes, there are 2 golden hours every day: sunrise and sunset! Plus, afterwards, you feel so productive for the day! It’s always fun to grab coffee or breakfast together after photo shoots to celebrate.

And that’s exactly what we did! Beba Vowels (who put on this shoot for us) and the rest of us all went to Bird Rock coffee shop just down the street for some lattes and almond butter toast. Yum… okay my mouth is watering right about now. I’d say it was a pretty dang good morning!

Tip for taking engagement photos with your dog/pet:

• pick a location where they can be free (like the beach). If you do a beach, make sure it’s dog friendly where they don’t need leashes. Check out a list of dog-friendly beaches in San Diego here.

• pick a location where you don’t mind if they get a little messy (it’s cute, what can I say?!)

• shoot when there’s not many people around (they get distracted)

• bring lots of treats!

• make sure you give your dog LOTS of attention and exercise the day before your shoot. That way, they are a lot more willing to listen and stay still when we do want those more intimate close-up shots.

• tell your photographer what your dog’s “tricks” are with you. For example, Kye and Jordy can hold their doggo (see below for the cuteness proof)! Some dogs are great about standing on their hind legs, some are great at staying still, exposing their bellys, etc. All of these “tricks” can provide really cute photo opportunities! Plus, they show off their personalities and the relationships between you and your fur babies.

click on an image to see a slideshow in full screen!

Planning a photo shoot? Here’s a helpful guide on what to wear to your Engagement session!

Want candid & fun engagement PHOTOS? HOLLAH AT ME!

I’m Bree, a San Diego & Vegas based wedding photographer (but I travel anywhere for you ). I specialize in adventurous, fun, and romantic photos that show off your candid and authentic selves. I want to capture your JOY and make it fun & easy while doing so. Learn more here and send me an email!