Why Book a Senior Shoot at the Coast

If you’re looking for a unique location for your senior photos, the Oregon coast is a great option! Not only is it my FAVORITE place in the PNW – but it’s really one of the best locations for senior photos in Oregon! I shoot in multiple locations along the coast, and have an exclusive list of locations for my seniors to choose from! Each spot offers a variety of backgrounds, from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs to dunes and everything in between. In this post, I’ll include the top 5 beach locations for a senior shoot that are easily accessible and the PERFECT backdrop for photos.

Pros and Cons of a Beach Photo Shoot

So why choose the beach for your senior photos? Not only are there tons of variety in backgrounds, but it also makes for a fun, adventurous day. You can even make a trip out of it and spend the day exploring the coast, and you can bring a friend or two as well! Plus, it’s just plain beautiful! If you love the ocean and feel alive and happy at the coast, then it’s the perfect place for your photos.

There are a few things to consider when choosing the coast as your senior photo location. On the plus side, you’ll have a variety of different backgrounds and pretty location options. It’s not just a plain old sea shore. The Oregon coast also has a unique magical vibe that will make you feel like you’re in a Twilight movie. The earthy color scheme is also a plus. I’m all about those neutral, moody vibes that the Oregon beaches give us – no matter the seasons.

However, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind. The weather can be unpredictable, with potential wind, rain, and clouds. You may also need to do some hiking or walking on uneven terrain, the sand isn’t everyone’s favorite (it can get EVERYWHERE!). Depending on the time of year, it can also be quite cold and too foggy to see much of a view. It’s important to keep an open mind, be flexible and be in communication with your photographer leading up to your shoot!

What is the Best time of year for a Coastal Senior Shoot?

The best time of year for a coastal senior shoot is typically from May to October. While I often shoot there all year round, I suggest avoiding December and January when the winter weather gets intense! If you want the best weather, aim for June, July, August, or September. However, it’s important to remember that clouds, fog, cold, and wind are ALWAYS a possibility in Oregon. But don’t worry, we’ll make beautiful, magical photos no matter what! I also have plenty of other senior photo locations in Oregon that you can consider when deciding where you want us to shoot!

How to prepare for a photo shoot at the beach

To prepare for your coastal senior shoot, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some top tips for how to prepare for your beach shoot:

• Bring layers! Sweater, raincoat, maybe some shorts under your dress to avoid any Marilyn Monroe moments on windy days! And bring a variety of outfit and shoe options to choose from (or change into if you get wet on the beach!)

• Pack for the weather. And don’t forget to check the forecast! There’s a real possibility of getting all four seasons in one day here in the PNW. So it’s a good idea to come prepared for anything. Towels, umbrellas, sunblock, a mirror and extra makeup for touchups, anything you might need!

• It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water and snacks! Especially if you’re making a road trip out of it from Portland. Don’t go through your whole shoot hungry!

• If possible, spend the day at the coast or stay the night so you can worry less and get ready in your hotel room instead of driving there the same day. It can be a fun little getaway adventure with your friends or your parents. There are tons of cute Airbnbs on the coast of Oregon!

• Create a mood board with your photographer to help plan your outfits and overall vibe of your shoot! Picking out color palettes and styles for your clothes can be a fun project!

Top 3 Beach Senior Photo Locations in Oregon

1. Florence
2. Cannon Beach
3. Pacific City

Florence, Oregon

Dreaming of a moody PNW coastal photoshoot? This section of the beach in Florence, Oregon is PERFECT! With those classic cliffside forests and epic rocky formations that line the shore and even a cute bridge, this beach photoshoot location in Oregon is a really unique spot for senior photos! While there are plenty of spots for beach senior photos along the coast of Oregon, this one definitely is one of my favorites! Just an hour from Eugene, Florence has miles of coastline and lots of great locations to take photos! While it’s a bit farther from whre I’m located, it’s really convenient for my Eugene/Springfield seniors! I know this area well because I used to live in Eugene, so I got you with the location advice.

Cannon Beach

MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!! Y’ALL THE VARIETY HERE IS INSANE!

Located just under two hours from Portland, Cannon Beach offers SO many incredible senior photo locations! The epic cliffside views of the coast, the soft yellow dunes grass meeting the rock-adorned shore; it’s the perfect photoshoot location for seniors that want forests AND water!

Pacific City

Pacific City is another stunning location for senior photoshoots on the coast. The beach offers a beautiful backdrop of sand dunes, rocky orange cliffs, and stunning sea stacks. I have two great locations on my “favorites list” here in Pacific City and it’s just under two hours drive from Portland! Both are best on a day with a super low tide.

How to book Beach Senior Photos in Oregon

Are you looking for senior photos that are creative, adventurous, & actually capture your personality? My promise to you is that your photo shoot will be a unique adventure filled with creativity. I will pose + direct you, play your favorite music, and make sure you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera!  I’m currently booking Senior Sessions for July-October 2023! Contact me to book your Oregon senior session at the beach, or anywhere in the PNW!