A Dreamy Late Summer Engagement at Ellwood Bluffs

Ellwood Bluffs showed off in the best way during Makayla and Emerson’s session, and it felt like the sweetest start to engagement season. Since we were shooting in late August, the mustard plants were growing wild all across the cliffs. The whole hillside felt alive with color, and it instantly matched their bright and playful vibe. We love when a location naturally supports a couple’s energy, and Ellwood Bluffs has a way of doing that so easily.

We already adored these two. We first met them during a styled shoot a couple of years ago, and we connected right away. Because of that, we felt so honored when they chose us to capture both their engagements and their elopement. They even told us that our initial shoot together inspired them to elope instead of planning a traditional wedding. Hearing that made my entire week!

Why These Two Felt So Natural to Photograph During Their Summer Engagement at Ellwood Bluffs

Makayla and Emerson have the kind of connection that feels effortless. Their love shows up clearly in the smallest moments, which always makes our job feel so fun. Nothing felt forced during the session. Instead, every interaction flowed in a way that allowed us to keep shooting without even thinking about it. Their joy felt contagious, and I swear we could have stayed on those bluffs for hours.

Since engagement photos are meant to capture the sweetness of this season in life, we wanted their gallery to feel joyful and easy. The golden grass, the bright mustard plants, and the full afternoon sun created a warm glow around them. We kept thinking about how perfectly the landscape matched their personalities. Everything felt bright, vibrant, and full of anticipation.

Sunset, the Beach, and a Tiny Crescent Moon: A Summer Engagement Photoshoot

As the sun started to drop, we wandered down to the beach so we could finish the session with a softer, more romantic feel. The timing lined up better than we imagined, and the whole shoreline filled with warm light. They splashed in the ocean, laughed through the waves, and truly forgot the camera was even there. Moments like that always remind me why we love photographing engagement sessions!!

While we were shooting, we noticed a tiny crescent moon rising above them. Makayla had mentioned in her inspo that she loved moon details, so it felt like a little wink from the universe. It showed up in a few frames, and I knew immediately that those would be some of her favorites.

The Magic of Ellwood Bluffs for Engagement Photos

Ellwood Bluffs continues to be one of our favorite Santa Barbara locations because it offers everything from wildflower fields to dramatic cliffs to the softest coastal sunsets. Since the space feels open and calm, couples usually relax right away. This helps create honest moments that translate beautifully into photos. Makayla and Emerson brought so much joy and playfulness to the session that the landscape almost felt like part of their story.

If you are dreaming about bright, happy, and nature filled engagement photos, Ellwood Bluffs is a spot worth considering. It has a unique charm that stays with you long after the sun sets!

Bethany Joy Photography | Santa Barbara Wedding + Couples Photographers

If you love the look of these Ellwood Bluffs engagement photos and want your own session to feel just as joyful, we would love to photograph your story! Reach out and let’s start planning something beautiful together.