When T+R reached out about planning a beach anniversary photoshoot for their 5th wedding anniversary, I was stoked. They had traveled from Omaha, NE, to the Oregon Coast for vacation. What makes these kinds of sessions so memorable is how they celebrate a milestone in a way that feels intentional and true to who you are.
Anniversaries are one of those sneaky little things—five years sounds like it’s flown by, but then you look back and realize how much life has happened in that time. Choosing to mark it with photos is about pressing pause in the middle of the whirlwind and saying, “Hey, this is us, right now.” You’ll never get this season of life back. Sure, there will be many more anniversaries, vacations, and memories to come, but there’s something irreplaceable about capturing who you are today. These memories are priceless. And trust me, years from now, you’ll be so glad you have them frozen in time.
Exploring Elk Flats & Arcadia Beach
We kicked things off at Elk Flats overlook, which, honestly, is a jaw-dropping backdrop. The sweeping cliffs, lush greenery, and that endless stretch of ocean make you want to twirl around like you’re in a dramatic movie.
From there, we made our way down to Arcadia Beach, which gave us an entirely new vibe. This is the beauty of a two-hour session in this part of the coast: you get variety without having to rush. We had time to slow down, wander, and let the moments unfold naturally. That way, you get a gallery that feels both cohesive and dynamic. You get the dramatic cliffs and forest backdrops balanced by the warmth and glow of the shoreline.
It tells the story of an evening adventure from start to finish—one that’s playful, romantic, and full of character. When couples invest in that little bit of extra time, it’s like giving multiple chapters instead of a quick highlight reel.
A Beach Anniversary Photoshoot at Golden Hour
Everything became glowy and magical as the sun began to go down. That’s what I love about the Oregon Coast—it gives you the best of both worlds. One minute you’re adventuring along rocky cliffs, and the next you’re strolling along the beach, dipping your toes in the ocean. It’s untamed but somehow cozy and intimate at the same time.
At the end of the day, investing in photography during vacations and anniversaries becomes a time capsule, and proof of who you were in this season, the love you shared, and the adventure you said yes to. It’s like a little souvenir you’ll never regret packing in your carry-on. Ready to see more? Check out these stunning Mt Rainier engagement photos!
Love Notes From Happy Humans
“Mattie is an amazing photographer. She is extremely friendly and easy to work with, and she calls her clients beforehand to get to know them, to make the shoot feel more natural. She knows all the beautiful places to take her clients. If there is something you decide you don’t want to do, she’s very flexible and finds other ways to shoot you. She truly is so great and takes amazing photos. You won’t regret booking with her!”
Cannon Beach Photographer | Before Our Eyes Photography
Hi—I’m Mattie! I’m all about documenting love stories on the Oregon Coast and beyond, whether that looks like laughing your way through a windy overlook, chasing the last rays of light on the beach, or just pressing pause to take it all in together. Because at the end of the day, it’s about creating memories you’ll treasure long after the sand’s out of your shoes. Ready to do this thing? Click here to get in touch!
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