What do you do when Mother Nature hijacks your engagement session? Kaylee and Zack wanted a gorgeous earthy engagement session, but somehow in mid-April, we still faced road closures, bad weather, and lots of snow all around their part of Oregon and up toward where I was staying in Seattle. But we were determined to make it happen. So, we abandoned our strategy and went back on the drawing board, hoping the Oregon coast would be more promising. On the distinctive Oregon coast, fern-lined trails and towering pines give way to towering sea stacks and sandy beaches dotted with stones and driftwood—a photographer’s dream! Ecola State Park did not disappoint!
It still got a bit chilly, but this adventurous couple donned their colorful Patagonia jackets to warm up and took a few cozy photos together before Kaylee slipped into a stunning flowy red dress for the rest of their romantic session together. I especially loved the variety in their photos! Kaylee and Zack got their woodsy shots—plus additional beach and cliffside shots as well! It fit their personality and style perfectly.
Best Place for Couple’s Photos in Oregon | Ecola State Park & Indian Beach
Although we didn’t initially intend on photographing their engagement session at Indian Beach in Ecola State Park, I’m so glad we stumbled upon this hidden gem. It has so much to offer via the natural scenery, and it’s typically a bit quieter and more secluded than other scenic areas along the Oregon shoreline.
Things to love about Ecola State Park & Indian Beach, Oregon
If you have a serious case of wanderlust, Ecola State Park for you! There’s a little bit of everything. It’s amazing how quickly the terrain changes here. Explore the natural caves and spruce-covered bluffs or take in the wonder of teeming tide pools and majestic sea stacks. Eagles, deer, elk, and even mountain lions roam this area, and gray whales migrate through these waters from winter to spring. You’re definitely in for some adventure with an Oregon coast engagement session!
Here are a few natural features we can incorporate into your Oregon engagement session:
- Sandy Beaches, Tidepools, & Caves
- Pine Forests
- Rolling Hills, Bluffs, & Views
- Sea Stacks
- Driftwood, Rocks, & Stones
Ecola State Park Photography Session FAQs
Can we bring our dog(s)?
Yes, the park does allow dogs as long as they are leashed on the hiking trails (leashes must be six feet or shorter). Dogs do not have to be leashed on the beach as long as you have a leash on-hand and your dog responds to verbal commands. Don’t forget clean-up bags!
Do we need a special use permit for our photo session?
No, since we are not shooting commercial photography, we can simply pay the park entry fee for our session. However, we’re not able to reserve a photography location (although people are usually very courteous, and crowds are not typically a problem if we plan around peak times and holidays).
Can we go off the trail for our session?
In an effort to protect wild life and forest ecosystem, I recommend sticking fairly close to the trail and always adhering to posted signage. Plus, this area is prone to natural landslides, so the trails and closures are designed to protect you, too. But trust me, these lush trails are picture perfect without venturing off the path.
Are parking and restroom facilities available?
Yes, the Ecola Park offers day parking, restroom facilities, picnic tables, beach access, and maintained hiking trails. Your day-use permit will provide access to all of the parking and amenities. However, overnight parking in not available if you’re planning to camp.
Book a Destination Photography Session!
I love to travel for photography, and I’m happy to meet you for a destination engagement session or wedding. With the territory comes careful scheduling. If you are able to coordinate your session date and destination with my shooting schedule, I can waive the travel & lodging fees. (For instance, Kaylee and Zack booked their Oregon session during my Seattle stay to avoid additional costs.)
Check out my travel schedule here to coordinate—and maybe you’ll find inspiration for you next travel destination. Meet ya there!
[…] There’s no hiding it—I’m not quite ready for fall to end. Autumn weddings are absolutely magical with the crisp, cool air and the vibrant foliage. Pennsylvania showcases breathtaking fall beauty, which is why so many couples flock to the area for their dream weddings. This September, I had the honor of photographing Kaylee and Zack’s wedding (you may remember their adventurous engagement session in Ecola Beach, Oregon!) […]