A Sunrise Golden Gate Bridge Engagement

Jan 21

““One day, if I go to heaven… I’ll look around and say, ‘it ain’t bad, but it ain’t San Francisco.””

— Herb Caen

San Francisco isn’t perfect. But it is perfectly San Francisco. A city with plenty of personality and tons to explore in only 49-square miles.

I used to live in the Bay Area and as you might expect, I travel back to the Bay a few times a year for photoshoots. And for good reason—SF boasts beautiful coasts, an iconic skyline, and—of course—the Golden Gate Bridge.

While lots of folks like to drive up to Golden Gate vista point and stare out over the bridge and into the city, I wanted to take my couple—Elliot and Connie—to an under-appreciated view looking out and up towards the bridge near the bunkers and batteries.

Elliot and Connie met each other in the area, so it only made sense to snap some pics at San Francisco’s most famous landmark. The day was a bit foggy and grey. But that doesn't matter when the couple is beaming with joy and affection. They even brought their puppy along, which makes everything more fun. Fortunately, I wrangled this pup with one hand and shoot photos with the other without too much trouble.

This semi-secret spot turned out to be the right site for Elliot and Connie. When the couple keeps stopping to appreciate the view instead of the camera, you know it’s the right backdrop for their engagement session.

We decided to break up the engagement photoshoot with a walk to the street corner where Elliot and Connie live together. Sure, you might think a random San Francisco street corner couldn’t compare to the Golden Gate Bridge. But just check out the views! Couple that with the personal significance the area holds for the couple, and you can see why it was the right choice.

It’s incredible, isn’t it? From any given hill in San Francisco, you can still see the sparkling water.

Tips for Booking Your Own San Francisco Photoshoot

San Francisco is a wonderful city for your proposal, engagement, elopement, or wedding photos. But it’s important to keep a few things in mind.

SF is a foggy city and you can’t assume what Karl is going to do. Some days it’ll cover the whole bridge in a thick blanket of clouds. Some days it won’t show up at all. And other days the fog will break at sunset, letting the solar rays wash over the area in a spectacular display. No matter what, you’ll want to bring layers!

Crowds can also be a bit of a problem. Luckily, Elliot and Connie had their photos done in the spring, so we had most of the area to ourselves. But even if there are people around, your photographer can help you get the right angles to ensure the perfect pictures. Not to mention Photoshop can work wonders.

The Golden Gate Bridge is an awesome landmark. But don’t forget about Twin Peaks, Lovers’ Lane, and the Castro as potential spots for your photoshoot. There are dozens of other hidden gems too, so feel free to ask your photographer to help you find the ideal spot.

So, what do you say? Are you ready for your own San Francisco engagement shoot or wedding day? Contact Love & Latitudes and we’ll gladly meet with you in Fog City or wherever love finds you.