Redwoods National Park Anniversary Session
About the Session | Alyssa & Andrew
During a family vacation to Redwoods National Park, Andrew and Alyssa (my brother and sister-in-law) wanted to celebrate their five year wedding anniversary, so we decided to sneak away for an evening on the coast. This session was a memorable way to reflect on all that these two have gone through together over the course of those five years.
I love anniversary sessions because I get to invite my couples to stop, pause and acknowledge this season of life that they are currently in. I'm passionate about setting a tone for my photo sessions to be one that is reflective, celebratory and nostalgic. My hope is to help memorialize this season so they can use these photos as an artifact of gratitude no matter where their life and love takes them.
How to Plan Outfits for Your Next Photoshoot:
Complimentary to the scenery
There was a lot of beautiful greenery along the rocky cliffside and coast near the Redwoods so we chose an orange sweater to stand out from the greens but also go well with the neutral tones in the background.
We also chose two different shades of denim for their jeans to bring out both the blues in the ocean and their eyes.
Earthy warm tones always make a calm and warm contrast to the cool colored background of the coast : An orange sweater for her and dark sweater for him to contrast the brightness of the sky, water, and sand
Getting inspiration from great color palettes or other couples’ photoshoots for your next outfit (provided below).
How to Pick a Photoshoot Location in the Redwoods
Searching for a great location for your next session can be tricky at times since there is so much to consider, especially if you aren’t familiar with the area. So here are a few steps I followed to find this beautiful coastal spot filled with gorgeous ocean scenery, wildflowers, and paths on rocky cliffs near Redwoods National Park.
Since I had never been in the area before, I used google earth to search for a spot along the coast. Google earth is extremely helpful because it provides you with worldwide satellite imagery and gives you great visual ideas as to the kind of environment you’re looking for and around. It allows you to pan, rotate, zoom, and tilt the Earth’s images and is an incredible way to see a location and know what to expect if you have never been there before.
Before we set a time for the session, I always check to see where and when the sun sets for that specific location. Photography revolves around lighting so it’s always important to know and understand what the lighting will be like during the shoot to provide clients with the best images. This also helps you plan shots based off the location of the sun and makes for great sunset photos during golden hour too!
I typically look for a location that has a variety of backgrounds or settings for the shoot. In this case I was able to find forest, beach, rocky cliff sides filled with wildflowers, and coastal greenery. This provides an ample amount of different shots for the session, making the final gallery one that captures both the couple and the environment in new and creative ways.
Following the three steps above landed us on a beautiful beach just outside of Trinidad, California.
Your Redwood National Park Photographer + Videographer
Over the course of the past 5 years I've driven from Seattle to San Diego more times than I can count, and I always find myself stopping along the Redwoods National & State Parks. Being born and raised in Washington state, I quickly found a love for the outdoors while backpacking, rock climbing, skiing and road tripping all up and down the West Coast. So if you’re looking for an adventurous elopement, anniversary session, engagement, or wedding, I’m always up to take a road trip, climb a mountain, or run along the coast to capture and create memorable moments for you and your loved ones.
Your Redwood National Park Photographer,
Kassidy Sherburne
Best Time to Head to the Redwood Coast and Big Sur
The Redwood Coast and Big Sur are absolutely stunning locations to plan your next session at, but it’s also important to think about timing.
Environment
In the spring, the wildflowers in the area make incredible backdrops and add to the beautiful greenery already along the coast.
Crowds
There are also less crowds in the spring since these popular locations’ peak seasons run all summer long.
Weather
Lastly, with over 300 days of sunshine each year, the spring weather is both beautiful and refreshing along the gorgeous coastline.
Best Beaches Near Redwood National Park and Big Sur
Check out these great locations near Redwood National Park and Big Sur -
Top Attractions in Redwood National Park
If you're ever near or planning a visit to Redwood National Park, make sure to check out some of these breathtaking overlooks, trails, and beaches in and near the beautiful Redwoods Park.
Klamath River Overlook A spectacular view overlooking the mouth of the Klamath river as well as a popular spot for whale watching and sunsets.
Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail This 3.6 mile hike runs through the Redwood River and into some remarkable groves of tall trees.
Fern Canyon Trail A one mile hike through this cobbled stream surrounded by beautiful lush greenery.
Crescent Beach Overlook A breathtaking high scenic view of Crescent City’s beach and harbors.
More California Photoshoot Inspiration
Looking for more photo inspiration in the California area?
Check out these recent shoots below on my blog for more!
Pin Below for Easy Access to this Redwood National Park Photoshoot Outfit Inspiration
