This whole Cannon Beach engagement photos adventure started as a “small world” moment. I went to school with Kellen. Fast forward a few years, and I meet Michaela at the Three Rivers Bridal Show—she’s glowing, full of wedding excitement, and the kind of person who instantly makes you want to be her friend.

When they told me they wanted their engagement session at Cannon Beach, I didn’t even need to hear the rest of the sentence. Michaela grew up visiting the Oregon Coast with her family, so it’s one of those places that’s stitched into her childhood memories. Truthfully, it’s hard to beat Haystack Rock, salty air, and that golden, foggy light.

Traveling from Tri-Cities for a Special Location

I’m based in the Tri-Cities, which means most of my days are filled with sunshine, wine country views, and the occasional tumbleweed sighting (you know, the classics). But when love calls from a dreamy location like the Oregon Coast, you bet I’m packing my camera and my road trip snacks. Michaela, Kellen, and I all made the trek from Tri-Cities to the coast. If you’ve ever made that drive, you know it’s a commitment.

I will always go where love stories happen. Whether it’s the Oregon Coast, a mountaintop at sunrise, or a backyard BBQ where your grandma makes the best potato salad in the area, I’m there. These are the places that hold meaning. The magic in your photos comes from you feeling completely at home in the spot you chose.

The Day of Their Cannon Beach Engagement Photos

The morning of the shoot, Cannon Beach was serving up some serious wind. I’m talking instant hair-in-lip gloss situation. Not cute. I’ll admit—I was nervous. We’d all traveled from Tri-Cities, and this wasn’t one of those “oh, we’ll just reschedule” situations. This was more of a “we’re doing this no matter what, even if we get blown into the Pacific” kind of day.

The second we started shooting, the weather decided to throw us a bone, and it was perfect. The wind calmed, and the sun turned to that golden, honey-like light that made me want to bottle it up. Now all they had to do was run around, barefoot in the sand, playing around, even in the water.

Oregon Coast Photographer | Kat Nielsen Photography

If you’re dreaming up your own engagement session and your happy place happens to be three states away, I’m in. Pack the snacks, send me the playlist, and let’s make photos that feel like you.

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