Shooting a cinematic couples session on a sailboat has been on my bucket list forever… and Delaney + Clayton made it everything I could have imagined (and more). Wish I could go back to this sailboat couples shoot in Newport Beach and re-live this dreamy sunset with these two all over again. If you’ve been looking for a unique setting for your couples or engagement session, and you’re craving something that feels more like an experience than a photoshoot, this is all the inspiration you need!

Delaney + Clayton’s Newport Beach Sailboat Couples Session

Cinematic couples photos in Newport Beach, California

I’ve been focusing so much lately on making my sessions more than just a photoshoot; turning them into full-on experiences, activities, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures that my couples will remember FOREVER. Something that feels cinematic and story-driven, that makes your photos feel like a memory, and not just pretty poses! Because who wouldn’t want their photos to feel like a scene out of their favorite film or TV show? (You already know I’m obsessed with Twilight-inspired shoots…)

So that’s exactly what we did for Delaney + Clayton’s session in Newport Beach! Like I said before, I’ve been dreaming of doing a sailboat session like this forever and I’m so grateful these two were down to make it happen. They came ready to embrace the California spirit with me, really embody the carefree and laid-back energy of the coast together—and it made for SUCH incredible photos, y’all. We really tried to capture what it feels like to be young and in love, & I’d say we succeeded. I swear, my job gives me front-row seats to the best moments ever.

And surprise—this wasn’t just a couples session; it was also a maternity session to celebrate the most beautiful news that these two are bringing a little babe into the world. A sailboat, a golden sunset, dolphins (!!), belly laughs, real talk about life, and quiet moments together with their little one… the most perfect way to be present in this transitional season as a couple, taking time for themselves and their sweet, growing family.

Why take sailboat couples/engagement photos?

Not only are sailboat shoots amazing for unique couples photos, but for engagement photos, too! 

Honestly, what better way to celebrate your upcoming wedding than with an incredibly romantic date out on the water, nothing but the two of you and the sunshine, rolling waves, & seagulls flying overhead? There’s something about sailboats that just give off rom-com energy in the best way… you feel like the stars of your very own Nicholas Sparks book; wind in your hair, crisp ocean breeze in your faces, bare feet feeling the spray of the water from below. 

Plus, sailboats (or any type of boat, really) give us a super easy backdrop to work with; you don’t need to bring any props, items, or decor along to spruce up the space—because you’re literally out on the ocean on a gorgeous boat. All you need is yourselves, and a few cozy outfits you can dance around in & snuggle up in; the landscapes + scenery will do the rest of the heavy lifting for you.

What to wear for a sailboat couples photoshoot

Now let’s talk outfits for your sailboat engagement (or couples) photos: Delaney and Clayton absolutely killed it with their styling for this session. They started out embracing all the nautical vibes, wearing shades of blue, stripes, and cozy-casual accessories that made it look like they, well, do this every day. Clayton wore a light-wash denim button-up with white linen pants, a gold chain, and a navy blue baseball cap, while Delaney wore an adorable black-and-white striped sweater, comfy white shorts, and gold jewelry as well. Neutral and ocean tones like these, paired with simple statement jewelry, will always look amazing out on the water!

As the sun began to set, they swapped the nautical aesthetic for a beachier look, trading blues for shades of beige, cream, and white. I loooved Delaney’s linen pants and coverup, but her floral headscarf stole the show y’all! I was obsessed. This outfit really allowed her to showcase her pregnancy, with looser, more free-flowing pieces for those maternity vibes. Clayton was the one in stripes this time around with his thin-striped beige button-up that added just enough texture + pattern without being distracting. I truly could not love these two and their creative, carefree spirits more. <3

What is the best time of day for sailboat couples photos?

Golden hour for SURE. There is nothing more magical than watching the sun set out on the horizon from a boat, and getting to bask in that dreamy golden hour glow. If you can stay out a little longer like we did, take advantage of blue hour, too! The soft light + colors in the sky after the sun disappears is so romantic, gentle, and reflective; a perfect way to end an incredible evening with your love. 

The Secret to Planning a Cinematic Sailboat Couples Photoshoot…

… is to hire a photographer who knows what they’re doing. 

Shooting on a boat is incredible, but it also comes with an extra layer of logistics that your photographer needs to be experienced with. The angles, the lighting, the practical aspects of walking around a boat while it’s moving with the waves—all of it needs to be taken into account when planning your session. 

That’s why I’m so stoked to have this session in my back pocket now, so I can help you curate JUST as magical a sailboat photoshoot as Delaney + Clayton’s! If you’re ready to plan your own dreamy sailboat couples or engagement photoshoot, reach out now and let’s make it happen.

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Need some more inspo to inspire your own one-of-a-kind couples shoot? Here are some of my all-time favorites.

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