details
location : deception pass state park, washington
session : engagement
season : late spring
The beauty of Deception Pass
Deception Pass State Park sits at the northern tip of Whidbey Island. Here, two dramatic bridges arch over the narrow strait that gives the park its name. The land and sea seem locked in an ancient, breathless argument. Below, the tidal waters rush with surprising force. They swirl around rocky outcroppings and forested islets. Meanwhile, old-growth firs stand in a cathedral-like silence. Their moss-laden branches filter the Pacific light.
Beyond the iconic bridges, the park unfolds across nearly 4,000 acres of remarkably diverse terrain. Sweeping views of the San Juan Islands and the Cascades stretch out from here. The air is thick with the smell of salt. Above the bluffs, bald eagles float with ease on the wind. Meanwhile, harbor seals can be seen sunning themselves on the rocky shores below. It’s the kind of raw Pacific Northwest beauty that feels both wild and deeply restorative. To stand on these bridges, taking it all in and looking out toward the horizon, is to feel gloriously small for a moment. We’re reminded that some places exist not for us, but simply beautifully, for themselves.
A love that grew from childhood
T+C’s love story is something out of a movie. They met when they were three and a half years old. Cue all the feels. While reading T’s inquiry to document their upcoming wedding, I was hooked. Their backstory, plus the fact they wanted black + white photos of them growing up together displayed throughout their venue, sealed it. I legit couldn’t wait to hop on a call and dive in. Absolutely beautiful inside and out, talking with T felt like meeting my missing sister. Additionally, we connected instantly over life and this exciting time for them.
The area of Deception Pass is special to them. At one point, it was kind of a halfway meeting spot. When couples pick locations for their engagement sessions that are special, it makes shooting love all the more magical. Although T+C made it so easy, their love is illuminating and full of laughter. He always gives her forehead a kiss. You can just tell how much love is held between them.
