The Oregon Coast is absolutely stunning. The moody, rich colors are some of my favorite to photograph, and I love the atmosphere. When Holly and Steve asked me to photograph their Oregon Coast elopement, I knew their photos would be special. Their wedding portraits at Cape Kiwanda might be some of my favorite work I’ve ever done.
A Creative Oregon Coast Elopement
Holly and Steve’s Oregon Coast elopement didn;t go according to plan, though you’d never know it from their beautiful photos. Their original venue canceled on them at the last minute, so they moved to a new venue. Holly was able to adapt her vision for an artistic ceremony and reception. You can see more from this portion of their celebration here.
Even though Holly and Steve had to shift their wedding inland, we still were able to drive out to the coast two days later. We took some dramatic photos of them in their wedding attire. I love that we were able to capture those Oregon Coast elopement vibes on a day when there wasn’t actually any timeline. We could get creative and see everything we wanted to see.
Another great thing about doing this Cape Kiwanda portrait session two days later was that we could pause to document the romantic moments between Holly and Steve. With no distractions, they could really be present with each other – and, in some cases, their cute pups. That connection is the heart of their story, after all.
Because Holly is an artist, she put a lot of thought into the color palette for their wedding. Her dress was a shade of dusty blue that was meant to compliment the dramatic colors of the rugged Oregon Coast. Her dress had so many layers that moved with her as we wandered the cliffs and shoreline. They looked like waves crashing around her. It couldn’t have been more perfect for Cape Kiwanda!
Stunning Wedding Portraits at Cape Kiwanda
Cape Kiwanda is an incredible place for an Oregon Coast elopement. Located near Pacific City, it’s actually a natural area that’s part of the Oregon State Parks system. It’s a popular spot for flying kites among the giant dunes. Local fishermen also launch dory boats, the region’s traditional fishing vessels, from the area. When you walk along the water, keep your eye out for tidal pools. You can spot a rainbow of anemones and sea stars.
The sweeping sandstone cliffs might be Cape Kiwanda’s most unique features. They’re definitely part of the magic of these Oregon Coast elopement photos. Sandstone isn’t very strong, so the powerful sea constantly reshapes these cliffs. Hiking up their winding trails is always an adventure.
The cliffs’ colors make these images especially breathtaking. Stripes in dozens of shades of reds and browns create an incredible backdrop. They also contrast beautifully with the grays and blues of the sea and sky. Holly and Steve’s blue wedding attire stood out beautifully against the sandstone.
As cool as the cliffs are up close, I love the way rock formations look rising up in the distance. They feel moody and mysterious. In the image of Holly and Steve looking out across the water, the damp sand reflects the bottom of their clothes like a mirror. You get a sense of nature’s vastness but also a window into an intimate moment between the newlyweds.
The Perfect Spot for an Adventurous Couple
Holly and Steve live in the state, but before their Oregon Coast elopement, they hadn’t been to Cape Kiwanda. This couple loves the outdoors. It was such a treat to witness them experiencing Cape Kiwanda for the first time.
These two really are some of the most adventurous people I know. Holly has done a lot of solo traveling and collects momentos representing the places she’s been in the form of tattoos. The couple also loves to adventure together from places like Oregon to Hawaii. They aren’t strangers to camping or van life, and often they want to take the path that allows them to connect to nature the most. I can’t think of a better place to have taken their wedding portraits!
Are you looking for a photographer for your Cape Kiwanda elopement? I would love to document your intimate experience. Let’s connect!
