A Playful Santa Monica Pier Couple Session

There’s something about Santa Monica that always feels like summertime romance. The ocean breeze, the glow of the ferris wheel lights, the sound of waves rolling in… it’s one of those places that feels alive with energy, no matter the time of day. For this couple session, we headed to the Santa Monica Pier to capture that mix of beachside romance and playful coastal charm, and it was the perfect backdrop for a gallery full of movement, connection, and joy.

Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic locations in Los Angeles for couple photography, and for good reason. It has everything in one place: the wide sandy beach, the ocean stretching endlessly behind you, and the colorful pier that lights up at night. I love shooting here because it gives such a range of looks in a single session. You can start with barefoot, sun-soaked images on the sand and then move toward the pier as the lights begin to glow, adding that cinematic, whimsical energy to the gallery.

For this session, we let the couple simply be themselves and leaned into the natural playfulness of the pier. Some of my favorite moments were the candid ones… running across the beach together, stealing kisses under the pier’s wooden beams, and laughing as the waves chased them at their feet. Those little in-between moments always end up being the most memorable because they capture the spirit of the couple’s connection, not just a posed version of it.

As the sun began to set, the pier lights came alive, and the atmosphere shifted into something magical. The ferris wheel in the distance, the glow of neon colors reflecting on the water, and the hum of people enjoying the evening gave the images a cinematic quality you can’t find anywhere else. It felt like stepping into a scene from a movie, a perfect blend of romance and fun, with the ocean as the backdrop.

One of the reasons I love Santa Monica for couple sessions is the versatility. The beach gives you those dreamy, natural tones, while the pier brings in vibrant color and movement. It’s perfect for couples who want photos that reflect both sides of their personality: soft and romantic, yet playful and full of energy. Every gallery from Santa Monica feels different because the light, the crowd, and the energy of the pier are always changing.

This session truly reminded me why Santa Monica is such a favorite destination for couples. The combination of beachside romance and the lively pier atmosphere created a gallery that feels effortless, joyful, and timeless. Whether it’s for engagement photos, anniversary memories, or just celebrating your love, a Santa Monica Pier couple session brings a sense of fun and nostalgia that you’ll never forget. If you’re dreaming of photos that capture both the beauty of the California coast and the playful charm of an iconic landmark, Santa Monica Pier is the perfect place to tell your love story.