There couldn’t have been a more appropriate location for Christina & Nathan’s San Francisco engagement shoot than Battery Godfrey with its chilly, charming, edgy chic.

I connected with this couple not knowing where we’d end up shooting. As we chatted over the phone, an idea for an original and meaningful shoot began to emerge.

It’s a great idea to have a think first about your personal sensibilities, hobbies and history to help you decide on a perfectly apt location for your San Francisco engagement shoot.

Or, check out my guide below 😉

Table of Contents

About the engagement couple

Christina enjoys dancing in her spare time namely jazz, hip hop and Afrobeats. So a dancing themed shoot seemed like a great way to go. We wanted neutral colors in the backdrop, so her clothing would really pop!

Nathan is in the National Guard, Field Artillery Regiment. This derelict military battery was a nod to his military background.

The couple has been together for 9 years! I’m so jazzed that they will tie the knot at their destination wedding in Mexico. They live in Oakland and love anything involving food and culture.

Battery Godfrey as an engagement photo location

Battery Godfrey and the surrounding military batteries aren’t super crowded. The San Francisco coastline and the beaches of the Bay Area in general are popular for engagements!

However some lovely areas are SO crowded that you have to wait your turn. Not so with this gorgeous disused San Francisco military outpost! It’s perfect for shy couples who want more discreet locations.

Did you know this battery and others surround it are World War Two artillery sites for coastal defense?

Battery Godfrey offers the disused building itself, but there’s more. There are roofs to climb on, pretty trees and coastal views. It also offers up the Golden Gate Bridge! And it’s so close to the Langdon Court parking lot with no hike required.

So, it was super windy when we shot in February and the couple handled it amazingly! Nate gave Christina his jacket which made for some cute photos. Wind definitely isn’t something to shy away from. The movement and dynamism can be stunning. Also, more opportunities for laughter and silliness.

Ways to bring out the best in my couples

Nate & Christina were so lovely to be around and fun! For sure they made my work easy with the beautiful ways they express their love.

During engagement shoots I want to bring out the natural ways in which you interacts. The little things that you do without even realizing it. You know, a snuggle, a kiss, a way of holding hands. They way you fit together!

The way Christina buries her face into Nate’s neck and cheek, nestling into him. It got me every time! When a couple’s been together this long, there is an ease and familiarity. It’s so compelling for me to witness. I believe it shows in the pictures!

Congrats Christina and Nathan and well done for rockin’ your military-themed engagement session!

Let’s work together!

Looking for a San Francisco engagement photographer? Do you want something a little different for your engagement pictures – a little off the beaten path?

For more details about our engagement photography services in the San Francisco Bay Area, please check out the introductory guide and fun welcome video at the link below! I can’t wait to meet you!

Pin this graphic to your engagement photography planning board!