Virginia Beach Engagement Photographer | Cody & Kelly’s Winter Session at First Landing State Park

January along the coast has a quiet beauty that feels almost sacred. As a Virginia Beach engagement photographer and Virginia Wedding Photographer, I’ve grown to love the peacefulness winter brings — softer light, open trails, and space for couples to simply be present with one another.

Cody and Kelly’s engagement session at First Landing State Park was the perfect reflection of that calm, steady kind of love.

A Winter Engagement at First Landing State Park

Located in Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park offers such a beautiful mix of wooded paths, tall coastal grasses, and shoreline views. Even in January, the landscape holds warmth — especially in the golden hour when the sun filters through the trees and wraps everything in soft light.

Winter engagement sessions in Virginia Beach are often overlooked, but they offer so many advantages. Fewer crowds. More privacy. A relaxed atmosphere that allows genuine moments to unfold naturally.

Cody and Kelly embraced that season beautifully. They were effortless together — walking hand in hand through the trails, laughing quietly, and leaning into one another without hesitation. As a Virginia Beach engagement photographer, those are the moments I look for. Not perfection — but connection.

A Glimpse Into Their Story

Kelly is a school teacher, and there’s such a steady warmth about her. The kind of presence that feels patient and kind. Cody is working toward becoming a firefighter — driven, dependable, and strong in a quiet way.

Together, they reflect service and commitment. You can sense it in the way they look at one another.

Engagement sessions aren’t just about documenting what a couple looks like — they’re about preserving who they are in this season before vows are spoken and life grows fuller.

Why January Is a Beautiful Time for Engagement Photos in Virginia Beach

If you’re considering engagement photos in Virginia Beach, winter deserves serious thought.

At First Landing State Park, you still have:

• Open beach access
• Wooded trails for variety
• Textured dune grass
• Soft, flattering light

The cooler temperatures also make movement easier and layering outfits effortless and elegant. For couples wanting timeless coastal imagery, January provides a peaceful backdrop that feels intimate and unrushed.

As a Virginia Beach engagement photographer, I often recommend winter sessions for couples who value calm over crowds.

Planning Your Engagement Session in Virginia Beach

Choosing the right location and season makes a meaningful difference. Virginia Beach offers so much variety within a short distance — from wooded parks to open shoreline.

Some of my favorite engagement session locations include:

• First Landing State Park
• Sandbridge Beach
• Cape Henry Lighthouse

Each setting offers its own unique texture and mood, allowing your engagement photos to feel both personal and timeless.

Frequently Asked Questions About Engagement Sessions in Virginia Beach

When is the best time of year for engagement photos in Virginia Beach?

Spring and fall are popular, but winter engagement sessions in Virginia Beach offer soft light, fewer crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere. January at First Landing State Park provides beautiful coastal textures and peaceful surroundings.

What should we wear for a winter engagement session?

I recommend:

• Neutral or muted tones
• Layers such as coats or textured sweaters
• Coordinated colors (not matching exactly)
• Comfortable footwear for wooded areas

Timeless always photographs better than trendy.

How far in advance should we book a Virginia Beach engagement photographer?

Booking 6–9 months before your wedding is ideal, especially if you plan to use engagement photos for save-the-dates. Popular seasons fill quickly, and securing your Virginia Beach engagement photographer early ensures your preferred date and location.

Do you help with posing?

Absolutely. Most couples arrive feeling unsure in front of the camera. My approach is gentle and guided — focusing on natural movement and authentic interaction so your engagement photos feel effortless and genuine.

Looking Ahead to November

I am truly looking forward to photographing Cody and Kelly’s wedding this November at St John Apostolic Church. There’s something meaningful about walking with a couple from engagement season into their wedding day — watching anticipation turn into covenant.

Cody and Kelly, thank you for trusting me with this chapter of your story. Your winter engagement session at First Landing State Park was such a joy to document.

As a Virginia Beach engagement photographer, it is always an honor to preserve these early moments — the quiet walks, the laughter, the anticipation — before the fullness of marriage begins.

If you’re newly engaged and searching for a Virginia Beach engagement photographer who values timeless imagery, natural connection, and a peaceful experience along the coast, I would love to serve you.  Contact me here.