Darren & Suni's Unforgettable Engagement Session at Papamoa Beach

We had the most amazing colour-changing sunrise beach engagement session at Papamoa Beach, before most people even started their Sunday!

Darren & Suni met at a Halloween party seven years ago and after a very romantic proposal in Scotland, they decided to get married at Backpaddock Lakes later this year. I have known these guys for a while as Darren is an insanely talented Wakeboarder, and has been competing at the WakeNZ Cable vs Wake events that I have photographed for the past 10+ years at Backpaddock Lakes.

To celebrate their engagement, I wanted to capture Darren & Suni relaxed and having fun in one of their favourite places close to their home. We had initially planned a sunset shoot while I was travelling in Tauranga, but the rain had other ideas, so we rescheduled for sunrise and got lucky with a dramatic sky blending clouds and sun - it was such a treat! Watching the light change from blue hour to sunrise to golden hour right through to daylight was incredible. We also had a few outfit changes and were rewarded with variety in both colour and mood to the photos.

We all had so much relaxing fun on the beach and got into the waves with a few surprise splashes! We also had the chance to enjoy a totally different scene and landscape in the sand dunes. I guided some of the fun with various prompts & poses but also provided encouragement for Darren & Suni to be themselves & most of all have fun.

You can see by the photos we had a great time and you can see their love for each other! Bring on the adventurous wedding at Backpaddock Lakes later this year!