Warmth at Pirate's Tower: A Playful Couples Session in Laguna Beach - S & L

Every photographer has a bucket list of dream locations to shoot, and for me, Laguna Beach’s iconic Pirate Tower was a place I was always curious about. Perched on the edge of Victoria Beach, this 60-foot stone tower looks like something out of a fairy tale. It’s mysterious, romantic, and a little magical—all the things I love capturing in a couples session. So when S & L agreed to shooting at this location I was over the moon about it.

The day of the session, I arrived early to scout the location and soak in the environment. The Pirate Tower is just as impressive in person as it looks in photos. Built in 1926, it has this weathered, medieval charm that feels almost surreal against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Add in the golden light of late afternoon and the sound of waves crashing on the rocks, and you’ve got the perfect setting for a photo session.

S & L showed up right on time, looking both nervous and excited. S was radiant in a flowy white dress that seemed made for beach breezes, and L kept things classic for the beach with a light button-up and shorts. They held hands as they walked down the steep staircase that leads to Victoria Beach, glancing around like they couldn’t believe this was real life.

We started off simple, with some casual walking shots along the shoreline. S & L fell into an easy rhythm, as if they were experts in the art of modeling. It was very easy to tell that the connection between the two was incredibly raw and real. As we made our way closer to the Pirate Tower, the scenery became even more dramatic. The rugged cliffs, the glistening tide pools, and the tower itself created a backdrop that felt larger than life. I had S & L stand at the base of the tower, their figures dwarfed by its towering presence (It was so tall that I could barely keep it in frame in my camera). The late afternoon sun hit the stone just right, casting a warm glow that made the whole scene look like a movie set.

For one of my favorite shots, I asked them to lean against the weathered stone wall at the base of the tower and hold hands. The wind picked up, catching S’s hair and dress in a way that felt so effortless and real. Meanwhile, the waves crashed dramatically against the rocks just behind them. It was one of those moments where everything came together perfectly, and I couldn’t stop grinning behind the camera.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, the beach transformed into a dreamscape of golden light and pastel skies. This is every photographer’s favorite time of day—the golden hour. I had S & L playing near the water’s edge, silhouetted against the glowing horizon. By the time the sun dipped below the skyline, the three of us were sandy, a little wet, and completely happy. As I packed up my gear and took one last look at the Pirate Tower, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. This spot, with its timeless charm and natural beauty, had given me yet another unforgettable experience as a photographer. And S & L? They walked away with a gallery of memories that I hope they’ll cherish forever.

If you’re ever in Laguna Beach, I can’t recommend visiting the Pirate Tower enough. Whether you’re planning a photo session, a proposal, or just a quiet moment of reflection, this spot has a magic that’s hard to put into words. And if you’re lucky enough to capture it on camera, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for photographers like me.

Here’s to love, adventure, and the beauty of the California coast. 🌊