Deception Pass Engagement Photos

When I spoke with Alex and Ryan leading up to capturing their Deception Pass engagement photos, I asked, “What would make taking your engagement photos feel like a date?”

“Tacos!”

Now, that’s my kind of couple! So, I picked up tacos on my way to Deception Pass for their engagement photos, and the three of us sat in the parking lot eating tacos and drinking margs (if being a third-wheel was a LinkedIn skill, I’d be endorsed lol). Once we were fueled with taco-goodness, we headed out on the trail for Deception Pass with Nash, Alex and Ryan’s rescue pup. 

I was pumped when Alex chose Deception Pass for their engagement photos! The wildflowers were just beginning to bloom as the sun began to set. However, with this being a popular hiking spot, we had plenty of onlookers as we took pictures (like an entire family just staring at us lol). But, I made sure to get to the state park early to be able to location scout, and I happened upon the most epic beach and magical forest that was tourist and hiker-free! 

After we went to the iconic Deception Pass bridge, we headed down to the beach and the forest that was like my dream fern oasis. Alex changed to the most beautiful dress that moved so fluidly as they hiked through the forest. We ended the evening with the beach all to ourselves as the sun dipped lower and lower. I get the incredible honor of shooting their wedding next February at Roche Harbor on San Juan Island, and I could not be more pumped for it! 

History of Deception Pass

Deception Pass State Park is one of Washington’s most-visited state parks. There are coves, cliffs, incredible sunsets and a bridge that you may want to avoid if you have a fear of heights. One of the characteristics of Deception Pass that makes it so unique are its currents. The tide flows in opposite directions beneath the bridges that connect Fidalgo Island and Whidbey Island. Because the current moves so quickly, it can lead to standing waves and whirlpools. The name Deception Pass is fitting, because at times it almost looks like an optical illusion! Nature’s so freaking cool.

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Why Deception Pass is the Perfect Location for your Engagement Photos

Deception Pass is easily accessible and offers a wide variety of backdrops for engagement photos. During Alex and Ryan’s engagement photos at Deception Pass, we were able to explore near the iconic Deception Pass bridge, into the deep forest, and along the coast on a beach. There is also a dock along the water that would be a great location for engagement photos! At Deception Pass, you’re never out of options for locations for engagement photos. 

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How to Get to Deception Pass for your Engagement Photos

Are you ready to start planning your Deception Pass engagement photos? Let’s talk through some travel details! I’ve broken down some travel times to help you with your engagement photo planning process. Still have some questions about planning your engagement photos at Deception Pass? Don’t hesitate to reach out; I’d love to help you! 

Travel to Deception Pass by Car

• Seattle, WA to Deception Pass State Park – 1 hour and 30 minutes

• Bellingham, WA to Deception Pass State Park – 45 minutes

• Tacoma, WA to Deception Pass State Park – 2 hours

  

Helpful Tips for Engagement Photos as Deception Pass

• Plan your Deception Pass engagement photos on the weekdays

Because Deception Pass is an iconic Washington state park, the weekends cause the trails to be crowded. In order to avoid the onlookers during your engagement photos, I recommend planning your engagement photos on a weekday at Deception Pass. Like I did for Alex and Ryan, I will location scout prior to your engagement photos to find the hidden-location-gems that the crowds won’t know about.

• Plan for the Deception Pass park fee 

Because Deception Pass is a Washington state park, there is a park fee. However you can purchase a Discover Pass to avoid paying the park fee. One Discover Pass can be transferred between two vehicles, and the annual pass only costs $30. Click here for more information and to purchase a Discover Pass.

• Be prepared for the Deception Pass weather

Because Deception Pass is along the water, the temperatures will feel cooler than the weather report may predict. Even sunny days can feel much colder! I recommend bringing layers that you can shed or bundle up with.

 

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