When June Gloom Strikes: A Stunning Old St. Hillary’s Preserve Engagement Session

There’s a famous Mark Twain quip that says, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” While the truth of the quote’s origin is debated, its sentiment certainly rang true for this couple’s engagement session.

Their vision? Romantic photos with the dramatic backdrop of Rodeo Beach’s rugged shoreline. But June had other plans—plans that involved fog, drizzle, and lighting better suited for a suspense thriller than an engagement session.

Luckily, this story has a happy ending. Because as much as photography is about capturing the moment, it’s also about planning for the unexpected. And that’s where having a collaborative, resourceful wedding photographer makes all the difference.

The Power of a Well-Planned Plan B

When we first started planning their engagement session, the couple was set on having water in the background. They dreamed of showcasing the beauty of the San Francisco Bay and were drawn to the moody allure of Rodeo Beach. But knowing it was June—and knowing “June Gloom” is more of a guarantee than a possibility along the coast—I suggested we either rethink the location or have a backup plan.

Enter Old St. Hillary’s Preserve in Tiburon. Just a short drive inland from Rodeo Beach, it checks all the boxes: sweeping views of the Bay, lush greenery, and—most importantly—a much higher chance of escaping the fog. Its perch on the hillside means it often basks in the golden glow of sunset, even when the coast is shrouded in mist. It was the perfect Plan B, close enough to pivot without losing precious golden hour light.

Trusting the Process

On the day of the shoot, my suspicions about Rodeo Beach’s weather were confirmed. Fog rolled in thick, drizzle clung to every surface, and visibility was minimal. But because we had a Plan B ready to go, there was no panic, no scrambling, and—most importantly—no disappointment. We simply hopped in our cars and headed to Tiburon, where Old St. Hillary’s greeted us with clear skies and a warm, glowing sunset.

The couple’s dream of having water in the background? Achieved. Their hope for beautiful, timeless engagement photos? Absolutely delivered.

Why Collaboration Matters

Planning a wedding—and everything that comes with it—can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to work with a photographer who’s not just a technician behind the lens but also a partner in bringing your vision to life. A great photographer listens to what you want, anticipates challenges, and offers creative solutions to ensure your experience (and your photos) exceed expectations.

When you choose a photographer who understands the importance of logistics—like weather patterns, sunset times, and alternate locations—you’re setting yourself up for success. You’re also giving yourself the freedom to relax and trust that no matter what happens, you’ll end up with photos you love.

Your Vision, Perfected

Working with couples to create moments like this is why I love what I do. Whether it’s crafting a backup plan for tricky weather or finding the perfect spot to bring your dream to life, my goal is to ensure every detail aligns with your vision. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the photos—it’s about the experience of creating them together.

So here’s my advice: When choosing a wedding photographer, look for someone who’s more than just a professional. Find someone who listens, collaborates, and plans with your goals in mind. That’s how you get results you’ll cherish for a lifetime—even when June Gloom tries to steal the show.