From Fishing Trips to Forever: Dakota & James in Nanoose Bay

Let’s talk about a session that absolutely stunned. Es-hw Sme~nts Community Park in Nanoose Bay is one of those places that hardly feels real—like Ucluelet slipped over to the east coast and brought its moody, wave-soaked charm along. With the tide just right and the beach nearly empty, Dakota and James stepped into their first-ever photo session, and by the end, they were naturals in front of the lens.

When we met at the trailhead, they admitted they were nervous. Everyone is during their first session, but within minutes the nerves disappeared. There were laughs, hand squeezes, and the quiet comfort that only comes from years of inside jokes and deep connection.

A Love Story Rooted in Real Life

Dakota and James met at a summer house party—the kind of carefree night that changes everything. Four years later, they’re planning their wedding and building a life together.

Their proposal will melt your heart. During a trip to Sun Peaks, a place filled with memories of Dakota’s late father, James got down on one knee beneath twinkling lights in the snowy village. Surrounded by echoes of old memories and new beginnings, he asked her to marry him. It was heartfelt, meaningful, and completely them.

Love in the Great Outdoors

Their story feels like the outdoors—adventurous, grounded, and full of laughter. They spend weekends fishing, camping, dirt-biking, and sitting by the fire on long summer evenings. Bringing that energy into a coastal engagement session felt natural.

As the sun dropped lower, we skipped rocks across tide pools, wandered barefoot along the sand, and captured moments that were equal parts romantic and down-to-earth. The sky turned gold, the waves shimmered, and everything about the evening felt effortless.

Es-hw Sme~nts Community Park is a hidden gem—forest trails leading to driftwood-strewn shores, ocean air humming softly in the background, and a west-coast calm that slows time. It was the perfect setting for two people whose connection feels as timeless as the landscape itself.

Effortless Connection

Their outfits were simple and casual—completely true to who they are. Yet the real magic wasn’t in what they wore; it was in how they moved together, the way they laughed, and how quickly they forgot the camera was even there.

By the end of the session, they went from “we just want one good photo” to a full gallery brimming with warmth, laughter, and connection that radiates from every frame.

The Start of Forever

This evening was a reminder of why I love what I do. Watching two people so completely themselves, surrounded by Vancouver Island’s beauty, is the kind of magic I never tire of.

Dakota and James, thank you for trusting me to capture your first professional photos. I can’t wait to see you tie the knot and continue your forever fishing adventures together.

See more from their Nanoose Bay engagement session here