When couples reach out about a beach engagement session, one of the first questions I get is, “Where should we go?” There are so many beautiful places along Florida’s Gulf Coast, but not every beach photographs the same. Some are crowded, some don’t have much variety, and some are better at sunrise than they are at sunset. For Ashlyn and Patrick’s engagement session, we decided on Lido Key. It gave us everything we were looking for: palm trees, beautiful white sand, and that relaxed Florida feel that made the whole evening feel effortless.

Why We Chose Lido Key for Their Engagement Session

One of the things I love most about engagement sessions is that we have time to be intentional. A few days before Ashlyn and Patrick’s session, I drove over to Lido Key to scout the area. I wanted to find a quieter stretch of beach where we could get a few different looks without having to drive all over Sarasota. We started off at Lido Key Beach to get a few shots with all the palm trees, then jumped in the car and headed to a quieter stretch of beach to photograph Ashlyn and Patrick on the sand just before sunset. That’s one of my favorite things about photographing in this area. Within just a few minutes, it feels like you’re in a completely different location.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Before the session, we also talked about outfits. I always tell couples to wear something that feels like them, but I also encourage them to think about how their outfits will photograph. Ashlyn picked a dress that had just enough movement to catch the breeze, which worked perfectly for the beach. Those little details might not seem like a big deal, but they can make such a difference in how the photos feel.

My Favorite Part of the Evening

As the sun started getting lower, we slowed everything down. There wasn’t a timeline to follow or a list of photos to check off. Ashlyn and Patrick just got to spend time together while I gave them a little direction here and there. Some of my favorite images from the entire session happened in between poses when they were laughing, talking, or simply walking down the beach together. We wrapped up the evening with one last drone photo over the sandbar before calling it a night. It was the perfect way to end one of my favorite engagement sessions of the year.

Their Story Continues at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort

Next up is Ashlyn and Patrick’s wedding at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort in February 2027 with Coastal Coordinating, and after spending the evening with them for their engagement session, I already know it’s going to be such a fun wedding to photograph!

Lido Key Engagement Session Vendor Team 

Planning: Coastal Coordinating
Hair & Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne
Dress: American Threads

Planning a Lido Key Engagement Session?

Whether you’re planning an engagement session while visiting Sarasota or you’re lucky enough to call the area home, Lido Key is one of my favorite places to photograph couples. Between the palm trees, white sand, and beautiful Gulf sunsets, it’s hard to go wrong.

Where to Stay:
The Resort at Longboat Key Club
The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota
Art Ovation Hotel The Westin Sarasota

Favorite Restaurants Nearby:
Sage
Veronica Fish & Oyster
Indigenous
Jack Dusty

While You’re Here:
Walk around St. Armands Circle
Visit the Ringling Museum
Visit Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Walk around Waterside PlaceVisit the Sarasota Farmers Market

Let’s Chat!

I’d love to hear more about what you’re envisioning. Whether you’re just starting to plan or already have your venue booked, I’d be happy to answer any questions and see if we’d be a great fit. Contact Susan Elizabeth Photography to start the conversation.