Hastings Engagement Photo Session | Sophie & Chris

When planning a Hastings Engagement Photo Session, it’s always a lovely idea to choose a location that holds a special meaning for the couple. It adds a personal touch to the shoot and allows the couple to feel more relaxed and connected in front of the camera. I was delighted when Sophie and Chris decided on Rock-a-Nore Beach in Hastings for their session. This spot isn’t just visually stunning—it’s also deeply sentimental for them. They spent the early years of their relationship here, making memories and building the foundation of their love story. It was clear from the moment we started the session just how at ease they felt, surrounded by familiar sights and the salty sea air.

First Impressions of Hastings

From a photographer’s perspective, Hastings is a fantastic location. It has that rare combination of coastal charm and historic character, offering a range of picturesque settings within walking distance. One of the first things I noticed upon arriving was the impressive number of seagulls swooping through the sky. Of course, being by the sea, it’s to be expected! Sophie, however, was quick to educate me—apparently, the correct term is just “gulls” unless you’re specifically at the seaside. You learn something new every day!

Hastings Engagement Photo Session: Scenic Backdrops and Seaside Charm

The variety of scenery made this Hastings Engagement Photo Session all the more special. Rock-a-Nore Beach, with its mix of pebbles and rustic fishing boats, offered a beautifully textured backdrop. The old wooden fishing huts added another layer of charm, creating a nostalgic feel to some of the shots. The town itself has a great energy. Unlike many coastal towns that seem to have fallen on hard times, Hastings is very much alive and thriving. It was buzzing with people, activity, and most importantly, character. The sun was beaming down on us that day, bringing with it a proper summer vibe, and the sea breeze helped keep things bearable during the hotter moments.

A Pirate Day Surprise

One of the most enjoyable parts of the shoot was discovering that Sophie and Chris had scheduled their session to coincide with Pirate Day! Hastings is well-known for its lively local events, and this one certainly brought some fun and eccentric energy to the town. Everywhere we turned, there were people dressed in pirate gear, children wielding toy swords, and plenty of nautical decorations fluttering in the wind. It gave the whole afternoon a whimsical, playful atmosphere that suited Sophie and Chris perfectly.

West Hill Views and Lasting Memories

Later in the day, we took the cable car up West Hill to get a bird’s eye view of the coastline. Despite the heat making the carriage feel a bit like a sauna, it was certainly worth it for the views. Taking the funicular definitely beats trekking up what felt like hundreds of steps. From the top, Hastings stretched out in all its glory—the sea glinting in the sun, boats bobbing in the harbour, and the old town nestled below. It was the perfect spot to capture some more intimate and scenic moments, away from the bustle.

Why Choose Hastings for Your Engagement Session

Overall, this Hastings Engagement Photo Session with Sophie and Chris was such a joy to be part of. Not only did we get beautiful, meaningful images, but the town itself added so much charm and character to the shoot. Hastings is an ideal choice for couples who want a seaside location with soul, history, and a splash of fun. Whether it’s the nostalgia of the old fishing huts, the excitement of local festivals, or just the peaceful sound of waves rolling in, there’s something truly special about capturing love here.