A Romantic & Unique Photo Experience in Tampa: Sunset Boat Sessions for Couples, Maternity, and Elopements|Curtis Hixon

If you’re dreaming of a photo session that feels magical, intimate, and completely unique, let me introduce you to my most romantic offering — sunset photo sessions on a 19ft Sea Ray SPX 190 boat, cruising Tampa’s breathtaking waterways.

Imagine soft golden light reflecting on the water, a warm breeze, and the gentle sound of waves hitting the hull. Whether you’re planning an engagement session, celebrating an anniversary, or capturing a maternity session, my boat sessions create the perfect setting for timeless, emotional, and editorial images.

As a Tampa-based luxury wedding and lifestyle photographer, I’ve spent years helping clients choose the perfect locations. But nothing compares to the romance of being on the water. The boat allows us to access private, quiet spots, stunning sunset backdrops, and views you simply can’t get on land, all while giving you a one-of-a-kind experience you'll never forget.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through what a boat session looks like, who it’s perfect for, what to expect, what to wear, and why this experience might be exactly what you’ve been searching for.

Why Choose a Boat Photo Session?

Boat photography is not something you see every day, and that’s exactly why it’s so special. Tampa is surrounded by water, and yet very few photographers offer a professional, curated photo session on an actual private boat with the comfort, safety, and attention to detail that I provide.

Boat sessions are ideal for couples looking for romance and intimacy, engagement sessions that feel cinematic, maternity shoots, anniversaries, surprise proposals and brand or lifestyle shoots with a coastal editorial style. Clients often say, “This didn’t feel like photos — it felt like a date night.” You get a relaxing cruise, fresh air, and a memorable experience while I capture all the moments in a natural, editorial style.

Being on the water allows us to escape crowds, noisy parks, and limited space. We can stop in quiet coves or open water spots where everything feels serene, intimate, and effortless. Water combined with golden hour lighting creates soft skin tones, movement, and magazine-worthy compositions, giving the session a luxurious feel.

What Your Boat Session Includes

To ensure the best experience, every session comes with a complimentary sunset cruise. Before we begin shooting, enjoy a relaxing boat ride as the sun begins to lower. This gives you time to settle in, enjoy the view, and warm up to the camera.

You will also receive a full gallery of images edited in my signature warm, romantic, editorial style. I provide a curated shooting plan and guide you through poses and natural movements that feel effortless and authentic.

Depending on light and conditions, we’ll capture portraits at multiple stunning spots on the water. I take care of safety, posing, lighting, and timing, so you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

What to Expect During Your Boat Session

We meet at a convenient Tampa-area ramp, and once on board, I provide a safety rundown and help you get comfortable. The session begins with a sunset cruise warm-up, where I capture candid, natural moments as you relax. The first photo stop is positioned for optimal lighting, and this is when we capture romantic couple portraits, engagement poses, maternity highlights, and movement or candid moments.

As sunset deepens, the light softens and becomes golden, ideal for dreamy, editorial shots. If you’re open, we can continue shooting a few minutes after sunset during the blue hour, creating dramatic and magical images. We finish with a calm ride back to the ramp, a peaceful conclusion to a beautiful session.

What to Wear for a Boat Session

Choosing the right outfit can elevate your photos. For women, long, flowy dresses, neutrals, blush, coastal blue, champagne, or terracotta work beautifully. Linen sets or chic casual outfits with minimal jewelry and light fabrics that move naturally in the breeze are perfect. For men, light button-ups or linen shirts with neutral chinos or tailored shorts complement the scene, with soft earthy tones. Avoid athletic wear.

For maternity sessions, both form-fitting and flowy gowns work beautifully, and I provide guidance based on style and trimester. Keep hair natural or lightly styled, as wind adds gorgeous movement. Simple accessories enhance, never overpower. Avoid bulky props for the best results.

Tips to Make Your Session Perfect

Bring a light sweater, as the breeze cools after sunset. Wear comfortable shoes or go barefoot if you prefer. Relax and enjoy the moment — I will guide poses. There is no need to worry about angles or lighting; I take care of everything to make your session effortless and beautiful.

Why These Photos Are So Special

Boat sessions create an atmosphere where couples naturally connect. The water, the breeze, and the sunset light encourage laughter, closeness, and intimacy. Every glance, hug, and movement is captured authentically, resulting in photos that are romantic, editorial, and unforgettable

Safety Note: Adult Sessions Only

Your session is on a well-maintained 2023 Sea Ray SPX 190 Outboard. For safety and the type of experience we offer, boat sessions are reserved for adults only. Life jackets are available on request, locations and stops are selected for calm water and optimal lighting, and sessions may be rescheduled in case of inclement weather.

Who This Session Is Perfect For?

This session is perfect for couples seeking romantic, intimate, and editorial portraits. It is ideal for engagements, anniversaries, surprise proposals and maternity sessions wanting coastal lifestyle imagery. If you want a luxury, editorial, and unique photography experience you will love this session. This session is not offered for children or families.

Ready to Book Your Sunset Boat Session?

I would LOVE to create this unforgettable experience for you. Boat sessions are limited each month to ensure the best lighting and water conditions, so I only take a small number of bookings.

Click here to inquire and reserve your date

Or send me a message on Instagram: @gemas_photographyllc