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Engagement Sessions

Lighthouse Field / Its Beach, Santa Cruz Engagement Photography

Lighthouse Field / Its Beach, Santa Cruz Engagement Photography

I've been doing a lot of "mini" engagement sessions lately with my clients – essentially 15-20 minute crash courses for directed posing with my brides and grooms. I *should* hand out a certificate-of-completion at the end of these sessions as they're super productive and we all learn a lot in a short amount of time. This leads to much more efficient/productive time with couples on the actual wedding day.

Natural Bridges Santa Cruz Engagement Photography

Natural Bridges Santa Cruz Engagement Photography

Kristela and Casey are Santa Cruz locals, but they didn't really know all that Natural Bridges has to offer. Let's just say it's more than a beach! If you enter from Delaware Ave., not only is the parking free, but you have trails that meander through fields and small forested areas of a variety of trees. So basically you can get many different environments, all at one location. Of course, the beach is where you end up – and I try to time it around sunset (if the marine fog allows!). These two were very easy to work with, having a natural chemistry and ease in front of the camera. I was honestly surprised they haven't done this before! Even though I was directing them the whole time, the collection of photos we ended up with are very natural, spontaneous and fun – markers of a good session for all of us. Here's a few of my favorites from the shoot, enjoy!

Panther Beach - Santa Cruz Bridal Portraits

Panther Beach - Santa Cruz Bridal Portraits

Jennifer and Ryan got married in their backyard today, then drove over to my neck of the woods for a post-wedding engagement-style couples session – in their tux and (Jennifer's mom's) gown. This whole week has been pretty much guaranteed to rain, but we were gonna move forward no matter what. Not only did they get married today, but it's also BOTH their birthdays – how cool is that? I'm always honored to capture these moments for couples, but this was definitely extra-special, so glad everything fell into place to make it work. Enjoy my faves from their bride and groom sunset portrait session at Panther Beach (Santa Cruz) below: