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!
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:
I absolutely love the enthusiasm of this adorable couple – you can just tell how much they love each other (and how much fun they're having) with a quick glance through these photos. We met up at Stewart's Cove, a really beautiful little beach spot in Carmel that is away from the downtown area. This sunset engagement session was a blast, we really lucked out with the weather. I can't wait to shoot Caitlin and Dylan's wedding in July 2017 – they really are a special couple. Enjoy my faves below!
Amanda and David had an epic 3 hour engagement, covering three separate locations on the West side of San Francisco. The Legion of Honor is known for its architectural elements, Sutro Baths are water-filled ruins right next to the ocean, and Land's End is a beautiful trail near Sutro with a cypress forest and meandering trails. Lastly, we hit up Baker Beach (thankfully no nudes) for sunset and the must-have shots of the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. Amanda and David did an awesome job, and we have a ton of great shots to show for it. Thanks guys, can't wait for your wedding day next year!
OK, so Cheryl & Brian had their engagement shoot the week of their wedding – so I didn't get all these edited until after their wedding – but I did get to get them a few choice samples they could display on the Big Day. We met up at Pichetti Ranch in the foothills of Cupertino. It's a beautiful, rustic location, lots of deer, cool barns, and trails leading through the hills. We looked at a map, and tried to find the pond – but we only found a dry lake bed :( But we had a fabulous time together, I got to boss them around and they listened to everything I said! I love my job! When I go home, I get to be bossed around, so the balance of the world remains intact people. Anyways, enjoy a few of my favorites from Cheryl and Brian's Pichetti Ranch engagement shoot!