Engagement Session at Manhattan Beach | Stephen and Jennifer

Stephen and Jennifer are tying their knot in about a month, and had landed on my profile on Thumbtack while they were searching for a photographer to document their special day. Typically, couples search for their photographer a year in advance, but with COVID-19, planning for any events a year in advance may not be the same anymore. Any given plan can change due to the uncertainty, so instead of a perfect plan, some may consider going with the flow and working with the available options in front of them. This is what I like to call being flexible and adaptable, which breeds creativity!

Our initial phone call was light and focused, and we got to know each other a little bit over the 10-15 minute call. After waiting for a few days, I heard back from Stephen. They decided to bring me on as the photographer for their special day!

I had just gotten married, myself, so I understand what it’s like to be searching for that one photographer who meets your objective criteria. For Stephen and Jennifer, it’s rather different. They chose based on a few things that they felt had sat well with them – how I communicated, my portfolio work, and lastly a comment I made towards the end of our initial phone call. He said, “Your comment about never shooting a couple at our age stood out to me and I liked that comment, so we’ve decided to go with you.” That was indeed my honest feeling towards the couple over the phone call, and it was what got me noticed. I feel so honored.

For their inclusive 1-hour engagement session, we met up at Manhattan Beach Pier an hour before sunset. The couple were semi casual with their outfits, Stephen had a button down shirt paired with dark jeans, which matched perfectly with Jennifer’s light and airy maxi dress with spots of color to match his coral shirt. For a beach session, their choice of outfit definitely blends well with the golden glow and crystal-like ocean waves. 

I am grateful for this beautiful couple and the perfect evening. I can’t wait to celebrate and document their special day with my cameras in July!