Rarely do I photograph newly engaged couples that I have a long time connection to....I have known Derek since before he was born...so it was with extreme pleasure that I was able to spend some time with this fantastic couple.
Carmel Mission Beach..a favorite place to shoot engagement photos. I have also shot a few elopements here as well.
Bright sun isn't may favorite light to shoot in, but here it works with all the rock shadows...
the bride to be taking a scenic moment....
Gillian's tattoo fits the moment.
I want all my photo shoots to be relaxed and fun...this is why I try and allow plenty of time with my bridal couples... and a go to a few locations, so that both the bride to be and groom to be can savour this time.
The Monterey Peninsula and Carmel Valley offer wonderful wineries and tasting rooms. Here we went into downtown Carmel to Vino Napoli Wine Bar to enjoy and get variety into our pre bridal session.
We walked around Carmel and ducked into another quaint alley way...
The choices on the Monterey Peninsula for engagement or wedding locations are huge. Derek and Gillian are looking at a Carmel Valley wedding...and then there are Big Sur weddings, Monterey weddings, and Pebble Beach weddings...endless fantastic wedding venues.