There’s just something I love about receiving an email from a bride who is super sweet and kind, even before we actually meet in person. I definitely receive my fair share of emails from people who simply write, “How much do you charge?”…which is fine.

I get it. I’m a photographer. And that’s why you’re reaching out.

However, I just have to say that I appreciate it so much when people are kind, personable and have a little personality when they write me. Although we may have never met in person, it goes a long way.

And if you know me, you know that I use WAY too many emojis when I text and typically overuse exclamation marks or smiley faces in my emails. ;)

Christine was one of those super sweet brides, the moment she reached out regarding wedding photography. So much so, that I had absolutely no problem customizing a package to fit her needs and desires.

I’m so happy she ended up booking us for her wedding because after our emails back and forth, and when we finally got to meet in person at her engagement shoot, I felt like I had known her for years!

Christine and Chaz will be having a San Diego wedding this summer and after meeting them in person, I can already tell how much fun we’re going to have on their big day!! They are both so down to earth and fun to be around.

Whenever I shoot an engagement session, I go through different poses with couples that allow them to be themselves, have fun and flirt a little with each other. These two were SO great at it and made my job too easy. :) We got so many candid shots of them giggling with each other and being playful. As most of you know, I LOVE that style of photography more than the traditional, (sometimes awkward and stiff) “smile at the camera” poses.

This engagement session was held at Balboa Park inside the Japanese Friendship Garden. I’m obsessed with that location! But just a heads up though, if you do go there to shoot, they charge an extra fee to go in – where most of Balboa Park is completely free.

After Balboa Park, we headed to La Jolla beach to get those epic photos right before sunset. Ahhhh! The sky couldn’t have been more perfect and colorful. :) Christine had the loveliest floral crown made my Native Poppy, and her makeup was perfection – by the talented Kristine Davis. She looked flawless all day!

Enjoy some of my favorites from this Japanese Friendship Garden & La Jolla Beach engagement session. Can’t wait to share more from their wedding day this summer! <3