There is nothing quite like photographing a couple in love. It always feels like an honor to capture such a meaningful chapter in someone’s story. I was lucky enough to begin my Santa Barbara photography journey with Elizabeth and Justin, a kind and joyful couple who drove up from Los Angeles to spend the evening together and document their love.

Elizabeth and Justin are eloping in Hawaii later this year (swoon) before starting a new life together in Georgia. With so much change on the horizon, they wanted their engagement session to reflect this special time in California. Santa Barbara has been one of their favorite places to visit, so we chose a handful of spots that show off its quintessential Southern California charm.

We began at West Beach by Stearns Wharf, where the water, sand, and sailboats gave us that classic coastal backdrop. From there we wandered into the Funk Zone, with its colorful murals, tucked-away courtyards, and lively energy between breweries, wineries, and restaurants. To wrap it up, we strolled along State Street, pausing to photograph the details that make Santa Barbara shine, Spanish Colonial architecture, tiled stairways at Paseo Nuevo, and the timeless courtyard at Paseo de la Guerra.

The evening felt like everything I love about photography, a beautiful location, a couple deeply in love, and the chance to tell a story that is uniquely theirs. I feel so lucky to live and work in such a gorgeous place and to meet wonderful people like Elizabeth and Justin along the way.