We photographed our first Mission San Juan Capistrano Engagement Session a couple weeks ago. The location provided us with the most spectacular views and most gorgeous light.

Where it all began…

Engagement sessions always offer some of the most thrilling journeys. As we venture to a location we can’t help but share in the excitement that our couples feel. Perhaps, from the rush of the butterflies from their first professional photos. For many couples, the engagement session marks their first official time in front of a camera. Although this can make just about anyone nervous. Our friendly client guide offers insight to help couples better prepare for their engagement photos and help to make them feel confident in every image.

One of the most fun and exciting things about being a photographer are the places our job takes us. One day is rarely the same as the next, but each day always brings something beautiful. Driving along the coastline as we put miles behind us and home in search of beautiful views and precious moments to capture in just the right lighting. This past week we found ourselves visiting the beautiful city of San Juan Capistrano!

San Juan Capistrano is a wonderful town full of life and rich culture, for instance. At the heart of the town, is Mission San Juan Capistrano, which is as lovely as it is historic. A historic landmark adorned in florals and greenery, Mission San Juan Capistrano made us feel like we entered a different time, and we couldn’t wait to begin.

Estefani and Candelario met with us just outside the gates of the mission. Together we discovered hidden paths leading to fountains and gardens. The overall feeling of Mission San Juan is breathtaking. In other words, our jobs were made easy by our gorgeous couple and the timeless architecture of the mission.

Surf and Sunset

After while, we made our way onto the shores of Newport Beach. Sunset photos at the beach are some of our personal faves because nothing says California living like sunset off of the Pacific Ocean. Candi and Estefani had never been in front of a professional camera before, but you could hardly tell! They were so at ease within the first couple minutes, when we finally made it to the beach they had already become naturals. Golden hour at the coast is every photographers dream. The soft light makes for dreamy images and unforgettable evenings.

We wrapped up our session on a small hill, overlooking the sands of Newport Beach as it slipped away into the surf. This session will always hold a special memory in our hearts for one simple reason. It reintroduced us to our love for the great missions of California. It only proves that sometimes staying true to tradition yields the most incredible results, especially when it comes to architectural design. We are looking forward to our next journey, we hope to share even more memories with you all very soon!

If you are interested in capturing your own breathtaking memories, we would love to chat. Reach us here or on any of our social media platforms. We always love a good love story. If you need location recommendations, we are chock full of them! Enjoy and safe travels!