I headed down with Melia + Jeff to Malibu to capture their El Matador engagement. We lucked out and practically had the beach all to ourselves! From the first time that I met with them to discuss their wedding plans, I knew that I not only needed to shoot their wedding but I knew us working together was going to be so much fun. Needless to say, this engagement session did not disappoint!

The outfits chosen for our shoot were a perfect expression of tastefulness and that laid-back California beach style that I’ve come to love. Melia looked stunning in her navy blue and black maxi dresses which complimented Jeff’s classic button-up with jeans and rolled cuffs.

We strolled along the beach taking in the natural beauty of the warm sunlit coast. As we passed along the rocks and tide pools scattered across the beach we shared stories and laughs while dodging some rogue waves. One small piece of advice for all of you photographers out there and couples looking to have your photos taken at the beach: check the tide report! I have overlooked that detail a few times now and it’s a little tricky when you have little to no beach to shoot on. Luckily for us, there was no swimming required during this El Matador engagement shoot. I do have to say though, capturing the reactions of couples that are broadsided by unknown waves makes for some hilarious and memory-worthy photos.

As the sun dipped behind the cliffs and we felt the first cold breaths of the evening air we headed back towards our cars. I took some last shots of the couple overlooking the beach, enjoying the last few minutes of light. Working with Melia + Jeff was so much fun and I can’t imagine what’s in store for their wedding in Malibu later this year!