San Francisco is one of my favorite cities to visit. I first visited in 2020, and I got to go back again in 2024 for Danaye and Seth’s wedding and engagement photos. All the art, the beautiful succulents, that refreshing coastal air, the Dungeness crab chowder bowls at Boudin…but I digress. This was my first cross-country wedding and I’m still really proud of it.

Nature has always been a great source of comfort throughout my life, it allows me to simply exist in the moment, to slow down. For some people, it can be really difficult to relax in front of the camera, which is why I favor longer sessions outdoors. I intentionally block out three hours for my couples sessions. Sure, it could be quicker, but I’ve learned through experience it’s best not to rush the magic that happens once flow state hits.

This session was the perfect reminder that you don’t need to pick the most iconic location in your area to achieve nice portraits. Simplicity is beautiful. Simply having a story and honoring that connection to the land is meaningful enough. This isn’t to say I don’t enjoy photographing the popular spots (they’re popular for a reason!) but I believe intentionality lays the strongest, best foundation to build off.

One thing I always ask my couples for is the story about how they met. Skyler and Josh met while working at a summer camp together. Josh was working here for the summer, as he lived in the UK at the time. Once the summer came to a wrap, they made sure to hang onto the connection they felt developing. It just goes to show you never know where or when you’ll meet the love of your life.