Southern California Engagement Photographer: Capturing Candid Moments with Michelle + Michael

If you're on the hunt for an engagement photographer who's all about capturing those real, raw moments, you've landed in the right spot. I'm here to spill the beans on how I roll as a Southern California engagement photographer, specializing in the art of keeping it candid and oh-so-fun!

Newly engaged couple smiling and laughing while hugging each other on a rooftop

Michelle + Michael's California Engagement Photoshoot

Michelle and Michael's engagement shoot—it was an absolute blast! It was a Downtown Santa Ana, CA, engagement post-rainstorm. We were all geared up for a cozy indoor shoot, but then the rain stopped, and the skies cleared, giving us the cutest little evening to play with. Sometimes Mother Nature just knows when to cut us a break, am I right?

Documentary Style Engagement Photos

But, let's talk about my secret sauce for those candid shots that make your heart skip a beat. It's all about keeping things laid back and letting you be you! Seriously, you don't need to worry about striking a pose or faking a smile—I've got you covered. Think of me as your third wheel, just hanging out in the background while you do your thing, whether that's stealing kisses or cracking jokes.

Southern-California-Engagement-Photographer

Newly engaged couple holding hands smiling at one another during their engagement photos

I'm all about that documentary-style photography! What does that mean? It means I'm not here to stage some Pinterest-worthy scene. Nope, I'm here to capture the real, unfiltered moments—the laughter, the tears, the goofy faces—everything that makes your love story uniquely yours. This is what I LOVE to do! My philosophy has been and always will be serving you two in every way that I can.

Newly engaged couple dancing on a rooftop garage for their engagement photos taken by a southern California engagement photographer

Tips and Tricks for Candid Engagement Photos

So, how do we make magic happen? It's simple, really. First off, just be yourselves. I know, groundbreaking advice, right? But seriously, the more you relax and let loose, the better the photos will turn out. And if you're feeling a bit awkward in front of the camera, no worries! I've got a bag of tricks up my sleeve to help you loosen up and have fun!

Black and white photo of newly engaged couple holding eachothers faces staring into eachothers eyes

At the end of the day, it's all about capturing the love between you two crazy kids. Whether we're hanging out on a rooftop or wandering the streets of Downtown Santa Ana, my goal is to capture those little moments that make your hearts sing.

Black and white photo of newly engaged couple holding eachothers faces endearingly

Engagement Location Ideas

When Michelle and Michael mentioned they wanted something low-key yet memorable, I knew Downtown Santa Ana would be the perfect backdrop. Its charming streets and eclectic vibe offered endless opportunities for candid moments and genuine connection.

Newly engaged couple kissing in front of a movie theater in downtown santa ana

But what really elevated their shoot was our decision to head up to the rooftop. It's amazing how a change in perspective can transform an ordinary setting into something extraordinary. With the city skyline as our backdrop and the soft glow of the sunset painting the sky, Michelle and Michael were in their element. The rooftop provided a sense of intimacy and romance that perfectly complemented their love story.

Newly engaged couple smiling and laughing together walking on a rooftop garage for their engagement photos taken by a southern california engagement photographer

Engagement Outfit Ideas

Now, let's talk outfits. Michelle brought two killer outfits that showcased her playful yet chic style. She rocked a pair of adorable overalls for a fun, laid-back vibe, then switched it up with a sleek black dress for a touch of elegance. Michael, on the other hand, kept it suave and sophisticated with a classic long-sleeve button-up and tailored slacks, then brought a more relaxed vibe with a short-sleeve button-up and comfy pants.

Black and white photo of newly engaged couple hugging on a rooftop garage

Newly engaged couple smiling about to kiss in downtown santa ana

Their outfit choices were spot-on, allowing them to express their individual personalities while still complementing each other perfectly. I always recommend bringing a couple of outfit options to your engagement shoot—it gives us more versatility and allows you to show off different sides of your style.

Newly engaged couple smiling at one another posing candidly on a rooftop garage

When it comes to engagement outfits, my advice is simple: be true to yourselves. Choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable, and don't be afraid to mix them up with different styles and textures. Whether it's Michelle's playful overalls or Michael's dapper button-ups, let your outfit reflect who you are as a couple, and have fun with it!

Newly engaged couple smiling laughing at one another

Newly engaged couple holding hands walking on a rooftop garage

In the end, Michelle and Michael's engagement shoot was a perfect reflection of their love—a mix of laughter, love, and a whole lot of fun. And while Downtown Santa Ana and the rooftop may seem like simple locations, they provided the ideal backdrop for capturing the magic of their relationship. It just goes to show that sometimes, the most beautiful moments can be found in the most unexpected places.

Book Your Southern California Engagement Photographer!

If you're ready to ditch the stiff poses and embrace the candid moments, I'm here to make it happen. Let's chat about your dream engagement shoot and how we can make it a reality!

Contact me to be your Southern California engagement photographer and start planning your engagement photoshoot!

See more of Michelle and Michaels' Southern California engagement photos below and follow me on Pinterest for more of my work!