Southern California Archives -

18Aug

Mission San Juan Capistrano Engagement | Neeka and Garrett

By True Photography, August 18, 2017 Engagements

When Neeka and Garrett chose the Mission San Juan Capistrano for their engagement session, we knew we were in for a romantic photoshoot. This historic site features charming stone arches, bright flowering gardens, and pure Southern California sunshine. The location provided a fitting backdrop for this couple’s classic style.

Throughout the shoot, Neeka and Garrett cut striking silhouettes against the Mission’s towering walls, whitewashed by centuries of southern California sunshine. Here are a few of our favorite images created that day.

True Photography outdoor engagement session

Fun engagement photography Mission San Juan Capistrano

The Mission's courtyard offers ample opportunity for photos with depth and character. We stepped back and used a telephoto lens for this image, showcasing the background while utilizing the stunning flowers to naturally frame Neeka and Garrett in this scene.

Stylized outdoor couples photography San Juan Capistrano

We love to photograph with a shallow depth of field, which draws attention to our subjects by separating them from the dreamy softness of the background. In this photo, sunlight naturally filled the arched walkways surrounding the Mission's courtyard, providing flattering shade for Neeka and Garrett.

True Photography stylized engagement session San Juan Capistrano

We're always looking for shots that will really pop in both color and black & white. Neeka and Garrett wore dark navy, which stood out beautifully against the textured backdrops at the Mission.

Want to see more? Check out Neeka and Garrett’s engagement session

17Jan

California Dreamin’ in Ocean Beach | Rubie and Jason

By True Photography, January 17, 2017 Engagements

Rubie and Jason are San Diego locals, and one of their favorite date spots is nearby Ocean Beach. So for their engagement shoot, we headed straight to the coast! The couple’s special connection to the beach – and particularly Sunset Cliffs – was evident from the moment they hit the sand. Here are a few of our favorite moments from the day!

Engaged couple embrace and kiss next to vintage Volkswagen Bus at beach

Embracing the nostalgia of the day with a 1960’s beach vibe, the couple rode in this vintage green Volkswagen from ZElectric Motors.

Engaged couple embrace and lean against vintage Volkswagen bus during engagement session

Jason rocked a classic Hawaiian shirt throughout the day’s shoot:)

Two images of Engaged couple holding hands and kissing in Volkswagen bus during beach engagement session

Taking note of the Volkswagen’s sunroof, we let in some rays and played around with different perspectives. By utilizing the pier nearby, we were able to gain a bird’s eye angle and use the roof as a frame while Rubie and Jason leaned in for a kiss. Then, inside the vehicle, we split the composition to include both the open sky and the couple’s reactions.

Groom-to-be drives Volkswagen bus as Bride-to-be sits behind him

For a brief moment, Jason grabbed the wheel as Rubie looked on with affection. To capture the spontaneity, and remain unobtrusive, we positioned ourselves looking in through the front window.

Two images of engaged couple leaning against and sitting in vintage Volkswagen bus on beach

With a variety of angles, we loved bringing new life to this classic vehicle, and adding to the overall story of the day.

Reflection of engaged couple kissing in metal hubcap of volkswagen bus

Noticing the metallic reflection of the tire’s hubcap (above), we placed Rubie and Jason out in the sand for a creative portrait.

Later, we cruised over to Sunset Cliffs as the sun began to set in the sky. We love that Rubie and Jason chose somewhere close to their hearts with a personal connection.

Engaged couple embrace and look at one another on rocks overlooking ocean during beach engagement session

To show off the landscape, we placed the couple at a lower angle and positioned ourselves on higher ground. By taking an elevated perspective, and adding a hint of off-camera flash, we captured the colorful sky and surrounding ocean.

We had so much fun photographing this fun, laid-back couple and look forward to photographing their beach wedding at Scripps Seaside Forum next year!

Check out more moments from Rubie and Jason’s vintage beach engagement session.

12Apr

Founders Chapel | University of San Diego

By True Photography, April 12, 2016 Venues

Founders Chapel is a house of worship located on the University of San Diego campus. Dating back to 1953, the chapel was built for what was then the San Diego College for Women. Today, it is a popular ceremony location, and is exclusive to USD students, alumni and staff. We love photographing at this classical and traditional site, and incorporating the venue’s details into memorable ceremony photographs.

Having two photographers means being able to document ceremony moments from multiple perspectives, as in the photos above.

The broad and open space of the venue allows us to capture unique vantage points, like the one below.

To capture unexpected point-of-view images, we look for opportunities such as the balcony, which has railings and gates that can be photographed through.