Love, Laughter, and a White Summer Dress
Maddy and Brayton’s engagement session was the perfect mix of fun, elegance, and romance. We met up in Newport Beach, where their playful energy and genuine love made the evening feel effortless. Maddy looked radiant in a white summer dress, and their sweet dog, Nala, joined the adventure, too. The couple first met at Indiana University, and I loved that they brought a bit of Hoosier pride into their photos with IU swag. I was introduced to them through Talega Golf Club, their upcoming wedding venue and one of my favorite places to photograph weddings in Southern California.
Carnival Fun at the Balboa Fun Zone
The Balboa Fun Zone was the perfect starting point. The Ferris wheel, bright arcade lights, and colorful boardwalk gave us endless backdrops. The couple chose this spot because it reflected what they value most: fun and laughter together. I encouraged them with prompts to keep the mood light, which helped them relax and let their personalities shine. Nala was a natural star, weaving her way into playful moments that made the session even more personal. From the arcade games to the glow of the Ferris wheel, the Fun Zone gave us vibrant, cinematic frames. I used a mix of natural light and off-camera flash, which brought out both the romance and the carefree spirit of the evening.
Romance by the Pier in a White Summer Dress
After the carnival energy, we walked over to the beach for a different setting. The sandy shores and lifeguard towers gave us the chance to create timeless engagement portraits. As the sun dipped lower, the Newport Beach Pier became the perfect backdrop for more romance-filled shots. Maddy’s white summer dress caught the golden light beautifully, adding an elegant touch to the coastal setting. With the waves crashing behind them, Brayton and Maddy shared sweet moments that felt straight out of a movie love story.
Wrapping Up the Evening
By the end of the session, we had a collection of images that captured the full range of who they are: playful, romantic, and deeply connected. The mix of carnival joy and coastal elegance made this one of my favorite summer engagement sessions.
As an Orange County wedding photographer, I love working with couples who want their engagement photos to reflect both fun and meaning. Sessions like this one remind me how much variety Southern California offers, whether for an Orange County wedding, a destination wedding, or an engagement session by the sea.
