Santa Monica Engagement Session | Danielle + Jim

Danielle & Jim’s engagement session was an especially enjoyable one to shoot because of its unique and personal nature.  Since meeting this artistic and fun-loving couple, I was really looking forward to this day! Santa Monica is one of my all-time favorite cities to photograph weddings, engagement sessions… or really anything for that matter. This city really conveys an easygoing Southern California “just be yourself” vibe, and look! I really loved the way this session unfolded and helped to give an intimate look into Danielle & Jim’s personalities and relationship. For many couples, it might be that very first apartment, neighborhood or daily stroll that is later looked back on so fondly, and it was a privilege for me to capture a small part of that for this lovely couple.

The session began with me shooting in their living room, which is such a great idea, as it lent itself not only to feeling more personal, but also to allowing this couple to feel more themselves in their own element.  I loved the wall art, (I mean come on, Jim Henson and Kermit!) and how those pieces helped to incorporate a sense of humor and casualness into the images. We continued in the hallway which was being illuminated by an incredible skylight. Whenever I’ve got a camera in my hand, and even when I don’t, my “light” senses are always on high alert. Finding various types of light, their sources and effects are all a part of the fun for me as a photographer!

Our shoot concluded with us meandering down various streets and taking advantage of the naturally occurring neighborhood features. I loved finding a stunning blue wall, which was more or less like finding a perfect backdrop just begging for a photographer to come along. This type of session, for me, can be quite inspiring and rewarding because my senses are turned up as I seek opportunities in beams of light, abstract shapes, and natural elements and incorporate those into impactful imagery conveying real emotion. I really enjoyed my time connecting with Danielle & Jim. I think this is why I truly enjoy photographing my engaged couples. I feel that it helps establish a wonderful working relationship and also creates a deeper level of anticipation for the big day.

Cheers to the happy couple and I’m looking forward to their Castle Green, Pasadena wedding in May!

Danny Baker | Epic Imagery