Magical Newlywed Photos at Dockweiler Beach
When Karen first found me on TikTok, she was drawn to the intimate, emotional moments I’ve captured in elopements and weddings. As soon as we connected, I knew her and Ryan’s beach portrait session would be something truly special. Their story, their connection, and the quiet beauty of Dockweiler Beach made for a magical experience that I feel so honored to have been a part of.
Karen and Ryan were celebrating more than just their marriage. At 22 weeks pregnant with their third child, Karen wanted to incorporate a few maternity photos into their wedding portrait session. It was important to her that the love and excitement surrounding this new chapter of their lives were reflected in the photos. Choosing me as their photographer wasn’t just about the images—I made them feel comfortable, safe, and confident in front of the camera, which is exactly how every couple should feel.
The session took place at Dockweiler Beach in early December, just as the sun was setting over the Pacific Ocean. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. The beach was completely empty, giving us a peaceful, private setting to capture Karen and Ryan’s love story. With the golden hues of the sunset and the soft waves in the background, every photo felt like it belonged in a dream.
Karen and Ryan were open to creative ideas, so we incorporated a mix of timeless, posed portraits and more playful, candid shots. To embrace current trends in wedding photography, I used a slow shutter technique to create blurred, motion-filled photos that captured the energy and emotion of the moment. These artistic shots brought a unique, modern touch to their gallery while balancing beautifully with the classic, romantic images.
As Karen stood on the sand with the soft light of sunset surrounding her, we captured a series of maternity photos that were both elegant and deeply emotional. With her hands cradling her growing bump and Ryan by her side, these moments celebrated not just their union as a couple but also the growth of their family. It was heartwarming to see how much love they share, not just for each other but for the little life they’re bringing into the world.
Dockweiler Beach provided the ideal backdrop for Karen and Ryan’s session. Its vast shoreline, soft sand, and uninterrupted ocean views made every shot feel expansive and serene. As a Southern California wedding photographer, I always encourage couples to choose locations that feel meaningful and allow for both creativity and intimacy—and this beach delivered in every way.
Karen and Ryan are the kind of couple every photographer dreams of working with—easygoing, full of love, and open to creative ideas. Their trust in me and their willingness to embrace every moment of the session made the experience even more rewarding. Knowing they chose me because they felt safe and comfortable means the world to me. My goal has always been to make my clients feel at ease so their personalities and stories can truly shine.
Karen and Ryan’s wedding portrait session was a reminder of why I love what I do. It’s about more than just the photos—it’s about telling a story, celebrating love, and capturing moments that will be cherished forever. To Karen and Ryan: Thank you for letting me document this beautiful chapter in your lives. I’m so excited for all the love and happiness that lies ahead for your growing family.