What’s better than photographing a talented artist with colorful hair, and her brilliant fiance?

…Photographing them in a world of color and outdoor fun, of course!

When I imagined how I wanted Chris and Taylor’s engagement photos, I did what I believe is the most important thing to do when considering strong personal portraiture, and thought about who they are and what their personalities are like. The most prominent thing that stuck out to me was Taylor’s artistic talent, and her love for color. I mean, you guys should see her room. It’s one giant explosion of color on every centimeter of wall space, with perfectly geometrical (and diagonal) paint lines; filled with every art supply imaginable, piled with paintings and sculptures, and even a standing mannequin for when she designs jewelry or clothing (I mean is there anything this girl CAN’T do?!). Chris is the quiet brains of the two, having recently graduated with a mechanical engineering degree and landed a job in aerospace engineering…. So pretty much I feel dumb when I hear him talk. Haha. But despite their equally quiet personalities, I’ve also seen them exhibit a love for fun and adventure.

Thus, I wanted to incorporate those two prominent parts of theirs lives into their engagement photos, and give them something to look at that says, “That’s us.” Enter: The Pike at Long Beach! It’s a hot spot for tourists, but also a gold mine for the kind of color I was looking for. Each of the small shops along the pier are painted a brilliant color. It was perfect.

NEXT we headed to a nearby park, and unleashed an epic paint war! I was absolutely thrilled when they were both up for sloshing wet gooey paint all over each other for some photos! Ha! Let’s just say the ride back home was interesting.

But seriously though. I have the most fun when my clients are able to be themselves, in their element, with each other, and in the end have beautiful photos that represent their love and friendship. I’m honored to have been able to photograph Chris and Taylor, and hope you enjoy the adventure from your screen!

….And you should highly consider having a paint war with your loved one sometime. Memories.

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