Abby and Will’s engagement session felt like a page out of their everyday life in the best way. From the second we met at Manhattan Beach, it was clear how much this place meant to them. It’s where they surf, walk their golden retriever Gundo (yes, named after El Segundo!), and feel most at ease. With a wedding coming up in Panama, they wanted their engagement photos to feel like home, and that’s exactly what we created. We started under the Manhattan Beach Pier, where the light filters through just right, and ended the session in the water, because, of course, they were up for jumping in!
Engagement Session at Manhattan Beach Pier
Abby and Will reached out to me after finding me on Google, and we chose Manhattan Beach for their engagement session. It’s a spot I know well (you can see another engagement session here and a family session here), and the light under the pier is just magic at sunset. It’s a quintessential Southern California view, and the perfect backdrop for this sun-drenched, coastal session.
But the real star of the day? Gundo, their golden retriever!He was all smiles (and a bit of sand!) as he trotted beside them, rolled in the surf, and even posed for a few camera-ready moments like a pro. Sessions with pets are always a little unpredictable, but always worth it. Gundo brought out a whole extra layer of love and personality in the photos.
Abby and Will also weren’t afraid to get a little wet. After we captured some classic portraits, they ran into the waves and played like it was just another day at their favorite beach. These are the kinds of sessions I live for: the ones that feel like you, that tell your story without needing props or poses. Just connection, movement, and laughter. It felt like the perfect send-off before their destination wedding adventure.
Whether you’re planning your own Manhattan Beach engagement session, dreaming of oceanfront portraits with your pup, or just want to capture a season of life that feels laid-back and joyful, I’m always here for it!
