Playful Film Engagement Session in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

E & J at the beach during sunset in Carmel-by-the-Sea

There’s something about Carmel-by-the-Sea that feels like it was made for film photography. For Emma and Jaakko’s engagement session, we met in the late afternoon and wandered through a small park in town before making our way to the rugged coast, where a sunlit trail led us down to the rocks just above the ocean.

Shot primarily on medium format film—with its nostalgic tones and subtle grain—this session leaned into the candid and unposed. Emma and Jaakko explored the charming town, and then we wandered down to the beach. The entire session felt less like a photoshoot and more like an afternoon adventure. I offered gentle direction when needed—most often to guide them toward golden light—then stepped back and let their connection lead.

If you're planning a destination engagement session (or wedding) and are drawn to imagery that feels authentic to you—genuine, unpolished, and full of atmosphere—I’d love to chat!