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An engagement session is a wonderful opportunity to capture the love and connection between couples before they tie the knot. I personally love doing engagement sessions for couples because it gives me a chance to get to know you and have some fun before the wedding. Here are some tips to make your engagement session a success.
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About the Session: Like I said I love doing engagement sessions, it gives me a chance to get to know you and your personalities. It's also a chance to have some professional quality photos that are outside of your wedding attire. These are also great for Save the Date and/or invitations and just sharing with family and friends. My posing style is very laid back and natural as most of the time I am working with regular people and not professional models. During engagement sessions I generally like to walk around to get a variety of locations.
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Location: I like to let you choose your location! If you need Ideas I have my favorites and I&rsquo;m more than happy to help find a place that fits the style you&rsquo;re looking for! Do some brainstorming and think about the places that mean something to you and your partner, what types of locations you like.&nbsp; Here are some of my favorite locations.
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Beach
Torrey Pines Gliderport
Sunset Cliffs
Coronado Beach/Hotel Del
Mission Bay
Oceanside Pier
Windansea Beach
Spanish Landing
Torrey Pines Natural Preserve
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Trails and Nature
Lake Miramar
Sweetwater Bridge
Maple Canyon
Hollenbeck Canyon
Mount Laguna
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City
Little Italy
Seaport Village
Harbor Island
Centennial Park
Downtown
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Parks +&nbsp;Cool Architecture
Balboa Park
Presidio Park
Chicano Park
Old Town
Central Library
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The options really are limited to your imagination with your engagement session. It doesn&rsquo;t have to be a scenic location and could just be your favorite bar, coffee shop, or library. Just remember to check to see if you need any permits or to ask the owner of the place if you want to use their coffee shop/bar most. In my experience most of the time most places are cool with it but it's better to not have surprises!
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Scheduling: I schedule about 1 to 1.5 hours for an engagement session, typically in the evening with my preference being a little more than an hour before sunset. You get the best natural light during this time, you may have heard us photographers call it &ldquo;golden hour&rdquo;. I also suggest trying to schedule on a weekday as it's less busy in most places, this allows us to be more mobile and also leaves less people in the background.
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What to Wear: I&rsquo;m flexible with whatever you&rsquo;d like to wear, this is your session and you should wear what you&rsquo;re comfortable in. I recommend no more than two outfits in order to maximize our time together. I always recomend brighter colors but most couples tend to go with a button up shirt or polo, and a short dress, sundress or skirt, the only thing for me is shoes, since I do like to walk around I recommend comfortable shoes for walking. This is also a good time to mention that you could even bring other things that mean something to you in your relationship like pets or other personal items.
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Remember, the goal of an engagement session is to capture the unique love story between you and your partner. There are no rules so don't be afraid to let your personalities shine through!

The Best Engagement Session Locations In San Diego

Earlier this year I had the oppurtunity to shoot a wedding along with my fellow photographer friend Paul from PMC Photography.
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The Wedding was absolutely georgeous. In the from the McCoy Station ceremony in the gorgeous mountains of mammoth, provided a view like no other.
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Here is the Behind the Scenes Video from a Ava and Jarid's Mammoth Mountain wedding at McCoy Station.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/iC5gna2F3_4

McCoy Station, Mammoth Mountain Wedding | Behind The Scenes Video

Hey there, it's Ben here! Today, I am thrilled to share the enchanting wedding of Kaitlyn and Chris held at the spectacular Harvey House in Idyllwild, California.This wedding was nothing short of magical. Nestled amidst the captivating forest landscapes of Idyllwild, Harvey House served as the perfect backdrop for this love-filled celebration. The venue oozed an unparalleled charm that was beautifully captured in my lens, and I couldn't be more excited to share it with you.Every element of their wedding day was thoughtfully planned and executed. From the sun-dappled outdoor ceremony to the intimate indoor reception, Kaitlyn and Chris's wedding was a divine feast for the eyes. As their wedding photographer, I had the privilege of capturing these exquisite moments that truly epitomized their love story.Kaitlyn was a vision in her delicate lace dress, and Chris looked dapper in his sleek suit. The genuine happiness in their eyes as they exchanged their vows was a sight to behold. It was these unscripted moments that truly make a wedding remarkable. I was there, not just to photograph these moments, but to help create a narrative that they could cherish forever.The reception was equally mesmerizing. The rustic charm of Harvey House complemented the elegant decor, creating a setting that was both romantic and inviting. The laughter and cheers that filled the room as Kaitlyn and Chris shared their first dance was heartwarming. It was a testament to the love that they share, and a glimpse into the wonderful journey that lies ahead of them.Capturing Kaitlyn and Chris's wedding at the Harvey House was indeed a memorable experience. As a wedding photographer, there's nothing more rewarding than being able to document the love, joy, and excitement that make a wedding day so special.So there you have it! Kaitlyn and Chris's wedding was a true celebration of love, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Idyllwild, California. It was a story that deserved to be told, and I am glad I got the opportunity to tell it. If you're planning your wedding and looking for a photographer, let's connect! I would love to help you create and capture the special moments that will make your wedding memorable.

Kaitlyn + Chris: A Dream Wedding at Harvey House, Idyllwild California

Welcome! I'm Ben, your friendly neighborhood wedding photographer. Today, I'm going to share with you a day filled with love, laughter, and lots of incredible moments. I had the honor of capturing Josh and Paula's special day at the Fullerton Community Center, Fullerton, California.
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The Fullerton Community Center was the perfect backdrop for their wedding. With its lush green surroundings, grand architecture, and ample space, it provided the ideal canvas for this beautiful day. From the moment I arrived, I knew it was going to be a fantastic day. The sun was shining, and there was a buzz of excitement in the air.
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Josh and Paula are an amazing couple. Their love story is truly one for the books. From their first date to their engagement, and now their wedding day, it's been a joy to see their love blossom. On their big day, they were beaming with happiness. From the spark in their eyes to the smiles on their faces, it was clear that they were ready to start this exciting new chapter in their lives together.
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As for the photography, we had a blast. The venue provided an array of stunning backdrops, and the natural light was a photographer's dream. I loved capturing the candid moments, the laughter, the tears, and all the love you could feel radiating from Josh and Paula.
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The ceremony was heartfelt, filled with touching moments that brought tears to many eyes. The reception that followed was a lively celebration of love, complete with fantastic food, awesome music, and spirited dancing. It was a joy to capture these beautiful moments, and I am thrilled to have been part of their special day.
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Looking back at Josh and Paula's wedding, I am reminded of why I love being a wedding photographer. Your wedding day is a story that deserves to be told, and I am privileged to be the one to capture it. Here's to Josh and Paula, and the beautiful journey they have embarked upon.
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Until next time, folks, keep those smiles bright and those memories vivid. Let's create and capture some more amazing moments together. See ya!

Josh + Paula's Fullerton Community Center Wedding

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Welcome, I'm thrilled to share with you the magical wedding day of Dayna and Uly. Being a wedding photographer, I have the privilege of witnessing and capturing one of the most significant days in a couple's life, and Dayna and Uly's wedding was no exception. Fallbrook, California's Grand Tradition Estate and Gardens on the arbor terrace setting served as the picturesque backdrop for this memorable occasion.
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The venue, with its sprawling gardens and elegant structures, was a dream to photograph. Every nook and corner of the Grand Tradition Estate and Gardens was filled with charm and elegance, which made every shot a piece of art. As a San Diego-based wedding photographer, I've seen many locations, but this one was a standout for sure.
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Dayna and Uly, the stars of the day, were a delight to work with. Their love for each other radiated in every photograph, making my job seem like a walk in the park. The way they looked at each other, their laughter, their little gestures of love, everything was so genuine and so beautiful.
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The ceremony was the highlight of the day. It was a blend of emotions, love, joy, and a little bit of nervous excitement, which is quite natural. As they exchanged their vows, there was not a single dry eye in the vicinity. It was a moment that deserved to be frozen in time, and I was there to do just that.
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The best part of being a wedding photographer is that I get to be a part of stories that deserve to be told. Dayna and Uly's story was one of love, companionship, and a promising future together. Their wedding day was just the beginning of their beautiful story, and I am glad I could capture it in my lens.
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Being a part of Dayna and Uly's wedding was not just about taking pictures; it was about capturing memories, emotions, and moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. It was a day that will be remembered, a day filled with love, laughter, happy tears, and a day that marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together for Dayna and Uly. As I look back at the photographs, I am reminded again why I love doing what I do.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/qXW3SrL9o4w

Dayna + Uly's Wedding Day at Grand Tradition: Abor Terrace

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Hello there, it's Ben again! I've been capturing beautiful moments on wedding days as a photographer and videographer based right here in sunny San Diego California. And let me tell you, Maddison and Connor's wedding was no exception. Their special day was held at the enchanting Carlsbad Windmill by Wedgewood Weddings, a venue that offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, nestled on the coast of Carlsbad, California.
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The wedding day unfolded with a sense of tranquil excitement. Anticipation filled the air, as palpable as the soft, Californian breeze. It was as if the entire universe had paused for a moment, holding its breath for the grand event. The couple, Maddison and Connor, were the epitome of love and joy. They radiated happiness, their eyes sparkling with unspoken promises and shared dreams.
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In my journey as a wedding photographer, I've witnessed countless beautiful moments. Yet, the best moment of this wedding was undeniably their first touch. It was a scene straight out of a romantic movie. Maddison, dressed in her pristine white gown, and Connor, looking dapper in his suit, reached out for each other's hands. Their fingers entwined, a silent vow passed between them. Their eyes locked, communicating more than words ever could. It was pure, it was beautiful, it was them. It was a moment that deserved to be frozen in time, and I was there to capture it.
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Every wedding is a unique story waiting to be told, and Maddison and Connor's wedding was a captivating tale of love, promises, and shared dreams. It was a testament to their love for each other and the journey they had embarked upon. As a photographer, I was privileged to help narrate this story through my lens, capturing every emotion, every tear, every smile, and every moment that made their wedding day unforgettable.
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Remember, your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life. It's a story that deserves to be told and remembered. So, why not let me help you tell it? Until then, keep smiling and keep loving!

Maddison + Connor's Carlsbad Windmill Wedding

The wedding of my dream was a success! Thanks to Ben for capturing it all. Anticipated to show my future kids one day, Lord willing. Also, I showed friends and family that couldn’t make it to the wedding and they were in awe of how beautiful it was. They said , I had a great photographer. Thank you Ben again for having a good eye and being super nice as well, we need more of those. :)

Elizabeth & Esteban

Ben is an amazing photographer. Very punctual and kind. He delivered more than we can ever ask for! Thank you for capturing the magic from the best day of our lives ❤ Truly had the best photographer! I’m so glad we crossed path and you made our day a dream come true!

Joan & Matt

My husband and I had our wedding at the Carlsbad Windmill. We found Ben through a review he had left of the venue and noticed he had some experience with that venue. We hired Ben to photograph our wedding and we are so glad we did! We worked with Ben from our engagement session to our wedding day. Ben is very detailed, he helped us breakdown the timeline which made our day run pretty smooth. He also directed us well and he worked well with Paul the second photographer that was part of the package. My husband and I absolutely love our photos and have received compliments from friends and family. We highly recommend Ben 💛!

Matt & Lorena

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My 8 hour wedding photography package is perfect for couples looking for all their essential moments throughout the day captured. This package is great for those not seeking as much getting ready or reception coverage. Includes an online gallery and a one hour engagement session. My approach is to focus on creating a relaxed and authentic experience, so you can enjoy your day while I capture all the beautiful moments. I believe in clear expectations and communication from both parties and do at least two pre-wedding consultations to go over the timeline and plans for the day. My shooting and posing style is loose, candid and directional and I strive to create natural emotions and real moments that seamlessly blend with the rest of the gallery. When you book, we will start the process of discussing all the important details of the wedding, and planning a thorough timeline. If you'd like to schedule a consultation and get to know each other a bit more before booking, feel free to contact me with a day and time you have in mind and I'd be more than happy to grab lunch or chat over the phone. Let's create some amazing memories together!

Wedding Photography (8 Hours + Engagement Session)

My 8 hour wedding photography package is perfect for couples looking for all their essential moments throughout the day captured. This package is great for those who need more than one photographer for multiple locations at the same time and want more photos overall. Includes an online gallery and a one hour engagement session. My approach is to focus on creating a relaxed and authentic experience, so you can enjoy your day while I capture all the beautiful moments. I believe in clear expectations and communication from both parties and do at least two pre-wedding consultations to go over the timeline and plans for the day. My shooting and posing style is loose, candid and directional and I strive to create natural emotions and real moments that seamlessly blend with the rest of the gallery. When you book, we will start the process of discussing all the important details of the wedding, and planning a thorough timeline. If you'd like to schedule a consultation and get to know each other a bit more before booking, feel free to contact me with a day and time you have in mind and I'd be more than happy to grab lunch or chat over the phone. Let's create some amazing memories together!

Wedding Photography (8 Hours + 2nd Photographer + Engagement Session)

My 8 hour wedding photography and videography package is perfect for couples looking for all their essential moments throughout the day captured. Great for single location weddings, and those who want all the important parts of the ceremony and reception covered. My approach is to focus on creating a relaxed and authentic experience, so you can enjoy your day while I capture all the beautiful moments. I believe in clear expectations and communication from both parties and do at least two pre-wedding consultations to go over the timeline and plans for the day. My shooting and posing style is loose, candid and directional and I strive to create natural emotions and real moments that seamlessly blend with the rest of the gallery. When you book, we will start the process of discussing all the important details of the wedding, and planning a thorough timeline. If you'd like to schedule a consultation and get to know each other a bit more before booking, feel free to contact me with a day and time you have in mind and I'd be more than happy to grab lunch or chat over the phone. Let's create some amazing memories together!

Wedding Photography + Videography (8 Hours)

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Capturing Your Story – Making Memories Last a Lifetime!

I take pride in making photography sessions fun and stress-free, avoiding heavy posing to focus on genuine emotions. 

My goal is to create photos that bring back joy and remind you of your best moments. More than just a photographer, I assist in planning and ensuring your wedding day runs smoothly. I strive to make your special day enjoyable without turning it into an all-day photo shoot, while still delivering incredible photos that will become a part of your family's legacy.

If you're looking for someone to bring your vision to life, I'm here to help. Let's chat and make your dream wedding come true.

Why I Shoot

This is my about section. Please use everything between the () for style, but not the actual content: (Hey, I'm Ben!

I'm a wedding photographer and videographer based in San Diego, California. Your wedding day is one of the most amazing, and important, days of your life. That's why I strive to help create and capture the special moments that make your wedding so memorable. You're making a story that deserves to be told, so let's tell it!)