THANK YOU FOR BOOKING
THANK YOU FOR BOOKING
Below is a compiled list of my recommended Ventura County locations. But first, I’d like to talk about WHY I like to recommend a spot:
LIGHTING. Lighting is THE most important component of photography. I like to shoot primarily with the sun behind my subjects, or to the side of my subjects. This creates a beautiful glow, and even lighting on faces (no harsh shadows on your face, which is most flattering for your features).
BACKGROUND. Let’s say a client likes the idea of a certain background (a fountain, a specific tree, etc.). If the angle needed to have said background, requires you to be facing stark sunlight, the photo will not turn out like the photos you see in my portfolio.
SCOUTING. Most important! I have spent time at each of the below locations. Finding all the best spots, at the correct time of day we are shooting. I can assure you there will be gorgeous backgrounds, with the proper lighting for photos. It will take away the guesswork, and make our time more efficient!
Thank you for reading!
LOCATION ONE
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LOCATION ONE 〰️
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This location is near Kanan Rd. It features cliffs over the ocean, lookouts over the ocean, a view of the bay, rolling hills, and a plain beach background at the bottom.
It has very limited parking, and a 10-15 minute walk from parking to our meet up spot, and a lot of walking/hiking between shooting areas. this location is best for a 1-2 hour session. I recommend comfy shoes you can slip on and off, but heels are ok for some spots. Be prepared to go barefoot for some! (Mini shoots here are slightly rushed).
1.
LOCATION TWO
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LOCATION TWO 〰️
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This spot is near the Ventura Pier. A good amount of walking is involved, but there are plenty of easy access spots via short walk, and free parking. This spot boasts yellow flowers - almost all year long, views of the ocean (depending on the day), and beautiful mountains against winding streets.
Sneakers/boots or heels are all appropriate at this location. Going barefoot on the street is really pretty! I would still recommend comfy slides for in between spots, and a jacket! It can get chilly up here.
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LOCATION THREE
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LOCATION THREE 〰️
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This location is in Newbury Park near the road to the beach, and is one of my favorite locations! There is limited parking here, but I have yet to have trouble. This location involves a good amount of walking to get to the top of the pretty long paved hill, but it’s so worth it.
Any type of shoe should be fine here, boots, heels, etc. Please still bring a comfy shoe to slip on and off between spots. Trust me, no one wants to walked the paved hill in heels! Speaking from experience ;)
This spot drastically ranges in color between seasons. But it is always stunning, whether it’s yellow or green!
3.
LOCATION FOUR
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LOCATION FOUR 〰️
4.
This spot is near where the 23 fwy meets the beach. It has very limited free street parking, or paid lot parking. Shooting spots are relatively close together, but there is a steep hill we will need to walk down, then back up to finish. The walk includes about 5 flights of stairs in addition to the hill. If the tide is high, we might get our feet wet!
There are multiple cliff views of the ocean here, along with rock formations on the beach that make for beautiful backgrounds. This is a HIGHLY populated beach. If you do not like people watching you, I would avoid this location. I recommend comfy shoes you can slip on and off, and be prepared to go barefoot on the sand.
4.
Other Location Ideas
~ that incur a varying extra fee ~
(usually parking/entrance and/or some gas money)
But let’s dream big. Big Sur, Yosemite, Big Bear Lake, Vasquez Rocks… the possibilities are endless.
HOW TO PREP
LADIES! Here are some things you might want to have ready before your session: NAILS - You shouldn’t have to hide your hands all shoot. Have them done, fix any nails that fell off, and you’ll be thankful! HAIR - if you get your hair done, consider a refresh before our session.
What to wear
NEUTRALS - your outfit shouldn’t compete for attention. we want the focus to be on you two. colors and patterns go in and out of style, and can really “age” a photo. neutrals are timeless.
GOOD COLORS THAT FALL INTO THE NEUTRALS CATEGORY - cream, tan, brown, white, warm grey, and black. secondary colors include jean, baby blue, olive, mustard, and rust. (muted tones)
IMPORTANT RULE OF THUMB - 3 COLORS MAX Example: one wearing a tan, black and white, other wearing black and tan. This also applies to shoes.
What not to wear
ANYTHING THAT’S NOT COMFORTABLE - I would hate for you to be focusing on anything other than your partner! If a strap or sleeve is too loose, a piece of clothing constantly needs to be pulled up, or even shoes that are too nice to get dirty - leave ‘em at home. I encourage you to find something you feel comfortable in, so that it’s one less thing on your mind. This might include trying out a style that isn’t “you.”
ANYTHING YOU DON’T WANT IN YOUR PHOTOS - Hair ties, socks that peak through unintentionally, a bra strap that won’t be concealed, anything like that. Honorable mention - apple watches! Think anything that might “age” your photos.
What to bring
BRING A BIG BAG FOR YOUR PERSONAL ITEMS - This bag will be for your keys, phones, watches, ponytail holder, sunnies, etc. You should also bring flip flops or slides, as we often do a bit of walking!
TOTALLY OPTIONAL! BUT IT’S OFTEN NICE TO HAVE SOMETHING TO HOLD - You could bring: a bottle of champagne to pop (and drink if you want!!), a blanket, picnic basket, flowers or bouquet, a hat, custom jacket, etc. Feel free to bring anything personal as well - if you skateboard, play basketball, a surfboard, etc. :)
Nerves?
“WE ARE SO AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA” - Everyone says it, ok? Trust me, you’ve got nothing to worry about. I’ve got all the poses/prompts to make y’all forget there’s a camera in your face.
THIS SHOULD BE FUN!! - As intimidating as this may seem, it is actually a super fun date! Maybe reward yourselves with dinner after since you’re all dressed up!