Some sessions start with a little nervous energy—and end in complete magic. That was exactly the case with Jelena and Chris.
We met at sunrise at China Beach in San Francisco, with the soft morning light just starting to paint the sky. It was quiet, peaceful, and full of possibility—the perfect setting for two people stepping in front of the camera for the very first time together.
Their First Time Being Photographed Together
Jelena and Chris have been together for nine years, but this was their very first time taking professional photos together. Naturally, they showed up feeling a little nervous—unsure of how to pose, what to expect, or how the morning would unfold. But as soon as we started, something shifted.
They leaned into each other. They laughed. They moved in sync. And before long, they were completely in their element—comfortable, connected, and fully present with one another.
From Nerves to Pure Joy
By the end of the session, what started as anxiety turned into something so beautiful and fun. They told me afterward how surprised they were by how natural it all felt—and how much they genuinely enjoyed the experience.When their preview gallery landed in their inbox, they were shocked (in the best way). And when the full gallery was delivered, they were in tears. Seeing their connection reflected back at them—raw, real, and full of love—sparked a whole new level of excitement for their wedding next May.
A Sweet Beginning
Engagement sessions aren’t just about photos—they’re about freezing a moment in time before everything changes. For Jelena and Chris, this was the beginning of their next chapter, captured in golden light on a quiet San Francisco morning.
To Jelena and Chris: Thank you for trusting me to tell this piece of your story. Watching you go from nervous to completely at ease was such a joy—and your love, even after nine years, feels brand new. I can’t wait to celebrate with you next May.
