Belmont Park Retro-Inspired Engagement Session

MEET ALEX & CHARLIE! This San Diego engagement session was such a perfect blend of intention and play. When they told me they were dreaming of something with a retro, date-night feel—think record shops, arcade lights, dinner vibes—I knew we could create something really fun together.

I happened to already be in San Diego for our babymoon and had my favorite photogenic room at the Dutra Inn booked (truly, a hidden gem). It felt like the perfect starting point: funky, colorful, a little nostalgic, and full of personality. From there, I built out the rest of the session to match their vision while keeping everything smooth and easy for them.

That’s honestly one of my favorite parts of the process—when couples bring me a general vibe they’re excited about, and I get to step in and connect the dots. I’m always thinking about lighting, flow, locations, and how to make everything feel effortless while still looking incredible. You don’t have to have it all figured out—that’s my job.

We wrapped things up at Belmont Park, which is basically engagement session gold if you’re going for that vintage, playful energy. The colors, the motion, the ocean air—it all just hits. And for couples wanting something a little more romantic-meets-European, Little Italy is always a dream too.

I’m already counting down to their wedding at Green Acres this summer. They’ve got amazing style, the sweetest energy, and I just know it’s going to be a good one.