A Surprise Engagement Shoot in Santa Barbara for Madison + Dan
Yesterday was one of those say yes to the adventure kind of days and we’re so glad we did.
We left San Clemente bright and early at 7am and road-tripped up the coast to Santa Barbara with a mission: to surprise one of Alyssa’s best friends, Madison, and help her celebrate her engagement with Dan!
The Backstory
Dan planned the sweetest surprise with Alyssa after proposing to Madison last Wednesday! It was just the two of them, overlooking Kings Canyon National Park near Hume Lake, where they first met. It was quiet, intimate, and super special!
Capturing moments like this is what fuels our approach to purpose-driven storytelling. We’re not just snapping pretty photos; we’re telling a story that’s deeply personal and emotional, rooted in who our couples are and what matters most to them.
The Surprise
Fast forward to this weekend. Madison and Dan were in Santa Barbara celebrating with Dan’s family. He told Madison they were going out for breakfast and maybe taking some phone pics after, so she should wear something cute “just in case.”
They pulled up to Cajun Kitchen, Dan’s favorite local breakfast spot, and when he asked the host for a “table for four,” Madison was totally confused... until we walked in the door.
She was completely surprised in the best way. Alyssa got to hug her, check out her gorgeous vintage-inspired oval ring, and we all sat down to breakfast together, catching up and soaking in the excitement.
These real, emotional moments are what make storytelling techniques so impactful in photography where we let the day unfold naturally while documenting the joy, connection, and reactions as they happen.
The Shoot
After breakfast, we headed to their favorite local beach. It was still foggy, which gave the shoot a soft, romantic vibe with cliffs and wildflowers in the background. Honestly, it couldn’t have been more beautiful.
Even though it was their first time taking professional photos together, Dan and Madison were so natural in front of the camera. We played timeless love songs, they kicked off their shoes, and just leaned into the moment.
We captured them walking barefoot in the water, laughing, and being fully present with each other. Once the sun came out, we shifted into those bright, classic California beach shots with blue water and golden light.
We picked some wildflowers for Madison to hold, Alyssa jumped in to help with posing while Tucker shot away, and yes we made sure they got a Polaroid to take home too!
Wrapping It Up
We ended the day with a hike up to Inspiration Point, which felt like the perfect way to close out such a fun, love-filled day.
Madison and Dan you two are something special, and we’re so grateful we got to be there for this moment. We can’t wait to share more soon.
