Rocky Cliffs Engagement at El Matador Beach in Malibu, California | Melissa + Erika

Couples

Aug 15

lesbian couple wearing white holding lanterns with rocky cliffs and the ocean in the background

I’m often asked if I get tired of photography sessions at locations like El Matador Beach in Malibu. It’s true that it’s an incredibly popular choice for engagement photoshoots—with that uniquely Californian blend of rugged cliffs, golden sands, and crashing waves that combine to create an atmosphere that is both ethereal and grounding. And it’s true that it’s something of a second home for me during engagement season.

But do I get tired of it? Never.

It’s a timeless canvas, an ever-changing backdrop that mirrors the diverse facets of every photography subject. Even if I shot here every day of the month, I don’t think two sessions would be alike—and I’d feel inspired every time.

☼

Photography during High Tides

When Melissa, Erika, and I made our way down the cliff stairs, we were met with bracing winds, an incredibly high tide, and the strongest waves I’ve seen at El Matador Beach. Instead of turning back and checking our calendars for a different date, we took the challenge on. I yelled prompts over the crashing waves and Melissa and Erika laughed their way through the session. We all got bowled over by the tide at some point, nearly lost our shoes, and had the time of our lives. After drying off a little, we headed back up the beach stairs and finished the session with some shots of the couple exploring the cliffs with lanterns—so classic and romantic.

Please enjoy some of my favorite photos from Melissa and Erika’s engagement shoot at El Matador Beach in Malibu, California.