Retro Inspired Engagement Session at the Beach

"I have had this idea for a retro-inspired beach photoshoot for a very long time and I knew I did not want to style a shoot but rather have a real couple being truly invested in the idea as well because I really wanted to bring to life that magical 50s-60s era with the soft kisses and the fresh breath of emancipation.

I was truly lucky to meet Caitlin during a photoshoot, and while talking she mentioned her wish to be photographed with her boyfriend James, and get some photos that didn’t feel like all the others typical engagement sessions but rather had a particularly fine taste, but fun and glamorous all at once. We discussed my idea and both Caitlin and James loved it. Living in Los Angeles it was easy to find a gorgeous beach to shoot our session and I chose Hollywood Beach specifically for its wide-open space and the very large extension of sandy beach that divides the cute little town of Oxnard from the Ocean. I wanted to somewhat recreate an afternoon stroll in some kind of vacation paradise, leaving your imagination free to wander between Mexico and maybe even Italy or Spain. Something very important for me was to capture everything with film, I truly wanted to dive into the whole experience of a vintage shoot, so not taking advantage of the speed and agility of a digital camera was part of the game. I purchased our vignette props between flea-markets and vintage stores throughout the years and I am happy that I was able to put together a very cute scenery for my couple to comfortably fit in."

Photographer: Jessica Mangia | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Stylist / Planner: Jessica Mangia | Hair & Make-up Artist: Jean Kim