Joseph & Juliette

Some love stories unfold with a quiet kind of magic — the kind that sneaks up in the soft hush of an overcast day and changes everything in a single, unforgettable moment.

Joseph and Juliette’s proposal at the Ritz Carlton Bacara was exactly that.

I was introduced to these two earlier in the year when I photographed Juliette’s sister’s wedding, so getting the chance to be part of this next chapter in their story felt incredibly special. And the fact that Juliette had no idea what was about to happen? Even more perfect.

The day was romantically overcast, with just enough softness in the sky to make everything feel a little more intimate. I captured their session on both digital and medium format film — something I don’t always get to do, and a process that made this already emotional day feel even more timeless.

The Ritz Carlton Bacara is truly a gem tucked away along the Santa Barbara coast. Its architecture is stunning, but it’s the hidden beach access that holds the real magic. Think rugged cliffs, soft sand, and that wild, whimsical feeling that only the California coastline can give. It’s a place that feels both grounded and ethereal — exactly the kind of place you’d want to begin forever.

Joseph led Juliette down the winding path toward the beach, where the waves met the shore and time seemed to pause. Then, with all the love in his heart, he asked the question that would change both of their lives.

She said yes.

These two are the sweetest together. Their energy, their laughter, the way they look at each other — it’s everything you hope to witness as a photographer and as a human.

Joseph and Juliette, thank you for letting me be part of this once-in-a-lifetime moment. I’ll never forget it.