P & M
Golden Hour by the Coast: An Engagement Session at Santa Monica Pier, California
As an Austin-based photographer with a love for destination shoots, we at Deepicka Mehta Photography always get excited when we’re invited to document love stories in iconic locations. So when P & M chose the Santa Monica Pier in California for their engagement session, we knew it would be one for the books. The combination of California’s laid-back charm, golden-hour glow, and the couple's undeniable chemistry created an atmosphere that was both effortless and unforgettable. There’s something incredibly timeless about engagement portraits captured by the ocean—it’s a setting that reflects both calm and excitement, just like the beginning of a lifelong journey together.
The Bride-to-Be: Grace in the Details
P brought such elegance to this session—her choice of outfit was both timeless and graceful, complementing the pastel tones of the ocean and sky. The flow of her dress in the breeze and her radiant smile gave us everything we look for in natural, elevated portraits. Her style paired beautifully with M’s clean and tailored look, making them feel effortlessly in sync without being too matchy. We always tell our couples that what you wear should reflect how you feel, and P & M nailed that balance of comfort and confidence.
Beachside Serenity: When the Sky Meets the Sea
After strolling through the pier, we moved to the shoreline where soft waves met the sand under a glowing sky. This portion of the shoot was slower, more intentional, and emotionally rich. The sunset turned the ocean into a golden canvas, casting warm light over P & M as they shared quiet moments and unspoken affection. Their silhouettes, framed by the sun, created editorial-style portraits that feel both relaxed and luxurious. It’s moments like these that show how the setting and lighting can elevate every frame.
Laughter, Movement, and Unscripted Joy
What made this session so impactful was not just the setting, but how genuinely present P & M were with each other. They laughed freely, played with the tide, and trusted the process. It gave us room to create images that feel alive—not overly posed or rehearsed, but instead grounded in real emotion. As destination photographers, we strive to preserve those fleeting expressions and candid interactions that often become the most treasured memories.
Santa Monica Pier gave us the perfect canvas for P & M’s engagement session which is a place where the ocean breeze, vibrant colors, and golden light all came together to reflect their connection. Their laughter, quiet moments, and effortless style reminded us why these sessions are such a beautiful part of the journey to “I do.” As Austin-based photographers who often travel across Texas, California, and beyond, we love documenting stories that feel true to each couple and the places that mean the most to them. Whether you’re searching for a Santa Monica engagement photographer or planning a California destination wedding, here at Deepicka Mehta Photography our goal is always the same: to create timeless, light-filled imagery that captures your love story with authenticity and joy.
