Malibu Nights, El Matador Beach

There’s something undeniably magical about the California coast—the golden light, the dramatic cliffs, and the endless waves rolling against the shore. On my recent trip to California, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph some truly amazing couples, and one session that stood out was with Sunny and Corbin at El Matador Beach in Malibu.

Timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Corbin, an incredibly talented musician, happened to be back home for just a few days in between touring with none other than Beyoncé. Yes, you read that right—Beyoncé! With such a short window of time, I knew we had to make this session extra special. And let me tell you, these two made that incredibly easy.

Capturing Love at El Matador Beach

Sunny and Corbin have been married for just over a year, and the love between them was undeniable. They had this effortless connection—one of those rare bonds where you can feel their love just by being around them. Their energy was so natural and easygoing, making every moment feel authentic, every interaction unforced. That’s exactly what I strive to capture in my photography—those real, heartfelt moments that tell a love story in the most genuine way possible.

We arrived at El Matador Beach just before sunset, only to find that high tide had covered most of the sandy shore. The usual spots were now submerged, and the cliffs above the beach were packed with at least five other photographers trying to capture their own sessions. But instead of being discouraged, Sunny and Corbin were completely up for the challenge.

Embracing the Unexpected

One of my favorite things about working with couples like Sunny and Corbin is their adventurous spirit. Instead of worrying about the tide or the crowds, they embraced the unpredictability of the moment. They trusted me to guide them, and together, we found creative ways to work around the rising water and busy surroundings.

I asked if they were willing to brave the waves, and without hesitation, they said yes. That’s when the magic happened. Between dashing back and forth to avoid the crashing waves, we captured some of the most breathtaking, cinematic shots. The movement of the water, the wind in Sunny’s hair, the way Corbin held her close—it all felt so effortless and organic. And yes, I may have gotten half-soaked in the process, but it was absolutely worth it.

The Beauty of Candid, Unscripted Moments

There’s something about the ocean that makes everything feel more alive, more raw. The way the sun dipped lower into the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water, made the perfect backdrop for their love story. The beauty of sessions like this is that nothing feels forced. My goal is always to create a relaxed, stress-free environment where couples can just be themselves. That’s when the best moments happen—the genuine laughter, the quiet intimacy, the playful glances that speak volumes.

Sunny and Corbin didn’t need much direction; they simply fell into place naturally, lost in their own little world. Whether it was dancing barefoot in the sand, stealing kisses between waves, or simply holding each other as the sun set behind them, every frame told a story. These are the kinds of images I love to capture—timeless, soulful, and full of feeling.

Why Location Matters

El Matador Beach is one of those locations that never disappoints. With its rugged cliffs, hidden caves, and stunning ocean views, it’s the perfect setting for couples who want a mix of romance and adventure in their photos. But more than just being visually stunning, the location played a huge role in how this session unfolded.

High tide may have forced us to think outside the box, but it also gave us an opportunity to create something unique. The reflections in the water, the dramatic waves in the background—it all added depth and emotion to the photos. When choosing a location for engagement or anniversary sessions, I always encourage couples to pick a place that speaks to them, whether it’s a meaningful destination or simply somewhere that makes them feel alive.

A Testament to Love and Adventure

Looking back on this session, what stands out most to me isn’t just the stunning scenery or the golden light—it’s the way Sunny and Corbin embraced every moment. Their willingness to go with the flow, to laugh through the chaos, and to trust in the process made all the difference.

That’s what I love about photographing love stories. It’s not just about capturing posed portraits; it’s about preserving the emotions, the energy, and the little in-between moments that make each couple’s story unique. It’s about telling a story that feels as natural and effortless as the love it represents.

Why Photography is More Than Just Pictures

At the end of the day, wedding and couple photography is about more than just taking beautiful images. It’s about creating heirlooms—memories that you can look back on years from now and feel exactly what you felt in that moment. It’s about capturing love in its purest form so that, long after the waves have settled and the sun has set, the emotions remain.

That’s why I take a thoughtful, intentional approach to every session. I want my couples to feel comfortable, to feel seen, and most importantly, to feel like themselves. Whether it’s an intimate elopement, a destination wedding, or a spontaneous couple’s session on the beach, my goal is always the same: to create imagery that feels timeless yet true, refined yet real.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

If you’re dreaming of a session like this—where you can just be yourselves, let go, and enjoy the moment—I would love to hear from you. Whether it’s in California, on a secluded beach in Hawaii, or anywhere in the world, let’s make magic together. Your love story is worth capturing in a way that feels effortless, soulful, and beautifully you. CONTACT ME HERE

So what do you think? Did we do justice to El Matador Beach? Scroll through the photos and let me know!