The Expressive Blog

From time-to-time, I meet folks who I just know I will have a blast working with, and that is exactly what happened when I met these two, at a bridal show, a few months ago. They asked if we could do their engagement portraits in Big Sur - one of my favorite places!

We decided to begin the photography session with a tour of the Point Sur Lightstation, which is something I have been wanting to do for some time, but had never actually done on my visits to the area. Since none of us had ever taken the lightstation tour, we did not know what to expect in the way of photo-opportunities, but we were not disappointed. Even though we were on a docent-guided tour, we had plenty of chances to create photos along the way, while learning history, and odd facts about the lightstation. For example, who would have thought that due to the strong winds common on the high rocks where the lighthouse is located, the former lightkeepers would keep their chickens on leashes, to prevent them from being literally blown away? I am happy to report that we too, were blown away... by the amazing beauty of this place!

Here is a small selection of images from this Big Sur portrait session...

The lighthouse sits atop the rocky pinnacle, shrouded in fog in this image.

As we walked up the narrow asphalt service road, we eventually got a glimpse of the lighthouse, as seen in upper left of the above photo, and the images below...

After our wonderful windy experience at Point Sur, we headed down to the beautifully landscaped grounds of Nepenthe Restaurant for more photos, and an early dinner. Those who know Big Sur, love this spot! If you're not seeking food, come for the incredible views! We found perfect spots with great light for portraits here, and also hammed it up a bit, as you will see...

For some reason, Carolyn could not resist the temptation to make a call, on this old English style phone booth. The call went on for some time though, and me and Colin were feeling kinda left-out.

Eventually, Colin realized how he could join in the fun too. I am not sure if they were having a three-way call, or just talking to each other here...

After all the fun-and-games at Nepenthe, we finally headed further South, to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where we finished our marathon engagement session with an incredible Big Sur sunset. I think I had to pinch myself a few times, to be sure I was really working in Big Sur this day, and not just dreaming. Many thanks, to Colin and Carolyn! I look forward to the wedding, this October!

When one is "looking at the world through rose-colored glasses" it looks something like this...