Nina + Joe’s At Home Engagement Session | San Diego

When I asked Nina and Joe what they envisioned for their engagement photos, their answer was simple yet profound: "the romanticism of everyday." That response resonated deeply with me. Rather than orchestrating a grand setting, we decided to document their love story in the most intimate space possible—their home. Their cozy San Diego apartment, bathed in golden light and filled with the warmth of their sweet pup, Tom, became the perfect backdrop.

I encouraged Nina and Joe to prepare minimally, to let go of the urge to perfect every detail. No elaborate outfits, no overthinking—just existing together. Because when we unlearn the need for perfection, we begin to truly observe. To be. This philosophy is the foundation of my work. I believe in romanticizing the mundane, because once you start to practice this, you realize that nothing in life is truly mundane at all. There’s immense, unfathomable beauty in the smallest moments—if you simply learn to notice.

We chased light around their apartment, pausing to capture Nina’s timeless ring as the afternoon sun poured into the guest room. In the kitchen, they brewed tea in their favorite handmade mugs, and the scent of simmering chili filled the space. Joe took charge at the stove, with Nina by his side as his sous chef. The aroma mingled effortlessly with soft jazz playing in the background. Naturally, dancing followed.

As the session unfolded, Tom made sure to stay near, quietly carrying his favorite toy from room to room. We ended in the comfort of their bedroom, where the light was soft and inviting. Nina curled up with her most recent Book Catapult find, Joe leaned in, and Tom nestled beside them—just a family savoring a quiet, love-filled moment together. These ended up being some of my favorite images from the day.

Being in front of a camera is a deeply vulnerable practice. Doing so in your safe space takes the edge off, allowing you to fully embrace the moment. If you’re a low-key engaged couple, an at-home engagement session is the perfect way to document your love story authentically—cozy, intimate, and completely you.

Images were made on Kodak & Ilford film. Developed and scanned by Safelight Labs in San Diego, California.