There’s something magical about keeping things simple, especially when it reflects who you are as a couple. That was the heart behind this all-film Orange County spring engagement session with Jade and Niko. Shot in the grassy hills of Southern California, this editorial-inspired session brought together timeless style, vintage tones, and their sweet pup Princess. Every frame is soaked in golden light, honest joy, and the kind of warmth that makes you want to run barefoot through the fields. We wanted this to feel relaxed, nostalgic, and very them — a true reflection of their story, shot on nothing but film.

Why This Orange County Spring Engagement Session Worked So Well

Spring in Orange County is fleeting, especially in the grassy fields that define this particular engagement session location. If you’re dreaming of soft greens and golden tones for your engagement photos, you’ll want to plan your shoot for April or May. By summer, the grass dries out and much of that natural beauty fades. So, if you’re eyeing a landscape like this for your photos, keep the season in mind!

We intentionally planned this session around springtime, and it paid off; the tones, textures, and golden light came together perfectly.

All Film, All Heart

Although I usually shoot both digital and film, this session was all about trusting my creative gut. We committed to film from the start — no digital safety net. The result? Dreamy, imperfect, romantic images that feel cinematic and timeless. Film naturally encourages more presence and intentionality, which fit the relaxed, editorial tone of Jade and Niko’s engagement session. From the cowboy boots to the candid laughter, every frame felt authentic.

A Dog Named Princess, a Love Story in Motion

One of the best parts of this shoot? Princess. Including your dog in your engagement photos is not only fun, but it also brings out the most genuine, joyful parts of your relationship. Jade and Niko’s sweet girl added so much personality to their session. She’s a part of their love story, and capturing those little interactions made everything feel more personal.

Casual Western Vibes Meet Vintage Romance

Jade and Niko kept things simple with their outfits: denim jeans, white tanks, cowboy boots, and a neutral plaid button-down. The combination struck a perfect balance between laid-back and stylish. Their playful energy brought out a fun, editorial feel while still keeping the tone grounded. We explored the fences near the parking area and wandered through open fields to find pockets of light and movement. These kinds of sessions are where I thrive — chasing golden hour, documenting emotion, and finding beauty in the little things.Interested in a Western-inspired elopement with all the cowboy vibes? 

Planning Your Own Orange County Spring Engagement

If this location looks like your dream backdrop, here’s your reminder that timing is everything. These lush grassy textures don’t stick around long. To get the look you see in these engagement photos, make sure to plan for early spring before the heat rolls in.

Also, keep in mind that the park closes by 7 pm, so we had to work fast! But with the right timing and a little flexibility, it’s totally possible to create something beautiful and unique to you. You can learn more about my approach to photography and pricing for couples over on my info page.

Let’s Bring Your Engagement Photos to Life

If you’ve been dreaming of an all-film engagement session that feels personal, nostalgic, and effortlessly you — I’d love to help bring that vision to life. Whether we’re in the hills of Orange County, the beaches of Southern California, or somewhere entirely unexpected, let’s create engagement photos that feel like a celebration of your connection.

Ready to start dreaming up your own session? Head over to my contact form and let’s chat about what you’re envisioning. And for even more behind-the-scenes peeks and recent favorites, you can always follow along on my Instagram.