Mary and Mitchell wanted a classic, timeless, and stylish feel for their couples session. Their location choice, Griffith Observatory, made for the perfect backdrop. This is thanks to its mix of curved lines and geometric yet soft architecture, all set in front of a jaw-dropping view of the Los Angeles skyline.

It doesn’t hurt that Griffith Observatory is one of the main shooting locations in the film La La Land, which loosely inspired this photoshoot. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone’s characters in the movie are known for their chemistry and their fashion sense, and have certainly met their match in Mary and Mitchell. It was a joy to photograph their relationship in a shoot that blended comfortable familiarity with sophisticated style effortlessly.

Elevated Style Choices to Match the Location

The foundation for this elegant gallery started with the outfit choices. Mary was not too obvious with her choice. She was wise to avoid a yellow dress like the one Emma Stone’s La La Land character wears to tap dance through Los Angeles. Even the lovely emerald green ensemble worn in the actual Griffith Observatory scene would have been too overt. Instead, Mary chose a flattering neutral silk dress in a timeless silhouette. This kind of choice nods tastefully in the direction of a theme like La La Land, without becoming cheesy.

Mitchell’s shoes are another perfect example of this. He wore oxfords with a broguing design similar to Gosling’s two-tone version, but in classic solid black. The groom’s sharp look was completed by black slacks and a tan sport coat; which complemented Mary’s dress and added a needed touch of casual to an already high-toned shoot.

Comfortable Meets Classy During This Engagement Shoot at Griffith Observatory

A dressier shoot in a location like this could easily feel stiff without the right photographer direction. This was a real couple shoot, not a styled one. So of course my ultimate goal was to showcase Mary and Mitchell’s unique relationship. I love how with some comforting words and posing direction behind the camera, their loving familiarity with each other became obvious. They were able to experience some genuine moments together, even all dressed up and in front of the camera. 

This balance has become a staple of my photography work. I specialize in high-end weddings styled with beautiful taste, but work to capture comfortable moments filled with emotion. With every shoot, I strive to create a gallery with a combination of editorial, magazine-worthy images along with candid, joyful moments that together fully embody the spirit and story of your relationship. 

If these sound like the kind of photographs you want to cherish from your special day, click here to learn more about working with me. I am based in Southern California and Utah, available for weddings, engagement sessions, and more worldwide.