Engagement

A Dreamy Springtime Engagement Session in Malibu

May 17, 2026

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A couple stands on a grassy hill, kissing, with the ocean and a coastal landscape in the background under a clear sky. Copyright - Lisa Leanne Photography, California

Springtime Engagement Session

Springtime in Malibu is always magical, but Stephen & Cassie’s engagement session felt especially unforgettable. The coastal views, golden light, and playful moments in the ocean were stunning. Their engagement photos perfectly captured the excitement leading up to their destination wedding this July at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. It’s a celebration I’m so excited to photograph for them!

We began their session high above the coastline at a secret spot in Malibu Canyon. This unique spot offered the ideal beginning to Stephen and Cassie’s Malibu engagement session, where the rolling canyon landscapes meet sweeping ocean views. Spring had brought fresh greenery to the hillsides. As a result, it created the dreamiest backdrop for their portraits. The soft coastal breeze, warm sunlight, and quiet overlooks made the perfect setting for Stephen & Cassie. They could simply enjoy being together.

Stephen and Cassie were completely natural in front of the camera. From candid laughs to quiet moments, every part of their session reflected their connection and excitement for the season ahead. One of my favorite things about engagement sessions in Malibu is getting to know my couples before the wedding day. Spending the evening with these two made me even more excited for their upcoming celebration in St. Thomas!

Golden Hour at El Matador Beach

As golden hour approached, we made our way to El Matador State Beach for sunset portraits along the coast. With a Malibu engagement session, El Matador Beach is easily one of the most iconic locations for engagement photos in Southern California. It absolutely showed off that evening. The cliffs glowed in warm light while the waves reflected soft pastel tones across the shoreline.

Stephen & Cassie embraced every moment of the session — kicking off their shoes, running through the sand, and splashing together in the water as the sun disappeared behind the horizon. Those carefree moments always create some of the most meaningful photographs. Their joy was contagious. The combination of dramatic cliffs, glowing sunset light, and playful energy made for such a dreamy ending to their engagement session in Malibu.

I love when engagement sessions feel less posed and more like an adventure together. This evening perfectly captured that feeling. From the scenic overlooks of Malibu Canyon to the dreamy shoreline at El Matador Beach, both locations complemented Stephen & Cassie’s easygoing and joyful connection. Notably, their Malibu engagement session brought these adventurous moments to life.

I already know their destination wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is going to be incredible. If their Malibu engagement session was any indication, it will be filled with beautiful moments, ocean views, and so much love.

If you’re planning an engagement session in Malibu, combining canyon landscapes with a sunset beach location creates such a beautiful variety of imagery. Malibu Canyon and El Matador State Beach are truly a perfect pairing for couples wanting both coastal scenery and romantic golden hour portraits!

If you’re thinking about booking a Malibu engagement session or anywhere else in Southern California, take a look at my wedding photography services or just get in touch!

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Hello

I'm Lisa

Hi there! Welcome to my blog, a journal about my life, travels, and photography passion. Stay a while and say hello!

Learn more

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