A Balboa Park engagement session like this one with Teresa & Keanu is always a good idea. These two were incredibly easy-going, totally down for anything I suggested, and just genuinely had fun with the whole experience, which always makes the best photos.

Teresa wanted to incorporate film into the session, so many of the photos below were captured on medium format Kodak Portra 400. Between the ever gorgeous Balboa Park architecture and the couple’s classy outfits, film felt like the perfect fit – timeless, romantic, and a little nostalgic in the best way.

I’m already so excited for their wedding at the Rancho Bernardo Inn this May – it’s going to be such a beautiful day, and I can’t wait to capture the next chapter of their story! Enjoy highlights from this classy Balboa Park engagement session!

 

 

 

 

Quick Tips for Planning Your Engagement Session:

1. Plan Your Session Around Light
Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) gives dreamy, flattering light — perfect for portraits

2. Clean Your Ring & Do Your Nails
These two things will be a focal point of some of your images

3. Get Your Hair & Makeup Done
This is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and possibly even schedule your bridal makeup trial

4. Give Yourself Extra Time
Especially if you choose a popular location, make sure to give yourself some extra time for traveling and finding parking

5. What To Wear
Neutrals such as tan, cream, ivory, gray, and off-white are easiest on the eyes and blend well with any backdrop. Muted blues, greens, and pinks can also compliment a variety of skin tones. Avoid bright colors and bold designs. Finally, make sure you feel comfortable in your outfit – you should like how you look when you look in the mirror, and how the outfit makes you feel

6. Trust Your Photographer
Let them guide you with posing, lighting, and timing — it’s what they do best!

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Jade Maria is a hybrid wedding and portrait photographer based in San Diego, California. With a fine art approach, her photography style is romantic, soft, and organic – influenced by the timeless aesthetics of film photography.