Taking engagement photos for Colton McKivitz, SF 49ers player, and his fiancé Abby Jay was an absolute dream. We met at one of my favorite secret spots–one only clients get access to–within the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the lush greenery, scenic views, and open skies created the perfect backdrop for their love story.
As a bay area wedding photographer, I’m always looking for locations that offer something unique, and this spot tucked away within the Santa Cruz Mountains never disappoints. The beauty of the location, combined with Colton and Abby’s undeniable goofy chemistry, made every shot feel effortless. There’s something about this photo spot in the Bay Are that always seems to show up in its full glory for engagement sessions—and this shoot was no different.
A Session Full of Real Love and Genuine Moments
When I’m behind the camera, my goal isn’t to just take pretty pictures—it’s to capture real, raw moments between a couple. I want to tell your story in a way that feels true to who you are and the emotions you share. And that’s exactly what I got with Colton and Abby. From their soft smiles to the way they naturally gravitated toward each other, it was clear these two were crazy about each other.
The magic in their session came from moments that were unplanned—the way Abby would look at Colton, the laughs they shared over inside jokes, the quiet little glances. These are the moments I live for as a photographer, and I’m so grateful they let me document this chapter of their love.
A Backdrop That Compliments Their Love
The Santa Cruz Mountains were the perfect setting for Colton and Abby’s engagement session, adding a layer of natural beauty that felt just right. With the trees rolling on mountain tops in the distance, we couldn’t have asked for a better place to tell their story. The landscape just felt like it was made for them—calm, peaceful, and full of life.
As a California engagement photographer, I always feel so fortunate to work in such beautiful places, but it’s the couples like Colton and Abby that make these sessions unforgettable. Their love made every moment feel meaningful, and it made the job of capturing it all feel like less of a task and more of a privilege.
Let’s Tell Your Story
If you’re planning your engagement session and you’re looking for a photographer who will capture the real, unposed moments, I’d love to chat. Let’s work together to create timeless photos that reflect your love and who you truly are.
Book your session here.
MEET THE WRITER
Whitney
My heart and passion for this work is summed up by the act of service. From the first wedding I ever photographed to ones years later—I’ve yet to come down from the high of being part of a couple’s best day and putting it in digital form to look back on for a lifetime. I take my craft seriously, and that means serving you in all aspects on your wedding day, and the days leading up to it.
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Where to Next?
July 2025 /
Lake Tahoe, CAlifornia
JANUARY 2025 /
BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA
April 2025 /
Phoenix, Arizona
SEPT 2025 /
Dolomites, Italy
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