San Francisco Engagement Photos : Sandra+Alex

He saw a picture of her before he knew her. Alex spotted Sandra's photo on a poster announcing the hospital's new residents and was struck by her beauty. Alex was the hospital's pediatric radiologist and eagerly anticipated Sandra as she and the new residents made their introductory rounds to his department. When Sandra finally arrived, Alex tried thinking of every way he could talk to her.

Weeks later–after staring at Sandra from across the cafeteria at lunch, and occasionally getting caught–she walked into Alex's department with a question. In a stroke of luck, he answered her question…then found a way to keep her chatting for an extra 15 minutes. He ended up talking about his MOTHER, Sandra laughed as she recounted the story. Regardless of his swag technique (moms are cool!), Alex made Sandra notice him and made it difficult to turn down his invitation to dinner a few weeks later.

That was four years ago. Today they're planning a wedding in Sonoma at Kunde Estate in September, with help from Jacin of Lovely Little Details. I was honored to join Sandra and Alex in San Francisco for their engagement photos and I couldn't have been happier working with such an amazing couple!

I was especially excited to work with Jane of The Glamourist…I've been a longtime admirer of her work (she's one of the best hair and makeup artists in the Bay area) and she didn't disappoint. She's talented, fun, and hilarious…can't wait to work with her later this year! And, really, Sandra…you're GORGE!

One of my favorite things about Sandra and Alex is their ability to laugh and have fun…to them, life is an adventure you simply enjoy.

I love San Francisco. It's one of my favorite cities in the world and the type of place that makes a photographer fall in love. The light, the streets, the vibe…every corner is just begging for a photo op.

I should take the moment to mention Sandra is smart. And not like your average smart, but really, realllly smart. While we drove around San Francisco, she spoke about her career and how much she loves what she does (she's sub-specializing to become a neonatologist). In the process, Sandra used so many big words strung together I found myself nodding just to look cool. All I know is she's working to ensure premature babies have a fighting chance for a long and healthy life…this basically means she's pretty on the outside and inside!

What's a San Francisco engagement session without stopping to view the Golden Gate bridge…

At the end of the session, we walked through Golden Gate park, which is one of my favorite places in the world. It's so peaceful, beautiful, and a perfect place to enjoy love…and capture engagement pictures!

They love each other. Like, a lot.

I'm SO excited to document Sandra and Alex's wedding later this year…if it was anything like their engagement session, we're destined for a good time!