San Francisco Engagement Photography Session: Savanna + Eli

Bowerbird Photography March 5, 2013

"This is the most fun I've ever had during an engagement session," Sam chortled from behind his camera. "You say that to every couple!" Eli responded. "No, this is seriously the best!"

It was hard to tell who was smiling more, the photographers, or the adorable couple, Savanna + Eli. Their laughter was so infectious that it brought to mind that scene from Mary Poppins where everybody starts floating to the ceiling because they can't stop laughing.

We spent a sun-soaked afternoon with the couple in Golden Gate Park, and laughed so hard, it was hard to remember what was so funny. That's one thing that Savanna + Eli have in common, an incredible sense of humor, and a shining, beautiful, joyful spirit. Clearly, a perfect match.

Not only did we give ourselves side-aches from the silliness, Savanna also gave us an education on the plants at the Botanical Gardens in Golden Gate Park. She's a docent, and was able to show us new paths through the garden, and talk about all the plants like they were old friends.

We love these two and are so happy for their engagement! We hope you enjoy these photos from their day in Golden Gate Park.

All smiles! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

So gorgeous! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Playing in the redwoods. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Super romantic! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Snuggles! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Pink petals of the magnolia. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Savanna's beautiful engagement ring. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Lovers! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

You are stunning Savanna! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

Nose kisses ;) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Botanical Gardens, San Francisco.

On the bridge. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, De Young Museum San Francisco.

So cute! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, De Young Museum San Francisco.

Puttin' the moves on ;) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Golden Gate Park, De Young Museum San Francisco.

Congratulations darling Savanna + Eli!

xoxo,

Ariel + Sam

Napa Valley Engagement Photography Session: Julia + Ian

Bowerbird Photography February 26, 2013

Napa Valley is famous for their blooming spring mustard flowers. The whole landscape changes, turning into brilliant fields of gold. We were so excited when Julia + Ian suggested we take a road trip up north to take their engagement photos among the yellow flowers. Seriously, the best location a photographer could ask for! Julia + Ian also brought their bikes and motorcycle, which fit perfectly in the idyllic setting. How cute are they riding their bicycles together in the mustard fields - and how skilled are they for doing so while holding each others' hands?

Taking photos with Julia + Ian was the best! They are such a sweet couple, and we adore them! So excited to take photos at their wedding later this year :)

Getting ready for a ride through the yellow mustard flowers. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Getting ready for a ride through the yellow mustard flowers. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Julia's beautiful engagement ring. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Julia's beautiful engagement ring. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Hand-in-hand bike ride :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Hand-in-hand bike ride :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Celebrating their engagement and riding through the mustard fields hand-in-hand. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Celebrating their engagement and riding through the mustard fields hand-in-hand. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Taking a break in the sun.  What a fun day! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Taking a break in the sun. What a fun day! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Julia + Ian's reflection in the Harley. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Julia + Ian's reflection in the Harley. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Riding on the Harley Davidson. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Riding on the Harley Davidson. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Taking a ride on the Harley! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Taking a ride on the Harley! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Julia with a bouquet of wild mustard flowers. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Julia with a bouquet of wild mustard flowers. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Let me tell you a secret. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Let me tell you a secret. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

We're getting married! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Yountville, CA. — We're getting married! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Yountville, CA.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Yountville, CA. — © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Yountville, CA.

Walking into the horizon. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA. — Walking into the horizon. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography in Napa Valley, CA.

Congratulations Julia + Ian! We are truly happy for you both!

xoxo,

Ariel + Sam

San Francisco Engagement Photography Session: Maya + Liam

Bowerbird Photography February 22, 2013

We love going to the movies and catching a romantic comedy now and again. The best actors are able to make you laugh until your face hurts, but can also melt your heart into a warm puddle. If we were casting directors, Maya and Liam would get the part. Not only are they hilarious and playful, they can bring out such romance to make you want to howl at the moon.

You might recognize them from other photos we took where they were dressed in full wedding regalia at a mansion on Treasure Island. Maya wore a beautiful white dress and pearls and Liam looking dapper in a suit with a boutonniere to match his green tie. They sent our photos to their friends and family as their engagement announcement: "Surprise, We're Married! Ha-ha! Just kidding!" The most romantic prank ever, and especially appropriate since Maya has a family tradition of eloping.

This is the first time we've ever taken engagement photos after doing a couple's wedding photos. We went to Glen Canyon, where Liam used to romp around as a camp counselor in his youth. They showed us parts of the park we never knew existed, frolicking and laughing all the way. Here's a selection of images from their engagement photo session, which seem to tell mini stories, still vignettes of love and comedy. We can't wait for Maya + Liam's real wedding this summer - and will keep you posted. Congratulations you crazy love birds!!!

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Glen Canyon, San Francisco.

HAHA! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Glen Canyon, San Francisco.

Don't these just make you smile?! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Glen Canyon, San Francisco.

Up on the top of the hill, looking down at the canyon. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Glen Canyon, San Francisco.

Thank you Maya + Liam for reminding us that love can be so playful! We are so happy for you both :) Congratulations love birds!

xoxo,

Ariel + Sa

San Francisco Engagement Photography Session: Natasia + Shawn

Bowerbird Photography February 12, 2013

Shawn proposed to Natasia on the beach at Kirby Cove, so it was a perfect choice to return to the sand and surf to take their engagement photos. Kirby Cove is a beautiful spot, just below the Golden Gate Bridge in the Marin Headlands, with lush ferns, pine trees, and a stellar view of the bridge and the Bay. Natasia + Shawn had a wonderful time reliving their proposal and playing in the waves.

On our way back to San Francisco, we stopped at the Palace of Fine Arts, and after a quick costume change, the couple emerged in formal attire, for a romantic, glamorous, "wow" look. We took photographs of them under the many columns and arches of SF's iconic landmark for a series of images suitable for a spread in Vogue.

Natasia's beautiful engagement ring. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Kirby Cove, Marin.

Playing in the ocean, just below the Golden Gate Bridge. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Kirby Cove, Marin.

A serious kiss, with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Kirby Cove, Marin.

Very glam! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

Looking gorgeous. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

True love. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco. — True love. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

Congratulations Natasia + Shawn! We are so happy for you both :)

xoxo,

Ariel + Sam

San Francisco Engagement Photography Session: Michelle + Greg

Bowerbird Photography January 31, 2013

Michelle used to drive her baby blue 1966 Ford Mustang to high school, which is pretty much the coolest car a girl could ever dream for! Heads turned then, and heads keep turning today. She sure got her fiancé Greg's attention. For their engagement photo session, the baby blue was washed, polished, and taken out for a whirl on the streets of San Francisco! We drove from Crissy Field to get some iconic shots on the beach with the Golden Gate Bridge, to the Palace of Fine Arts for photos by the pond. There's nothing like driving with the top down and the wind whipping through our hair! Michelle and Greg live it up with style. They even brought a bottle of pink champagne (Michelle ♥s all things pink!) to sip on while admiring our San Francisco Bay vista.

Michelle + Greg relaxing on the beach. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Crissy Field, San Francisco.

Engagement photos with the Golden Gate Bridge -- classic! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Crissy Field, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Crissy Field, San Francisco.

Off for a ride around San Francisco in the 1966 Mustang convertible! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Crissy Field, San Francisco.

Stopping at the Palace of Fine Arts in the '66 Mustang convertible. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

There's something so royal and fabulous about this photo! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

So many cool reflections :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

Love Michelle's pretty Chanel bracelet :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

© Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco.

Drove to the top of a hill -- time to pop a bottle of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco. — Drove to the top of a hill -- time to pop a bottle of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

Opening the pink Veuve Clicquot champagne. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco. — Opening the pink Veuve Clicquot champagne. © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

Two glasses of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne coming right up :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco. — Two glasses of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne coming right up :) © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

Clink! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

Seriously hot legs and a bottle of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco. — Seriously hot legs and a bottle of pink Veuve Clicquot champagne! © Bowerbird Photography 2013; Engagement Photography with vintage 1966 Mustang convertible, San Francisco.

If you could take a day and wrap it in perfection, it would have to be this photo session! We're so happy for Michelle + Greg! Congratulations love birds!

xoxo,

Ariel + Sam

Vendors

Photography: Bowerbird Photography

Makeup: Talia Wright (taliawright@gmail.com)