Los Feliz Engagement Session – Martina & Chris

An Evening in Los Feliz with Martina, Chris, and Lil B
Los Angeles Engagement Session | Wrenn Photography

When Martina first reached out and said the following via her inquiry, I knew we’d get along:

“We’re a non-traditional couple planning a non-traditional wedding and are looking for non-corny photos capturing the day. We’re thoroughly uninterested in having content for instagram, and instead are looking for a photographer to capture organic moments throughout the day.” We want family/group shots, but besides that we’d love more candid photos than not.”

After they booked and we started brainstorming their engagement session, she sent me a Pinterest board titled “non-corny engagement photos”. We kicked off their Los Feliz engagement session at home with their beloved kitty, Lil B (short for Little Bitch—iconic), who’s sadly nearing the end of her days. It felt so meaningful to slow down and capture those quiet, final moments of their little trio at home. The way they doted on her and made her feel part of everything was really tender to witness.

We then headed out to wander the neighborhood, explore the LA River at sunset, and wrap up the evening with ice cream. It felt less like a shoot and more like third-wheeling them on a date night, which is always the goal.

Before any engagement session, I make it a point to hop on a couple of calls with my couples. Getting to know people before I photograph them is such an important part of creating images that feel true to them. Every couple is different—and that means how I shoot, prompt, and direct shifts depending on their vibe. With Martina and Chris, the flow was playful and spontaneous, and they naturally brought so much of their own energy to the shoot.

I always tell couples that I’m not here to pose you—I’m here to collaborate with you and help bring your real connection into the frame. You already know how to be with your person—you know how you laugh together, how you hold hands, how you tease and comfort each other. My job is to hold space for all of that to come through while we hang out, chat, and maybe get a little weird (in the best way).

Sessions like Martina and Chris’s are the perfect example of what can happen when you trust yourself, show up as you are, and let your love lead.

Planning your own engagement session in Los Angeles, Austin, TX, or beyond? I’d love to collaborate on something that feels true to you. Reach out here and let’s start dreaming it up!