Whimsical California beach shoot with vintage boho styling

(Photographer’s Remarks)

Showcasing a wonderfully free-spirited whimsical mood and vibe, there’s little that’s stuffy or contrived about this shoot. It shows a pretty, feminine vintage feel with plenty of handmade and DIY aspects that are a break from the norm.

There are plenty of touches that could be carried through to a real wedding such as the color palette, the large over the top bouquet, the beach setting and the simple dress. The California light is also something that can’t be beat!

The Story

The story is of a bride who is jilted on her wedding day, hence we have no groom in sight. Simply a beautiful, sad young woman, alone on a San Francisco beach still dressed in her elegant wedding dress sitting and gazing to sea, carrying a suitcase with a San Jose luggage tag.

The Inspiration

This styled shoot combines a sun-drenched beach boho theme with a melancholy, feminine mood. My buzzwords were eclectic, quirky, nostalgic, romantic, shabby chic, old world, with a touch of a Victoriana, revival theme. It was also very important to keep all elements of the shoot, from the props used, the lighting and the post-processing techniques, subtle simple, soft and feminine.

Color Palette

The colors I had in mind were pale pastel, pinks, washed out, yellow sun and light wood. My textures were driftwood, rough sand, soft lace, warm breeze and porcelain skin.

The Styling Team

The team I brought together included a first-time model, Brittany plus a skilled and versatile make-up artist Ebony, a gifted and imaginative florist Erin and a very cool and visionary wedding cake-maker who loves to please, Kathleen. Our videographer Marshaleen’s wonderful video can be found above. Our stylist was Cat who runs an online clothing boutique and offers styling services.