Nicholas & Amanda

When Nicholas & Amanda first reached out to me, it was for an engagement photoshoot at the crazy popular Alabama Hills. I was stoked, as our schedules aligned perfectly for me to be on the East Side during this time. So, I drove my trusty van “Clyde” into the desert to meet Nicholas & Amanda for couple’s photos.

We met on a rather chilly morning in November. This area can get plenty busy, so taking advantage of the early morning hours is key for an easy, breezy photoshoot. Plus, the gentle morning Sun made for some lovely lighting.

Nicholas & Amanda held each other close—kissing, laughing, and posing for the camera. I got some amazing photos while the couple explored the epic landscape.

There are so many interesting boulders, rocks, and patterns in the sandy landscape. It’s no wonder that this area has been used in movies, TV shows, and commercials. The area just screams adventure, after all. When Nicholas & Amanda showed me their motorcycles, I just knew I had to get some photos of them on their bikes!

Nicholas & Amanda loved their engagement photos. So, we started planning their Death Valley wedding. But sometimes the best-laid plans are thrown for a loop by other circumstances. Due to health complications in the family, Nicholas & Amanda decided to pivot to a backyard wedding in Central California.

When I arrived on the big day, I was treated to an absolutely stunning backyard—prepped perfectly for the nuptials. The house belonged to one of Nick’s family members and was huge. It was so nice of them to open the space in central California for this special moment.

Nick & Amanda decided on a traditional wedding ceremony, with a few unique twists to match their vision for a perfect wedding day. For example, they chose to read their vows privately rather than during the ceremony. As a photographer, I love to see this, because it allows for emotions (and tears) to flow more freely. It’s less of a performance for the guests and more of a raw experience of love and commitment that’s so touching for couples.

Beyond the vows, the couple’s close friend officiated the wedding ceremony while a family member played piano for the music.

Our newlyweds spent the rest of the night hanging out with friends and family, just enjoying the magic of the moment. And of course, we snapped some portraits at sunset amongst the central California farmland—which felt so homey and pleasant. Last but not least was a special photo request—pictures of our couple with their Corvette. A request I was more than happy to perform. I mean, just look how cool!

Yes, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. But that can open up new opportunities too. It just goes to show that Plan B can be just as amazing. Congrats to Nicholas & Amanda on a wonderful wedding day.

“We worked with Diana for our engagement and wedding. She was incredible! I can be pretty camera shy, but she made me feel very comfortable. She was also incredibly flexible in working with us. Our date and plan changed due to some family considerations. We went from a small elopement in the desert to a backyard wedding of about 100, and she was so understanding! Diana was helpful in establishing a schedule, shot list, and more. We had a consultation the week before our wedding so she could make sure to address any concerns we had. She made our backyard venue look so polished, and was able to frame photos very well in spite of some difficult lighting during our ceremony. Our family loves the photos we got back! There are so many wonderful candids, I feel that she really managed to capture the joy of the day.”

— Amanda & Nick