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A Romantic Engagement at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

A Romantic Engagement at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

When you think of timeless elegance and coastal luxury, few places capture it quite like the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. Nestled along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Mediterranean-style resort and wedding venue offers a dreamy backdrop for any romantic occasion—especially an engagement session like Miguel and Yusra’s.

We strolled the palm-lined pathways and terracotta courtyards of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara as golden light danced through the trees. The result? A series of editorial-style engagement portraits full of warmth, intimacy, and that relaxed California elegance.

Engaged couple embracing under Spanish-style arches at the Santa Barbara Courthouse in timeless white outfits

Santa Barbara Courthouse: Architecture & Romance

As part of their upgraded engagement session package, we continued to the Santa Barbara Courthouse—a true architectural gem known for its Spanish Colonial Revival design and lush gardens. Yusra’s lace sleeves and delicate jewelry paired so beautifully with the romantic arches and white columns, bringing a refined and regal energy to every frame.

This location is ideal for couples who want an elevated, sophisticated aesthetic for their engagement photos while still capturing joyful, candid moments.

Elegant couple walking the palm-lined entrance of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara during their Santa Barbara engagement session
Engaged couple posing on stone steps surrounded by palm trees at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse gardens

Sunset at Leadbetter Beach

We ended the session with barefoot moments at Leadbetter Beach, where the tide was low, and the sky was glowing with soft pastels. The two danced, laughed, and wandered hand-in-hand along the shoreline—completely at ease, completely in love. These beach portraits added a dreamy, laid-back California vibe to their gallery, showing just how multifaceted an engagement session in Santa Barbara can be.

Couple barefoot on the sand at Leadbetter Beach during sunset while smiling back at each other

Why This Session Was So Special

Miguel and Yusra’s engagement session was the perfect reflection of who they are: joyful, connected, effortlessly elegant. From the luxury of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, to the historical grandeur of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, to the natural romance of Leadbetter Beach, we created a gallery of photographs that are not only beautiful, but meaningful— It was elegant and fun, sophisticated yet full of real, unscripted emotion.

This session is a perfect example of what I offer with my Signature Extended Engagement Collection, which includes up to three locations, wardrobe support, and plenty of relaxed time to enjoy the experience (and get those heirloom-worthy photos without ever feeling rushed). A Session Full of Beauty, Joy, and Timeless Charm

Whether you’re planning a wedding weekend in Santa Barbara or simply want a session that feels dreamy and personal, I’d love to help you craft something unforgettable.


Planning Your Own Engagement Session in Santa Barbara?
If you’re dreaming of an elegant engagement session with a variety of stunning backdrops—from luxury resorts to coastal sands—I’d be honored to help you bring your vision to life.

📩 Inquire here to get my Engagement Guide & availability!

Let’s create something magical together.

Elegant couple posing on the palm-lined entrance of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara during their Santa Barbara engagement session
Bride-to-be in classic white eyelet dress smiling over shoulder with tropical greenery at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara
Bride-to-be in classic white eyelet dress smiling over shoulder at Leadbetter Beach during sunset
Couple barefoot on the sand at Leadbetter Beach during sunset, wrapped in a romantic embrace
Couple barefoot on the sand at Leadbetter Beach during sunset, wrapped in a romantic embrace
Romantic close-up of engaged couple smiling during their Santa Barbara Courthouse engagement session
Detail shot of couple holding hands, highlighting the engagement ring and lace sleeves of the bride's dress
Engaged couple posing on stone steps surrounded by palm trees at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse gardens
Elegant couple at the palm-lined entrance of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara during their Santa Barbara engagement session
Romantic close-up of engaged couple smiling during their Santa Barbara Courthouse engagement session
Bride-to-be in classic white eyelet dress smiling over shoulder at Leadbetter Beach during sunset
Couple barefoot on the sand at Leadbetter Beach during sunset, caught in a romantic gaze

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Wether you're hosting an large luxury wedding  or an intimate day with just the ones who matter most- I have a custom photography collection for you.

You deserve photos that bring you right back into the moment.

I'm leana


California wedding photographer who blends natural connection with a fine art aesthetic, capturing the kind of beauty that lingers long after the day is over.

Romantic wedding photos for playful hearts.