Cloudy Morning Sunrise Venice Beach Engagement Session | Crystal Lily Photography | Southern California & Destination Wedding & Lifestyle Photographer

An interracial couple hold hands, looking at each other on the beach.

When you plan for a sunrise engagement session in Venice Beach, but end up with a cloudy morning instead, you end up with vibrant pops of color against a gray backdrop that is nothing short of eye catching.

I met Alexis and David at the main entrance to the Venice Boardwalk while the street lights were still on and while we hoped for a morning filled with sun rays; the clouds in the sky didn’t matter, because Alexis ended up looking like sunshine herself. Together, with David, (who looked pretty dapper himself) the three of us wandered around Venice Beach, chatting about our weekends, work, and their wedding plans. (Fun fact: we were actually introduced by their amazing wedding planner, Isabel Kate of Isabel Kate Events.)

I followed Alexis and David down the Venice Beach Boardwalk, popping into a graffiti alley and taking advantage of the empty sidewalks, before we took a stroll by one of the canals to enjoy the early morning calm. Then we headed to the Venice Beach Pier on Washington Street so we could take photos on the shore.

Once we were on the beach, Alexis and David let go of their formal vibes and immediately became more relaxed. What’s really great is how well Alexis’ dress stood out next to the beautifully stained columns of the pier and David’s light blue shirt reflected the sky and the sea at the same time. What we ended up with is proof that you don’t need bright, sunny skies to highlight vibrant colors when you can mimic nature all on your own.

I enjoyed hanging out with these two and I’m looking forward to their Paso Robles wedding next Spring!