Katie & Dustin's Winter Couples Session at the Claremont Colleges

Some locations never get old.

I've photographed sessions throughout the Claremont Colleges many times over the years, and every time I come back, I'm reminded why it's one of my favorite places to photograph couples. Between the Spanish-style architecture, ivy-covered walls, beautiful courtyards, tree-lined walkways, and endless variety of backdrops, it's a location that offers something special during every season.

Katie and Dustin's session was photographed during the winter months, which is often when people assume outdoor locations won't look their best. The Claremont Colleges prove that idea wrong every single year. Even with many of the trees shedding their leaves, the campus still provides incredible textures, warm tones, beautiful light, and timeless architecture that photographs beautifully.

From the moment we started exploring the grounds, Katie and Dustin were completely comfortable with each other. Their session felt relaxed, effortless, and genuine—exactly the type of atmosphere I always hope to create during a couples session. Rather than focusing on stiff poses, we spent the afternoon walking through

some of my favorite areas of campus, letting their natural connection guide the session.

One of the things I love most about photographing at the Claremont Colleges is the incredible variety available within a short walking distance. In a single session, we can move from elegant courtyards and historic archways to ivy-covered buildings, charming brick pathways, and open spaces filled with beautiful natural light.

It creates a gallery that feels diverse while still maintaining a cohesive and timeless look.

Katie's flowing white dress paired perfectly with the soft winter colors throughout the campus, while Dustin's neutral outfit complemented the surroundings beautifully. Together they brought a classic, effortless style that fit the location perfectly.

As the afternoon continued, we took advantage of some of the campus's most iconic areas, including the beautiful archways, historic buildings, and tree-lined walkways strung with lights. Even during winter, these spaces create a romantic atmosphere that feels straight out of a European courtyard.

Sessions like this are exactly why I continue returning to the Claremont Colleges year after year. No matter the season, the campus consistently offers stunning scenery, beautiful light, and countless opportunities to create meaningful photographs.

Katie and Dustin were an absolute joy to photograph, and I'm excited to share some of my favorite images from their winter session below.

Planning Your Own Couples or Engagement Session?

If you're looking for a location that offers beautiful architecture, gardens, tree-lined pathways, and a wide variety of backdrops all in one place, the Claremont Colleges remain one of my favorite locations in Southern California. Whether you're planning an engagement session, anniversary session, save-the-date photos, or simply want updated portraits together, it's a location that photographs beautifully throughout the year—even during winter.

If you're ready to start planning your own session, I'd love to help you choose the perfect location and create photographs that feel natural, timeless, and true to your relationship. Reach out and let's start planning your session.