Hello there! I’m Bethany Watson, a wedding photographer based in sunny California, and I’m so glad you’ve stopped by to get to know me a little better. Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve been drawn to the art of storytelling whether through words, drawings, or photography. There’s something so magical about being able to capture a moment in time and preserve the emotions that come with it. Today, as I navigate this wonderful journey of documenting love stories, I find myself in awe of all the couples who trust me to capture one of the most important days of their lives. This About page is my chance to share a bit of my background, my philosophy, and what you can expect when you work with me. So, grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a glass of wine), and let’s dive in!
I grew up in a small coastal town, where the natural beauty of the ocean and the rolling hills inspired my creative endeavors. My parents were both hobbyists in the arts my dad loved painting landscapes, and my mom was endlessly snapping pictures with her old film camera. It probably shouldn’t surprise anyone that I inherited their creative spirit. When I held that camera for the first time as a child, I felt a sudden spark of excitement. There was such wonder in seeing the world through a lens, focusing on specific details, and later, watching the resulting images develop. As a child, I would often spend my weekends snapping photos of my friends, my favorite beaches, and the vibrant sunsets that painted the sky.
Fast-forward to my late teens, and I found my initial calling: helping local families and friends document their special occasions. At first, it was simple events like birthdays, family reunions, and holiday card sessions. But one day, a close friend asked me to photograph her intimate backyard wedding. That experience completely changed my perspective. I discovered that photographing weddings wasn’t just about taking pictures; it was about telling a story and capturing raw emotion. From the moment I saw the bride walk down the makeshift aisle to the final toast of the evening, I realized how precious and fleeting these moments are. There was a certain beauty in being the person who preserves those memories forever.
Inspired by that experience, I decided to pursue wedding photography in a professional capacity. In college, I majored in Fine Art and Photography, which gave me the technical foundation I needed to refine my skills. I took every opportunity to learn from experienced photographers, shadowing them at weddings and asking a million questions about lighting, composition, and how to make people comfortable in front of the camera. Gradually, I started building my own portfolio and attracting couples who resonated with my style bright, uplifting, and detail-oriented. Before long, photography was no longer just a pastime; it had grown into a full-fledged career, and I couldn’t be happier.
My main goal as a wedding photographer is to ensure that every couple feels seen, heard, and cherished. After all, your wedding day is one of the biggest milestones of your life. I believe that every wedding is as unique as the connection between the two people at its center. Some couples are playful and adventurous, wanting to capture spontaneous laughter as they run through a vineyard. Others lean more toward the elegant and traditional, seeking timeless portraiture in a luxurious ballroom. No matter what the vibe is, I aim to blend into the background when needed, as well as gently guide you when portraits call for a bit of posing or direction. The end result should be a visual narrative that both reflects you as individuals and honors the love you share.
Being based in California gives me a wonderful canvas for my craft. From stunning beaches and rugged cliffs to charming vineyards and majestic redwood forests, the state truly has it all. I thrive on the chance to explore these locations alongside couples who share my passion for the outdoors. Whether we’re capturing engagement photos at Big Sur with waves crashing in the background or framing the majestic Golden Gate Bridge in a quintessential San Francisco shoot, I’m constantly amazed by the beauty this region has to offer. I’m also more than happy to travel outside of California if your wedding is in another corner of the country or world!
Over time, I realized that I had so many stories and experiences swirling around in my brain that I wanted to share in a more personal way. That’s why I decided to create my own wedding blog at https://mcbethphotography.com/, where I regularly post about the latest trends, helpful tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my shoots. The blog has become a space where I can connect with couples even before they reach out to book a session. I talk about everything from choosing your wedding color palette to finding the perfect dress silhouette for a cliffside ceremony. I also use it to highlight lesser-known wedding venues around California, share real-life stories from couples I’ve worked with, and offer guidance on picking a reliable vendor team. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see how many people find value in these posts.
One of my most cherished aspects of writing the blog is the sense of community it fosters. Readers leave comments, share their own wedding experiences, and sometimes even swap advice among themselves. I’m a firm believer that weddings are not just about the day itself but also about the process the journey you take as a couple to plan a meaningful celebration. By writing about this journey, I hope to empower you to make decisions that feel authentic to who you are. I always encourage couples to reach out with any questions they may have. Whether it’s about choosing the right lighting for a fall wedding or selecting the best seasonal flowers, I’m here to help.
When working with couples, communication is key for me. Before the big day, I like to schedule a consultation either in person or over a video call where we can get to know each other. I want to hear all about how you met, your favorite ways to spend time together, and your vision for the wedding day. This helps me plan a photography experience tailored to you. On the day itself, my approach is equal parts calm and enthusiastic. I bring a friendly, relaxed energy so that you can focus less on the camera and more on each other. Meanwhile, I’m always hunting for those candid, beautiful interactions that often happen at the edges of a scene: a tearful hug with a parent, a shared laugh with your bridal party, or a quick glance exchanged between the two of you that says it all.
Outside of photography, I love taking walks along the coast, exploring local farmers’ markets, and curling up with a good book. I also have a bit of a green thumb and enjoy tending to my little succulent garden whenever I need a break from editing. My personal life inspires my professional one, reminding me constantly how important it is to slow down and appreciate the small moments something I strive to capture in photographs for all my clients. My family and friends keep me grounded, and my dog, Willow, is my constant companion on photo walks and site visits. Life is a beautiful blend of big celebrations and quiet reflections, and I believe both deserve to be remembered.
As you browse my work and read through my blog, I hope you’ll see the heart and soul I put into everything I do. Each image I take is part of a larger story yours. My greatest reward is delivering a gallery that moves you to tears and laughter, reminding you of exactly how you felt on your wedding day. I want these photographs to be something you treasure not just in the immediate aftermath of the wedding, but decades down the line when you’re looking back at that one extraordinary day. My mission is to make sure your story is told in timeless images that will be cherished now and by future generations.
Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me, my journey, and my passion for wedding photography. It means the world to me that you’re considering me for your special day. If my approach resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to chat about your vision, share some more of my experiences, and see if we’re the right fit for one another. Whether you’re planning a beachfront elopement, a grand celebration in a vineyard, or an intimate ceremony in your own backyard, I’m here to help craft a visual narrative that speaks to who you are as a couple. To me, wedding photography is not just a job it’s a privilege and an honor to witness and document love in its purest form. I hope to have the opportunity to capture yours. Let’s make something beautiful together!