Samantha Josette Photography

09/04/2024

It’s one thing to capture an intimate wedding and feel all the feels… but it’s another when it’s your family.
I got to be apart of my cousins wedding day by capturing every tender moment. I’m usually a cryer even for clients that aren’t my family . But this one I was actually struggling to see through my camera. All happy tears. The most incredible vows, the sweetest family prayer and blending ceremony. Just so so good.
This wedding was small and simple and all the best ways. There was such a sense of peace and joy all around. And the there was the kids speeches that had everyone in tears and bursting with laughter.
I was thrilled to capture their love and their celebration on the family property that holds so many memories for them. I know their photos will forever be cherished for so many reasons.
If you have the idea of an intimate wedding but aren’t sure how it works or where to even have it. IDE love to talk it through with you. It’s such an amazing way to get married and I so far I haven’t hear of anyone that regrets it.
Dress from
Hair
Makeup
Cake
Couple

09/03/2024

September? Really? How did we get here so fast.
I know I sound like a broken record when I say I LOVE SUMMER warm weather, beach days, vacations by the pool…. Shall I go on?
But there is one thing that excites me about September. It’s the start of a busy season of LOVE. And if there is anything I hold as high as summer in my heart it is LOVE. Feeling and giving love but also witnessing love, hearing stories of love but most of all CAPTURING LOVE. ❤️
Like how am I so lucky to capture love?
I want to try and share more photos that just make you feel. I’ve been on a journey with social media. Trying to figure out the best way to share my brand, my work, my offerings, my personal life. And I think my answer is to share it all the best way I can. I feel like I lost a bit of the sharing actual photos. I share a ton of reels and show off what I offer and my personal life etc. But because video content became so “trendy” I stopped posting simple photos.
So they are coming back. And I want you all to see the love that I see in the images I take. And I want the right people to fall in love with my work and hope to work with me one day. SOUND GOOD?
So going back to simple and basic ways to sharing my work.
And my goal for this fall is to share more in emails and blogging. So if you want to join my email list dm me email list and I’ll get you added.
Photo featuring the sweet couple Daulet + Carly during there intentional elopement here on the central coast.
Hair and makeup
Flowers

08/14/2024

Imagine eloping in a castle in Barcelona—a perfect blend of intimate intentionality and luxury. Picture yourself experiencing the day like royalty, surrounded by rich history and romance. It’s truly a dream come true.
I feel so honored to have captured such an exquisite couple in this incredible venue.
So tell me is a castle your thing?

HOSTS & DESIGN: .co & .co
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RENTALS:
HOTEL:
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08/10/2024

Ciao from Italy
I’m about 7 days into my trip to Europe and It’s been amazing. I expected great and it’s beyond that.
I’ve been apart of some of the most incredible shoots so far in Barcelona, Valencia, Nice and today’s was in Florence. I have a few more to go in Portofino and Rome.
After this trip I’m thrilled to be offering my elopement and intimate wedding services to Europe. I’m excited and inspired and can’t wait. So if you want to be one of the first couples to bring me over seas I would be honored to help create and capture your day.
Just want to share a dose of encouragement and inspiration to those who want more … just go for it. Don’t let fear, opinions, excuses or false expectations to get in your way. Take the leap of faith and start doing the things you dream of doing.
I just want to give a huge shout out to the creators of this fabulous retreat that I am on. Dryden and Emily of .co + .co and the boss babe who has been our mama bear of the trip who is a phenomenal wedding planner.
There are so many other amazing vendors involved as well so stay tuned for all the posts from this trip to see all the other vendor features.
Thank you for snagging this photo of me

07/16/2024

This is 38… hanging onto my thirties and enjoying them while they last.
Things I’ve learned this year.
1. Keep taking risks… the outcome is always bigger than expected or it’s the best learning experience.
2. Be comfortable in my own skin and embrace the changes in my body… still working on this.
3. Take deep breaths and enjoy life as it’s happening. Don’t let the desire to hustle stop me from living for today.
4. Build strong relationships with those who want to pour into you and not only take from you or judge you.
5. I can’t do everything that pops into my head but I am very capable of doing many things. It doesn’t hurt to try.
I had such a fear of getting older the last few years. I don’t know why really. I know I’m growing for the better every year so I’m deciding to not have fear of getting older anymore and just be excited to the future growth and new adventures ahead.
One of my dearest friends lost his life at 30 and ever since then I’ve had the mindset that isn’t as cliche as it sounds. Life is so short. We really don’t know when our time is up so why not go for it all. Enjoy the finer things in life. Work hard to achieve the big unrealistic goals and enjoy the fruits of your efforts.
My biggest goal for this coming year is to not only practice what I preach but to teach others and hopefully create more impact in others lives.
Oh and ya take the photos! Of you! Don’t wait till you look better, your hair grows out, your skin clears up, you lose the weight. Friend you are you and you need to celebrate who you are today and everyday.

05/14/2024

Yes you can elope in Nashville. And it’s real fun!
You actually can elope just about anywhere.
Have you ever watched the movie “The Vow”. I’ve always been a sucker for romantic comedies and dramas. The cheesier the love story the better.
Anyway in this movie they have a ceremony in an art museum 🖼️ . They did it illegally 🤪 but I think this idea has always stuck in my head. That weddings don’t have to be traditional or cookie cutter. You really can do it the way you want that really represents the things that you love as a couple and individually.
Do you love Nashville, country music and a street hot dog?… I got you 🍻🌭🪩
Do you love National parks, hiking and jumping in the freezing river water? …. Let’s do it 🏔️🏞️🥾
Or are you do you love the ocean, tropical weather and a romantic sunset sail? … I’m ready ⛵️🌊 🏝️
This Nashville Elopement Vibe was SO RAD. I could have photographed them for 100 more hours.
Tell me what your ultimate Elopement vibe would be? I love coming up with new and exciting ideas.

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Design, decor and styling

02/01/2024

Which location would you choose?
They are all so good. I love planning elopement experiences at each and every one of these locations and shooting in them is LITERALLY AMAZING.
I have to say I feel really really spoiled that I live on the central coast of California. Not only because it’s the best place to live but because I’m so centrally located to all my favorite locations. All driving distance to me. I know a lot of photographers who do what I do that can’t say that.
So I just want to say I recognize how lucky I am.
I think if I were to choose where to elope from this list, if I can get married all over again. I probably would choose Palm Springs. Just because I am personally obsessed with that place. I’m a desert girly who would take a pool over the ocean any day.
So tell me what location are you picking? Let me know below.
If you’re interested in learning more about how you can work with me for your elopement or you have questions about elopements and how they work. Comment the work “elope” below and I’ll send you everything you need to know in your DM’s.
Yay can’t wait to see where we end up this year.

01/13/2024

Guess what!! I am opening my books for February in the studio space! I am offering 50% off the normal rate when you book right now! 💫

Photographer friends, this is the perfect opportunity for you to get creative in a studio setting whether it’s with your clients, or to create your own content!

Click the link in my stories to book your spot, the price reflects the discount already added for you! 🫶
Available dates begin as early as February 12th! 📸

February 1st I will be returning to my normal rate so act fast 🏃‍♀️

01/12/2024

Love is in the air, and so is the perfect photo opportunity after winter comes to end.🌿💑 Now’s the time to book your spring sessions to capture your love story against the lush green hills of San Luis Obispo county. I’m definitely a summer lover but I can for sure appreciate spring time with all that’s grown.
💍✨ Book your couple or engagement session today and let’s make those moments last forever! 📸💚

01/08/2024

I’m so excited to finally share my big announcement… drumroll please 🥁
I am opening my own photography studio space! I am super super excited to work with you guys out of this space in San Luis Obispo! Back in a space that helped me grow my wedding planning business back in the day. IFYKYK🌟
If you need headshots, branding photos, or even studio style couple sessions or bridal portraits. I am so excited to finally have a space to curate that for you!
I plan on having a handful of mini session days throughout the year for couples, families and brands so look out for those announcements.
📸 Photographer friends, I will also be opening spots up for you to book for your own photo shoots! Details to come on how to book the studio.
Also I may be hosting a few content days over the year for photographers to expand the studio work portfolios. How awesome would that be?
Stay tuned because my suite mate .flora and I are planning an exciting open house event for you guys to come and check it out in person! 🫶 
Will be featuring a few other SLO owned small businesses. If you want to be apart of the event DM me and let’s chat about how we can fit you in.
I can’t even begin to contain my excitement for this I can’t wait for a new way to connect with more of you in our community.
If you have any questions comment below or DM me. I will be writing everything down and will come on live some time soon to answer everyone’s questions.

Photographer friends, I will also be opening spots up for you to book for your own photo shoots! Stay tuned because I’m planning an exciting launch party for you guys to come and check it out in person! 🫶

12/04/2022

Are you dreaming an elopement that is fun, artistic, uniquely you. But you have NO IDEA how to plan something like that or maybe you just have no time?
Well you’re in luck because I offer an all inclusive elopement that allows you to dream it while I help pull it together and make it happen. It’s like a one stop elopement shop. Planning and shooting in California and beyond.
Want to know more? Click the link in my bio … or skip that step and dm me so we can set up a phone call.
I know your time is valuable… so I’m here to make the planning process simple and easy for you.
I’m still obsessing over Shane and Chelsey’s day… It was such a dream to work on their day.
Couple
Venue
Photography + Planning + Design .josette
Videography
Flower Help
Caterer
Hair and Makeup
Bartenders .dine
Cake
Rentals
Linens
Day of assistant
Dress
Suit
Rings
Hat

09/01/2022

come Join me on Pinterest as I will be sharing all my beautiful couples and their amazing elopements. Starting with Dan and Emily's South Lake Tahoe Elopement

Discover even more ideas for you

06/22/2022

Okay who wants to hear about my horrible experience with a horse?
When I was a kid… maybe like 5 or 6 I honestly can’t remember. I was riding a horse while my sister was holding the rope walking next to it. The horse had step on her foot which cause her to yelp. But unfortunately her yelp spooked the horse. So of course the horse bucks me off and takes off. However; my little foot was stuck in the stirrup. So I was dangling by my foot for … honestly I don’t know how long. I think my brain decided to block that trauma from me because I only remember bits and pieces.
I was totally fine after… I think. And yes I still get on horses. I do not have a fear of them.
Scroll to the last photo for a instagram vs reality.
This horse was obsessed with Samantha’s hair and dress and wouldn’t leave her alone. So of course I had to include a photo of that.
I’m just still over the moon about this dream horse pasture that we got to use for Zach and Samantha’s sunset photos. SO DREAMY 🫠.

Where are my horse fans? Drop a heart or a comment! If your terrified of horses please share and the reason why. Any traumatic stories like mine?
Couple
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Beauty
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Second shooters because they did so good I can’t tell my photos from theirs 🤗

06/15/2022

Do you ever wonder if something wrong ever happens on elopement days when you look at these beautiful photos?
Sometimes things happen.
But nothing extreme that has ruined the day for any couples.
A moment that I will never forget that happened on Katie and Erika’s day. As I just placed them on top of a rock that took a bit of balance for the girls… one of the videographers got stabbed by a cactus while the girls were being swarmed by a bee.
My attention went straight to Brandon just making sure he was okay but also making sure Britt my assistant wasn’t going to stab her hand by trying to remove the cactus from Brandon’s leg.
Then I looked over at the girls on the rock and Erika looked a little panicked about the new and Katie was trying to calm her down. Turns out Erika was just stung a days before this and swelled up pretty bad. So she had a bit ptsd around bees.
It was a moment that seems a bit funny now but wasn’t funny then.
So yes sometimes things happen behind these beautiful photos. But I think all my couples know not to expect perfection… just expect a fun adventure and a good time.
And yes Brandon was okay once we were able to remove all needles.
Do you have any funny or not so funny stories that happened behind the scenes of an elopement or a wedding? Let’s share some stories in the comments.
All inclusive elopement .josette
Flowers
Hair and makeup
Video

06/09/2022

Want to know the real truth?
You don’t have to elope in an iconic location like Yosemite for it to be EPIC.
Is it epic to elope in Yosemite? Absolutely!
But, you can have an epic elopement ANYWHERE. So don’t feel pressured to have to travel great lengths to elope.
I will say though… your elopement should and can be just as special as a traditional wedding.
If you need help figuring out what to do and where to go for your elopement… connect with me I would love to help you figure it out. I love creating personalized elopement experiences for you so the two of you can really just come along for the ride and enjoy each other and the day.
Tag your friends who needed to hear this.
These Jason and Vana chose Yosemite because it was a place they endured the half dome hike together and it will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
Couple and
All inclusive elopement .josette
Hair and makeup
Flowers
Shoes
Video

06/04/2022

I recently heard the question … “why do you do what you do and why do you give so much of yourself for this job?”
I had to really reflect and ask myself that. Yes of course the obvious answer is .. I’m passionate about it. I love getting to know my clients. I can’t get enough of capturing love.
But really even if I love it and I’m passionate about it. Why is it that I allow myself to work countless hours, pour my heart and soul into it, give up time with my family, burden myself with the stress and anxieties of hoping the day turns out better than they have ever dreamt of?
Well the answer can’t be put into words really. But it’s the feeling I feel during each moment of an elopement day. It’s more than a feeling of accomplishment or pride. It’s something bigger than that. I’ve described before as being on Cloud Nine… whatever that means. But it’s like my cup is not only full but overflowing with every positive feeling I can think of.
I tell all my couples before their wedding or elopement day to make sure they really take in each moment because the day goes by so fast. I actually do this myself. I allow myself time to take it all in.
So the answer is because it’s not just a job, It is a part of my life and what brings me joy. What I do is a big chunk of who I am.
I’ve been told that what you do for work is not who you are. But for me… I have to disagree. Because what I do for work is serving me just as much as it is serving my clients. And I hope each couple can feel that from me when they work with me.
This beautiful couple inspired me so much this day and
Makeup by .by.jorien
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05/28/2022

Tomorrow is my husband and I’s 6 year wedding anniversary. And what better way to spend the day than shooting a wedding together!!!
Yes my husband also knows photography and he second shoots for me here and there. So of course a wedding on our anniversary day is a perfect time to shoot with me … right?
Don’t worry we leave Sunday for our favorite place Catalina Island to celebrate each other.
It’s Stephen and Gias wedding day tomorrow and I feel even more connected to them now that we will share the same anniversary date.
Can’t wait to celebrate the two of you !

05/15/2022

Can you do this for 10 seconds?
Take one deep breath in… and let one deep breath out.

Good. I know it can be tough to do when you’re planning a wedding or deciding if you should elope or have a traditional wedding, but when you take a moment to just breathe, I promise it will be worth every second!

Tag a friend who needs this reminder.
Couple .gillie
Makeup

05/04/2022

I remember one of the first times I started showing interest in taking pictures.
It was at her 16th birthday.
This is Tayler my cousin and she is getting married!!! I clearly remember taking photos at her 16th birthday with my cannon rebel power shot thinking I was real cool with the settings that allowed me to shoot in sepia and black and white. Oh not just black and white… but with a feature that allowed you to have one pop of color 🤦🏽‍♀️. Hey it was cool then and I was just getting being creative.
Full circle she is all grown up and I had the privilege of shooting their engagement photos and will be shooting their wedding later this year.
I need to go down the rabbit hole and find those photos now. I’m sure I still have some.
Who remembers the sepia and black and white with pop of color fads?
.elijah52

04/28/2022

You want to know what 99.9% of my couples say at the beginning of a shoot?
“We are so awkward and uncomfortable in front of the camera, good luck getting anything good of us”
I seriously here it ALL THE TIME!
Want to know what my response is?…. “Oh friends let me prove you wrong”.
The way I photograph a couple is less of “okay now sit here, tilt your head, and smile”…. AND MORE OF… “okay I want you guys to embrace each other and think about the first time you knew you were in love”… or … “cuddle up together and Garrett can you whisper in her ear describing the ultimate pizza with all your favorite toppings in you sexy voice”… or… “hold hands and run as if you were chasing eachother”
Do these 👆🏽 sound crazy? Maybe … but they work. And I have about 30 other prompts I use that help get you two loose, comfortable, having fun and maybe … just maybe feeling a little hot for each other 😜🥵🥰.
But really what these prompts do is they allow me to capture your natural chemistry with one another. That’s what I want. And the result is beautiful natural emotion filled photos. Nothing awkward about them.
Super stoked to shoot these lovebirds’ wedding.

04/09/2022

Happy couples = Happy Me😁
I can’t even express enough how much I LOVE WHAT I DO. Not just because I get to utilize my gifts and talents that quite literally fuels my soul. But mostly because I get to meet and create for the most incredible couples.
I was thinking the other day about my why. Like my deep why. Not the why that is obvious… like I get freedom with my time, I provide for and set and example for my kids, I live out my passions.
But my deep rooted WHY is this…
I wasn’t taught or shown Love very well. I know 100% I was loved but I never really saw affection in my life unless it was in a movie or show. As rare as that may seem I think a lot of my generation went through the same thing. Did you?
I now receive so much love in my marriage that I thought was just in the movies. I know that may sound cliche but it’s SO TRUE for me.
Now … back to my deep why.
I get to capture true love and affection in so many couples. By capturing it and sharing it with the world … I’m showing those young women and boys who don’t see if in their lives that it is real and possible. I want them to know that you are worthy of love and a connection with another human like marriage is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever experienced.
So yes it’s been discovered… my deeper why for this job of mine that seriously feels weird to call a job because it doesn’t feel like it.
Okay now who’s getting sound of music vibes from these photos.
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04/04/2022

You know that moment when you think of the PERFECT thing to say… but it’s too late, because the moment passes you by?
Been there! My ego has been bruised many times from kicking myself for not speaking up at the right time.
The good news is, I’ve learned a thing or two that I hope you find encouraging. 
Here’s three lessons I’ve learned from not speaking up:
1. Your unique perspective may cause someone to see it differently.
2. Speaking up empowers someone else to do the same. 3.Your words don’t need to be perfect.
So, the next time you find yourself in a similar situation, know that what you have to say matters, and you deserve to be heard.
Drop your favorite emoji below if you agree (bonus points if it’s the *mic emoji*)!
Also how fun is this studio elopement. More of these please!

Host:
Models:
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Florals/Design:
Ballon Installation: .co
Tablescape Rentals:
Jewelry:
Dress:
Paper goods: .ca

04/03/2022

Clear skies, rain, hail, snow and fog in one adventure shoot…. I’m here for it.
Not what we planned but also not mad about it.
If you can have a shoot in any type of weather what would you choose?
If it were me and my hubby I would choose sunshine with a light breeze for gorgeous sun flares and movement. On our wedding day we had fog. So I’m looking forward to a possible 10 year vow renewal Elopement style.
I’m so excited to finish up this gallery. 🤩🙌🏽