Southern California Photographer
Art-Driven Photography + Cinematic Short Form Video
For couples who value storytelling that feels elevated, alive, and true to who you are
• Weddings • Elopements • Couples •
Available For Travel
The Intent
Lasting memories through breathtaking, heartfelt imagery
Years from now, when you open your wedding album or walk past your photos on the wall, I don’t want you to just see images. I want you to feel it all over again, the butterflies, the tears, the laughter, the way it felt to promise forever. That’s the kind of gift photography should give back, not just once, but every single time you look at it.
The Experience
With Me, It’s Different
We’re going to have fun and create amazing memories, but more importantly, I’m going to work my ass off to get you those once-in-a-lifetime shots. When it’s all said and done, my only mission is to deliver an experience you'll never forget and a gallery that is nothing short of iconic.
My Style
This is where cinematic meets unscripted
I specialize in a unique style. It’s a balance of documentary for the real, honest moments and cinematic + editorial guidance for the portraits and video highlights that matter. The result is a gallery that holds the emotion of the day without sacrificing the art.
My editing style honors reality. It is true to color, but a hint richer. Expect natural skin tones, luxurious greens, and a touch of creaminess that gives your gallery a dreamy, fine art feel.
Trends come and go, but with me your photos will forever remain chic and timeless.
Photography is Visual Poetry
Swipe, look, linger — every frame’s got something to say.
Your wedding day is wildly important
The day you’ve dreamt up for months will unfold in a heartbeat, and when it does, you’ll want every detail to be captured intentionally and artistically.
That reaction when your partner sees you for the first time. Your dad wiping a stray tear off his cheek while he walks you down the aisle. The unposed laughter at the head table when the best man tells that story. Your grandmother on the dance floor with a drink in her hand and a huge grin on her face. These are the shots that make the months of planning worth it, the ones that capture exactly how it felt to be there.
When you think about it, your flowers will wilt, the music will fade and the cake will disappear, but your vows and your photographs will remain. Beautiful, tangible memories to last a lifetime and beyond.
This is why investing in your photographer is one of the best decisions you can make.
Don’t let your memories slip through your fingers. Click below to inquire.
Hello, I’m Samantha
The creative heart behind Aurea Lux Media.
I’m a photographer, memory-maker, storyteller and a passionate observer of life’s most beautiful moments. I pride myself on my artistic vision, meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to surpassing client expectations.
As your photographer, I’m not here to be another "vendor." I’m here to be the person with a camera in one hand and your drink in the other, making sure every electric second is documented and you're having the time of your life.
Let’s get into the details.
Every couple I work with reminds me why I do this.
And while their words mean the world to me, what matters most is what those photos mean to them.
Testimonials
We legit felt like Vogue models. Samantha hyped us up the whole time and made everything feel easy. Felt like it was just us, having fun, but looking way cooler than we thought we could.
"We legit felt like Vogue models"
Testimonials
Samantha didn’t just take my bridal portraits, she turned me into art! I can’t explain how empowering it feels to see myself this way. I’ve never felt so gorgeous in my life and I can’t stop staring at these photos!
"I can’t explain how empowering it feels to see myself this way."
Testimonials
You have this insane ability to make two awkward humans look like actual models and feel like the best versions of ourselves. You didn’t just give us photos, you gave us memories that feel cinematic. Thank you for making the entire process so fun and natural. We’d do it all over again in a heartbeat!
"Thank you for making the entire process so fun and natural."
The Process
STEP 01
Fill out the form
On my contact page, start by sharing a few details about yourself and the vision you have for your day. The more I know, the better I can serve you from the start. If you'd prefer, you can always book directly via my investment page.
STEP 02
Call or meet up
We’ll hop on a quick call (or FaceTime) to make sure we’re a great fit. If so, I’ll walk you through the collections, answer any questions, and get a feel for what matters most to you. From there, a retainer and signed contract will secure your date and make everything official.
STEP 03
Picture time
Whether it’s your engagement session, elopement, or wedding day, I’m there to provide a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. No awkward posing, no weird silence, just a mix of creativity and a genuine passion that transforms moments into tangible, lifelong memories.
STEP 04
Delivering photos
Your gallery will land in your inbox beautifully edited and ready to relive. Pour a drink, cozy up to your person and get ready to feel it all over again — the laughter, the chaos, the quiet moments, every bit of it.
FAQ
DO YOU TRAVEL FOR DESTINATION WEDDINGS?
Absolutely! I serve couples throughout Southern California and extended travel is available upon request for all services.
DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?
Yes. I offer flexible payment plans for all collections. We’ll set up a payment schedule that works for you while keeping everything clear and easy.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD WE BOOK?
For weddings and elopements, I suggest booking once your date is set. Most couples secure their spot 6–12 months in advance.
Portrait sessions can usually be booked just a few weeks in advance, depending on availability.
WHEN/HOW WILL WE RECEIVE OUR PHOTOS?
Editing is the most time intensive part of the process, and so typically it takes about 3-5 weeks for portrait sessions and
6-8 weeks for weddings and elopements. Photos are delivered via digital gallery for instant access, downloads and easy sharing.
*Need your gallery sooner? Priority Editing available — receive your full gallery in 5 weeks instead.
DO YOU HELP WITH THE WEDDING DAY PHOTO TIMELINE?
Yes! I help plan the photo portion of your day and work alongside your planner or day-of coordinator so we’re all on the same page throughout the planning process.