Drew Clayton Photography
Visual heirlooms of life
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Photo Journal

Drew's blog, showing his latest work, with photos from recent weddings, engagement sessions and portraits.

Gretchen & Andrew - El Matador Maternity

I had a marvelous time at El Matador State Beach in Malibu photographing the gorgeous Gretchen and her strapping husband Andrew. 

This super cute couple came referred to me by the dear Lizzie, whose wedding and two maternity sessions I've shot. It's always proved true that the cool people I know surround themselves with more cool people. Lizzie and Gretchen are two of a kind: sweet, lovely, and naturals in front of a camera.

This was only my second time shooting at El Matador, and as with the first time, the light was sumptuous. I'm just going to assume it's always like that. Between the imposing rock features and wild coastline view, it's become one of my favorite locations. 

The soft cloudy light was perfect for skin tones. These guys were looking great (not that they needed the help). Rusty stair railings and warm sandstone all set off Gretchen's strawberry hair and soft blue eyes especially amazingly. Everything was coming out so nicely; I couldn't stop until the tide got so high that we ran out of beach.

The couple wanted some photos with their classic Mercedes. I jokingly said, "Ok, I'll need Gretchen reclining across the hood like a super model." She didn't even think before just climbing up. Andrew wasn't worried about his car; he wanted a cool sā€¦

The couple wanted some photos with their classic Mercedes. I jokingly said, "Ok, I'll need Gretchen reclining across the hood like a super model." She didn't even think before just climbing up. Andrew wasn't worried about his car; he wanted a cool shot with his gorgeous wife. That's a man with his priorities in the right place. 

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My absolute favorite shot of the day. That is one glowingly gorgeous mama. 

My absolute favorite shot of the day. That is one glowingly gorgeous mama. 

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These two are at their best when they're looking at each other. There's no prompting smiles on my part; they just light up as soon as their eyes lock. Love it.

These two are at their best when they're looking at each other. There's no prompting smiles on my part; they just light up as soon as their eyes lock. Love it.

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I had a great time shooting with you two. I look forward to meeting the little one. All kinds of blessings to you guys.