Newport Beach Wedding Photographer
A Wedding Day That Feels As Real As It Looks
Authentic, Editorial Wedding Photography for the Modern Couple.
Your Story, Unscripted
Your wedding day is a story—a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of moments, people, and emotions you've spent months planning. You deserve to be in that story, fully present and connected, not pulled away for hours of stiff, orchestrated poses.
My approach is different.
I'm a storyteller who believes the most beautiful wedding images are born from authentic, unscripted moments. My job is to capture the day as it truly unfolds, allowing you and your guests to live in the moment while I preserve the real, candid magic.
More Than Just Photos. The Complete Story
Capturing the "real magic" sometimes requires more than a static image. The laughter, the tearful vows, the way the wind catches your dress—these moments have movement.
That’s why I do things differently.
I am a hybrid shooter. This means I seamlessly blend my editorial photography with cinematic video clips throughout your day. You don't just get a gallery of beautiful images; you get a dynamic, emotive highlight reel perfectly sized for sharing on social media.
- No big video crews.
- No intrusive equipment.
- Just authentic storytelling.
The Connection-First Experience
Think of me less as a director and more as your storyteller. My entire process is designed to make you, your partner, and your guests feel comfortable enough to be your true, authentic selves.
We'll plan the key moments, of course, but on the day itself, my goal is to blend in. I'm there to be a calm, confident presence, allowing you to focus on what matters: your commitment, your family, and your celebration.
There will be no rigid posing. Instead, I'll offer gentle guidance to help you connect, interact, and feel at ease, creating space for the real, joyful moments to happen naturally.
A Documentary Eye for the Moments In-Between
With the unobtrusive eye of a photojournalist, I focus on the moments you'll cherish most—the ones you might not even see happen.
It’s the unscripted laugh with your best friend during prep. The quiet, proud tear in your parent's eye during the ceremony. The way your partner looks at you when they think no one is watching.
These aren't just "perfect" moments. They're real moments. And they are the heart of your story.
SPECIAL PACKAGES FOR 2026
The Elopement Collection
Perfect for civil ceremonies, beach vows, or adventure sessions.
- Up to 3 Hours of Coverage
- Ceremony, Family & Creative Portraits
- 30-60 Second Social Media Highlight Film
- 150+ Edited High-Res Images
PORTFOLIO RATE
$1,950
The Intimate Wedding Collection
Ideal for backyard weddings, small venues, or restaurant receptions.
- Up to 6 Hours of Coverage
- Getting Ready, Ceremony, Family, Portraits, & First Hour of Reception
- 60-90 Second Social Media Highlight Film
- 300+ Edited High-Res Images
PORTFOLIO RATE
$3,450
FAQ
We aren't models and feel awkward in front of cameras. Is that okay?
It is more than okay—it is expected! My entire "unposed" philosophy is built for couples who don't like performing for the camera. I won't ask you to freeze or fake a smile. I’ll give you simple prompts to interact with each other, so you can focus on your partner while I capture the natural connection.
What exactly is the "Social Media Highlight Film"?
Think of it as a cinematic trailer for your wedding day. It’s a 30-90 second vertical video, professionally edited to licensed music, capturing the movement and emotion of your day. It’s perfect for sharing on Instagram Reels or TikTok to give friends a quick, beautiful glimpse of your celebration.
How do we secure our date?
First off, reach out to me through the contact form below to see if and how we can work together. But to "officially" reserve your date, I require a signed contract, a 50% retainer and final payment 1 week before the actual event. Dates are booked on a first-come, first-served basis, so that's why I always ask that you reach out first through the form below.
Will you travel outside of Newport Beach?
Absolutely. While I am based in Newport Beach, I frequently serve clients across Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego. And even for locations outside these areas, while there may be some travel fees that may apply, I'm always open to options.
When will we receive our images?
You won't have to wait long to relive the magic. I send a "Sneak Peek" gallery within 48 hours of your wedding. The full, edited gallery and your highlight film will be delivered within 2-4 weeks.
Have more questions? Most are answered on my FAQ page.
Kind Words
“Intuitive, creative, and full of heart, Mariano has a way of capturing the essence of a moment, not just the image.
He made everyone feel at ease and beautifully seen.
The photos from our event are pure magic: timeless, soulful, and alive with the spirit of the evening.“
Carrie W.
Laguna Beach
Let's See If We're A Match
Your wedding day is just that—yours. It's a story that deserves to be told with honesty, joy, and artistry.
If you're a couple who values real, unscripted moments and wants your photos to be a genuine reflection of your celebration, then we're a perfect fit.
I am currently interviewing couples for these 5 portfolio spots.
Let's get the conversation started by entering the details below and check availability for your date.