Michellegiffordphotography

06/19/2026

These photos are gorgeous, but what you don’t see is that Seth Garrett and charlotte dwelley walked nearly 2/3 of a mile through Torrey Pines in shiny dress shoes to get here.

Totally worth it.

Charlotte was the one who requested the location and as a Southern California engagement photographer, I’m always grateful when couples are ready to chase the light and go the extra mile for the shot. Torrey Pines gave us the dreamiest backdrop for their engagement photos.

Now I can’t wait to photograph their wedding on Saturday.

05/23/2026

I’m pretty sure this was the coldest wedding I’ve ever photographed… and somehow you would never know it from the smiles on Adri and Matthew’s faces 🤍

They were absolute troopers through the freezing temperatures, and honestly, I think that just made the whole day feel even more magical. So much joy, so much love, and the kind of calm happiness that makes photographing weddings so special.

Still not over this day.

📍Southern California photographer
📍Inland Empire bridal photographer
📍Riverside wedding photographer

05/23/2026

Happy graduation to the Class of 2026 🎓

Congrats, Matthew. Excited to see what comes next for you.

📍Southern California senior photographer
📍Inland Empire senior photographer
📍Riverside senior photographer

05/23/2026

Still catching up on sharing senior sessions, but this one is still one of my favorites. I’ll be sharing some of her dance pics soon. 🤍

Reagan brought the coolest mix of confidence, kindness, and effortless style to her session, and photographing her was such a reminder of why I love senior photography so much. These sessions are never just about pictures — they’re about capturing who you are in this exact season before everything changes.

And yes… I know I’m late posting these 😂 but some sessions deserve their moment anyway.

If you’re looking for a Southern California senior photographer who wants your photos to feel natural, feminine, confident, and actually like you, I’d love to photograph you.

📍Riverside senior photographer
📍Inland Empire senior photographer
📍Southern California senior photographer

04/22/2026

There’s something extra special about getting to photograph my son’s friends 🤍

I’ve watched them grow up, cheer them on from the sidelines, and then suddenly… we’re here, capturing their senior year.

This one? She’s the kind of girl you just know is going to do something big—kind, smart, dedicated, and one of the hardest workers I know.

And now she’s heading to Tennessee for college and I couldn’t be more excited for her next chapter.

This is why I love what I do. It’s never just photos—it’s stories, memories, and moments you don’t get back.

✨ Riverside, California senior photographer
✨ Laguna Beach senior photographer
✨ Southern California senior photographer

Senior sessions are some of my favorite—let’s capture yours. DM me “SENIOR” to book 💫

04/22/2026

Everyone thinks beach sessions look like this dreamy, quiet moment…

What you don’t see?
About 25 photographers just outside the frame 😅

But this is where a little photography magic (and very committed ankle angles) comes in.

Because your photos shouldn’t feel crowded.
They should feel like you—calm, confident, and completely in your moment.

That’s the difference between taking a photo…
and creating one.

If you’ve been dreaming about senior photos at the beach, I’ve got you 🤍

✨ Riverside, California senior photographer
✨ Laguna Beach senior photographer
✨ Southern California senior photographer
✨ Beach senior photographer

DM me “SENIOR” and let’s plan your session.

03/08/2021

Been taking pictures of this girl since she was 4. She was my model when I used to sell dresses on Etsy and now she is graduating from high school.

She is amazing, smart, kind, and compassionate. Watch out, world! is coming for ya!

11/26/2019

11/26/2019

Business birthdays are worth celebrating.

11/26/2019

If I could have a sewing hut, it would be adorned like this one