LOCATION: Los Angeles Theatre

LOS ANGELES THEATRE

615 S. Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Main: 213-629-2939

Brittany and Jaylen’s musical inspired engagement shoot was born from their shared love of the Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynold’s classic movie  “Singing in the Rain”. Photographed on the streets of downtown Los Angeles, Allie and I paid attention to the scenery to ensure that each set-up matched the vibe of the film (old LA, urbanscapes, etc). Brittany and Jaylen are a creative powerhouse (they are both actors, writers and performers) and the most energetic human beings you will ever meet, so there was no shortage of energy or a lack of willingness on their side. They completely trusted us which is so important to our process. Some interesting notes: Brittany bought lots of Arrowhead big water jugs and that is how we transformed a cloudless, hot LA afternoon into a rainy day. They rented and bought their costumes – something we always suggest when shooting a more stylized engagement. Finally, we were granted special unprecedented access to the inside of the Los Angeles Theatre. How?

As we were shooting in the alley, the side door opened and a wonderful English gentleman appeared from the depths. He seemed intrigued by what we were doing so we started talking. After a bit, I asked him if we could go inside and photograph, thinking there was no way he would say yes. And what did he say: yes! He gave us a few minutes to shoot and that was it. I think we must have only been in there for 15 minutes. This is such a great example of being ready when opportunity knocks. Allie always makes fun of me for carrying so much gear. Who brings a softbox and extra strobes to the outdoor portion of the shoot? This guy! Always, because you never know.  Thank goodness as the interior was very dark. If I didn’t bring that extra gear, this amazing opportunity would have disappeared. It is also a great illustration of just asking – it is crazy what people will let you do when you tell them that two people are getting married!

2018 Update: If Jaylen looks familiar, perhaps you have seen him on the hit History Channel show SIX. He stars as Fishbait!