It was a dewey and peaceful 5am when we met up with Jennifer and James at their Airbnb in Mill Valley, CA. They had brought us on to capture their very intimate and very personal elopement in Muir woods and Muir beach. For a couple who seemed to speak volumes without any words, and share emotions of the utmost depth, it seemed perfect. Capturing their daily morning rituals, followed by the marriage preparation had the calmness of an old man fishing on a dock. Present, relaxed, winsome.
Each item is chosen to reflect personal beliefs and loyalties. Shared values as well as individual choices brought together to form a union. The first look on a rooftop as the sun rose above the treetops, was as planned as it was charming. It coalesced with the mood as though the moments were made for each other.
The drive into Muir Woods is filled with curvy roads and steep hills. Roll down your windows and enjoy the mountain air. It’s only a short drive from the bustling streets of San Francisco, but it feels like a different world. Muir Woods has a rich and varied history, from its use by the Coast Miwok people to its early days of tourism and the Mount Tamalpais Mill Valley Scenic Railway, to an era of conservation, to modern preservation.
Being surrounded by the immense forrest and all that it carries, one can’t help but be present to themselves and those around them. The significance of actions both big and small. Walk among old-growth coast redwoods, cooling their roots in the fresh water of Redwood Creek and lifting their crowns to reach the sun and fog. Federally protected as a National Monument since 1908, this primeval forest is both refuge and laboratory, revealing our relationship with the living landscape.
Muir Beach is a quiet cove, beach and lagoon favored by locals. Located on the Pacific Coast three miles west of Muir Woods, Muir Beach is accessed over a 450-foot long pedestrian bridge that connects the parking lot to the beach, the Coastal Trail, and Kaashi Way.
Tucked into the coastline three miles west of Muir Woods. You can go up to the newly completed, multi-use Dias Ridge trail—a segment of the Bay Ridge Trail—on a ridgeline above Muir Beach. This new trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin coastline.
Muir Beach is a special cove of quaint satisfaction. It’s not massive, but it’s not too small either – it’s just perfect. The best thing about this beach, besides the lack of people, is the undisturbed view of the Pacific Ocean. Protected on either side by the hills and the bluffs, one can feel as though they are in total seclusion from the world. The ebb and flow of shallow tide lulling you into a sense of comfort. And if the mood strikes, walk the beach and head to the rocky sides. On the far right of the beach, there are perfect little spots to climb around, explore and in this case, be in love.
About CineStory
We are CineStory Films, a Wedding Videography and Wedding Photography company based in Los Angeles. Having Videographers and Photographers on our team, allows us to achieve great results consistently. Our approach is to get to know our couples on a personal level. Connecting with our clients allows us to tell their stories in a symbolic and unique way. The passion and experience we have, combined with our efficiency and professionalism, enables us to create timeless images and videos.