My wife and I got married in Malibu, California at Calamigos Ranch. It’s one of those places where everything just feels intentional. The setting, the light, the atmosphere. You can feel it when you’re there.
We made the decision to fly our photographer in from Tennessee because we knew this wasn’t just another day. It was something we would never get back, and we wanted someone we trusted to capture it the right way.
What stuck with me wasn’t the timeline or every single detail. It was the feeling of being there. Standing with her, surrounded by our people, fully in the moment without overthinking it.
That perspective has only deepened over time. As a husband and a dad, I see how quickly life moves and how easy it is for meaningful moments to pass by. The ones that matter most are the ones you wish you could step back into.
That’s what shapes how I approach every wedding and every family session.
I’m not just focused on how things look. I’m paying attention to how it feels while it’s happening. The energy, the connection, the moments that don’t need to be forced.
So you can stay present. So you can enjoy your people. So you can walk away with something that actually brings you back to it.
Because years from now, that’s what matters.
Your Fun-Loving Wedding, Elopement & Portrait Photographer
Hey, I’m Benjamin. Here’s my story.
Before I ever photographed a wedding or a family session, I lived through those moments myself.
A snapshot into my life
FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A WEEKEND:
Camping, fishing from the boat, or hiking somewhere in Washington or Oregon
FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION:
Leavenworth in December
FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS:
Boat Shed Restaurant, Noah’s Ark, Smokin’ Robinsons Cafe, Whiskey Gulch, Gamer’s Keep Tavern, The Curry
FAVORITE FAMILY FUN:
Tag Zone, Sky Zone, Oceans 5, and movie nights at home
FAVORITE GAME NIGHTS:
Dungeons and Dragons and Magic the Gathering with the kids.
FAVORITE ROLE:
Dad. One on one dates with my kids are intentional and important.
YEARS BEHIND THE CAMERA:
Over 15 years
WHERE YOU’LL FIND ME:
At a basketball game, on the water, around a campfire, or walking through the mall talking fashion with my daughter
FAVORITE WAY TO START THE DAY:
Strong coffee before the house wakes up
FAVORITE ROAD TRIP:
Red Fish Lake in Idaho. Yellowstone was incredible, but Red Fish was perfect.
FAVORITE SEASON:
Summer first. Fall close second. I love the colors, but I’ll take the warmth.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT WASHINGTON:
The trees. The mountains. The wildlife. Deer, elk, and landscapes that never get old.
FAVORITE WAY TO UNWIND:
A good glass of scotch and some late night jazz
FAVORITE SURPRISE ADVENTURE:
Bass Canyon last year. Absolute blast.
FAVORITE QUIET MOMENT:
Sitting by the water after everyone else has gone to bed
FAVORITE ROLE:
Dad. Leading, laughing, and learning alongside my kids.
Benjamin was very patient and kind let us come up with some picture ideas. Husband and I are very happy with our pictures. I will definitely recommend his photos to others. Thank you again Ben 🙂
Felicia and Guy
We’ve used Nautical Moments Photography for three different events in our lives. Wedding, maternity, and newborn photos. Photographer Ben Collier has a great eye and captures way more than one perfect picture. Our family will be using this photographer for many years to come. Highly recommend.
Cassandra & Westly
I really enjoyed our family photos with Nautical Moments. I was worried about the location I chose not having enough different places to full an hour but Ben was able to add a few extra spots and even got some candid unexpected shots. My baby may be photogenic, but my husband and I are a bit awkward. Ben kept everything light and it helped a lot. We started just needing some pictures for cards but I'm glad we went with the full photo shoot.
Leya and Josh
I had the pleasure of working with Ben Collier at a recent wedding, and I am truly impressed by his professionalism and artistry. From the moment he arrived, it was clear that Ben Collier is passionate about his work and dedicated to capturing every precious moment of the day.
Their unobtrusive manner allowed the ceremony to flow seamlessly, while still capturing all the important moments. The way he managed to be everywhere at once without being noticed was remarkable. Their attention to detail and his ability to anticipate and snap the perfect shot was evident in the final photographs.
Not only did Ben Collier from Nautical Moments Photography excel in his photographic skills, but his warm and friendly demeanor put everyone at ease. He was able to connect with the couple and the guests, creating a comfortable atmosphere that was conducive to capturing genuine, candid moments.
The final photographs were nothing short of stunning. Each image told a story and beautifully encapsulated the emotions and joy of the day. The quality of his work is outstanding, with each photo being a perfect blend of creativity and technical expertise.
I highly recommendNautical Moments to anyone in need of a wedding photographer. His talent, professionalism, and passion for his craft makes him an invaluable asset to any wedding. I look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the future.
Sincerely,
Sally Dolton
Wedding Officiant & Notary Public
Sally dolton
