SONYA x California

Overview

I had the opportunity to capture Sonya Esman’s California experience, blending sun-soaked landscapes with her vibrant energy in a visual narrative that feels effortlessly cinematic. Shot with a focus on natural light and fluid motion, the footage highlights the essence of California’s coastlines, cityscapes, and Sonya’s dynamic presence.

Challenges & Approach

The challenge was to balance the spontaneity of lifestyle shots with a polished, editorial feel. I leaned into golden hour lighting, handheld movements, and organic framing to preserve authenticity while enhancing the visual aesthetic. By carefully timing transitions and syncing scenes to the natural rhythm of the environment, I crafted a visual story that mirrors California’s laid-back yet lively atmosphere.

The result

The final video is a vibrant reflection of Sonya Esman’s connection to California — a seamless blend of personality and place. Each frame captures fleeting moments of beauty, movement, and emotion, creating an immersive visual experience that lingers long after the screen fades to black.