Behind the Lens: Capturing Jessica Batten's Love Story Beyond Netflix ‘Love is Blind’
Before their intimate Santa Barbara elopement, Jessica Batten (Netflix’s Love Is Blind S1) and Dr. Ben McGrath asked me to capture a cinematic engagement film that reflected their love for Los Angeles. We chose the iconic Griffith Observatory for its sweeping city views and romantic, star‑studded atmosphere.
Filming Love Beyond the Show
Del Bosque Productions filming the cinematic engagement of ‘Netflix’s Love Is Blind’ star Jessica Batten with Dr. Ben Mcgrath at the Griffith Observatory
Love isn’t only found on a popular Netflix show and while Netflix's Love is Blind may not have led Jessica Batten to her forever after, it did open up the door for her to meet Doctor Ben McGrath via Instagram. Del Bosque Productions had the privilege of capturing a beautiful chapter of their love story. We were honored to film her engagement at the iconic Griffith Observatory, creating lasting memories that Jessica and Ben will cherish forever. It was a unique experience being part of such a personal moment and we’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the start of their journey together.
‘Netflix’s Love Is Blind’ star Jessica Batten with Husband Dr. Ben Mcgrath at Griffith Observatory overlooking Downtown Los Angeles
Filming at Griffith Observatory
On the day of the shoot the sun dipped behind the Hollywood Hills, casting a golden glow on the white Art Deco façade of the observatory. I used a combination of wide‑angle lenses to capture the city skyline and tight close‑ups to show Jessica Batten’s stunning blue eyes as she held tightly to her soon to be husband. As the sun began to settle, the observatory lights created a dreamlike ambience—perfect for slow‑motion shots of the couple walking and laughing beneath the light. We finished off filming this engagement film by capturing their Porsche curving through the infamous Mulholland Drive. Where the scenic views of Los Angeles are just as infamous as the celebrities living nearby.
Because the site is popular with tourists, timing and planning were crucial. We met just before sunset to avoid the crowds. This engagement film served as both a keepsake and a teaser for their Santa Barbara elopement. It allowed us to experiment with pacing, colour grading and music choices that would later inform the style of their wedding film.
To see how their story continued, read my blog about filming Jessica and Ben’s Santa Barbara elopement and check out our exclusive feature in Brides Magazine. If you’re dreaming of your own Wedding or engagement or film—whether at Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Barbara or somewhere closer to home—visit our Wedding page and let’s start planning.
