Stephen Grant Photography :: The Blog

I Do: The Wedding of William & Teresa

2011-12-10T22:19:00.000-08:00

The year is drawing to a close, and I'd like to share one more event before I disappear for the holidays.

Most of the weddings I photograph fall on the weekends, but this was a Friday afternoon celebration, and I'm always happy to be flexible and work with a different schedule. Our day started at the home of Teresa's parents for "getting ready" coverage. This is not only a great time to capitalize on capturing impromptu moments between the bride and bridesmaids, but it's also an opportunity to go on a scavenger hunt for all the mementos and flourishes that will play into the day.

After navigating our way through some Friday rush hour traffic, we enjoyed a ceremony at Lawndale Christian Church. I had actually visited the church on my own a couple days prior to scope out the floor plan and lighting, and to see if the church enforced any special instructions for photographers. Sometimes, a church will have very specific guidelines as to how and where a photographer can shoot, and it's important to operate by those rules. Lakewood Church was refreshingly relaxed, and pretty much let me shoot from anywhere (including the balcony), so long as I was unobtrusive.

A reception was held at the Ayers Hotel, Manhattan Beach. This is another one of the places that I've driven past countless times, but had never been inside. Check it out if you have the chance! The interior impresses with a courtyard and big crackling fireplace perfectly suited for this type of late fall wedding. And although autumn weddings often mean shooting portraits after sundown, this location offered plenty of intimately lit nooks in which to shoot in.

Congratulations again, Teresa and William!

And Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone! It's been a fun year!

Wedding Coordination: Monique Aguilar Events

The Birthday of G & L

2011-11-23T00:32:00.000-08:00

The event that was almost not to be. At least for me.

G&L's birthday fell on Labor Day weekend, and when the inquiry came in, the calendar was already brimming with other obligations and another shoot. I immediately started putting out feelers to other photographers, but was really bummed at having to decline a celebration I've shot two years in a row. The party is always festive, full of kids willing to embrace the camera, and the family consistently delivers an admirable level of creativity in these events. Most importantly, I really wanted to see the visual continuity we've established live on. And so, after juggling the schedule, I was able to attend. Yahoo!

G&L have always been agreeable to having a photographer present, but this year I noticed a marked change. There was less of me chasing them, and more of them chasing me. A trust had been established, a trust that's earned only with time, and with it, the most authentic of photographic moments. Broader smiles. Generous laughs. Unguarded emotions.

A private nook at Cerritos Heritage Park played host for 2011's birthday. Gone was the Kung Fu Panda and Thomas The Train from years past. Pirate Jack Sparrow and Angry Birds were this year's superstars. Definitely a wining combo, and the theme was a hit!

Thanks again to G&L and family. As always, a treat!

Sonal & Sanket Baby Shower

2011-11-13T19:30:00.000-08:00

Photographers always welcome referrals. A referral is often someone who has seen your work elsewhere at the urging of one of their friends or family and are coming to you on the graces of their good word and the quality of your work. Referrals frequently form sustainable networks -- connected pockets of friends and family, and these working relationships can really thrive with that extra vote of confidence. Not to mention, with the heaps of wonderfully talented photographers out there to pick from, meeting referrals can be a great way to narrow down the overwhelming options.

Sonal and Sanket have attended several events I've photographed in the past, and invited me to capture their baby shower at the Diamond Palace Cusine-India. It was wonderful seeing so many familiar faces, the added bonus of everyone being really comfortable by now with me -- and my camera. Though the objective of the afternoon was more about documenting genuine moments rather than posing, I did manage to sneak in a few end-of-session portraits.

I really love working with this extended family! The parties are lively, with plenty of games and color. And let's not forget the food. I think I enjoy the grub as much as some of the guests enjoy seeing just how adventurous a Caucasian like me will be with sampling the spicy cuisine. But I never fail to gobble it all up!

Thanks again, Sonal and Sanket.

I Do: The Wedding of Kacey & Danny

2011-11-06T17:38:00.000-08:00

Oh boy, if my blog was a library book, I'd be owing some coin right about now. I'm overdue! I'm seeing Christmas trees at the Home Depot (yeah I go there a lot), a sure sign that the end of the year is fast approaching. It's been a busy few weeks editing sessions and working on albums. I did get to savor a vacation and do some trick-o-treatin' back east, which was a welcomed relief after catching the flu and being out of commission for more than I would have liked. That said, behold Danny and Kacey's wedding!

After enjoying our time together during their engagement shoot, it was no surprise that their event was equally cozy. The day began with some getting ready coverage at the Embassy Suites in Brea. The bridal party was energized and a true blast to hang with. It really does make for fun photographs when everyone is on board to participate in the picture taking. The contemporary, clean architecture of the Brea Civic Center made for a wonderful backdrop as well.

Vows were exchanged beneath the outdoor gazebo on the grounds of the Summit House. This is a great venue nestled in the hills of Fullerton that, had it not been for this wedding, I probably would have never known about it. If you're in the area, consider it for a special dining night out! The views are outstanding, and one of my favorite captures was a private moment between Danny and Kacey under the gazebo at the close of the evening. Ten minutes towards the end of a reception can be a great time to slip away for a few last final shots. It's quiet, the night is winding down, and you can really start to relish the accomplishment of your day.

Danny and Kacey, best wishes to you both!

Aquarium Of The Pacific, Photographers Night

2011-09-28T00:08:00.000-07:00

I've always loved the ocean and all creatures aquatic. I've had four aquariums over the years, the last being a 40 gallon fresh water tank with live plants. There's just something incredibly soothing in watching all those little critters swim back and forth, despite their apparent obliviousness to being contained within a 10" x 30" glass box. What wasn't so soothing was having to clean the tank and trim the plants every weekend, and so with time I strayed from that hobby in favor of photographic interests -- the two pursuits never having the chance to overlap and intersect. Until now.

Every September, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, CA hosts their annual Photographers Night. For the price of a standard admission, a limited number of attendees are allowed entry into the aquarium after hours to photograph the exhibits free of the larger crowds that come to enjoy this popular attraction during the day. This was my first time attending, and even with 200+ fellow photographers roaming the halls, it was quiet, spacious, with plenty of opportunities to cozy up to a tank of your choosing. For four hours, the premises are yours to explore, though, like me, you'll probably find yourself falling short of hitting all of the exhibits. This is a positive because, per the solid recommendation of the event organizers, you really want to invest the night in making considered photographs, rather than dashing around trying to snapshot and catalog all the temptations the aquarium has to offer.

It was a great night to embrace new techniques and improve craft. Low light + moving fish + slow shutter speed + no flash (although allowed) + shooting through acrylic tanks presented challenges that make shooting a toddler's portrait session seem like a cake walk! I got me some nice fishy pictures, and I got me a bunch more blurry fishy pictures. But the true catch of the night was flexing beyond what I normally shoot and exploring new avenues to grow -- though it would have been cool to see Nemo or Dory toss a garter or bouquet to all the other single fish in the pond. And although I brought along my steady bag of reliable lenses, I decided to put those aside for the most part and try out Canon's wonderful 100mm L macro on my 5D for the night (thanks to the free onsite rentals from Tuttle Cameras!).

More weddings and events to come, but for now the Sea of Love.

I Do: The Wedding of Lana & Cuong

2011-09-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

The bell rang, but the front door remained firmly shut. Outside stood Cuong, eagerly awaiting passage indoors into the arms of his awaiting bride-to-be. On the other side of the locked impasse gathered Lana's three discerning bridesmaids, tasked to challenge Cuong with a series of customary Chinese "door games". Prove your commitment by excelling at these challenges, and you will be deemed worthy to receive your beloved.

"Hey, we're already running late. Let us in!" Cuong pleaded. The lock didn't budge. Instead, Cuong serenaded. He answered trivia. He picked up pennies with chopsticks. Succeeding at these tasks, the threshold was opened and Cuong joined Lana for what would continue to be a spirited fusion of East and West traditions.

Photographers love color, and at Chinese weddings, red is the beacon of good fortune and happiness. Lana shined in her red Kwa dress, worn during the exchange of teas with both her parents and Cuong's. Crimson envelopes were gifted to guests as a monetary offering of luck. And the food... delicious nuggets to sample at nearly each of the six stops we made that day!

After changing into her white wedding gown, Lana enjoyed a "first look" with Cuong at the San Gabriel Hilton before departing for their ceremony at Almansor Court in Alhambra. Sunny skies illuminated Lana and Cuong as they exchanged vows at the lakeside gazebo, and made for some really wonderful light for the portraits we shot afterwards at the nearby San Gabriel Mission.

I want to thank Lana and Cuong again for their generosity, good humor, and endless enthusiasm. From those initial door games, right up until the conclusion of their reception twelve hours later at Capitol Seafood Restaurant, they were smiling. I also wanted to acknowledge and make mention of Walter Pawluk, a wonderful videographer and most excellent collaborator.

Makeup & Hair: K elly Zhang Makeup and Hair Studio (Thanks for making everyone look their best!)

I Do: The Wedding of Sheila & Marcos

2011-08-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Three alarms. One on the cell phone, two on the bedside clock. Each dialed in about 15 minutes apart.

That's my routine for A.M. weddings. I'm not a morning person. I've tried to be, but it's just not in the cards. So this sort of redundancy puts me at ease, even though I've always been awake well before any of the alarms have had a chance to chirp. A wedding on the mind, you know, tends to be enough of a jump start.

The big perk of a morning wedding is that everyone's energy is at a high. The air is crisp and caffinated, the waking sun shines bright. On this particular morning cars, still damp with dew, cozed up to the home of Sheila's parents, guests streaming into their living room to share in the union of Sheila and Marcos as one. A large family portrait of the bride, her parents, and brother -- taken from some time in past, I imagine -- hung proudly on the wall and bore witness to the ceremony taking place. And as I was snapping images of my own, I'm reminded of just how important pictures play in marking the chapters of our lives.

Marcos is Japanese... and Sheila, Vietnamese, making for a rich hybrid of heritages. Sheila gleamed in her traditional ao dai dress, and the color red (associated with good luck) punctuated the day, seen in the many gifts and foods bestowed upon the couple.

Their reception was held at the The Villa Banquet in Westminster. Lots of respect and admiration for Marcos, who brought along his guitar and serenaded Sheila in the presence of friends and family. Both of you guys are such a class act, and I feel really lucky to have had the chance to collaborate with you on your wedding!

Sheila & Marcos: Pre-Wedding Session

2011-08-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

You've sat down to work out your wedding day schedule. You're crunching the numbers, yet can't seem to crack the code to balancing your photography with the other priorities of the day. There's simply no time for a relaxed, unhurried portrait session. Or, perhaps you did pencil in what you thought would be ample time for pictures, and the big day is now upon us. You're ready for pictures, but family and friends occupy you with congratulatory hugs and kisses. You had hoped to shoot in several locations, but you're not as nimble in your gown and tux as you thought you'd be. Only ten minutes until the reception? Where did the time go?

Sheila and Marcos had a wonderful wedding planned. But they also recognized it would be difficult to set aside a sufficient block of time to capture the volume of portraits they were hoping for. So instead, they opted for a pre-wedding session - my first - and I'd be lying if I said this wasn't one of the preferred approaches to shooting bridal portraits. Private. No clock watching. At a location and time of your choosing completely independent of where and when your wedding might be. For the bride, a chance to trial run your hair, make-up, and dress. For us guys, well, we can practice tying our shoes. It's the equivalent of an engagement session, in your gown and tux. And if a "pre" session prior to the wedding isn't in the cards, you can also schedule a "post" session on any day after.

I'll concede this approach isn't for everyone. Many will, and do, find ample time for such photography on their wedding day. But it's fantastic to have options -- and having also shot Sheila and Marcos' wedding, I think they made the absolute right choice investing in a supplemental afternoon to capture the images they wanted.

Sheila and Marcos sought a natural location, and I suggested a favorite of mine, Palos Verdes. Southern California can get pretty toasty this time of year, and yet this peninsula stays comfortably mild. We hopscotched about for a couple hours and dropped anchor at some really scenic spots. It was our very first time meeting as well and a true testament to the fun even new acquaintances can have. I want to thank Sheila and Marcos for their boundless energy and willingness to explore, hike, sit, climb, jump and embrace everything else that should soil a wedding dress, but miraculously didn't.

Enjoy the photographs, with more to come from their wedding!

I Do: The Wedding of Judy & Toshi

2011-07-17T22:12:00.000-07:00

Calamigos Ranch. Hello, old friend!

The very first -- and second -- wedding I photographed was on the grounds of Calamigos Ranch. It's been a couple years since I've been there, so when I received the inquiry from Judy and Toshi to capture their summer nuptials at the Malibu property, I welcomed the opportunity to revisit familiar footing. Everything was as cozy as I remember -- the patchwork of cottages nestled amongst the trees, the web work of twinkle lights dangling from the limbs above. Calamigos offers a selection of four unique nooks in which to stage your celebration, and this time I was able to explore some new territory: the Ranch House. This is a super secluded enclave, complete with a ceremony site staged before a waterfalll... and on the terrace above, a rustic lodge invites guests to a warm reception.

Though my third experience at Calamigos, this was my first time meeting Judy and Toshi. I guess you can think of this scenario as like the blind date of wedding photography -- and this actually happens more often than you may think. Sometimes, a couple might be from out of state, or schedules don't permit for a face-to-face meeting prior to the wedding day. Instead, you put your trust in one another, chat a couple times beforehand, and then embrace the relationship that is to be when you meet.

Not surprisingly, Judy and Toshi were super down-to-earth, genuine, and accommodating. I knew they had been referred to me from a previous couple I had worked with -- but hadn't learned of their identities until they arrived as guests on the wedding day. What a cool surprise! Thanks again for the referral, James & Rei -- come to think of it, you guys were a blind date wedding, too!

Judy & Toshi put some wonderful thought into their wedding -- from the monarch butterfly release concluding the ceremony, to the hula hoop face off during the reception (pretty sure the flower girl won). And their polished first dance routine left many yearning to trade in one of their two left feet, myself included. ;)

Thanks again, Judy & Toshi!

Florist: The English Garden
Officiant: Rhonda Beer, A Very Special Marriage

The Engagement of Lana & Cuong

2011-06-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Rollerskating is hard. Rollerskating while a camera is chasing you is harder. That's Lana and Cuong's first [and thankfully, fond] memory of me -- my lens stalking them paparazzi-style around the Glendale roller rink for Coco's Birthday Bash. They were guests at the party, and little did any of us know at the time that we'd be working together a few years down the line on their wedding. I'm not advocating stalking as a means of drumming up business. but hey...!

Lana was looking for an outdoorsy garden setting for their engagement session, and after having seen Jason & Jun's wedding on my blog, fell in love with Westlake Village Inn. Cuong, buddy, I know you fell in love with Westlake, too! The manicured property really does have some fantastic grounds, but you do need a permit to shoot there.... OR, even better, you can stay at their inn for the night and have access to the premises for an afternoon of photography [so long as you defer to any weddings taking place, and there were three]. Pretty reasonable deal and a unique stay-cation, right?

It was interesting revisiting Westlake Village Inn for a second time. The season was different this time around, as was the time of day and light, and that meant changing things up somewhat and discovering new opportunities in which to shoot. That's always a plus. And being an engagement session, rather than a wedding, the clock was more relaxed, and this afforded us generous time to explore the grounds. For creative props, Lana & Cuong brought along some punchy yellow balloons and a Scrabble set . We ultimately did release the helium balloons, so if anyone out there finds a mass of deflated yellow latex in their lemon tree, don't mistaken them for some particularly strange fruit.

Thanks again, Lana and Cuong. I'm looking forward to your wedding this summer!

I Do: The Wedding of Szewan & Chris

2011-06-17T00:20:00.000-07:00

I first met Szewan last year at Grace & Jeremy's wedding. Szewan was Grace's maid-of-honor, and after having seen how I work and viewing the resulting images from Grace's wedding, Szewan asked if I would be interested in photographing her event as well. Szewan and Chris' wedding was to be an intimate gathering at San Francisco City Hall, and seeing as how this was to be a destination wedding, I jumped on Skype with them so that we could all become a bit more familiar with each other and chat about the details of their day. I think many have the preconception of a "small wedding at City Hall" as being exactly that -- a quiet affair in a clerk's office with some paperwork and minimal fanfare -- so why fly in an out-of-town photographer? In truth though, San Francisco City Hall is a work of art. It begs to be photographed. I previewed the location online prior to the wedding, but that's nothing compared to walking through the front door and being consumed and humbled by the scale of it all.

In fact, I'm glad I showed up at City Hall a couple hours early. With 5 floors and maybe 30-40 minutes for portraits, I wanted to make the most of the space. I'm sure security got a laugh watching me zip from floor to floor. But seriously, you could shoot there all day and leave with so much more to discover. Szewan and Chris staged their ceremony on a private balcony overlooking the open rotunda. With everything bathed in a soft, photo-friendly light, this is definitely one of the most unique locations I've had the pleasure of shooting in.

After scurrying around all five floors of City Hall, we braved the winds at the Palace of Fine Arts for a few final shots and then retired to a cozy reception at Bocadillos. After photographing all of the yummy tapas, sliders, and appetizers, what a treat it was to sample a few myself. I imagine I looked a wee bit like Tom Hanks did in Castaway after being rescued. A long, rewarding day's shoot gives you the wedding munchies!

Szewan and Chris, thanks so much for your hospitality, and for inviting me to town to share in your wedding day. I felt so at home with you both, Grace & Jeremy, and all your friends. Keep in touch everyone!

Justin & Doral: The Wedding Slideshow

2011-06-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

Before continuing up the road to Spanish Hills Country Club, I pulled in for a quick stop to take in the view of Camarillo. I was early, and it's always nice to savor one last pause before the schedule kicks in. I unpacked my cameras and popped off a few shots. The sharp blue sky contrasted against swaths of yellow mustard grass. Row upon row of farm crops slept under the sun. There was a serenity to it all, the stage set for a change in two people's lives. Guests would be arriving soon, bride and groom as well. All driving past this point. The landscape, a silent witness to the story about to unfold.

To enjoy the slideshow, click here.

I Do: The Wedding of Doral & Justin

2011-06-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

What's a great way to decide if you'd like to work with a photographer? Spend the day with them, at someone else's wedding! Referrals are wonderful, but nothing quite beats seeing how a photographer goes about capturing a wedding you're familiar with first hand.

Doral was the maid-of-honor at Kat & Frankie's wedding, and I was definitely flattered when Doral asked me to be a part of her very own day. I had a laugh-out-loud time reuniting with Doral and Justin at their engagement session -- and their willingness to let loose and have fun with the camera carried over to their wedding. Seriously, I love how these two can laugh! I think this had a lot to do with "kissy-kissy". Apparently, during their engagement session, I saw an opportune moment befitting of a smooch, and when I went to suggest said smooch, "kissy-kissy" tumbled out of my mouth. Hey. I don't remember this gem, but Doral and Justin sure do! Needless to say, the ghost of "kissy-kissy" continued to have awesome mileage on their wedding day, and with the good humor flowing, the smiles and positive energy were effortless.

Spanish Hills Country Club in Camarillo made for a picturesque ceremony and reception. If you are ever heading to Santa Barbara from L.A., indulge in a quick detour and explore the area. It's lovely and made for a very private and beautiful celebration. DJ Pasha, turntable extraordinaire, great working with you once more! And it was a pleasure collaborating alongside videographers Kurt and Derek from New Chapter Productions to document this event.

Thank you again, Doral and Justin, for your thoughtfulness, good cheer, and trust. Huggy-huggy!

Officiant: John Martin
Florist: Unique Floral Design
Groovy Getaway Car: Classy Chassis

The Engagement of Danny & Kacey

2011-05-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

Malaga Cove Plaza has forever been a drive-by for me, never the destination. Nestled in the hills of Palos Verdes at a four way intersection, the plaza's Spanish architecture commands a glance, but the traffic has always hustled me along before I could commit to popping the blinker and detouring for a peek.

A recent engagement session changed that. Kacey and Danny were hopeful for a location that offered a California blend of architecture and the outdoors, preferably a place where we wouldn't have to jockey with the weekend crowds for use of the space. Malaga Cove Plaza fit the bill perfectly, and little did I know just how much its curb appeal opens up to a cozy maze of nooks, archways, fountains, and cafes, some of the construction dating back to the 1920's. A short hike up the street brings you to Malaga Cove Library, and in the opposite direction, a contained desert garden ideal for those in need of some time alone.

Credit must also be given to Danny and Kacey for bringing along their personalized props. Hey, it's not every day you get to toss your future monogram in the air! They caught the letters, of course -- so no doubt that means good vibes for the wedding to come. Thanks again for making for such a great day Danny and Kacey!

Palos Verdes Family Session

2011-03-28T00:49:00.000-07:00

Before each shoot, I'll pull out a piece of paper and scribble down some inspirations for images. Poses. Compositions. Loose sketches to warm up the noggin and start thinking through a lens. A handful of these ideas will come to fruition during the shoot, but the spontaneity of a session is always king, and it's best to let that energy lead you where it may. This is especially true when photographing the little ones. Preconceived poses? Hah! Tots call the shots. Child runs on sand, I follow. Child runs in water, I follow, too. And while I might be able to negotiate a pause or pose here and there, embracing the unanticipated is what makes these outdoor children's sessions so rewarding.

I met two-year old "C" and her parents at Malaga Cove, Palos Verdes. A short hike down the hill brings you to this cozy nook of a beach, which opens up to an expanse of tidal pools and first class seats to a California sunset. "C" was mesmerized by the ocean, and this session would make for the second time I would return home from a beach shoot with water-logged shoes -- no regrets, but I better start bringing flippers! After some play time on the sand, we graduated to the grassy bluffs above the beach to enjoy the last pinch of sun before it dozed away.

The coming months are going to peppered with engagements and weddings -- including one up in San Francisco in May -- so a big thanks to "C" and family for letting me change gears here and spend the afternoon with you!

The Engagement of Justin & Doral

2011-03-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

I love shooting in rural settings. Well, as rural as L.A. will allow for.

Rural as in meandering, withered fences. Fresh wildflowers harmonizing with the layered growth of seasons gone by. The fine layer of earthy particulate cast in the air. Combined with the warm raking light of late day, it's hard to go wrong with this natural stage. Except maybe for the gnats. Could do without the gnats. And maybe the horse dung. "Isn't it romantic?" I remarked at sight of the equestrian prize splat across our trail. We laughed and marched on... Doral and Justin embracing the potential of this place with a smile and no reservations.

Will Rogers State Historic Park, Pacific Palisades was our playground for the afternoon. Doral and Justin humored my attempts at park ranger, and we ascended a few of the trails to see what lay yonder. There's some amazing nooks to be found in these hills, and just shy of an out-of-breath hike, you can already feel as though you've escaped the big city and happened upon something simpler and special.

And as the sun retired behind the mountains, we chased its fading light to sea level and captured some final moments against the backdrop of a beautifully fiery sky. Considering all the fun we had, it's going to be a real treat reuniting with these two come their wedding in April. Doral was the maid-of-honor at one of the first weddings I photographed, so it's a real privilege to be invited back for her own day with Justin. See you both soon!

I Do: The Wedding of Jill & EJ

2011-02-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

That's a lot of seagulls, I thought.

I've photographed sessions on the beach before. And I've enjoyed a decent share of cooperative gulls swooping into frame at the most fortuitous of moments. But as Jill and EJ exchanged their vows, an orchestrated flock charged across the sky like none before, making for a feathery display that would have Hitchcock beaming with delight. It was the kind of synchronous moment that had everyone grappling for their cameras (or covering their heads), with all the elements coming together in movie-moment harmony.

No timed release from cages. No charge. Doves, don't quit your day job.

I met Jill and EJ in the best way possible: by photographing them before. Not through the expected circumstances of an engagement, but from a group session earlier in the year. Having been pleased with the results of that outing, Jill and EJ asked me to come on board for their wedding, and I'm so glad we had the opportunity to collaborate again. Following their ceremony at Torrey Pines State Beach, La Jolla, we retired to Pacifica Del Mar Restaurant for their evening reception. The restaurant was located in a photo-friendly plaza, with no shortage of wonderful nooks to work in.

Thanks again, Jill and EJ. And congratulations on your new addition to the family! Amongst all those gulls, I knew there was a stork.

Event Coordination: Rommel Hipolito, Special Events Ahead

I Do: The Wedding of Jason & Jun

2011-02-08T20:26:00.000-08:00

I met Jun and Jason for the first time on their wedding day.

A colleague of theirs referred them to my work, and after having put their faith in what they saw of my images online, dropped me a note to inquire about my services. Their wedding was to be at Westlake Village Inn, a picturesque nook up in the valley I hadn't yet shot at, but welcomed the opportunity to do so. The only crinkle in the plan was the timing. A core part of my photography continues to be the investment I place on the post-processing of images, and I knew that, coupled with the holidays, it'd be an extended stretch of time before I could deliver the images back into their hands. Little did this do to discourage Jun and Jason, and I'm so glad we all jumped on board and had the opportunity to collaborate together. After all, a few extra weeks of anticipation is fair market value for something that lasts forever.

The wedding and reception at Westlake made for a great afternoon. It may have been our first time meeting, but there was an instant comfort and pleasantness that made for some really fantastic moments together. Jun and Jason, thanks for having me along and allowing me to document your day. I'm glad you found it all worth the wait!

Mark & Karina: The Wedding Slideshow

2011-01-22T11:43:00.000-08:00

Second to taking pictures, I love telling stories. I'll always remember the tale of how Mark proposed to Karina along the stony shores of San Pedro. Karina was scouring the beach for the perfect stone, only to have Mark surprise her with the Rock to Beat All Rocks. I loved the thought that went into Mark's proposal and really wanted to bridge that experience to their wedding day.

The slideshow speaks for itself. Enjoy.

I Do: The Wedding of Mark & Karina

2011-01-21T11:40:00.000-08:00

As 2011 dawns, it's hard to believe it's been almost a year since I first met Mark and Karina. I can remember the three of us huddling at a lone table outside a Starbucks. It was a chilly March night, and all of the seats indoors had been spoken for. We chatted about their wedding day -- of their cozy church, of lush portrait gardens -- and best of all, Mark's motivation for marrying in November: the rest of the year is just too darn toasty to be in a tux. You have to admit, that's pretty good reasoning, especially from the standpoint of a photographer who's on the move all day under the sun.

Come their wedding in November, wouldn't you know, the chill of that first night was long forgotten, as we were greeted by one of the warmer days in memory. But it beat rain, and the weather was a dream, even in a tux. Mark and Karina prepared at the Hotel Maya, Long Beach. With its chic decor, outdoor mirrors, and sprawling harbor-side patios, this place is a photographer's candy store. I'm not exaggerating. Your mind will go bonkers trying to decide where to sling your lens first, it's that awesome.

Resisting the temptation to shoot at the Maya all day, we proceeded only a few miles away to their ceremony at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, unique to the area with its welcoming small town New England charm.

For portraits, Mark and Karina reserved Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at CSULB, yet another home run photo-op locale, shot under the fading glaze of magic hour.

The Betty H. Reckas Cultural Center hosted a beautiful reception, stunningly decorated by Shawna Yamamoto Event Design and the perfect closure to the day's festivities.

Mark and Karina, I want to thank you again both for being so generous, kind, and trusting. Keep in touch, always.

I Do: The Wedding of M & J

2010-12-21T06:30:00.000-08:00

Atop the hillside of Rancho Palos Verdes, sits the shining jewel that is Wayfarer's Chapel. Built in 1951 by the son of Frank Lloyd Wright, the church commands the eye with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a generous view of the Pacific from atop the bluff it resides.

Back in the fall, I happened to drive past Wayfarer's while shooting an engagement session with another couple in Palos Verdes. (Actually, we considered parking in their lot so we could shoot in the meadow across the street, but thought better of it - :) I hadn't photographed a wedding at Wayfarer's up until that time, but thought it'd be a treat to do so. About a week later, I received the timely call from M & J with an invite to document their event at the chapel and jumped at the chance to do so. I could finally park in Wayfarer's lot without the threat of a tow.

I was commissioned for a two hour session, enough to capture the ceremony inside the chapel, along with a bracket of time for portraits before and after the nuptials. We made away with some great moments and enjoyed what was the juiciest sunset I've had the pleasure of photographing.

Congrats again M & J! This will be my final post of 2010, but there's 3 weddings bouncing through the editing queue and will be sharing those come January. Until then, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Marj & Jeff: The Wedding Slideshow

2010-12-01T22:51:00.001-08:00

Journey's "Small Town Girl". It was the most perfect anthem for Jeff and Marj's charged Grand Entrance.

I gave some thought to using this tune for their slideshow, but couldn't quite partner the song with the whole of their wedding story. Instead, the images found harmony with another Journey classic, along with a little nod to all the other fans of Super Mario Bros. out there.

Click on the image above or HERE to enjoy the show!

I Do: The Wedding of Marj & Jeff

2010-12-01T22:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I've played Donkey Kong. Last time was on Colecovision. (Yep, that long.)

I remember having to thwart a giant ape to rescue the girl -- more often than not, losing the girl and falling prey to the ape. The game has come a long way since then -- and somewhere along the line, our groom, Jeff, bested the angry orangutang and won his girl, Marj. Both employed in the gaming industry, therein lied the natural signature for their wedding -- a Super Wedding, no doubt brothers Mario and Luigi would risk life and limb to attend. I mean, check out the cake? Who wouldn't dodge hurling barrels and rabid fireballs for a slice of that?

Jeff and Marj wed at the beautiful Old Saint Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco's historic Chinatown. After some portrait time along Aquatic Park, we retired to their one-of-a-kind reception at the iconic W Hotel. Amazing colors abound, saturated with personalized tributes to the gaming world they so know and love. Kudos to the uber-talented Lord Mesa and Kelice Penny -- Lord, for all of the fantastic decor, designs, and illustrations; and Kelice, for the hand-crafted red mushroom wristlets. Seriously, go check out their work! Thanks as well to Megan Weisberg of MW Weddings for coordinating the day, and making sure I made it through all the levels of game play.

And cheers to San Francisco for welcoming me with open arms. A meaningful experience in so many ways, I'll always hold this one close to the heart. Thank you Jeff and Marj for allowing me to be a part of your celebration. And hey, the three tequila shots at the close of the night weren't so shabby either.

Auld Lang Syne

2010-11-18T00:11:00.000-08:00

I recently went to the local Target for a pretty basic gardening tool: a watering can. A sales associate shepherded me to some far off dunce corner of the store. There lie three sad cans, picked over and tattooed with clearance stickers. Surrounding them was the avalanche of floor-to-ceiling inflatable yard Santas, Christmas trees, and yule logs. Nearly December already? I really hadn't realized how out of touch with the season I was. Though not quite Marty McFly bumbling about the '50s, I did feel transported and displaced, fast forwarded and catapulted through a year -- a great year -- but one that had nonetheless gone by in a blur.

Work can have a funny way of accelerating the clock like that. As such, I'm going to try to be a bit more mindful of the work + life balance, at least as the curtain comes to a close on 2010. Before the big ball drops in Times Square, I'll be blogging two more weddings from the fall -- one from the W. Hotel in San Francisco and another from Wayfarer's Chapel in Palos Verdes - and then, I'm going to give myself the gift of time this holiday season by taking a pause from shooting in December and January. I'll be stealing myself a little R&R, along with editing a bunch more events from year's end to share as the calendar gives way to 2011.

So, keep on checking in!

All Aboard! Kidspace Birthday With L + G

2010-11-07T22:02:00.000-08:00

"Do you feel lucky? Well, do ya... photographer?!"

Little L. is officially the quickest draw in the West, and my booby prize for being a slow second was a cold shot of water just shy of my lens and across my left side brains. Now, I'm pretty sure somewhere in the Canon instruction manual, it says something about not getting your camera, you know -- wet! -- but who wants to be a buzz kill during a crossfire like this. Though, I'm going to start wearing a bathing suit to my sessions, because I seem to have a real knack as of late returning home waterlogged. At least the young miss in the back scored the last laugh!

I had the pleasure of photographing L + G's brotherly birthday bash last year, and when their mom flattered me with a call-back this season, I was jazzed at the opportunity to shoot the sequel at Kidspace Museum, Pasadena. Cake, games, and gifts in the private celebration room, followed up with some high-energy cat & mouse amongst the outdoor mazes, jungle gyms and water falls. 90+ degrees outside, but since when has that ever slowed a kid down?

Sorry Kung Fu Panda, no soup for you this year. 2010 is all about Spidey & Thomas The Train. And L & G are no doubt two of the luckiest locomotives around to have family and friends throwing them shindigs like this!

Shimin & Ying: The Engagement Slideshow

2010-10-19T00:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, so if your radio has been on anytime the past couple of months, you're probably no stranger to this song. The tune skyrocketed as of late on the short list of melodies a fella should highly be considering to croon to his beloved.... and I can't imagine Shimin would want to change an iota of the apple in his eye.

Our shoot was just such great fun, the melody synced with the spirit of the day, so here's the slideshow share for you to enjoy.

The Engagement of Shimin & Ying

2010-10-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

Shimin and Ying confided an honest confession moments before our shoot: they were feeling that familiar intoxication of nerves, excitement, and curiosity that comes to pass for all couples on the day of their session. Emphasis on familiar. Because, although some are less inclined to admit to these photo-butterflies, I think we all experience them to some degree, myself included. After all, it's usually our first time working together, there's no images "in the the can" yet, and there's an excitement of the unknown to come. But our mutual jitters do not equate me to being unprofessional, or you, unprepared. To the contrary, the tingly buzz reminds us we're alive, eager to embrace the possibilities, and very much invested in the success of your session or wedding day.

And as those first few shots materialize, it's amazing how quickly the uncertainties evaporate, clearing way for some really authentic moments to unfold. Shimin and Ying married locally last year and decided to capture a taste of their relationship here in L.A., to share with their family overseas when they return there for a ceremony in December. (I guess technically, that would make this my first post-wedding engagement :) We hit the streets of Santa Monica, in and about the Promenade, and down paths less taken. Urban grit and the timeless pier made for a cozy pair, and as the night drew to a close, I wanted to bottle up the pleased exhilaration all felt after a job well-done -- perhaps to share with the next couple, to ease the skip in their pulse and soften their heart.

Then again, isn't that the sweet discovery to be their own?

Shimin and Ying, many thanks and best wishes to you both!

Jeremy & Grace: The Wedding Slideshow

2010-10-03T19:52:00.000-07:00

Jeremy & Grace had the foresight to request this particular song for their slideshow in advance of me shooting their event, and with this in mind, so began my scavenger hunt for captures that might sync well to their tune. Observers of this ritual might wonder why I'm detouring now and then to shoot those out-of-context knick knacks at your wedding -- but there's good reason. They're the little punctuations of your day, and the seasoning for your show.

And serendipity was definitely on our side at this celebration, as some really appropriate moments presented themselves throughout the wedding weekend. Jeremy and Grace, good fortune has seen fit to keep your company. May it continue to bless you for years to come!