Serendipity Images | Portrait & Wedding Photography | Home of the Sweet Pea Baby Plan

Seal Beach Family Photography

2011-12-09T20:55:00.000-08:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing little Kailee. The last time I saw her, she was 4 months old and happily grabbing her toes as I photographed her on her back. It was amazing to see how much she had grown and changed since her first Serendipity Images photoshoot! We had a great time playing around the Red Car Museum in Seal Beach, and I absolutely could not be happier with the results!! :)

Here are a few favorites:

Newport Beach Family Photography: Baby Brody

2011-11-30T21:16:00.000-08:00

Baby Brody and his family are part of the Sweet Pea Baby Plan, which means that we get together every few months over his first year for a photo shoot! It has been so much fun to see him grow from a newborn into this very, very happy 8 month old. Here are a few favorites from Baby Brody's most recent photography session in Newport Back Bay!
Can you say gorgeous golden pocket of light? I love it!!

Can I tell you how much I LOVE this picture??

Anaheim Family Photographer: Fall Mini-Sessions (Part 2)

2011-11-15T21:26:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite families booked a double mini-session during the Fall Mini Sessions! It was a blast to get together with my friend and sorority sister, and her kids. Here are a few favorites from the session! :)

Strike a pose!

What family portrait session is complete without a hand-caught frog? I love it! :)

Temecula Wedding Photography: Cassie + Kevin

2011-11-07T20:54:00.000-08:00

I recently discovered that I love shooting weddings with other photographers! It is such a pleasure to be there as a second set of eyes, looking for a unique viewpoint of the event. Back in August, I had the opportunity to shoot at Gershon Bachus Winery in Temecula, CA, with the very talented Amanda Patrice. Here are a few of my favorites from the wedding! :)

The groom's final moments...

Just for fun, I caught all of the wedding guests in the background! :)

Cassie & Kevin's first dance, surrounded by loving guests!

Anaheim Family Photographer: Fall Mini-Sessions (Part 1)

2011-11-02T20:28:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, I had some awesome families join me for Fall 2011 Mini-Sessions! It was really fun to do these quick-and-easy sessions, and meet some new kiddos! Here are a few favorites from the first families:

Fullerton Baby Photography: Baby Ryan

2011-10-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

One of the things I love about the Sweet Pea Baby Plan is seeing the babies every few months during their first year. It is so incredible to see these newborns become babies, and babies become toddlers! I also love watching my own little one grow. It completely boggles my mind that she is nearly one! She is turning into this fun, silly little person who loves to watch the dogs play ("dog" is one of her first words, and she repeats it constantly!) and have books read to her! I'll add pictures of Avery one day soon, but for now, here are a few favorites from Baby Ryan's 4 month session! :)

What a happy, happy boy! :)

Fall Mini-Sessions

2011-09-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce Serendipity Images fall mini-sessions! Mini-sessions are 20 minute photoshoots held back-to-back at a single location. This is a fun and affordable way to capture the perfect image for your holiday card or to update the portraits around your house. Better yet, Gift Portraits make great gifts! (How great would it be to check gifts off your list without having to hit the mall?)

Date: Saturday, October 15
Times: by appointment between 8am and 12 pm
Location: A nature center in the Anaheim Hills area
Session Fee: $75 (more than a $200 value!)
Includes: a 20 minute photoshoot, 1 digital file (edited & high resolution), 10% off additional purchases from this session

Contact me to book your fall mini-session! These quick and easy sessions will fill up fast! :)

Here are some past shoots I've done at this same location:

Please schedule your appointment to join me for a fun Fall mini-session! :)

Rock the Dress: Diana & Cesar

2011-09-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

I'd been looking forward to this session for a long time. Diana & Cesar got this free Rock the Dress session from me as part of a promotion I was running when they booked their wedding, and I knew they would be fabulous! We met up on a late summer evening, on a narrow, run-down Whittier street, and Diana rocked her dress! Here are a few of my favorites from the session:

Love, love, love this one!

Is this not the most gorgeous couple you have ever seen?

My Sister's Wedding Weekend: Part II

2011-09-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

As a wedding photographer, it kills me to not have a single picture of my sister in her wedding dress. Not.a.single.picture. I actually don't have a picture of Alyssa and Paul together, either! They were in good hands with their hired wedding photographer, and I can't wait to see the images she captured from the wedding! I was the main photographer for all of the getting-ready shots, truly enjoyed being able to photograph my sister getting ready to marry the man of her dreams! Here are a few wedding-day favorites! :)

Alyssa and Paul got married on a beautiful (warm!) Temecula day. Isn't this the perfect spot for a ceremony?

The florist did a gorgeous job on this bouquet! The cream-colored band on the bouquet was also Alyssa's "something old." The lace was from my grandma's 1946 wedding veil. When our parents got married, my mom sewed my grandma's lace onto her headpiece. When I got married, I wrapped the headpiece around my bouquet, and Alyssa did the same! :)

And now, the bride :)

This is one of the only pictures I have of Avery dressed up in her wedding outfit! I was so busy, and Avery wanted so badly to be held, that I didn't get any others. Avery loves exploring jewelry, and especially my mom's necklace! :)
Aaaaaand, cut to the honeymoon departure! :)

Alyssa & Paul - I absolutely could not be happier for the two of you as you start your life together! Thank you for letting me stand by your side during your wedding. I can not wait for all the fun we'll have in the future, together and with our eventually-growing families! Have a fantastic time in the Dominican Republic! xoxo :)

My Sister's Wedding Weekend: Part I

2011-09-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my sister Alyssa and her now-husband Paul got married in a beautiful Vacation Rental by Owner estate in Temecula. They had the house for nearly a week, and all of their siblings (and our families) were able to stay in the house! It was a lot of fun to get to know Paul's family better and spend time with Alysa and Paul, who I hardly see because they live out-of-state! Here's a look at some of our weekend fun!

Avery made friends...

We ate well. Very well. :)

The kids all played together...

My parents got to spend some quality time with Avery...

Did I mention that we ate well? ;)

Avery got to play with her cousins...

And we (by we, I mean, my mom) put finishing touches on the wedding decor!

Watch out tomorrow for another pre-wedding blog post! :)

Just a little trick...

2011-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

It's probably been done 100's of times before, but I have a new trick for photographing kiddos. Stickers! A sticker on the palm is hidden in basically every shot. Happy kiddos, happy mom, happy photographer! :)

The Good. The Pouty. The Loved.

2011-08-22T22:18:00.000-07:00

When it comes to photographing my daughter, I delay and delay her monthly photoshoots. I usually wait for the right moment, the right mood, the right outfit, and the right location. This morning some chic new patio furniture was delivered to our house, and I had my moment of inspiration! I got Avery dressed up and brought her outside only to find out, well, that she was NOT in the mood. Her pouty pictures are pretty funny, though, so I thought I'd share! :)

Would you look at this pout? She just figured out how to pout so big a few days ago!

We got a little laugh out of her ...

I love this one!
Distraction helped a little...

...but the pouts came back!

We took a break, and hung out in her room for a while...

... and finally nailed a happy shot! :)

By the way, isn't Avery's new headband gorgeous?? It's from Children's Paradise on Etsy! Check them out! :)

Seal Beach Family Photography

2011-08-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

I recently did a fun, playful family session with one of my college friends and her kiddos. Here are a few favorites from the session! :)

The girls were fascinated with the surfing school below us!

Orange County Baby Photography: Brody

2011-07-27T22:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I logged into my blog. "Hello ... hello ... hello ..." it echos, as I wonder if anyone is still hanging out here. Life has kept me busy lately. Very happy, but busy. In addition to photoshoots, my days consist of playdates, visits to the farmers market (followed by time in the kitchen pureeing batches of homemade baby food), and lots of time playing or cuddling on the carpet. My little one has been on-the-move for a while, but officially started crawling tonight, so I imagine things will get tricky (as we have yet to finish baby-proofing) but FUN! :)

Here are a few favorites from Baby Brody's 4 month photoshoot. Enjoy! :)

Brea Baby Photography: Baby Ryan

2011-07-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Baby Ryan was just twelve days old when he posed for his newborn session. He was a total doll, and relaxed into almost every pose, including nuzzling into his dad's baseball glove. With two athlete parents, who are BIG Mets fans, there's no doubt that Ryan has a life of sports ahead! I can't wait to watch him grow! :)

Here are a few of my favorites...

La Mirada Child Photography: Maddie

2011-05-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, I did mini photoshoot with my cousin's daughter. It was a whole family affair, with Maddie as the model, Maddie's sister as my assistant, my sister-in-law as our stylist, and Avery as ... hmmm ... our mascot! ;) These are a few of my favorites:

Orange County Maternity Photography: Sarah

2011-05-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

Sarah was 37 weeks and 2 days along when we met up for her maternity session. She and Jimmy were the very first couple to book me to photograph their wedding, and it is such a pleasure to watch their family grow. It is so much fun to watch two people who are madly in love start their own family. Here are a few of my favorites from the maternity session. Keep an eye out for Baby Ryan, who should be arriving any day now! :)

Orange County Senior Photography: Siblings

2011-04-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's a big year for Tiffani & Joel's family. This brother & sister are both about to graduate and embark on their careers! I recently had the chance to celebrate with a joint senior session. Congratulations to you both! :)

Irvine Baby Photography: Baby Brody

2011-04-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

One of the things I'm really excited about this year is the birth of the Sweet Pea Baby Plan! The Sweet Pea Baby Plan is a very special plan that includes 4 portrait sessions over a child's first year of life. The difference between the newborn, 3 month, 6 month, and 12 month sessions is astounding! Until Mother's Day (5/8/2011), I'll be offering the Sweet Pea Baby Plan at an introductory rate! Click here for details!

Here are a few of my favorite images of Baby Brody, taken during his first shoot in the Sweet Pea Baby Plan!

Whittier Wedding Photography: Diana + Cesar

2011-03-23T23:53:00.000-07:00

One of the things I adore at wedding is the time I get to spend with the bride and groom alone. The bride and groom's portraits are one of the only times during the wedding day when they are alone (well, almost alone!). I love giving couples the chance to soak each other in, whether at the First Look or during Romantic Portraits after the ceremony.

Not long ago, I photographed Diana and Cesar's wedding in Whittier. It was getting quite dark & rainy after the ceremony and formal portraits, and I loved this spot that Diana had in mind for the Romantic Portraits. It's just, well, romantic! A few of my favorites are below, followed by a wedding slideshow.

A big thank you to Thomas Frank Photography for coming out to shoot Diana and Cesar's wedding with me!

Diana & Cesar - Thank you for including me in your wedding day! It was an absolute pleasure to photograph your wedding, and I can't wait for your urban Rock the Dress session!

Please enjoy the slideshow:

Puppy Love

2011-03-01T10:08:00.000-08:00

We are so lucky to be surrounded by family, friends, and puppies who love Avery. A new puppy is joining our extended clan in a few months -- isn't she a beauty?

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

"Oh, if it be to choose and call thee mine, love, thou art every day my Valentine."

~Thomas Hood

This is Avery's first Valentine's Day card, and an image from her 3 month photoshoot. I love having such a perfect little model available to me whenever I'm in the mood to photograph her! Wishing you all a very happy Valentine's Day!

La Mirada Baby Photography: Jordan

2011-01-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

As a new mom, I love calling outings with other moms "playdates." Right now, playdates are more for my friends and I than our babies, but I know that someday our little ones don't quite know what to make of each other will be the ones playing! Yesterday I got together with my good friend & photographer Blair Van Bussel for a playdate and photoshoot. Here are a few of my favorite shots of Jordan. He has the most gorgeous, intensely blue eyes!

PhotographySILO & Baby Avery

2011-01-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone! I hope that the new year is off to a great start for you! I'm so excited about 2011 -- there are lots of big opportunities & changes ahead! One of things I just love is finding educational websites for photographers. I recently discovered PhotographySILO.com & like its variety of educational articles. There are interviews, product reviews, and a variety of photography tips. It's all written in a easy-to-read tone, so you don't have to have technical expertise to enjoy it! Check it out!

Now, because posts are no fun without pictures, here are a few favorites from Avery's 2-month session. I'm keeping my favorite image under wraps for now, since it's going to be on her birth announcement. I had planned to use one of her newborn images on the announcement, but totally fell in love with one of her 2-month shots. I'll share soon! :)

Can't you just hear what she's thinking here? "Come on mom... enough already!" ;)

Huntington Beach Baby Photography: Meet Baby Rorie

2011-01-07T14:01:00.000-08:00

For the past 3 1/2 years, I've worked on the side as a hospital baby photographer. During that time, I'd guess that I've photographed 1000's of babies. Whether happy, fussy, sleeping, or somewhere imbetween, I've dealt with it to create beautiful images for parents. My love of babies -- and my own little peanut -- have inspired me to create a Baby Plan! I'm still working out the details, but I'm hoping to make it official in the coming weeks. In the meantime, here's a look at Baby Rorie, who, at just under 3 weeks old, was the perfect model for her newborn session!

La Mirada Baby Photography: Officially Introducing Avery

2011-01-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

This is two months late, but I wanted to officially introduce my daughter Avery! She was born the evening of November 1, after a full day of labor and, ultimately, a c-section. She is simply perfect, and feels like she's been with us forever! :)

I absolutely adore that two photographer friends photographed Avery in the hospital. Please check out Amber Fox and Blair Van Bussell's blogs to see Avery when she was only days old! I did Avery's newborn session about a week later. Here are my newborn pictures of Avery ... they're not my best work in my opinion (I was still recovering from the c-section), but I love remembering her this small. She's already gained more than 5 pounds since birth and looks like a completely different baby! I can't stress enough to everyone the importance of newborn photography, and I'm actually working on a Baby Plan to allow families to capture images of their baby throughout the baby's first year!

This one just cracks me up :)

Whittier Wedding Photography: Diana + Cesar ... Sneak Peek!

2010-12-29T15:01:00.000-08:00

I recently photographed Diana and Cesar joining their lives together at St Mary's Church in Whittier, CA. The wedding was right in the middle of the seemingly never-ending week of rain we had in Southern California, but the rain didn't seem to phase anyone. I never heard the bride, a single bridesmaid, or anyone else mention the weather because, really, it didn't matter! What mattered was that Diana and Cesar were marrying each other that day. Here is a sneak peek from Diana and Cesar's romantic portraits after the ceremony. Enjoy!

Orange County Maternity Photography: Jenny + Donald

2010-12-27T15:50:00.000-08:00

Jenny and Donald were recently out visiting from Arizona, and we met up for a maternity session. Baby bumps are one of my favorite things to photograph, and I loved having the chance to capture Jenny's growing belly! Here are a few favorites:

Orange County Engagement Photography: Alyssa + J.R.

2010-12-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how surprised & excited I was when my sister, Alyssa, called me last month and asked me "so... do you still want to be my matron of honor?" Her boyfriend J.R. had just proposed! It was such a sweet proposal story involving wine, flowers, George Strait, and the sun setting over Lake Havasu! Alyssa and I had decided years and years ago that we would be each others' maids of honor. Alyssa was my maid of honor nearly 4 years ago, and I am thrilled to be her matron of honor this fall.

Alyssa & J.R. - Congratulations on your engagement! I can't wait to be there with you on your wedding day, and, when you're ready, for Avery to have cousins! ;)

Laughing shots make me happy!

My beautiful sister

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's Avery's first Christmas, and I have absolutely been loving celebrating the season with her. She is decked out in a different little red & white outfit nearly every day (thanks to her grandmas!), and we've been doing all the Christmas things you're supposed to do with kids. We've decorated our tree, met Santa, & checked out Christmas lights. It's been fun to share these things with Avery, and see how much our friends and family love her! She's passed around from arms to arms, and does really well!

It's time to feed Avery, so from our family to ours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Orange Family Photographer: Sisters

2010-12-12T18:28:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is less than 2 weeks away. I used to start thinking of (what I thought were) perfect and creative gift ideas in, like, October. Post-baby I've been no where near as diligent! The other day someone jokingly suggested that I should have done my shopping before I had Avery. That would have been a GREAT plan if it had happened. I just started my Christmas shopping a few days ago (online, thank goodness!), but I'm still drawing a blank on gift ideas. Does anyone have any creative gift ideas ... lemme know! :)

Two weeks before Avery was due, I met up with Lindsay and Ashley in Old Town Orange for a photoshoot. It was fun to photograph two sisters & capture the unique dynamic between them. I think it is so special that Lindsay and Ashley have professional photographs together, and that their future children will be able to see their mom and aunt having a great afternoon togther!

Enjoy! :)

Costa Mesa Child Photography: Brooklyn

2010-12-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

I'm back! It's been a while since I've blogged. For the last month I've been busy with my new baby! Avery was born on November 1, and one day soon I'll blog about her birth. I feel like I'm coming out of the new-mom haze (a little, at least!), and we're both getting a little more sleep and finally getting out of the house! Not long before I had Avery, I did a first birthday session with Miss Brooklyn! She's grown so much since her 3 month session, and is totally discovering the world around her. Isn't she a doll? :)

Whittier Wedding Photography: Dennis + Kara

2010-10-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

Last month, I had the pleasure of photographing Dennis and Kara get married. It was an extra special day because Dennis is my cousin through marriage, so most of our family was at the wedding. It was so nice to see family and spend the day celebrating Dennis and Kara as they tied the knot! The wedding was a perfect fit for two movie buffs who fell in love ... from the movie-themed table names to the first dance 'Earth Angel' from "Back to the Future," and even in a toast using lines from all of their favorite movies!

Congratulations Dennis & Kara! I hope you had an amazing time on your Hawaiian cruise! :)

Dennis wanted his side of the wedding party to channel the "Rat Pack"...

... and he brought out his inner Steve McQueen.

The beautiful bride and her side of the wedding party ...

Kara looking wonderfully vintage!

I love the joy as Kara and Dennis made their grand entrance!

And ... to top it all off ... a little "Thriller" at the end of the night! :)

Please enjoy the slideshow!

Whittier Wedding Photography: Dennis + Kara ... Sneak Peek!

2010-09-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the chance to photograph Dennis and Kara commit their lives to each other. They married in a beautiful ceremony at the First United Methodist Church, whose high gothic arches I just loved! The ceremony was followed by an intimate backyard reception in one of Whittier's historic homes. It was the parlour in the historic home that inspired the first of their two "sneak peek" images! Enjoy! :)

Dennis & Kara - It was an absolute pleasure to spend your wedding day with you! I hope you have an amazing time on your Hawaiian cruise. Enjoy some zip-lining for me! :)

Fullerton Child Photography: Nathaniel

2010-09-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, I did a baby shoot with Nathaniel, who was about to turn one. It was a Mother's Day surprise, so I had to keep the images under wraps for a while. Now that Mother's Day has (long) come and gone, I wanted to share a few favorites from the shoot! Enjoy! :)

Seal Beach Family Photography

2010-09-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

I recently got together with my friend & sorority sister, Karen, to do a photoshoot with her kiddos. I love keeping shoots -- especially those with kids -- light & lively. Karen's shoot was no exception. I think it's a nice balance between goofy faces, bunny ears, and happy smiles! :)

Here are a few favorites:

Huntington Beach Baby Photography: Kailee

2010-09-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

I recently had the chance to photograph 4 month old Kailee. She was such a doll, and was all smiles through wardrobe changes and "set" changes. I just love this phase, when babies start grabbing their feet and noticing the world around them! I can't wait to start experiencing those changes for myself, soon. I have less than 6 weeks until my own baby is due! :)

Here are a few favorites:

Huntington Beach Family Photography

2010-09-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is coming to an end, I wanted to share a summer evening with you all. There's nothing like the beach ... I love the salty air, the sand between my toes, and the utter relaxation that I get from the crashing waves. I did the Barr family's Huntington Beach photoshoot earlier this summer, and I love seeing Jakson try so hard to stand up, since he's walking on his own now! Here are a few of my favorites from the session:

Fullerton Engagement Photography: Diana + Cesar

2010-09-08T20:46:00.000-07:00

I recently met up with Diana and Cesar for their engagement session. I just love photographing former bridesmaids-turned-brides. It's so much fun! Both Diana and Cesar had fabulous outfits and just exuded style. I love when my brides have a vision for exactly how they want to look, and go the extra length to make it happen. Everything down to the Carlos Santana stilletos was perfect!

Diana & Cesar - I had a great time with you guys and can't wait for your wedding! :)

P.S. Diana used this Salma Hayek ensemble as inpiration for her outfit ... and I definitely think Diana gave Salma a run for her money! ;)

(Image from instyle.com)

For New Mamas & Mamas to Be!

2010-08-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hi there! It's been a while since I've blogged -- sorry about that! After moving a few months ago, and with my baby coming in only a few months, I've been pretty distracted! It's hard to believe that I'm already 28 full weeks pregnant. Only 12 weeks to go (give or take), and Bob and I will have little Avery in our arms! :) It's been so exciting to watch my belly grow and change, and for her kicks to be getting stronger and stronger. I love when she kicks hard enough that my belly twitches, and I can't wait for the months ahead when my whole belly will morph when she changes position. Bob and I have been taking weekly pictures of my belly for the Belly Book that my good friend Julia got after I announced that I was pregnant. I also have two maternity sessions coming up in the coming months, and am incredibly excited for the chance to get in front of the camera and document my pregnanty. I think it'll be really special for Avery to have beautiful photographs showing how I looked while I was pregnant with her, and how Bob and I interact & love each other. I've always loved doing maternity photoshoots, and now I get to be in them! Yay! :)

AND ... in honor of the last few months of my pregnancy, I have a very special offer for new mamas & mamas to be! Between now and September 10, I am offering all maternity & newborn sessions for only a $100 Session Fee (half my regular price). Consider it a special gift from my growing belly to yours! :) Contact me for details!

Here are a few of my favorite maternity & newborn images:

Las Vegas Wedding Photography: Raeanne + Aaron

2010-07-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

Back in March, while attending WPPI (the wedding and portrait photographer convention of the year), I second-shot Raeanne and Aaron's wedding with my good friend Karen ReVelle. Raeanne and Aaron got ready and married at the Venetian, then had party busses waiting to take their wedding to Mandalay Bay for a fun-filled reception. It was a blast, and the ultimate Vegas wedding! These are a few of my favorite shots ... for a look at the whole wedding, check out Karen ReVelle's blog post!

Temecula Model Shoot

2010-06-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, I join up with a group photographer photoshoot to socialize and tune-up my photography skills. I recently participated in the Wine Country Shoot on a gorgeous private property in Temecula, CA. I really enjoyed getting together with all the photograhers and models, and thank Nikki Evans for setting it all up!

Credits:
Organizer and Set Design: Nikki Evans
Location: Dave Perez
Hair: Crystal Roberts
Make-Up: Kimberly Braglone
Flowers: Rebecca Castillo Flores
Hair Creations: Bows N Berries (Heather Molina)
Dresses: La Boutique Consignments (Eve Faulkner)
Models: Alex Cranmer, Megan Bibbo, Devon Marie Ligus, Chris Rix, Alicia Prime Main, Brandon and Goraleski

Here are a few favorites:

Marina Del Rey Newborn Photography: Ava

2010-06-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

I've always loved photographing newborns, and it's even more special now that I have my own on the way. I recently had the chance to visit my friends and their 15 day old baby, Ava Penelope. Ava is such a beautiful baby, and was a pleasure to photograph. I also really enjoyed hearing her birth story, and what it had been like at that time for Maggie to have a 15 day old baby! I absorb as much as I can from as many people as I can! :)

It's too bad this first image doesn't have a soundtrack. Can you imagine what it would sound like? :)

Long Beach Wedding Photography: Julia + Joey

2010-06-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Julia and Joey as they committed their lives to each other. The ceremony was at All Saints Anglican Church, followed by a reception at the Skylinks Golf Course banquet hall, both in Long Beach. It was a special day filled with their friends and family, and lots and lots of kiddos. I think their sons really enjoyed the day; it was a special day to celebrate with their mom and dad!

Julia and Joey - Thank you for asking me to photograph your wedding! It was an absolute pleasure, and I hope you had an amazing time afterwards on your cruise to Mexico!

\

There's nothing like a good, messy cake cutting :)

If you know Julia & Joey, you can click here to view or purchase prints from their wedding!

Electra Cruises Wedding Photography: Katy + Ryan

2010-06-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

It was such an unexpected pleasure when Katy contacted me through my website last year, asking about wedding photography. Katy and my sister were in Girl Scouts together for years, and our moms still play bunko together every month. I really enjoyed getting to know Katy and Ryan and spending time with them at their engagement session & wedding. The wedding was extra-special because it was the same Electra Cruises yacht that I was married on!

Katy & Ryan both got ready at the gorgeous Huntington Beach Hyatt, which, incidentally, has fabulous lemondade! I got there a little early, and before I met up with Katy, I spent some time at a summery outdoor cafe table sipping lemonade.

When the Huntington Beach Hyatt sends up champagne and strawberries, it's not JUST champagne and strawberries!

Oh how I love First Looks!

After the ceremony, everyone danced the night away!
If you know Katy and Ryan, you can click here to check out all their wedding photographs!

Long Beach Wedding Photography: Julia + Joey ... Sneak Peek!

2010-05-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Julia & Joey's wedding at All Saints Anglican Church in Long Beach. It was such a fun day, and had more kids playing than just about any other wedding I've shot. It was fun to see so many families together as Julia and Joey officially joined their lives together. Here's a sneak peek at what's in store!

Julia and Joey had one of the sweetest first dances I've ever seen. After dancing to about half of the song, they invited their sons to the dance floor, and shared a wonderful family moment!

Marina Del Rey Maternity Photography

2010-04-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph my friends Maggie and Todd as they prepare for the birth of their baby girl. It was a fun challenge as they wanted some studio-style shots, so I (proverbially) dusted off my backdrop and pulled out my Lowel video light, plus an off camera flash for hair lighting. It was a fun afternoon, and I am so excited to meet little Ava whenever she is ready to make her appearance!

Newport Harbor Wedding: Katy and Ryan ... Sneak Peek!

2010-04-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

It was such a pleasure to recently photograph Katy and Ryan get married aboard the Destiny in Newport Harbor. The folks at Electra Cruises have such beautiful yachts and always do a great job - like they did for my wedding aboard the Destiny 3 years ago! Shooting Katy and Ryan's wedding brought back wonderful memories of my own, and it was a pleasure to be a part of! Here's a peek at what's in store:

Big news!

2010-04-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how to say this but to say it. Or shout it. Or type it loudly. We've kept the secret for so long and actually saying it, saying "I'm pregnant," feels entirely weird. But it's true: I'm PREGNANT!

I'm in my 12th week & have been keeping it secret until I got my ultrasound today. We are so excited for the little baby growing inside of me!!! Seeing it on the ultrasound screen was absolutely unreal. I don't know what I expected, but when the baby showed on the screen, it was the most amazing proof that I AM pregnant (and not just growing my tiny bump with too many cupcakes!) and my eyes filled with tears. The baby held pretty still at first during the ultrasound, but right on cue, when Bob asked the ultrasound technician if the baby should move, it did a little dance for us. It would hold still for a few minutes, then start wiggling all over the place. It was so amazing to see!

I've had a really smooth first trimester. I haven't had any morning sickness (thank goodness!), and my most extreme pregnancy side effect has been the fatigue. On many afternoons you could find me napping on the couch at 4pm, or drifing off during one of my 8pm shows. Thankfully that seems to be passing, because I am supposed to get my energy back for the second trimester.

To anyone who's asked me in the last month or so when I'm going to have a baby, I apologize for the little white lies. "When the time is right" or "I could see it happening soon" were truths in disguise, because the time IS right, and it IS happening soon ... very, very soon! ;)

Here's a look at our little peanut! He/she has arms, I swear ... they just don't show in this picture! :)

Vegas Baby, Vegas!

2010-03-03T17:09:00.001-08:00

What a crazy few days I've had trying to get ready to attend WPPI in Las Vegas, but I'm sure they'll pale in comparision to the next 6 days! I don't expect this Vegas trip to be anything like the bachelorette party/Vegas weekend type of Vegas trip. Sure, there will be parties and lots of friends, but there is also SO MUCH education. I am excited -- and a bit nervous -- for days of classes starting at 8am, hours in the trade show, and sponsored parties at night. It's going to be a blast! I going out days before the platform classes actually start because my friend and colleague Karen ReVelle asked me to assist her at a wedding! I'm super excited to shoot my first Vegas wedding on Friday night! Viva Las Vegas! ;)

I'll be away from my computer for the next 6 days, but you keep up with my Vegas happenings on Twitter:

Vintage Temecula Photography

2010-03-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

On the morning of Super Bowl Sunday, a handful of photographers trekked to Temecula for a vintage photoshoot at uber-fabulous Edge Restaurant & Lounge. I want to give a giant "thank you" to Nikki Evans for putting the shoot together, and to all of the models, hairstylists, and makeup artists. The shoot was a lot of fun, and I even made it to my Super Bowl party in time for halftime (which is good enough for me, since, lets face it, I don't watch football. You might catch me looking at the tv, but I don't actually process what happens during the game!)

Without further ado, here are some of my favorites (most of which were processed with my new TRA Lightroom Presets!)

Anaheim Hills Maternity Photography

2010-03-02T22:56:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons why I love photographing pregnant women. It could be the love between husband and wife; it could be the curvy pregnant glow; it could be the joy of an event that most women experience only a few times in their lives. Pregnancy is such a special time, and it goes so fast (well, this coming from someone with no children -- maybe it doesn't go so fast when you're actually experiencing it!). It's one of those times in your life that has to be photographed NOW, as you can never go back and re-create the moment. I truly encourange all women who are expecting to have a maternity session done! :)

I was so happy when Tracie contacted me for a maternity session while she was visiting California. I loved the chance to spending the morning with Tracie & John, and celebrate the upcoming birth of little Emily Grace!

Here are some of my favorites:

This backlit clearing was one of my favorite nature spots. Ever. :)

Fullerton Family Photographer

2010-03-02T22:37:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad blogger lately. I'm going to remedy that with several blog posts today and tomorrow, and then my blog will sit idle (again) while I go to Las Vegas for THE photography convention of the year! It will be my first time at WPPI, and I am super excited for all the information I am going to soak up. I've heard that it could take a year - or two - to fully soak in all the information I will receive. I am READY! I'm also ready for all the fun times with friends new and old!

I recently had the opportunity to do a family portrait for the Noble family. They were such a photogenic group, and a pleasure to photograph. I am so glad that I was able to document the family just days before their daughter moved halfway across the country. I am so glad that my images will help to bridge the distance between the family, now that they live in separate states!

Up next: Tracie's maternity session!

Palos Verdes Estates Wedding Photography: Wendolyn + Dustin

2010-02-27T18:00:00.000-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Wendolyn and Dustin's wedding. It was a wonderful, intimate wedding where they were surrounded by close friends and family. Wendolyn got ready at the incredibly chic Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica. The ceremony was at St Timothy Catholic Church, the most gorgeous church I have ever shot at. The gold alter was absolutely stunning. According to the church's website, the alter was shipped from Spain to Mexico in the early 1900's, bought by an art dealer, held in storage, and eventually acquired by the church. The majesty of the alter made a timeless backdrop to Wendolyn and Dustin's vows.

The amazing thing about Wendolyn and Dustin's wedding what the mix of high end and DIY choices. The day started with Wendolyn's Christin Louboutins, and ended with a delicious wedding cake and maccaroons that Wendolyn and several friends (all graduates of Le Courdon Bleu) baked themselves. Everything was personal, real, and woven together to celebrate the joining of their lives.

Wendy and Dustin - Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your wedding day. I had an amazing time documenting the beginning of the rest of your lives together. After tasting your delicious wedding cake, I can't wait to see "Bake With Your Cake Out" succeed, and will definitely refer my brides to you! ;)

I also want to send a big "thank you" to my second shooter, Jennifer Owens! You did a great job, and I appreciate you being there with me! :)

Christian Louboutins? Yes please!

The beautiful bride

The handsome groom

The tender couple

Ooh la la!

The luscious cake I had far too many favorites for the blog alone. Please enjoy the slideshow!

If you know the couple and would like to order prints from their wedding, please click here!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T11:24:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Wedding: Wendolyn + Dustin ... Sneak Peek!

2010-01-31T12:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had the chance to photograph the marriage Wendolyn and Dustin at St Timothy's Catholic Church. It was such a joy to see them wed, and see the happiness of the family around them. After the ceremony, we stopped by the historic Malaga Cove Library for some portraits of the bride and groom. There will be many more images to come, but for now, here's a peek at one of the images I can't stop looking at! :)

Getting started as a photographer, crafter, or artist?

2010-01-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

When I started Serendipity Images in 7/2007, I wanted to photograph flowers and nature. I kept the bed of my husband's truck loaded up, and drove all over Southern California to sell my art at craft fairs and street festivals. I spent more money than I care to admit purchasing my booth set-up, and hours figuring sketching different configurations of my tables so that customers could easily flow through my booth. I thought about having "take-aways" for my customers, and found battery-operated fans to blow through my booth on hot days. During the early days of Serendipity Images, you could find me in a booth like this:

Sometimes I got lucky and had a corner booth!

It was fun to meet new people and chat with my "neighbors," but both me and my business soon grew away from the craft shows. Once I discovered that I LOVE photographing people, and specifically, couples, craft shows became a thing of the past for me.

I am cleaning out my office and have a TON of stuff that I don't need anymore. I'd love to sell it to someone locally to a crafter, photographer, or artist. Please contact me if you want to buy anything -- I'm no longer using it, and am sick of looking at it! If you're in Orange County, we can meet up so there's no postage fee -- I accept PayPal or cash on delivery. If you're not local, I accept PayPal and there will be reasonable shipping costs.

Here's what I'm selling:

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) Strathmore Photo Mount Cards: Black with Embossed Frame, envelopes included, set of 10
These are beautiful, heavy cards by Strathmore, one of the leaders in paper products. They are perfect to adhere photographs to or use for crafting. The enclosed envelopes also have a deckled edge and feel very fancy. (They're in slightly different packaging than shown below, 2 are NIB, 1 has been opened but not used)
*Retail price is $9 per set. I am selling 3 sets together for $12* NOW $6

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) Strathmore Photo Mount Cards: White with Embossed Frame, acid free, envelopes included, set of 50
These are beautiful, heavy cards by Strathmore, one of the leaders inpaper products. They are perfect to adhere photographs to or use forcrafting. The enclosed envelopes also have a deckled edge and feelvery fancy. I used to make photo cards with this kind of set, and they sold well at craft shows.
*Retail price is $36. I have 1 unopened set available for $18* NOW $9

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) Strathmore Photo Frame Cards: White with Die Cut Window, acid free, envelopes included, set of 40
These are beautiful, heavy cards by Strathmore, one of the leaders inpaper products. They are perfect to insert your photograph or art into. The enclosed envelopes also have a deckled edge and feelvery fancy. I used to make photo cards with this kind of set, and they sold well at craft shows.
*Retail price is $33. I have 1 unopened set available for $15* NOW $7.50

Greeting Card Rack: I am selling the metal greeting card rack that you can see in the craft show pictures. I have to double-check, but I believe it has 48 wire "pockets" that hold 5x7 greeting cards or brochures. It disassembles easily for transport. One of the "pockets" has been bent since I got it. It comes in a cardboard box, but the box is very beat up from using it every weekend!
*This retails around $80, but I'll sell it for $30* (Free to anyone I personally know who will pick it up from me by the end of April!)

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) Box of Cut Mats: I have a box filled with mattes that I am no longer using. The box weighs approximately 40 pounds and holds approximately 50 double-cut mats that hold a 4x6 print, 30 single-cut mats that hold a 5x7 print, 85 single-cut mats that hold an 8x10 print, and 60 single-cut mats that hold an 11x14 print. Most of the mats are cream colored, but there are some black and assorted colors included.
*I paid over $200 for all these mats, and am selling them for $65 OBO (Free to anyone I personally know know who will pick it up from me by the end of April!)

Customer Bags with Die Cut Handle: I have 2 boxes of bags that I gave customers their matted prints in. The bags are translucent "frosted" and have a die cut handle. I have a box of 9x12 inch bags and a box of 12x15 inch bags. Both boxes originally contained 500 bags and are practically full.
*I paid $35 for the 9x12 bags and $40 for the 12x15 bags. I'll sell them for $18/box* NOW $9/box

Woven Baskets: I used to use pretty oval woven baskets to hold my matted prints. There are a total of 5 baskets. 1 large basket (approximately 18" long, 13" wide, 11" deep), 1 medium basket (approximately 20" long, 7" wide, and 7" deep), and 2 small baskets (approximately 17" long, 8" wide, 6" deep). They're totally multi-purpose baskets that would be great for magazines, towels, shoes by the front door - whatever!

*I bought the set of 5 baskets for $65 at Marshalls, and am offering it for $25* NOW $12.50

IKEA Shoe Shelves: I used to use these galvanized steel shoe racks from IKEA as risers to hold my framed photographs at an angle. Each is approximately 23 inches long, 12 inches deep, and 5 inches high. These shelf are seriously heavy & heavy-duty.
*Each shelf retails at $5; I'm selling the set of 8 for $15* NOW $7.50

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) "Crafting for Dollars: Turn Your Hobby Into Serious Cash": This is how Amazon describes the book: Consultant and craft-based business owner SylviaLandman takes readers step-by-step through every aspect of starting andmanaging their own craft-based business. Including interviews with allkinds of successful crafters, the book offers the solid advice you needto launch your own home-based business.
*Retails for $14.95; I'm selling it for $3*

(NO LONGER AVAILABLE) "How to Start a Home-Based Photography Business" (4th edition): This is how Amazon describes the book: From estimating start-up costs and outfitting a darkroom to stayingprofitable once in business, this completely updated and revised guideincludes the author's experiences and advice on every aspect of settingup and running a thriving home-based photography business. His handyworksheets, quizzes, and checklists serve as practical steps towardachieving this dream.
*Retails for $17.95; I'm selling it for $3* NOW $1.50

Amertac Utility Lites:
When winter approached, I bought some battery-operated fluorescent lights for my booth. I didn't need all of them, but never got around to returning them to Lowes! I have 2 sealed packages each containing two 6" lights, and 3 sealed packages each containing one 12" light. All are battery operated and have an on/off switch. I don't think they'd be effective to light a bride, but they're great little multi-purpose lights for a closet, garage, pantry, etc!
*I paid about $40 for these, and will sell them for $20*

Thank you so much for looking. There is nothing wrong with anything that I am selling, I just no longer need it and am cleaning out my office! Please email me if you are interested in making a purchase!

Haiti Relief Mini-Sessions

2010-01-27T09:14:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I am so excited to announce that I have teamed up with Thomas Frank and Karen Revelle to do Haiti benefit mini-sessions this Sunday! Check out our video & the details below, then make your appointment to join us for this Sunday! :)

Please contact me or email our group to set up your mini-session!

A little help?

2010-01-22T09:42:00.000-08:00

Hi guys! I'm hoping for a little help. I'm in the process of refining my business. There are some major changes coming -- they're still in a conceptual stage, but I'm hoping to make them official sooner rather than later. Serendipity Images is going to be honed and simplified to the essence of what it has always been -- me, Tracy Norred! As part of this project, I think it's important to know how my images are perceived. I can't take credit for this exercise -- I was just listending to a Dane Sanders interview where he talked about doing a process similar to this. He put his favorite 7 images up on the wall and asked photographers for words that described them.

I've posted some of my favorite images below. I would be forever grateful if you could scroll through then leave me a comment with the words that best describe these images!

Thank you in advance for your comments on the words that best describe these images. I appreciate your help! You are an important part of my business! :)

I Love A Rainy Day

2010-01-22T08:45:00.000-08:00

The sound of rain falling on my roof this morning made me happy. I love the rain, and it's rare that we actually have 6 consecutive days of rain in Southern California. Rain came in on Sunday during our Shoot This event, and I learned (although it was no surprise) that the only time I don't love the rain is when I am photographing people! As long as I'm not headed anywhere important, and am not carrying thousands of dollars in camera equipment, then BRING IT ON!

Bring on the patter of rain drops.
Bring on my thoughts of energy in the air.
Bring on damp, puffy hair.
Bring on my laughter as rain becomes torriential as I'm checking out at the grocery store.
Bring on the chance to sing in the rain.
Bring on the comfort of coming home, putting on warm, dry, comfy clothes and making tea.
Bring it on!

Of course, if there is a wedding or photoshoot scheduled, then please rain: go away and come again another day!

Shoot This!

2010-01-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about being a photographer is the community. I have made so many good friends in the last 7 months, and sometimes we get to go out and shoot together. Joelle Leder started up "Shoot This," a monthly group photoshoot complete with gorgeous and fully made up models, flowers, and fabulous locations! During the November shoot, we were at Jody Domingue's studio, and Sunday we shoot at the Disney Concert Hall!

It's pretty hard to believe that the Disney Concert Hall has been complete for more than 6 years, and I've never visited. The building is simply amazing in it's aches and peaks. I see now why so many photographers shoot there. Around every corner was a fabulous gem of a location.

Before I show you my favorite images, I'd like to applaud everyone involved in putting on the LA Shoot This 1-17-2010 event: The event was sponsored by HotelReservations.com, and produced by the Los Angeles Photography Group and Joelle Leder Photography. The official florist, Flour, created beautiful bouquets for our models. The models' hair accessories were made by Rachel Larraine. The Group Leader and Expert Photographer was Chris Diset. Lead and Expert Photographers included Michelle Cunningham, Amber Fox, David Esquire, and Kerry Garrison. Chris Diset and Mitch Rossi provided video for event. The Lead Makeup Artist was Kimberly Bragalone. The Makeup and Hair artists were Rozette Haymaker, Shannon Ely, Tiffany Lieu, Michelle Chen. The event was styled by Lesley Danger Be. The Lead Model was David Liggett (makeup/kim bragalone & hair/shannon ely). Our other talented models were Chelsea Ratvich (makeup/rozette haymaker & hair/michelle cheng), Megan Bibbo (makeup/rozette haymaker & hair/shannon ely), Kaylie Wilson (makeup/kim bragalone & hair tiffany lieu), Lynnae Bothwell (makeup/kim bragalone & hair/shannon ely), Alex Oakley (makeup/rozette & hair/michelle cheng), Shannon Bratton (makeup/kim bragalone & hair/tiffany lieu), Johan Khalilian (makeup/hair - michelle cheng), Stephen Comp (makeup/hair - michelle cheng), and Matt Thomas (makeup/hair - michelle cheng).

PHEW! That's a lot of people to thank! The event was a success, even in the falling rain! Every photosession I do is a new chance to learn and get better at my craft, and I am so grateful for the chance to participate in the Shoot This events!

Here are some of my favorites:

Rock the Dress

2010-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

I love shooting Rock the Dress sessions. Sometimes you hear them called Trash the Dress, but I don't think your dress has to get "trashed," so I've re-named them. A Rock the Dress session is an awesome chance to put your wedding dress back on after your wedding, and just rock it.

Rock it like you're never going to wear it again.
Rock it like you're not afraid of getting it dirty.
Rock it with attitude.
Simply rock it.

I've seen brides rock it with scissors; brides rock it at the beach and in fields; brides rock it on the streets of LA. A Rock the Dress session is about putting that wedding dress back on and HAVING FUN!

I want to start shooting more Rock the Dress sessions, so the next 3 Southern California couples that book me for their wedding photography will receive a FREE Rock the Dress session after the wedding! Contact me soon to book your wedding and FREE Rock the Dress session! :)

Update: There are only TWO free Rock the Dress sessions left!

Coming tomorrow...

2010-01-17T10:40:00.000-08:00

Watch the blog at 9am tomorrow morning! I'll be launching a special offer for the next 3 Southern California couples who book me for their wedding!

Here's a hint:

See you tomorrow! :)

Orange County Anytime Session: Christy

2010-01-17T10:07:00.000-08:00

I recently had the chance to photograph my good friend Christy in her new house. It was such a cool chance to document her life right now, and a wonderful way to celebrate the house before it gets filled with the STUFF that we all collect in piles and junk drawers. I love photographing milestones - and first house is definitely one to celebrate! Congratulations Christy - I am so happy for you, and can't wait to see what else life has to hold! :)

Torrance & Palos Verdes Engagement Session: Wendolyn + Dustin

2009-12-27T14:34:00.000-08:00

I photographed Wendolyn and Dustin's engagement session this morning. We got started in Torrance, outside at the store where they both worked together. They met as co-workers, and spent long hours talking on the purple bench in front of the store. I love that they wanted to start their engagement session at the place where their romance started! We included their sweet rescue dog, Franklin, in the session. Franklin was outstanding - he totally posed for me! ;) After starting the engagement session in Torrance, we continued down the road to a fabulous field in the Palos Verdes Estates. I just love the rustic glamour of shooting in a field, and rocking a little sun flare! :)

Wendolyn & Dustin - I had a great time with you this morning! I can't wait to share your wedding day with you next month! :)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T07:57:00.000-08:00

Santa Monica Engagement Session : Katy + Ryan

2009-12-24T11:43:00.000-08:00

Right after the recent heavy rains, I met up with Katy and Ryan in Santa Monica for their engagement session. We got really lucky because after several days of rain, the weather was perfect! It was cool and windy, and the clouds often diffused the light beautifully! My couples sometimes ask me if their photographs will come out okay on an overcast day, and I love shooting on overcast day - it diffuses the light to help prevent shadows or squinting into the sun! :)

Katy and Ryan - Thank you for a fun engagement session! I had a blast with you guys, and absolutely can not wait to photograph your "Destiny" wedding in April! Have a wonderful Christmas with your families! :)

Doesn't Katy have AMAZING eyes?

Tuesday Tip #4-5

2009-12-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad blogger over the last few weeks. It's been a crazy month, and I can hardly believe that Christmas is only a few days away. Here's a taste of what I've been up to: yesterday I did my hospital baby photography side-job, hit up Borders for their closing sale (at the Costa Mesa location), pleaded with Santa for this and that, went to my in-laws house, watched "New Moon," and picked up my sister-in-law from LAX. LAX traffic, by the way, was ridiculous! Now I know why I never travel during the holidays, well that and because all of our immediate family lives locally! :) Oh, and if you're wondering, I'm Team Jakeward. I used to be Team Edward, but partially defected during "New Moon," and am now on both teams (thanks to my cousin Cyndi for the new team name!).

Since Christmas is coming in a few days, I'm going to double up on tips this week:

Tuesday Tip #4: Photograph candid moments (or moment that look candid)

On Saturday, we were at a family Christmas party, and my mom made a suggestion for my next Tuesday Tip. She suggested - and I agree - that you photograph people when they are doing something, or at least when they are pretending to do something. Many adults freeze up in front of the camera and end up with a forced smile that does not look natural. Kids, on the other hand, tend to give a GIANT smile when the camera comes out. If you can photograph people without them knowing, or at least while they pretend to do something (stir cookie batter, read a book, whatever), it will look much more natural.

My mom is one of the 'freeze when you smile for the camera' people, and here is a picture I took of her pretending to listen to the UN translator earpiece during our trip to New York last June.

Tuesday Tip #5: Turn off your flash

Flash has it's purpose. It can be important for illuminating people or objects in a dark room, or for illuminating a person against a bright sky. The problem is that the flash on "point and shoot" cameras is small and shoots straight forward. I can't tell you how many times I've seen someone try to photograph a person behind a bouquet of flowers, and the flowers look white because they've been blown out by the flash, while the person is still dark. I often bounce my flash off the ceiling or walls, but since this isn't something you can do with a compact camera, I suggest learning how to turn your flash off.

If you're turning your flash off, you'll probably want to lower your shutter speed or increase the ISO of your camera (if your camera offers that). ISO determines how sensitive your camera is to light; the larger the number, the more light it lets in, but also the grainier your picture gets. The lower your shutter speed, the more light will get in, but the more blurry your picture can get from your or your subject's movement. You'll want to make sure you you hold really still if you lower the shutter speed; sometimes you can brace yourself or your camera against a wall, tree, or table when you're taking pictures at slow shutter speeds.

Sometimes using flash is your best option, but your result can be much more natural and artistic without it. Without the flash, the picture can have more depth because the shadowing and natural/ambient light help to shape the person. Turning the flash off also helps prevents that nasty red-eye effect!

Please please please don't try this for the first time on an important shot! It will probably take a lot of practice and understanding of exposure to get good at this! :)

Here's an example from Sharon and Jake's wedding reception. Using a flash would have absolutely ruined this picture. It would have made the people standing closest to me be really bright. The bright guests in the foreground would have distracting from the boys making shadow animals in front of the slideshow, if the slideshow was visible at all!

(This image was take at f/1.4, 1/40th of a second, ISO 800)

Happy Shooting! :)

Orange County Baby Photography: Brooklyn

2009-12-11T13:36:00.000-08:00

I was so fortunate to photograph my friend's baby girl, Brooklyn, yesterday. I saw Brooklyn as a newborn, and the transformation from newborn to alert, smiling 2 1/2 month old was amazing. She was full of smiles, and seemed to love blowing bubbles for us. I wonder what blowing bubbles means? I'd like to think it translates to "This is fun! I love having you taking my picture!" It was such a pleasure to photograph Brooklyn, and catch up with Anna after Brooklyn went down for her nap. Doesn't Brooklyn have the sweetest little face? :)

Seriously, would you look at this smile?

I just love these snowman jammies!

She showed off by blowing bubbles for us!

Dad couldn't be there, be we got a few pictures with mom! :)

Orange County Family Photography

2009-12-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

My favorite thing winter is scarves. I have a drawer full of scarves and wraps, ranging from cashmere to knitted, from white to turquoise to black. They come out as soon as the temperature drops, before a jacket or even closed-toed shoes. Yes, I'm that Californian rocking a three-quarter sleeved shirt & flip-flops with a scarf. Hey, at least my neck is warm, right? There is something cozy and nurturing about feeling bundled up. What's your favorite thing about winter?

I have also photographed quite a few holiday sessions recently. Here's a peek at some of my families:

Don't I have a bunch of cute families? :)

Orange County Baby Photography: Jakson

2009-12-10T14:24:00.000-08:00

Couples and babies are my favorite things to photograph. I love the interaction between couples, and I love the fresh newness of babies. I also love that babies are, well, the end product of the couple, so they're the perfect extension of people in love. ;) While it's the slow season for wedding photography, I've been photographing a lot of holiday family sessions and several friends' babies. As we get into 2010, I'll have more and more engagement and wedding photography back up on my blog! Stay tuned! ;)

I had my camera out for a few minutes last "Football Sunday," and I caught this darling shot of Jakson looking at his mom. I can't tell you how much I love this picture! I love, love, love it! :)

Tuesday Tip #3

2009-12-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Boy does a week roll around quickly! I hope you've been enjoying my tips so far. While I think every family should be professional photographed, you should also be able to take the best possible pictures when you don't have a photographer with you! :)

Tracy's Tuesday Tip #3: Off-center is okay!

You don't have to center the subject of your picture. In fact, your picture will probably be a lot more interesting if your subjects are off-center. Imagine a grid of nine equal parts over your picture. You generally want your objects of interest to lie on or near the cross points on the grid, because it creates more energy and interest. Here's an example of what I'm talking about. Notice that her body and the sand-line are along the lines of the grid, with her face falling near one of the grid intersections.

Tuesday Tip #2

2009-12-01T13:29:00.000-08:00

Tracy's Tuesday Tip: Find back-lighting

One way you can make your pictures look studio quality is by finding back-lighting. Back-lighting gives a person dimension & helps separate them from the background. You can create back-lighting by using the sun, an actual light, or light bouncing off a light object.

I look this picture of my cousins on Thanksgiving. The sun was bouncing of the second story of my parents' house, giving both girls a beautiful glow. I was so surprised and impressed by how gorgeous it turned out ... my parents backyard just might be "Plan C" for photoshoots that get too dark! ;)

Bixby Knolls Wedding Reception: Sharon + Jake

2009-11-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

I recently had the chance to photograph my childhood best friend's hometown wedding reception. It was such a blast to see Sharon and her family after many many years, and meet Sharon's husband Jake. It was fun to get to know Sharon and Jake, for basically the first time, at the same time. My favorite thing about them was how they laughed together. They laughed and played throughout their portraits together, and were truly a pleasure to photograph. Here are a few of my favorites, followed by a slideshow! :)

Sharon and Jake - Thank you for asking me to photograph your reception. I truly had a great time being a part of your day! I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness together! :)

Serious Face! ;)

Please enjoy the slideshow:

Seal Beach Family Session

2009-11-24T17:11:00.000-08:00

I recently met up with Jaime, Pat, and their girls for a fun California Christmas session in Seal Beach. Jaime created the cutest sand sand-man, although the girls were a little more interested in adding more sand to his body/head than posing with him! I love to let kids just be kids in their photographs! We had a blast -- here are some of my favorite images:

Tracy's Tuesday Tip

2009-11-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

With the holidays coming up, I decided to start a new feature called Tracy's Tuesday Tip. Each week's tip will feature a different suggestion for taking great pictures of your family. You don't need to have a fancy SLR camera to take great pictures. With a few tips, anyone can capture fun everyday images of their kids or family!

Tracy's Tuesday Tip #1: Get down to eye level

With children and pets, it is important to get down to their level. When you are down at a child or pet's level, you capture greater detail than you would photographing them from above, and you get a more dynamic feel for the world they experience. It is much more interactive to be at their level. I've often been known to get down onto my knees, or even flat on my stomach to capture an image. Ignore the curious looks you may get from the friends or family around you, because once they see the cute picture you took, they'll want a copy for themselves! ;)

Shoot This!

2009-11-21T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I got together with photographers from all over Southern California for the second "Shoot This!" event. The event was sponsored by Joelle Leder Photography and the Los Angeles Photography Group. I can't thank Joelle enough for all of the work she put into this event. The fabulous shoot came together with thanks to Joelle and the following:

Location: the fabulous Jody Domingue Studios
Leads: Doug McNamee and Chris Diset
Makeup: Kimberly Bragalone & Shirley Vazquez
Hair: Michelle Cheng (for Sandra Sheng) and Shannon Ely
Models: Megan Bibbo, Kaylie Wilson, Chelsea Ravitch, Lindsey Cloud, Amanda Shaw, David Liggett, Nicholas Navock, Brennan Mejia, & Brian Bose
Flowers: Flour Floral Design Studio
Sponsor: FolioMojo - Web Marketing Mojo for your online portfolio

We took a group shot before we got started:

I had too many favorites for one blog post, so I created a slideshow at the bottom of the post. The models were incredibly talented, and it was a blast being able to shoot in Jody's studio and the surrounding streets!

Enjoy the slideshow:

Wilson Creek Winery Wedding: Kelli + Kelley

2009-11-20T12:24:00.000-08:00

Kelli and Kelley's met because of their names. It's amazing to see a relationship grow and blossoms from something as simple as a shared name -- Kelli Jo and Kelley Joe -- into a beautiful life together. Their relationship grew together throughout their time at the University of Redlands, their sorority/fraternity functions, and in the life that followed their graduation. Kelli and Kelley's wedding at Wilson Creek Winery was one of the most fun, heart-filled events that I have been to. Everyone rocked it out on the dance floor, singing "Don't Stop Believin'" and Irish step-dancing to Flogging Molly's "Drunken Lullabies." Heart definitely filled the room.

Kelli and Kelley - Thank you for including me in your wedding day. I had such a wonderful time with you both, and wish you a lifetime of happiness together! :)

Kelli and the ladies were all beautified by Jessie Kenney (hair) and Kimberley Woods (makeup) from Rylin Ashlee Salon.

Please enjoy the slideshow:

Do you know Kelli and Kelley? Visit www.kelliandkelley.info to check out all of their wedding images. Until 11/30/2009, receive 15% off website orders of $50+!

Laguna Beach Engagement Session: Julia + Joey

2009-11-19T08:28:00.000-08:00

When Julia and I started talking the location for her engagement session, she knew just the spot: the beach where Joey proposed to her. I love doing engagement sessions in sentimental locations. It makes the engagement session even more special when there are loving memories attached to the location.

I met up with Julia, Joey, and their two boys in Laguna Beach for a family-style engagement session. With promises of ice cream (mint chocolate chip for me please!), everyone cooperated and had a great time! Julia & Joey - I had a great time with you and loved getting to know your boys. Can't wait to be your wedding photographer next April! :)

Yorba Linda Holiday Sessions

2009-11-18T15:55:00.000-08:00

November has been a great month. I've been shooting a lot, socializing with my photographer friends at more events than usual, spending Sunday afternoons with good friends, and getting ready to bake up a storm for Thanksgiving! Here's a peek at some of the family photosessions I did a few weeks back. I like to photograph kids being kids, and everyone having a great time! :)

Happy Veterans Day

2009-11-11T10:29:00.000-08:00

Thank you to the men and women of this country who have sacrificed so much to protect us. Your honor, duty, and commitment are truly appreciated.

Eulogy for a Veteran

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the mornings hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.

-Author Unknown

Bixby Knolls Wedding Reception: Sharon + Jake (Sneak Peek!)

2009-11-07T20:49:00.000-08:00

Tonight was something special. Tonight I photographed the hometown wedding reception of my childhood best friend and her husband. Sharon and I reconnected on Facebook two months ago, only a few weeks before her Wyoming wedding. Luckily, she was also having a hometown wedding reception & needed a photographer. It was SUCH a pleasure to see my friend and her family after all these years. I loved meeting Sharon and Jake as a couple. They are the perfect match. Here's a peek at what's in store! :)

Sunset

2009-11-07T11:28:00.000-08:00

Last night I shot a fun family-style engagement session in Laguna Beach. After we were through, I stuck around to watch the sun set. I sat atop the a rocky peak and was filled with gratitude for my life. I love my job. I love the people I get to meet. I love that I can finish up "working," and be on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. I was filled with the sense that there was no where I would rather be. :)

Plus One!

2009-10-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to share that my first bride and groom, Brandy and Devin, recently let me know that they are expecting a baby! I am so happy for Brandy and Devin as they start a family together. With their permission, please join in me offering a very big loving congratulation! :)

Helping a fellow photographer

2009-10-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

When I heard that Heidi Walker's equipment was stolen -- all $20,000 of it -- my heart went out to her. As a photographer, all of our hopes, dreams, and income comes from our equipment. She was shooting with Dustin Izatt that day, and you can read about what happened, and how you can help on his blog.

Suffice to say that we all learned a lesson about not leaving our gear in our trunks, even for a minute, the value of insurance, and (most importantly) the value of those around us. Yes, some dirtbag ripped off Heidi's equipment (and I hope he gets caught for it!!!), but we're also learning how many good people there are, complete strangers to Heidi, who want to help her out. What an amazing network of photographers. People are good.

I hope that enough people donate to Heidi's fund to replace her equipment and restore her faith in people. You can donate through Paypal to dustin@dustinizatt.com (he promises that every cent will go to Heidi .. just put "for Heidi" in the transaction), and Dustin is also donating the profit from his templates and one-on-one consultations to Heidi.

Lets all pull together here and do the right thing, for Heidi and for us all.

Wilson Creek Winery Wedding: Kelli + Kelley (Sneak Peek!)

2009-10-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I had the pleasure of photographing my friends Kelli and Kelley marry each other at the Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, CA. It was a beautiful day filled with friends, family, and lots & lots of dancing! After the ceremony I snuck Kelli and Kelley into the Barrel Room for some intimate portraits together. Here is a peek at one of my favorites. I'll blog more images from the wedding in a few weeks.

Kelli & Kelley - Thank you for allowing me to photograph your wedding day. It was an absolute pleasure. I wish you an relaxing & romantic honeymoon in Oahu!

On Efficiency & Effectiveness

2009-10-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was mentally beating myself up for the amount of time I spend on Facebook. I love Facebook, it works for me and for my business, but I couldn't figure out what the heck I spent my morning doing! I walked into the kitchen & noticed the flashing red light on my Blackberry. I am on a LOT of mailing lists, and an normally quick to delete mass-sent messages, but I am glad I read this one:

"Effectiveness is doing the things that get you closer to your goals. Efficiency
is performing a given task (whether important or not) in the most economical
manner possible.

Being efficient without regard to effectiveness is the default mode of the
universe. I would consider the best door-to-door salesperson efficient—that is,
refined and excellent at selling door-to-door without wasting time—but utterly
ineffective. He or she would sell more using a better vehicle such as e-mail or
direct mail.

This is also true for the person who checks e-mail 30 times per day and develops
an elaborate system of folder rules and sophisticated techniques for ensuring
that each of those 30 brain farts moves as quickly as possible. I was a
specialist at such professional wheel-spinning. It is efficient on some perverse
level, but far from effective.

Here are two truisms to keep in mind:

  1. Doing something unimportant well does not make it important.
  2. Requiring a lot of time does not make a task important.
  
From this moment forward, remember this: What you do is infinitely more
important than how you do it. Efficiency is still important, but it is useless
unless applied to the right things."

(Email from Dan Oaks at DVO Enterprises)

I am a pro at professional wheel-spinning. If you substitute Facebook with email in the letter, it would be me to a T! I occasionally think about creating a schedule for myself, something that would give backbone to my day when I do not have appointments. After several wadded up versions, I created a schedule for myself. It's a work in progress; I expect to change it as my needs change (and hopefully as I become more of a morning person), but I think it's a great starting point.

The thing I am happiest about is including meditation and reading in my schedule. I LOVE the way I feel when I meditate, but I haven't done it on a consistent basis since last Spring. I am also in the process of making big changes in my business, and being the best ME possible, so I am including enriching business and life books.

Here's my first go at creating a schedule:

8am - Wake up
8-8:15am - Meditate
8:15-8:45 - Make coffee, check Facebook, etc
8:45-9:15 - Read business book
9:15-10 - Shower, dress, get ready for the day
10-12 - Business: Email, phone calls, Quicken, etc
12-12:30 - Lunch and Facebook
12:30-4 - Photography: Edit, blog, etc
4-5 - Introspection & branding brainstorming
5-5:30 - Read business book
5:30-6:30 - Tidy house
6:30-10pm - Dinner, tv, etc
10-10:30pm - Read a personally enriching book
10:30pm - Bedtime

I started the new schedule this morning! I hope it'll make more productive days, and that I won't feel like I've been spinning my wheels on Facebook all day!

No offense Facebook ... I love you, but we spend too much time together.

Holiday Special - Book your session today!

2009-10-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of interest in the holiday special, but just wanted to make sure that everyone saw it! Contact me today to book your session!

Here are some samples of my card designs:

Anytime: Pumpkin Patch Session

2009-10-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my good friend Julia asked if I would do a family session at the pumpkin patch. I have the pleasure of photographing Julia, Kevin, and Jakson frequently, as Jakson is my favorite little 'nephew.' You might remember their maternity session or newborn session. The pumpkin patch session was no less fabulous than the others! I am excited to show you the images, but before I do, I have something special to share:

I was going through my files and re-discovered the shot when Kevin and Julia found out that Jakson was going to be a boy. They had a 'gender party' before those were even the thing to do! It wasn't truly a party -- just family and a few friends, there to share in the excitement as Kevin and Julia found out what they were having.

It started with a Nordstroms box. They picked out both pink and blue clothes, and gave them to the Nordstroms cashier with the sealed envelope from the doctor. A few minutes later, Kevin and Julia returned to pick up the signature box containing their future of either dance classes or football/baseball/golf practice.

This is the moment where they found out! I love the happiness in their faces!

Fast forward 7 months, and we have Jakson at the pumpkin patch with his mom and dad! Isn't he a cutie? :)

And the covermodel shot goes to ......

Little Luxuries: A great massage!

2009-10-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

I lay on my stomach, eyes closed, face nestled between white towels. I breath in the scent of cedar, then deeply exhale.

I think it is so important to treat ourselves well. Treating ourselves well takes many forms. Sometimes we need to stay home, rest, and allow our mind and body to refresh. Sometimes we need to say 'no' to things that we don't want to do, or let or go out & experience new things that we DO want to do! Sometimes we just need to indulge in something that makes us feel fabulous!

Today my indulgence was indulgence. I love day spas and I love massages. I would love to get a deep tissue massage at my favorite spa twice a month, but as a self employed person, a spa treatment is a treat, and not a regular occasion. I recently found the next best thing: hour-long reflexology massages for only $20! The rooms are not private and the cedar aroma was from the furniture, not essential oils, but for an hour I let go of my mind as every muscle in my body was massaged and beat up a little. That's how I like my massages: firm, slightly painful, and effective! And for $20, plus a tip, I may have found my twice-monthly massage location!

"If you aren't good at loving yourself, you will have a difficult time loving anyone, since you'll resent the time and energy you give another person that you aren't even giving to yourself." -Barbara De Angelis

Lorrie Rocks her Dress!

2009-10-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to show you these Rock the Dress images for fellow photographer Lorrie Prothero. We did the photoshoot in honor of her upcoming 10-year anniversary. Lorrie rocked it like a pro model during her Seal Beach Rock the Dress shoot -- she didn't even flinch as the tide rolled over her! It was a lot of fun to meet new photographer friends and enjoy the Seal Beach sunset. I think Lorrie had a great time too ... just look at that laughter in the images. I love it! :)

Thank you to KC Witcamp for doing a beautiful job on Lorrie's make-up!

I couldn't even get close to narrowing the images down to 10 favorites. Here are my absolute favorites for the Seal Beach Rock the Dress shoot, and there's a slideshow below. Enjoy! :)

Please enjoy the slideshow:

Lorrie: Rock the Dress ... Sneak Peek!

2009-10-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Occasionally a photographer gets her turn in front of the lens. In honor of her upcoming 10-year anniversary, Lorrie Prothero pulled out her wedding dress to rock it in ways you just can't do on your wedding day. A Trash the Dress (as they're usually called), or Rock the Dress (as I call it) session is the perfect chance to put your wedding dress back on on and PLAY! Oh, and the dress was a little big on Lorrie. How awesome is that?!? ;)

Maggie + Todd: Anytime Session

2009-10-07T11:40:00.000-07:00

Last month I met up with Maggie and Todd for a fun 'anytime session' near their home. It was like an engagement session, except that these two have been happily married for a couple years already. We played in Marina Del Rey with Eli & Sydney, then took the dogs back to their place & headed to the Santa Monica pier. There are so many interesting locations, colors, and people along the pier, and we even stopped for a moment to watch the trapeze school (remember "The Catch" episode of SATC? ;)

Maggie & Todd - Thank you for a fantastic session, and dinner afterwards! I had a blast with you guys! :)

Hello gorgeous!

And ... now that the news is officially out ... I can share Maggie's first official maternity photograph! Congratulations Maggie & Todd! :)

Destination: Napa

2009-10-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

I just got back from my first trip to Napa! It was such a relaxing get-away weekend/girls trip. I really enjoyed exploring Napa & the cool, bright day in San Francisco. Thank you to my mother-in-law, Laura, for taking me on the trip, and to Pam & Tom for letting us stay at their place! I had a great time!

This is the vineyard we stayed on, in the early morning light:

I love small, interesting details

We visited the incredible Castello di Amorosa, which has a Medieval ambiance

...and an incredible view!

Lucy was a celebrity, all over Napa and San Francisco! The Castello di Amoroso bartender especially loved her!

Lucy didn't love all the pictures taken of her. No animals were harmed or intoxicated in the making of the following images:

This is how she really felt about it ;)

More of the vineyard we stayed at:

It's that time ... the 2009 Holiday Special!

2009-09-30T12:55:00.001-07:00

For the first time, I am offering the ability to lock in your session, right here on my blog! All of the details are in the information sheet, and you can also download my catalog.

There are 3 steps:
1. Check my availability. (I'm going to be out of town Oct 1-4, so the best way to check availability is to email me)
2. Download the information sheet & contract. Complete the contract scan/email or mail it back to me. My fax line is currently out of order (of all days!).
3. Pay the non-refundable retainer, which is 40% of the session fee + tax. You can pay using the Google check-out below, or mail me a check. The balance is due on the day of your session.

Easy-peasy, right? Let me know if you have any questions! :)

Angelika + Jan: Married!

2009-09-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Last month, my friend Heather from One Shot Beyond asked if I was available to shoot her cousin's wedding with her. I was more than happy for the chance to help Heather & to shoot a great new couple in a great new location! I first meet Angelika and Jan the night before their wedding, and it was my pleasure to help document the joining of their lives.

Angelika and Jan married on the grounds of the beautiful Heritage Museum in Santa Ana, CA. Angelika and her girls were able to get married in the Kellogg House, which is normally only open during tours. With her sister Alina in the roll of wedding planner, Angelika put together a beautiful, personal, vintage wedding.

Angelika & Jan - Thank you for welcoming me into your wedding day. It was a pleasure getting to know you & watching you commit your lifes to each other. I wish you the very best in your life together! :)

A few fun details from the Kellogg House:

Each pair danced up the aisle after the ceremony!

I looked for the dance on You-Tube but couldn't find it. If there's a link, I'd love to post it! :)

Please enjoy the slideshow:

For a full look at Angelika & Jan's wedding, visit Heather's blog post about the wedding!

Tiffany + Michael: Married!

2009-09-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

I think the best ceremonies are full of laughter and joyful tears. Tiffany and Michael's wedding ceremony had both. Tears flowed throughout the Grand Hall at the Pasadena Masonic Temple, starting with Michael and working their way through the audience, parents, and even the ring-bearer. One of Tiffany and Michael's high school teachers spoke during the ceremony, and the memories she recollected had the couple, and crowd, bubbling with laughter.

Tiffany and Michael legally wed 4 months back (right before their engagement session, which, actually were their first wedding pictures!), so the Air Force could start processing the paperwork for Tiffany to relocate overseas with Michael. It was wonderful to see everyone SO HAPPY for Tiffany and Michael, and truly living up their last event together before Tiffany and Michael moved. I truly hope that my wedding photographs bring back wonderful memories for the family and friends, and help ease the time apart.

A fabulous wedding starts with fabulous vendors! Here they are! :)

Bride's hair: Joe Aldrete from B.Y.O. Hair
Bridesmaids' hair: Maritza Vargas from Bianca's Garden
Bride and Bridesmaids' makeup: Jena Forrest
Wedding planner: Joyful Events
Caterer: Estubio from Complete Catering
Florist: Adam from Magnolia Flowers
Cake: Ruth from La Favorita
DJ: DJ Rich
Dancers: MG Dance Studio

The first time Tiffany and Michael saw each other on their wedding day:

The dancers from MG Dance Studio thrilled the crowd with their moves.

Brides - If you're thinking of lighting your walls -- or even if you're not thinking about lighting your walls --do it!! It adds an element of pizzazz to your wedding that will impress your guests, and it adds beautiful dimension to your photographs. These are so much better than having a boring dark wall in the background! Do it, please! ;)

Please enjoy the slideshow:

If you know the couple, please visit their website to view all of their wedding images! Until Oct 3, get 15% off purchases of $50 or more!

Baby Session: Jakson

2009-09-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Now that the Jakson's b-e-a-utiful birth announcements have gone out, I can share more of the images I captured of him. Jakson was about 2 weeks old when I photographed him at home with his mom and dad. He was a little cranky, but Kevin was able to soothe it out of him. I love watching dads and their babies -- it's so sweet! :)

Babies lose the newborn "look" quickly --it's important to do their first photoshoot during the first few weeks of life. I think it's especially sweet when the umbilical cord is still attached. If you look closely, you'll see it below; I'm glad I captured it, since it's long-gone now!

Enjoy these shots of Jakson, my favorite little guy! :)

This is my favorite footsie shot ever!

What do you think of the birth announcements I designed? :) (I just noticed that the J crosses through a few words. It doesn't do this on the real birth announcement ... taking out their last name for the blog version moved things around a bit!)

Photographers: 16 free hours!

2009-09-14T23:28:00.001-07:00

For the photographers reading this, I am SO excited about this educational event coming up on September 28-29. Sixteen of the biggest names in photography (Dane Sanders, Sarah Petty, Kevin Kubota, Lori Nordstrom, & more!) are coming together to provide 2 full days of FREE teleseminars! The teleseminars are about the FUN business side of photography: marketing, branding, client experince, etc.

Click here for for more details & to register for this FREE teleseminar!
(If you can't find the time on the 28th & 29th to listen live, you can also buy MP3 recordings of all 16 hours for a super-reasonable price!)

Lets dive in! We're going to learn a lot together! :)

So Random. Vol 2

2009-09-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else excited that Dan Brown's new book is coming out? I was a huge fan of the Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons ... I can't wait to read The Lost Code! Dan Brown got me hooked on religious conspiracy mysteries, and for a while I read so many different Templar mysteries that I got burnt out on the genre. It's been a while, though, and the burnt-out-ness has disappeared. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on the The Lost Symbol when it comes out. I signed up at Borders to have a copy held for me, mostly so that I could enter their drawing to get a free copy of the book. I've been winning a lot of things this year ... maybe I'll win this, too! :)