Anniversary Portrait Photography, Long Beach

This was an endearing anniversary portrait session. Luis serves in the military and had only a week to spend with his wife,Vanessa, & family until he heads back to Germany for duty. They both graduated from CSULB and request to have their session on the campus. It was the first time that I walked through the campus. I wish we had more time to explore the grounds but we were chasing the sunset toward the south west campus near the Japanese Garden. The wildflowers were in bloom and made a spectacular finale for their session. I recently heard from a cordinator at the Garden that they recently chopped all the beautiful natural growth. I hope it doesn't take long for it to grow back because it's such a romantic place to photograph. Vanessa and Luis have a little boy, Aiden, that I photographed recently and it's possible that their next photo session may have an addition to the family portrait. How sweet is that?

Portrait Photography, Seal Beach

No june gloom going on for this portrait session. Theresa, Danny and their adorable little boy Joshua were dressed so appropriately for this summertime photo shoot. I fell in love with Joshua's hat...I can't believe he sported it without trying to rip it off. He knew he was dressed to the nines, all he needed were his aviator glasses. Theresa immediately mentioned that Danny didn't like taking pictures. He was very stoic through the first twenty minutes. He laughed at something I said and that's when I saw what a beautiful smile he had. I soon learned that a libation would have helped to relax them. For those that know me, I would have gone out of my way to supply a brewskie or vino. So, whoever reads this, don't be shy about your requests, within reason of course.

Wedding Photography at Lakewood Community Church, Lakewood

Sometimes the most intimate weddings are the most extravagant. Sarah Beth and Stephen's ceremony was at the church Sarah Beth attended through her childhood. The pastor had endearing words to say about Sarah Beth after the ceremony-it's intimate moments like this that are so precious. On another note, Mother's can be very helpful in planning a wedding but there are times their involvement may be a bit overbearing. Sarah Beth's Mother exemplified the essence of having your Mom involved to make your wedding flawless. After the ceremony, the newlyweds and wedding party headed to the beach for their portraits. Sarah Beth wasn't concerned about soiling her dress, she lifted her multi-layered gown and twirled around near the water. Many brides are afraid to sit down in their gown so I was in disbelief as she ran towards the wet sand and ocean. The reception was just as beautiful with the silhouette artist in the background who creates amazing work within minutes. A big thank you to my second photographer Michele Menier...I appreciate all your energy and for capturing such beautiful images. A big thanks to all that participated to make it a momentous event.

Pianist - Jaimie Shaheen
Silhouette Artist - Nancie Marie Art
Florist - White House Flower
Wedding Cake - Rossmoor Pastries