It's Golden Globe Time!

It was Golden Globe time in Hollywood this week and I was invited by www.littledivatutus.com  to photograph one of the many celebrity swag give aways that were going on over the weekend in Beverly Hills. Little Diva Tutus was one of many children boutiques that were invited to share their products with celebrity mom's and dad's. Thank you Melissa for the  fabulous day I had with you and your company!

 

 

  

An Important Decision

Recently my phone rang and it was a bride named Sara. She called to see if I could photograph her wedding but to my surprise she told me her wedding was in less than two weeks. I was stunned to say the least. And after hearing her story and how the photographer she booked wouldn't return any of her phone calls, it reinforced how important it is to choose the right vendors. I quickly checked my schedule and called my assistant to see if she was available. I couldn't image getting married without a photographer. So as quickly as I could I called Sara back to tell her we would be there, not to worry. Even though I had never met Sara or Larry as soon as I arrived at their wedding location and met with each of them, it felt as if we were old friends. It was a beautiful day in Palm Desert and they had a beautiful ceremony and reception filled with love and joy. Congratulations Sara and Larry!

*Photo tip: Choosing a photographer is an important decision. First you should ask yourself what you find most important; price, quality, and/or time. There is a balance that comes with your decision so choose wisely.  I strive to meet all of these needs for clients but most often you won't be able to find all three in a vendor. If price and time are most important then you will most likely sacrifice some quality. With quality and time (i.e. fast turn around with your photos) you will most likely pay the price. So I suggest that when you are making arrangements with your photographer and/or vendor you let them know what is most important to you so they can create the best package for you. But be careful. I know in these times money can be the driving force behind your decision so when you make your choice, make sure you're not sacrificing quality. And as you read above, make sure you're not sacrificing character as well. Do your research and trust your intuition.

What Camera?

Wil and Randy are two people you have to meet. They met Alyssa (my assistant photographer) and I up in the mountains for their engagement shoot and we had a blast. They didn't need any warm up time. Usually couples (mostly the men) need some time to relax when we first start shooting. And typically it takes the couple about fifteen to thirty minutes to get into the groove and start to relax to having show public affection in front of two people they barely know with cameras. But they could care less about us being there with our cameras. How awesome, wow were we impressed! They got into it right away and actually Randy started giving some directions on how should they pose. I just loved it! Anytime one of my clients wants to chime in with ideas I'm ecstatic. He was so darn smitten with his fiance that nothing was going to get in his way of taking his engagement photos. It even started to rain while we were there and they weren't phased a bit. They had us laughing and smiling the whole time! With their enthusiasm and love for each other I know their wedding is going to be amazing. Thank you Wil and Randy for a really great day!

*Photo tip: Since most people need some time to warm up when you're taking their photos, save your favorite poses and/or spots towards the end of the shoot when their relaxed. Usually the best photos are taken at the end of the shoot when the couple forgets about the camera.

 

Moms Can Do It All!

Imagine three brothers, yep; the teasing, the laughing, the love. That's what I had the privilege of enjoying during my photo shoot with the Harris family. I was so excited when Lauren said she was ready for family photos. Since I have three kids of my own I can really relate to the energy that comes with having several kids. Not only the energy that they exude but the energy it takes to manage three kids, a husband, a home and a business. I think that's why I admire Lauren so much. Lauren is a wonderful woman I am lucky to say is my friend. She is local mountain mama who is an awesome dance instructor at the Lake Arrowhead Dance Academy and runs an amazing Pilates Studio (http://www.arrowheadballet.org/pilates/index.html) in town. I know how difficult it can be juggling all of those responsibilities so I get inspired when I meet other hard working moms. I think we belong to this unnamed, often un-talked about emotional, exciting, difficult, mom club that has multi-faceted webs of responsibility. It's definitely a challenge to maintain a balanced life when your pulled in so many directions. So I give props to Lauren for being such an awesome mom, wife, and business owner. Thank you Lauren for being such a great supporter of me and my passion for photography. And thank you Harris family for a great photo shoot!!

*Photo tip: Since most photos taken are because of mom's, you most likely already know this, but just in case... In order to have your photo shoot go smoothly whether you are in the photos or taking them, you must be prepared. Try to plan for everything before it happens: Look up the weather for that day and dress accordingly. Plan the clothes ahead of time and try them on. Bring back-up outfits for really little ones. Make sure the kids are fed before you leave the house and bring snacks and drinks. Maybe a favorite toy would be a good idea too. I'm a big fan of bribery when it comes to getting good photos. So think ahead and bring something they might smile for (hint: candy). And most importantly plan for good family fun. Remember, if you're relaxed most likely the kids will be relaxed too.