i do. photography. blog

Tony loves Katie!

2012-02-10T18:32:00.000-08:00

Tony and Katie joined me last weekend to shoot their engagement pictures on the boardwalk! The afternoon was amazing for February and the colors were so vibrant! Unfortunately, most of the rides were closed but we had fun anyway! I can hardly wait to shoot their wedding at the Cocoanut Grove!!

20% off Portrait, Engagement, and Trash the Dress Sessions!

2012-01-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T17:25:00.001-08:00

One of the many benefits of living in Santa Cruz is the wonderful weather! This New Year's Eve my family went fishing off the wharf and had a great time just hanging out and enjoying our adopted hometown. Of course Becca, my (almost) 5 year old insisted on wearing her favorite suede boots and Gwennie, my little one was as crazy as ever. But, they both thoroughly enjoyed poking at the starfish that my husband got with his rod and reel. What a great way to end 2011.
Happy New Year!

Tammy's 40th Birthday!

2011-12-19T18:37:00.000-08:00

Tammy is celebrating 40 days of birthdays!! I joined her on day 19 to shoot her big bash at Lilly Mac's in Sunnyvale. She really went ALL OUT! In true 80s fashion she had pop rocks, fingerlights and the rockin' 80s cover band, "Fast Times" (seriously, it was all I could do not run to the dance floor). Not to mention the bellydancer, fortune teller, photobooth, caricature artist, and awesome roaming magician. What a wonderful party..happy birthday Tammy!!

Nelson Family Portraits!

2011-12-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

I spent Saturday morning with the Nelson family to shoot their holiday family portrait! Sooo much fun, I had a wonderful time. My most favorite shot is litte Travis with his mouth open..I think that was the moment when I revealed that a dinosaur was in my camera. Boy, was he surprised!!

Che loves Jaime...the weddng!

2011-11-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

Everything about this day was stunning! The location, the couple, the reception, and all of the careful details. Che and Jaime chose the Corde Valle Resort in San Martin to tie the knot and it could not have been more beautiful. The weather cooperated and the sun was up for just long enough..going down shortly after we finished our portraits. Che's dad officiated which added a personal touch along with the meticulously decorated details handmade by Jaime.
I had such a wonderful time, what a wonderful day to spend a winter evening.
Congratulations Che and Jaime!

Nik loves Tammy..the engagement!

2011-11-12T12:34:00.000-08:00

Spent a Saturday morning with Nik and Tammy at Henry Cowell State Park to shoot their engagement portraits! This couple was so much fun and clearly enjoy spending time together. I can't wait for their wedding at the Seymour Center!!

Marty and Maribel's Family Portrait!

2011-11-06T14:52:00.001-08:00

Remember Marty and Maribel? Well, it was time to get their family portraits in before their trip to Cancun! So, we headed over to one of my favorite spots to shoot..the Mission at San Juan Bautista! Such a fun little session, I just love their little boys!

Aaron loves Amy!

2011-11-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Aaron and Amy tied the knot at Regale Winery in Los Gatos. A quick little reception, wine and champagne tasting and they were off to Sandabs in Scotts Valley for a casual dinner reception. They couldn't have chosen a more beautiful location, with the site looking over the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Congratulations Aaron and Amy!

Art and Claire's trash the dress session!

2011-10-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon was a little quickie (shoot that is) on Seabright Beach where they tied the knot the week before. They were such great sports as they rolled in the sand were almost fully submerged! I have had such a great time with this couple, they are so much fun. Here's to hoping for more family portraits in the future!Thanks again you two!!

Marty loves Maribel!

2011-10-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

I spent last Saturday shooting a quick little civil ceremony for Marty and Maribel as they tied the knot at the Elk's Lodge in Hollister. Their two little boys were so adorable in their mini suits as they came down the aisle. Marty and Maribel clearly love each other, with much emotion during the ceremony. Now if I could only convince them to take me along to their religious ceremony in Cancun next month. :) Congratulations you two, thank you for allowing me to document your special day!

Art loves Claire

2011-10-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

It was a lovely afternoon last Saturday on Seabright Beach as the sun peeked through the clouds. I joined Art and Claire for a small, yet important ceremony to join their two lives. Directly after we had a short portrait session on the jetty. Beautiful!

Santos Family Portrait

2011-09-29T10:47:00.001-07:00

Remember Brian and Andrea and their wedding at Peachwoods in Scotts Valley? Well, they have begun their family with little Aiden who is only 4 weeks old! It was a bright, sunny day at their new house in Morgan Hill and he was quiet the entire time! It's really fun seeing Brian and Andrea progress from bride and groom to mom and dad! Here is just a small sampling of our casual morning!

Che loves Jaime

2011-09-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

Che and Jaime are getting married! So, we spent the morning in Castle Rock above Saratoga. Such a beautiful place with huge boulders and fun little trails to explore. Che and Jaime were great sports, I can't wait to shoot their wedding in November!

Bret loves Brandy

2011-09-18T19:56:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday was spent at Pajaro Dunes with Bret and Brandy to celebrate their wedding! It was a great time with the super happy couple, their daughter, Brielle and fun guests! There was lots of laughter, dancing, and singing! Thank you for including me, I had a wonderful time!

Josh loves Christina..the wedding!!

2011-09-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

Leal Vineyards provided a stunning backdrop for Josh and Christina's wedding. Christina was gorgeous with her long, flowing train next to Josh and his red checkered Vans. I had a great time during the ceremony placed in front of a magnificent outdoor fireplace and inside the barrel room for the reception. Especially when Christina's dad and his band started to play! Congratulations you two!

Eddie loves Sarah

2011-09-02T11:00:00.001-07:00

Eddie and Sarah are married! Emotions ran high as tears were shed, smiles exchanged, and laughter permeated the premises as multiple renditions of Etta James were sung. Aime'e Newlander with Weddings By Aimee kept things feeling casual at the Monarch Cove Inn in Capitola as Sarah and Eddie mingled with guests and enjoyed themselves. The highlight of my day was a surprise attack on Eddie by Sarah with the wedding cake! Thank you Eddie and Sarah and congratulations!

Ryan loves Krista...the wedding!

2011-09-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

I spent Saturday on the beach at Pajaro Dunes with Ryan and Krista as they tied the knot. These two are so obviously in love, even the maid of honor said "it was like watching her favorite 'chick flick.'" The fog covered the beach and got thicker as the evening progressed, providing a beautiful, romantic atmosphere.
Congratulations Ryan and Krista!

40 years for Rick and Terry!

2011-08-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Rick and Terry have just celebrated 40 years of marriage so their daughter, Alison booked me for a portrait for the whole family! We met last weekend at Wilder Ranch and the family had a great time feeding horses and chickens, playing with bubbles, and generally enjoying each other's company. Congratulations Rick and Terry, I'm so happy to have documented this special time for you!

Sherman Family Portraits!

2011-08-24T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Sherman Family came down from Oregon and Davis for a little sun, surf, and relaxation a couple of weeks ago. We made a lasting memory of their vacation at a beautiful vacation home on Seabright beach and also a few on the sand. With a great vacation home as a prop and some beautiful sun, we had a wonderful time!

Will loves Myriam

2011-08-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

My Saturday was spent at the Monarch Cove Inn in Capitola for Will and Myriam's wedding. Aime'e Newlander with http://weddingsbyaimee.com was a joy to work with and kept the day running without a hitch! I had a wonderful time with both the guests and the bride and groom, at one point even being pulled onto the dance floor (yikes! I quickly scurried off..). The ceremony began with Will seranading Myriam down the aisle with his guitar and ended with much dancing, drinks, and laughs. Instead of the traditional wedding cake, they opted for some elegant cupcakes and adorned the reception with "found antique objects" that were meaningful to them. Congratulations to the happy couple, I had a wonderful time!

Joel loves Jaime

2011-07-27T15:57:00.001-07:00

I spent an afternoon with Joel and Jaime last week in Morgan Hill at his dad's farm to shoot their engagement portraits. It was filled with a lot of laughter and smiles. Much of our shoot incorporated Joel's 1971 Ford Pickup that he rebuilt from the ground up. Needless to say, I was very impressed!

Zac loves Cheryl...the wedding!

2011-06-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

Zac and Cheryl are back!
I loved everything about this wedding! A beautiful location, stunning bride, and super fun guests which allowed for an interesting day! Plus, I couldn't get enough of Cheryl's aqua shoes!! Zac and Cheryl tied the knot at Memory Gardens in Monterey which allowed for a wide variety of portraits after the ceremony. There were many touching moments including the father daughter dance which had everyone (including me) tearing up. Congratulations Zac and Cheryl, I wish you all the best!

Zac loves Cheryl

2011-03-30T12:07:00.001-07:00

The weather let up just in time for an original shoot in San Juan Bautista. I met Zac and Cheryl at the mission and had a great time exploring the many interesting old buildings on the mission grounds. We had so much fun! I can't wait for their wedding in June!

Kevin loves Jackie

2011-03-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

A rainy afternoon spent at the Sash Mill in Santa Cruz proved to be an adventurous setting for Kevin and Jackie's engagement portraits. Although we managed to keep them mostly dry, we eventually decided to brave the rain a bit and had a great time! Of course, by the time we were finished it had completely subsided.
Thank you to Kevin and Jackie, congratulations on your engagement!

Josh loves Christina

2011-02-03T11:16:00.000-08:00

Another excellent engagement shoot in Davenport! Josh, Christina, and I had a very fun (and wet) time on the mostly deserted beach. Josh and Christina were great sports and were in the water almost the entire time! Beginning just before sunset, we caught the golden glow in the background which enhanced the already romantic images. They were so relaxed, I just know I'm going to have a great time at their winery wedding in September!

Ryan loves Krista

2011-01-17T20:22:00.001-08:00

On Saturday afternoon Ryan and Krista joined me in Davenport to shoot their engagement portraits. It was clear from the very beginning that these two are head over heels in love. They couldn't get enough of each other and were naturals in front of the camera. The sun bathed them in a beautiful golden light as it set in the background. I can hardly wait to shoot their wedding! Warning: lots of adorable kissing below.

Lyla's Christmas Portrait!

2010-12-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

All I can say is ADORABLE! I visited at Russel and Jennifer's house to shoot a Holiday Portrait for their daughter, Lyla. She was so fun to take pictures of..I had a great time! She hardly knew I was there because she was so into her parents. So cute. I warn you, there are many cute baby hands below!

Happy 50th Birthday Randy!

2010-11-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

Randy had his 50th birthday party on Saturday! His husband, Jeremy threw him an outrageous costume party complete with singers, fire dancing, and a blood oozing cake! Many characters showed up including the best Mad Hatter I've ever seen, military personnel, Woody from Toy Story, dead gangsters, the Goblin King from the classic Labryinth, cats, witches, and a disco king! I could go on and on! I am so happy I was able to participate!

Brian loves Andrea

2010-07-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

Brian and Andrea tied the knot on Saturday at Peachwood's Grill on Saturday. A wonderful ceremony with an equally wonderful reception; I had a wonderful time interacting with this wonderful couple (have I mentioned that it was WONDERFUL?) and their guests! Andrea was one of the most beautiful brides I have ever seen and the love and happiness that exuded between her and Brian was infectious. Congratulations to the happy couple!!

Nejah family portraits

2010-07-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

So happy to be back shooting! The Nejah family was so much fun!

Nic, Rae, and Gigi family portraits!

2010-05-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Gianna is now 4 months old and time for family portraits! We spent a great morning together with great weather and a happy baby. Warning: lots of love here.

Isabel Turns One!

2010-04-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

Isabel turns one today so we did a little portrait shoot in Monterey at El Estero Park complete with her own little cake to dive into. So fun!
I have rarely seen a happier baby and it is very clear that she loves her mommy.

Becca and the Red Tutu

2010-04-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

My friend Nina came up for the weekend and brought an adorable red tutu for Becca to wear. So naturally, we took her to the beach for a little shoot..

Family Portraits!

2010-03-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

A beautiful day on the beach for a beautiful little family! I joined Scott, Stephanie, and little Emily on the beach this weekend for a fun little mini-session. So much fun and what an adorable little girl Emily is!

Jennifer's 40th Birthday!

2010-03-09T12:47:00.001-08:00

It was Jennifer's 40th Birthday on Saturday! She had a swanky party at the top floor of the Marriott in Monterey. She had all the details covered including a "red carpet for guests to walk down as they entered, a red carpet style board for guests to pose in front of for pictures as they walked in, cute little pink cupcakes, and, of course, her own cosmo bar. The party really got started as the music got turned up..these guests knew how to dance!
And might I add that the birthday girl hardly looks a day over 20!

Colima, Colima, Mexico

2010-01-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

The town where my husband's family resides is one of the greatest places I have ever been to. Colima is the cleanest state in Mexico and is just a great place to relax.
There are many novelties in this town that I just can't resist be it the sculptures of the "Colima dogs," the tourist shops in El Centro, or just drinking Mexican hot chocolate at an outdoor restaurant. Colima also boasts and impressive set of Volcanos, one of which is still active.

Tecoman, Colima, Mexico

2010-01-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

Tecoman was another beautiful beach! Another great day for my daughter and my husband joined in the fun but playing catch in the water. I have rarely seen a more impressive sunset.

Manzanillo, Michoacan, Mexico

2010-01-18T14:50:00.000-08:00

Manzanillo was my most favorite place to visit while in Mexico. The sand was clean, the restaurant was open-air and the water was warm enough to bathe in. I think my 3 year old enjoyed it more than I did!

Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico

2010-01-18T14:45:00.000-08:00

Guanajuato was so full of art and culture! The buildings were so colorful and interesting! The mummy museum was also very entertaining.

Irapauto, Guanajuato, Mexico

2010-01-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

This holiday season I had the opportunity to spend some time in Mexico! It was beautiful and full of lots of culture, warm beaches, and of course, great food! Irapuato had a great downtown and was full of life. On Christmas Eve the festivities included mariachis and playing with fire.
Enjoy!

Trash the Dress!

2009-11-18T14:09:00.000-08:00

A break in the rain came in Davenport so Lorraine, Dustin, and I could shoot a trash the dress session on the beach. It was relatively warm and we got some GREAT shots! Enjoy!!

Gonzalez Family Portraits

2009-11-09T15:55:00.000-08:00

A lovely afternoon at Wilder Ranch with the Gonzalez family for their family portraits!

Nic and Raelene Maternity Portraits

2009-10-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

A day at Wilder Ranch proved to be a great spot for Nic and Raelene's maternity shoot. After exploring different cliffs and beaches, the spirited couple ventured into a dripping cave and off the beaten path and into the brush. It was a wonderful day!

Dustin loves Lorraine

2009-10-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful day at the Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose on Saturday as Dustin and Lorraine tied the knot. Golden afternoon light adorned the ceremony and a beautiful bride who never seemed to stop smiling. The groom was also glowing the entire day and their son, Ryan couldn't have been cuter in his mini tux. The party really got started at The Loft downtown where there was lots of laughter and a full hour of just dancing! This group really knew how to party!! Congratulations Dustin and Lorraine, I had a wonderful time!

Josip loves Sue

2009-09-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

I had a great time helping out my friend Sharon of Sharon Wharton Photography last Saturday! Josip and Sue tied the knot on an old bridge on a path to the beach at Ano Nuevo, complete with surfers walking by during the ceremony. The festivites continued at the Castanoa Lodge near Half Moon Bay. At the reception it was time for fun with croquet, badminton, and knee high chess pieces! They also had one of the most original cakes from Gayle's Bakery in Capitola with writing in english and croatian! So many great shots, I just couldn't decide! I have also included a link to the slideshow that Sharon put together of both of our images. http://www.sharonwharton.com/slideshows/SueandJosip/
Enjoy!

Roylance family portraits

2009-09-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time shooting my relative's family portraits while in Utah! Roger and Maureen Roylance have such a cute family, I am honored to call them my cousins. They have seven kids altogether and they are all so well behaved and adorable. No wonder they have so many!

details of Utah

2009-09-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

I checked out for the weekend and took a trip to Utah to see some family. Not many people live in or even know about the little farm towns in Central Utah but the ones who do, love them. It was so relaxing exploring the farms and quaint little towns that are scattered among them. The last day I was there it rained and I was able to witness what beautiful clouds are in this area. These are just a few of the images from my trip. Enjoy!

Halloween Mini Portraits

2009-09-01T17:10:00.001-07:00

Do you want to preserve your little ones dressed up as the angel or fairy they really are or know someone who does? I am offering a mini portrait session (30-45 minutes) just for this reason! Only $150 per session for the first little princess and $25 for each additional goblin. Session fee includes a high resolution disc of all images retouched and un-watermarked for your printing pleasure. Please contact me to book your session! Because they're only kids once..

Marina's Belladonna

2009-08-31T08:19:00.001-07:00

Just a few shots of the Belladonna from Marina's farm. I just love how sparkly they are!

Joey loves Kristin

2009-08-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, at Peachwoods Grill in Scotts Valley, Joey and Kristin became one. From the time I arrived until well after the garter toss, the love between the two just radiated. Although the two were adamant to keep with tradition and not see each other before the ceremony, they couldn't resist carrying around walkie talkies to keep in contact. From the moment Kristin appeared to walk down the aisle, it was clear by the tears in Joey's eyes that no one else existed in that moment. The two had a beautiful ceremony with the cutest little flower girls and a reception to match; complete with a lovely cake from Gayle's Bakery in Capitola and an official NHL Sharks garter. Congratulations Joey and Kristin!

Jarrod loves Glorianne

2009-08-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful ceremony at the Monterey Stone Chapel in Del Rey Oaks. The bride was cool as a cucumber as she slipped into her dress and down the aisle. And what a beautiful bride she was! Glorianne just had a radiance about her that shown through the entire day. Once the knot had been tied, Jarrod and Glorianne stole away for a few minutes for pictures by the fountain while their guests enjoyed cocktails at Tarpy's restaurant. Congratulations Jarrod and Glorianne, I enjoyed being apart of your day. Your family is so wonderful!

I just love flowers!

2009-08-04T23:10:00.000-07:00

As the title says..I just love flowers!! I thought I would post a few of my favorites that I have taken recently with my most favorite macro lens. I love capturing the details in the flowers that we seldom look at. Enjoy!

Happy 40th Anniversary Peter and Phyllis!

2009-07-29T17:27:00.001-07:00

It's been 40 years since Peter and Phyllis got married. What better to way to celebrate than their two kids, Janessa and David throwing them a surprise party! Friends and family from as far away as New York gathered at a cocktail party at the Sylvar Street Mansion in Santa Cruz. What a joyous occasion and boy was Phyllis surprised!! Congratulations Peter and Phyllis, it was wonderful getting to know your family.

Happy Fourth of July!!

2009-07-05T20:06:00.000-07:00

Hooray for Independence Day! After a full day of early morning pancakes and softball, we continued the fun at the Kreuger's BBQ in Scott's Valley. They have a wonderful view of the Scott's Valley fireworks and it was nice to spend some time with friends and make many new ones! I couldn't resist capturing just a few moments. As you can see, I am drawn to the little ones. There were so precious times including Pierce and Cody Howard enthusiastically eating their hot dogs and their little sister, Ella thoroughly enjoying her cupcake, to their Grandma, Janine having a serene second with her tiny new grandson. I also love the "too much love" hug, the small,yet bold flags all around, and especially, the grill. Thank you very much to Peter and Katrina for opening their home to us and all that attended. We enjoyed every second and look forward to doing it again next year!!

Theo loves Danielle

2009-07-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

It was a hot day at Heather Farms in Walnut Creek on June 26th but Theo and Danielle were determined to exchange their vows. Under a beautiful gazebo, they not only exchanged vows but red roses to profess their love to one another. Emotions ran high throughout the day as Danielle greeted her brother before the ceremony, her dad walked her down the aisle, and again as they danced the daddy/daughter dance. It was clear that there is a lot of love in this family. The other thing that was clear once the reception began, was that these guests knew how to party!! "King DJ Company" from Antioch got the music started and the dancefloor was packed whether it was Etta James or Michael Jackson. Brandy from "Butterfly Bride's" from San Leandro kept the night rolling without a hitch from cake cutting to garter toss. Congratulations to Theo and Danielle, I wish you all the best!

Ryan loves Alex

2009-06-20T23:19:00.000-07:00

One of my closest friends got married on Thursday. Although the thick fog was rolling onto Carmel Beach, it was still nice for a small wedding and a dramatic backdrop. Alex and Ryan's daughter, Isabel, was wrapped up in a snuggly little yellow blanket with Ryan's best friend, Tom! The reception was great as a couple of friends (Tom and my husband, Raf) discussed the good ol' days. The food at Piatti's was also wonderful, I especially enjoyed the liguini with clams. Mmmm! Please enjoy the few images from their special day, I warn you they are pretty romantic with lots of kissing!

Ricardo loves Tiffany

2009-06-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

It was a foggy morning and windy afternoon but the sun was shining upon Ricardo and Tiffany as they tied the knot on Friday. They exchanged vows on the beautiful lighthouse lawn on West Cliff and partied into the night at the Vet's Hall in downtown Santa Cruz. Both of these locations are dear to my heart and it was such a joy to be apart of their day! After the ceremony, the young couple took a stroll along the beach and played in the water...soo much fun! Before they cut into their delectable cake from Original Sin in Capitola, we were able to steal away once again to take a walk downtown. What an adventurous couple! It was very apparent throughout the day that (as I heard in numerous toasts) that they "just fit." Congratulations Ricardo and Tiffany, thank you for allowing me to share in your special day!

Jessica's Grad Pics

2009-05-28T12:31:00.001-07:00

Jessica is graduating from UCSC on June 13th! To celebrate we took some portraits at the beach. We began at the jetty by the harbor in Santa Cruz, next to the Capitola Wharf, and finally ended up under the pier at Rio Del Mar. What a fun shoot! Congratulations Jessica!
PS..Check out my new watermark!

Ocean Farms

2009-04-30T15:18:00.001-07:00

I drove up Highway One today toward Davenport today. I discovered some wonderful sights! I just love the contrast between these farms and the ocean in the background.

Capitola By The Sea

2009-04-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

I had an opportunity to hang out in Capitola for an hour or so today so I took advantage! I couldn't resist the endearing plaques on the benches by the beach, beautiful architecture, or the refreshing view from the train bridge.

Welcome Baby Isabel!

2009-04-28T11:28:00.001-07:00

Welcome Isabel Lucia! My friends Alex and Ryan received their little bundle of joy last Tuesday and she is adorable! Weighing in at 5 lbs 13 ozs, she looks like a little doll. In fact, her little feet are half the size of my 2 year old's hand! We took just a few pictures last night while she was snoozing away, snuggled in mommy's arms. Congratulations Alex and Ryan. She is beautiful!

Six Flags Saturday!

2009-04-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

I went with my family to Six Flags on Saturday!! The Discovery Kingdom was my favorite! We saw a dolphin show and Shouka, the killer whale. Very entertaining. The best part though were the elephants. I just love the wisdom you can see in their eyes. Talking to the trainers while they were bathing "Liz," I found out that they have an intelligence of a six or seven year old child. Amazing! Check out the funny giraffe, beautiful butterflies, wise elephants, and energetic dolphins and Shouka below!

Up Hwy 9

2009-04-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

Today, Becca and I took a little drive up Highway 9. I couldn't resist a few shots of the railroad bridge just past pleasure park...

Happy Easter!!

2009-04-12T18:57:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! The easter bunny came with a beach basket and hid eggs in our backyard for Becca today. What a great surprise!!

Becca and a nice day at Rio Del Mar.

2009-03-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

Can a person have too many images of their own kid?! It was nice and warm today so my favorite subject and I took a short field trip to Rio Del Mar beach in Aptos. Consisting of plenty of running, drawing circles in the sand, and posing like a heisman trophy (3rd from the bottom), it was a good day!

the zoo

2009-03-02T15:36:00.000-08:00

My parents came down for a couple days last month so we took Becca to the zoo. Many exhibits were closed and I am always sad to see these majestic animals locked up. So, here are the few images I really enjoy. Perhaps because no animals were injured in the making of these images.

Beatiful flowers

2009-03-02T15:32:00.001-08:00

We have the most beautiful calla lilies behind our new place! I finally got a break in the rain a few days ago to actually take some pictures of them! I can't look at these without thinking of Georgia O'Keefe. What an artist I am. :) I am not sure what the orange/red ones are but they are very interesting as well.

2009-02-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

One of my best friend's, Alex, is about to have a baby!! So, we went out and took some maternity pictures off of beautiful East Cliff and at Brommer Park. She is already very photogenic but is getting more and more beautiful by the day. There are so many great ones!! Here is a very small sampling of my favs..Enjoy!!

I just love my macro lens.

2009-01-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

For days I have been wanting to capture the little beads of water on the grass after it has been raining the night before. I finally had the opportunity yesterday. I just can't resist capturing the beauty that we so often just pass by. Ah, macro photography..gotta love it.

A precious daddy/daughter moment.

2009-01-13T16:01:00.000-08:00

Now this is one of many reasons why I absolutely adore my husband. He is a wonderful dad. How precious is this?

Becca's birthday!!!

2009-01-10T21:28:00.001-08:00

My daughter, Becca turned 2 today and boy was it a party!!! Dora themed with balloons, streamers, and of course, a pinata..she was ready to go! Until, about 730 when the birthday girl passed out snuggled in a blanket on my lap. At least she had a few hours to enjoy her truly princess-like party dress. Happy Birthday Becca!!

Beautiful Sunsets

2008-12-29T13:22:00.000-08:00

The sunset was gorgeous last night. I couldn't resist going out with my new tripod if only for a few minutes. Just a few examples of why I absolutely love where I live.

Family Christmas Pary 2008

2008-12-28T12:58:00.000-08:00

Wow! It has been a busy holiday season! I haven't posted in 2 months!! But now that we have made it through the flu, a couple colds, Thanksgiving dinner at our house (exhausting but completely worth it), putting up Christmas decorations (my favorite thing all year), shopping, making and sending Christmas cards (taking pictures for them not scrapbook style, they were very cute), making Christmas cookies, traveling to visit family, working, and of course, being a loving wife and mother, I have finally taken our beautiful Christmas tree down and all trappings are tucked safely away once again. Whew..am I tired!!!
So, now that I am back in the "normal" mode I am back to the blog. Here are just a few from our family Christmas party a couple weeks ago. Santa even stopped by to pass out presents to the kids. Precious.

A day at the aquarium

2008-11-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago my family went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium!! So much fun and so much to shoot! Here is just a small sampling..

The fairies are out!

2008-10-28T08:50:00.001-07:00

It is almost Halloween and it seems the fairies are out! I spotted one on West Cliff on Friday!

Rio Del Mar

2008-10-23T14:21:00.001-07:00

It's a beautiful 87 degrees today here on the Central Coast. So, I decided to take my favorite model out to the Rio Del Mar beach for a little sun! She walked in the sand just for a bit but was more enticed by the fence and the water spout than the ocean! What fun!

Michael loves Lissa

2008-10-02T10:45:00.001-07:00

Once again I had the honor of being a part of a wonderful wedding! It all began with a beautiful ceremony at the Lakeside Grill in South Lake Tahoe. After taking family portraits I was able to spend some time with Michael and Lissa on the beach. They were more than willing to take a breather from all the excitement and enjoy a little alone time. The party really got started at Embassy Suites where the reception began! With Chaz, one of the groomsmen assisting DJ the fun began!!! There was a lot of dancing, singing and fun all night including cake on Michael's face during cake cutting! Congratulations to Michael and Lissa who are truly in love. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your day, it was a blast!!!

Miller Family Portraits

2008-09-29T12:53:00.001-07:00

Miller family portraits! At speedboat beach near North Lake Tahoe the adventure began! 4 year old Levi and Lola, the dog definitely added some excitement to the shoot including some wading and playing in the sand. What fun!

Eric loves Casey!!

2008-09-24T11:50:00.001-07:00

Mazel Tov!!
What a beautiful day in Ben Lomond it was! On September 13, Eric and Casey had a beautiful Jewish wedding at Highland Park complete with croquet, bocce ball, and frisbee to keep both the kids and adults entertained during the reception. The family on both sides was just wonderful and so much fun to work with. Who knew that Casey had an aunt who shares my name? Not only did I have the honor of working with them the "day of" but also during the fiesta themed rehearsal dinner the night before. The Ford women sure do know how to have a good time! They even did the infamous electric slide after Eric and Casey's all but boring first dance! Congratulations to Eric and Casey!

My family at the beach!

2008-09-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to our adopted hometown of Santa Cruz, CA to scope out homes for our move. We are moving back in 2 weeks..hooray! Here are just a few images of my family at the beach. Enjoy!

A hike to Cascade Falls.

2008-08-11T16:23:00.001-07:00

This weekend my family and I went hiking to Cascade Falls near South Lake Tahoe. It was such a peaceful hike and relatively easy! Although the falls were not at their most spectacular (a trickle at best), it was still a wonderful way to spend the day. With my daughter, Becca on my husband's back and lunch strapped to mine, we had a great time together enjoying the outdoors.

Cascade Falls Continued..

2008-08-11T16:20:00.001-07:00

Some Macro fun...

08/01/08 Jerry loves Erica.

2008-08-11T15:38:00.001-07:00

A lovely afternoon up Mt Rose Highway at Tannenbaum Events Center, Jerry and Erica proclaimed their love to each other in front of family and friends. A non-traditional wedding with Erica in a beautiful green dress; it was a spendid day. All images for focus photography.

Jerry loves Erica continued..

2008-08-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

An elopement..Doug loves Holly.

2008-08-08T15:23:00.001-07:00

At 9:45 am this morning, Doug and Holly eloped. Although from Denver, they chose Logan's Shoals along Lake Tahoe to privately tie the knot. It was simple and lovely. Or, as Holly would say, it was "easy breezy."

Doug loves Holly...

2008-08-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

John loves Andrea.

2008-08-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

On the way to the Chateau at Incline Village it began to rain. Worried, because the ceremony would be held outside, I rolled up the windows and into the parking lot. We were all very fortunate however, because the rain subsided and the sun broke through...at least until the reception began. A beautiful ceremony on the back lawn and an equally beautiful reception indoors (complete with a custom dance floor with "John & Andrea" scrolled beautifully across it), and John and Andrea were united in love. All photos for focus photography.

John loves Andrea continued...

2008-08-04T13:44:00.000-07:00