The Stones - Family portraits my way

The Stone family has been asking me for quite a while to shoot some family portraits for them. They have been fans of my work here and on Facebook for some time and keep envisioning my take on their family photos. The Stones spend much of their family time outdoors in some fashion (horseback riding, boating, fishing) and it's been hot outside, so I planned an afternoon swim / photo session at the river. Now if you've worked with me before, you probably realize that on most photo shoots I end up in the nearest body of water in search of the perfect frame. On this shoot both Katie and I ended up treading water in the middle of a river to get the angle and light just right - I love my wife! It really worked well to bring out the individual personalities of the family that a traditional shoot would leave behind. In my head, I knew I should have a "safe" family photo before things got too crazy, as I knew they quickly would. This shot was basically just a setup for the next shot. I told the couple to stand in the water, focus only on each other, and enjoy the moment. What they didn't know is that I had already told the kids to splash them on the count of three. The couple never saw it coming :) This shot just screams summertime fun to me. The spot in the river we went to has a perfect jumping rock that we all (and yes, I am included) took turns jumping off of. A superfun shot of all three boys jumping off of the rock at the same time. We closed off the night with a slightly more unique family portrait compared to where we started! Thanks again guys!

Read more...

Kyra and Matthew - Yosemite Engagement

Kyra and Matthew visit Yosemite every year for a week with a group of friends and family (this year close to 50). They both have a great love for the outdoors and Yosemite in particular, so it was only natural for them to marry in the valley. Their wedding is coming up quickly, but during their vacation I met up with them for a quick engagement session. Although I had met them once before (their was a couple of feet of snow on the ground back then) and talked with them at great length, I really didn't know for sure what direction the photos were going to take. Everyone has a different reaction to having a camera pointed at them -- some shy up, some act up, some tense up. Kyra and Matthew loved up. Just because we're in Yosemite doesn't mean we have to stay outdoors all day. One of my favorites from the day, exactly as it was in camera. How'd the rocks get in the sky? I love the way the water soaked up this light! Can you tell they're in love? I had a wonderful time with Kyra and Matthew as we traveled through the park that afternoon. I can't wait for the wedding!

Read more...

Jennifer and Chris - Wedding

It seems like a lifetime ago when we first met Jennifer and Chris to shoot their engagement photos. It was actually only a little over a year ago, but that's a long time to wait to meet up with old friends again. Jennifer has been planning the wedding for quite a while and had her heart set on the perfect location - the Legion of Honor. Delicious food from McCall Catering and a great DJ ensured a great party. We started off the day near South San Francisco shortly before a bumping ride with the bridal party in the party bus. Warning, if you are likely to get motion sickness, starring through the view finder of your camera as you bounce down the road the the back of a party bus for half an hour may not be the best idea... Perhaps the best part of this photo is what happened immediately after the photo was shot. Notice how the bridesmaid to the right of the bride looks like she might lose her balance? Well guess what happens next! What an amazing place for a ceremony! In the middle of taking photos, Ivailo from McCall Catering came out with a special delivery of food and chapange for Jennifer and Chris - class. Jennifer and Chris took a few moments to enjoy a glass of wine together as the sun went down. Inside, Amy Burke Designs created beautiful floral arrangements and centerpieces. One thing is for sure, this group knew how to throw a party! Perhaps the silliest ring shot I've ever taken, but I love it. Congratulations again Jennifer and Chris, your wedding day was amazing!

Read more...