Real Wedding Photography for Real Bride Serving the SF Bay Area, LA, Fresno and the World!

Gabrielle + Thomas::l'amour et le bonheur

2010-10-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

I met Gabrielle many years ago when I first moved to the SF Bay Area. Her ability to gather people for drinks along with the ability to start a conversation with a complete stranger is what has always struck me the most about her. So when I started my wedding photography business I knew that I had to let Gabrielle know because I knew she would spread the word. It was through Gabby I met Ro and Josh.

So a week before Ro and Josh's wedding I received an email from Gabby telling me she's engaged to a Frenchman. I met Thomas for the first time at Ro and Josh's wedding and was very impressed. A few weeks later we were able to do some engagement shots in and around their neighborhood in San Francisco.

Gabby and Thomas I wish you guys nothing but love and happiness.

(Special shout out goes to Google Translate for the title translation)

Film & Life

2010-09-28T11:43:00.001-07:00

The past few months has been busy to say the least. Through it all I've had a chance to dabble with film more and more and hopefully in the near future will be offer my clients some packages w/ film as well. In the mean time I'd like to share some recent photos from a couple of rolls.

Enjoy.

Ro + Josh::Complete

2010-09-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

Josh had to scale a mountain top in Panama to propose to Ro. Even after she accepted there was another obstacle to overcome.

"After exchanging a bunch of kisses, their lips started to tingle. Rowena quickly realized, to her horror, that this was due to the extra-strength Deet (i.e., poison) they had on to detract the relentless rainforest bugs. They immediately started spitting. As they were washing their mouths out with water, Rowena looked at Josh, dismayed that the first moments after their engagement were spent spitting. Josh assured her that it was good luck to spit immediately after getting engaged."

This excert taken from their wedding website encapsulates Ro and Josh. Adventurous, silly, yet so full of love. Their wedding was full of emotion and warmth of family.

Special shout out goes to my good friend and super duper talented friend/photographer Quan for helping out again.

This photograph is exactly why I love to shoot weddings: seeing not just two people but two families becoming one.

Reel Love::Sue + Mark

2010-09-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

On an amazing day this past August at the gorgeous Silverado Resort in Napa Sue and Mark took the plunge into the vast ocean we call marriage. The weeks leading up to their big wedding day Sue and I exchanged many many emails going over timelines, events to take place, people to photograph. It all paid off as I was rewarded with one extraordinary wedding to document and capture.

Mark reeled in his best catch in Sue, or should I say Sue reeled in the best catch of her life.

Here is their story.

Mengting + Dave::Sincerity

2010-07-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

I'm blessed with the opportunity to capture and document such amazing people like Mengting and Dave on their wedding day. Their beautiful afternoon wedding at the Hillsborough Racquet Club truly reflected how humble and down to earth they are.

The most touching part of the day was when they held a raffle giving little knickknacks to those guest who were fortunate enough to have his/her number called. What amazed me was how thought and how age/sex appropriate each gift was. For a couple to take the time to recognize a few people who've made such difference in their lives on one of the biggest days of their lives reflects the ultimate form of sincerity.

So please take a look at a few from their amazing day.

Special shout out goes to my good friend Charlene. She's not only an amazing person but an amazing wedding coordinator down in the Los Angeles/Orange County area.

Monica + Paul::One

2010-07-13T04:41:00.000-07:00

The first thing that comes to my mind when it comes to Monica and Paul is gratitude. Paul and I go way back to our high school days at Clovis West High. I remembered Paul to always be one of the most giving regardless of which click you hung out with. Every communication I had with Paul and Monica when it came to their wedding from the time they booked me to their engagement session to going over their timeline they were always expressing their gratitude for having me shoot their wedding. Truth is I'm the one who should be most grateful having people trust me with one of the biggest days in their lives.

One of the most rewarding aspects of wedding photography for me is the union not just of two people but of two families. Monica and Paul's family are amazing. The love isn't just between Paul and Monica but between Paul's family and Monica's family. I'm always so moved to see two families become one during weddings and this was no exception.

Special shout out goes to Quan for the 2nd shooting. We started early and ended late and knowing Quan was by my side shooting gave me the peace of mind to do my thing.

Check it our yourself!

Shot by Quan

Shot by Quan

Shot by Quan

Sue + Mark::Catch

2010-05-18T09:31:00.000-07:00

May has been a busy month for me both personally and professionally thus the lack of post. I would like to share an engagement session I did last Friday with Sue and Mark.

I find it amazing how connections can come about. I met Sue and Mark through a friend whom I met shooting a non-profit event for a good friend of mine. When exchanging emails regarding our shoot Sue had metioned Cocoa their dog and brining someone to handle her when not in the shot. I intially thought she meant the drink coco, like hot coco. Cocoa was a trooper and we had a fabulous time shooting in SF at Crissy Fields (new center there is shaping up to be amazing) and Union Square.

Brenda + Tommy Part 2::Culture

2010-04-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

So after the first day being a Chinese wedding, the second day was a Mien wedding. If you don't know what Mien is they are similar to the Hmong in that they are ethnic minorities originally from Southern China but due to religious persecution they took refuge in the hills of northern Laos.

Being that I was dressed in the traditional Mien garb myself a little under 5 years ago I was excited to shoot the wedding and to share the cultural and tradition of the Mien people.

Much kudos goes to Brenda and Tommy. After a twenty hour first wedding day they were able to look great and share the second wedding with all their loved ones.

Brenda + Tommy Part 1:: Double Happiness

2010-04-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Brenda is my little sister-in-law. She officially married her high school sweetheart Tommy this past weekend in not one, but two weddings! I remember the first time I met Brenda it was at her sweet 16 birthday party when my wife and I were still "just friends". Watching her grow these past few years has been a blessing and I can honestly say I've learned so much from the both of them. Though I wasn't the main photographer for this first wedding I was able to get some shots I'd like to share with everyone.

If you've ever been to a Chinese wedding before you've might have seen the Chinese character for eternal happiness. It actually consist of two characters for happiness. So "happiness" + "happiness" = eternal happiness.

To my little sister and younger brother-in-law, I wish you guys double happiness!

Ro + Josh::Blithe

2010-04-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

The word blessed can't even start to describe how lucky I am to have wonderful friends/clients such as Ro and Josh. Thanks to an old coworker friend, Gabby, Ro and Josh gave me the honor to document their upcoming wedding in August. When preparing for our engagement shoot Ro basically let me choose where I wanted to shoot with 100% faith in my abilities. I suggested the charming town of Point Reyes Station located just outside one of my favorite spots in all of the Bay Area, Point Reyes National Seashores.

What I love about Point Reyes Station is the small town charm that it has. I thought it was quite fitting since Ro and Josh both live in San Francisco and recently have had little time to spend with one another. What made our shoot even more fun was Yin Yang, their dog. She was a great model and when we were shooting in Inverness, CA she was rewarded with a chance to run and play.

Their blitheful love and spirit made my job easy. Shout out goes to my beautiful wife for helping me with the shoot. Like I said, blessed doesn't really fully describe how fortunate I am.

This is where they first met.

Mengting + Dave::Radiance

2010-04-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

What makes my life so amazing is the people who I call my friends and family. I've always said that even if I didn't have all the material things in life to live comfortably as long as I had great friends and a loving family I would be truly happy. I met Mengting and Dave through an old college friend of mine who happens to be an amazing wedding planner down in Orange County. Charlene of Picture Perfect Events just so happens to be BFF with Mengting as well as playing the role of Maid of Honor come their wedding in July. I remember on one of our last days in college Charlene and I walked down to the Westwood area to grab a bite and she said to me, "Rob, let's never lose touch with one another. Promise me we'll never lose touch."

This past weekend I had the amazing opportunity to capture the radiance and warmth that is Mengting + Dave. We met at Akari West Studio where she was getting her makeup done by Penney of A List Makeup. We headed out afterwards to explore the many paths/walkways/stairs of Berkeley and eventually ended our shoot at one of my favorite parks in all the Bay Area, Redwood Regional.

Here's a few that I felt really captured the essence of their love.

More Film!!! I LOVE FILM!!!

2010-03-31T14:48:00.000-07:00

Just the other day at Lake Merrit w/ Ian. Dude knows how to break hearts already.

Gem + Roger + Ethan::Family Affair

2010-03-31T07:14:00.000-07:00

"It's a family affair...it's a family affair..." Love that song by Sly and the Family Stone.

Back to the regularly scheduled program.

I had the great honor of documenting the connection between Gem, Roger and their beautiful little boy Ethan. The shoot took place one beautiful Sunday afternoon at Baker Beach in San Francisco and was actually part of a packaged I donated that was auctioned off to raise money for the Vietnamese American Community Center of the East Bay. Lucky for me Gem was the one who won the package.

As iconic as Baker Beach is for San Francisco I had actually never shot there. In fact, though I had lived in SF for 3+ years when I first moved to the Bay Area I had only gone to Baker Beach one other time. As it turned out it was Ethan's first time at the beach ever. I felt an even greater sense of blessing that I was there to capture his first moments seeing the ocean and being on a beach.

Roger & Gem, please send my love to Ethan.

Cheers!

Monica + Paul::True

2010-03-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Paul and I go way back. I mean WAYYYYYY back. I first met Paul when I was in high school (way back when) but during our college days we went our different ways. He ended up at Cal and I eventually ended up at UCLA. I probably last saw Paul in person during my UCLA days and it had been at least 9 years since I graduated UCLA in '01. Probably about 6 months ago we reconnected as I have done w/ so many long lost friends via the 'book...Facebook that is.

Anyways he called me up out of the blue a few months ago and he let me know while watching football he had a chance to browse through my portfolio and apparently he liked it. Eventually he booked and as I was in Vegas this past weekend for the WPPI tradeshow I had the awesome opportunity to one, meet up w/ an old friend who I hadn't seen in almost 10 years, and two, meet his beautiful, sweet, amazing fiance Monica. The photos I made were just icing on the cake.

Monica and Paul seriously made it SO EASY to shoot. Again, I just happened to have the camera on hand to capture the magic. Looking forward to seeing the both of you real soon!

Cheers!

Claudia + John::Grounded

2010-02-16T18:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Lunar New Year folks!

Last Saturday I had the wonderful opportunity to document and capture the wedding of Claudia and John. We headed out to Claudia's parent's house in the small town of Poterville, CA where we were greeted to a house full of family and food. It reminded me a lot of my own wedding when we had guest coming in and out of our house, food, desserts, all while we were getting ready.

Claudia and John have this great sense of being grounded. Grounded in a way that makes them so easy to work with and get to know. While driving to Porterville the night before with my wife/assistant (she did a GREAT job for her first time helping me) the thought of the "Money Dance" popped into my head. I imagined that during the money dance I would go and participate as well. Then I realized that I will be documenting the wedding and not actually in the wedding. I mentioned this because that's how close I feel to both Claudia and John. It is as if we have been friends for many years.

Anyways, it is my great honor to present to the world Claudia and John.

Cheers!

Patty, Claudia's Maid of Honor, and I go way back.

The awesome party bus, fully equipt with a pole and all.

John's a pilot as well.

Back in Love::Film's not Dead

2010-02-03T07:14:00.000-08:00

As some of you might know my love affair with photography started many years ago when I took a class while in high school. The intention was to hang out with my buddies, get an easy A, pad the GPA, and simply goof off. It was in my photo class where I fell in love with photography. Not just making photographs with the camera but actually developing my own film in the dark room, hang drying the prints, to finally hanging the photos on the walls of my room. I loved everything about the process.

It's probably been about 5 years since I shot film. With digital cameras and that instant gradification you get with being able to see the photos with a matter of about a second. Truth is, I've been yearning to shoot film for a while now. It's a much slower process but a more gradifying one. As much as I love my professional digital DSLR cameras I picked up a used Nikon F100 film camera and some Fuji Film Pro 400H. The results are finally in from my first two rolls of shooting film once again and upon seeing the photos I got that same warm fuzzy feeling I did when I developed my first photo.

Check it out:

*Please note these are all straight out of camera, no digital manipulation at all.

Gen + Dan::2nd Shooting

2010-01-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

Once again my good friend and talented photographer Luke Snyder gave me a chance to shoot with him at the wedding of Gen and Dan. When I was told the reception was being held at the Exploratorium I couldn't hide my excitement. They had a beautiful ceremony at Mission Dolores. It's always fun to 2nd shoot as I like to push my limits and creativity. Working with Luke I always have 100% creative freedom.

Moving on check out a few from my persective on the day.

They had a Mexican theme to their reception, mariachi band and all. It was super fun!

Elina + Marek::Going the Distance

2010-01-06T07:24:00.000-08:00

About 3 days before Christmas I received an email from my friend Elina. The subject of the email read "Big Favor". As I read the email and came across the line "I'm getting married on December 31, 2009" the first thing that came to my mind was, "She wants me to shoot her wedding. But a wedding that is going to take place in a matter of days?" So I go on reading and the entire time I was subconsciously looking for the line "Can you take our photos?" About three quarters of the way down she says "We were wondering if you were available and willing to be our..." get ready for this one "...wedding officiant." I rubbed my eyes to make sure I hadn't misread. Maybe she meant to say "Official photographer" I thought to myself. As I read on sure enough she was asking me to be her officiant.

So for those of you who don't know the County of San Francisco has a 1 time deputation program in which one can carry the title of Deputy Marriage Commissioner. This title allows one to conduct and legally sign off on a marriage certificate. The only requirement is to be 18 years of age and speak English fluently.

Nonetheless I was in complete shock and awe. No words can describe how honored I felt to have been the Deputy Marriage Commissioner for Elina and Marek. Of course, being a wedding photographer I offered to take some portraits afterwards. But as good fortune would have it before the ceremony (which by the way was performed at the Sutro Bath ruins)we came across a couple who were photographers. Alex, the gentleman offered to help take a couple of photos for us during the short ceremony. So yes, that's me down there conducting the ceremony.

Here's to Elina and Marek going the distance (literally as they've been flying across the country to see one another as he lives in South Carolina).

Here I am with Marek right before swearing to uphold all the duties for a Deputy Marriage Commissioner (Photo taken by Elina)

Ryan, Elina's brother from Miami stood in as the witness and during our portrait session was my assistant.

Our view

Here's my perspective of the first kiss

Here I am getting the shot above

Jen::Just Dance

2009-12-29T10:48:00.000-08:00

I met Jen this past summer at the Oakland Fine Arts Summer School program where I taught photography to 4th and 5th graders. Jen taught the kids dance. With the sudden death of Michael Jackson this summer and about a week into our program Jen had decided to do a tribute to MJ with the kids. At the end of the program the kids put on a performance for their parents. Jen did a spectactular job w/ the kids. Their performance rocked the house and brought me almost to tears.

So back in October she contacted me about doing some shots for her. We finally had a chance to get some photos done last week in and around Jack London Square and at Port View Park here in Oakland.

So if you're in the Bay Area and would like to take some hip hop dance classes or need any personal training to burn off the holiday calories contact Jen. She's trained in both modern dance and hip hop and has a vast portfolio.

Mai + Glen::Bliss

2009-12-28T11:46:00.000-08:00

Mai and Glen are two reasons why I love this job. They are both amazing people who are in love and sealed it by getting married! I was honored at the chance to capture their life-changing day last Tuesday as they were married in the amazing San Francisco City Hall building in an intimate civil ceremony. Not too long ago we had a chance to play in the streets of San Francisco in their engagement session. It was then where I bonded w/ Mai and Glen and made shooting their wedding feel as if I was shooting a wedding of very close friends.

Congratulations guys!

Right outside of Mayor Gavin Newsome's office

Sangeeta + Jeff::Celebrate

2009-12-06T01:35:00.000-08:00

A few months after shooting Sangeeta and Jeff's engagement session I received an email from Sangeeta regarding shooting their civil ceremony in SF before they went off to beautiful Cabo San Lucas for their destination wedding. I was thrilled at another opportunity to work with Sangeeta and Jeff as their love for one another radiates. On top of that SF City Hall isn't too shabby of a place for a civil ceremony.

So last Friday they were officially married in the most romantic city on the west coast. Though they will be celebrating and sharing their marriage in Cabo with their loved ones, I'm honored for the chance to have captured their first moments as husband and wife.

Enough w/ the talk, get on w/ the photos!!

Mai + Glen::Bridge

2009-12-04T02:33:00.000-08:00

Mai and Glen actually came across my work through my sister in law. Mai is friends w/ my sister in law through Facebook and because of that she was able to check out some of my work and liked it enough to book me for their civil ceremony coming up in the next couple weeks in SF. When we were exchanging emails about the engagement session location and ideas Mai mentioned how she wanted to capture the Bay Bridge because it symbolized their connection (she's from Oakland he's from SF) and also literally connected them to one another.

We had a blast hanging out in and around the waterfront and through downtown. I just happen to have my gear to capture their connection w/ one another in this engagement session.

Holla!

Elizabeth + Hedi::Lifestyle

2009-11-30T23:53:00.000-08:00

Close to a year ago I shot the wedding of Elizabeth and Hedi in Atherton. Because they had planned a mini-destination wedding (they're from Orange County) we had no time to do an engagement session before their wedding. In fact the my 2nd shooter Catie met Hedi even before I did the day of the wedding. Actually I owe a lot to the both of them as Elizabeth was very active on all the bridal online forums and social networking and because of her my work was featured world wide.

Back in September we finally had a chance to shoot their engagement session, 9 months after they were married. Thus the term "Lifestyle" session as oppose to "engagement". It was wonderful seeing them again, just as two long time friends meet the first time in a long time. They both ooze style, beauty, and character (please scroll down to see the photos).

Enough w/ the writing, I present, once again....Elizabeth + Hedi

2 More Weddings for 2009, Look for BIG THINGS to come in 2010!!

2009-11-30T15:11:00.000-08:00

My 2009 wedding season will wrap up right before Christmas as I have two SF City Hall Civil Ceremonies to capture still for 2009. I actually had the opportunity to shoot a civil ceremony when my buddy Mike got married last year and absolutely fell in love w/ the architecture. So please do be on the look out for these beautiful moments to come in the near future. In the mean time, I still have 4 shoots I need to blog as well. Now that Thanksgiving has passed I have a tiny ounce more of time available.

I'm also taking this entry as an opportunity to let everyone know that there are big things to come for me and my photography business in 2010. You'll just have to wait and see!

Thank you to all my wonderful clients who have been so patient and awesome. Thank you for everyone else for even taking your precious time to stop by and check out my blog.

Cheers!

Sanjana + Karthik::Engagement

2009-11-20T18:27:00.000-08:00

G'day Everyone!

My apologies for being MIA lately. I've been swamped and trying to catch up on all the shoots I've been doing in the past few weeks. Look out for tons of post after Thanksgiving weekend.

This installment of the blog I present to you Sanjana and Karthik. I was honored w/ the chance to capture their genuine love and affection for one another by shooting their engagement. We started off at Stern Grove, an amazing park where awesome summer time free concerts take place. We then headed to the small but beautiful campus of SF State University. I had a blast with these two.

I wish them the best on their upcoming wedding in India.

Check 'em out!

Claudia + John::Blessed

2009-10-18T23:49:00.000-07:00

I met Claudia and John at the wedding of Patty and Jose. Claudia was basically running the show during the getting ready part of the day back at Patty's home. About a week later I got a call from John saying that they had seen my blog post on Patty and Jose's wedding and wanted to commission me to capture their big day as well.

We managed to squeeze in their engagement shoot this weekend and boy am I glad we did. Because of the unpredictable Bay Area weather we almost had to cancel the shoot.

We started off at one of my favorite, little known gems of an area North of SF, Kirby Cove. It was literally foggy and overcast as we walked down to Kirby Cove. As soon as we started shooting, the sun came out and we had AMAZING light!!! Even John notice that as well. When we finished, the fog and clouds came right back.

We then headed up the road in the Marin Headlands to Point Bonita. I've actually never been there myself though I've seen some pretty awesome photos. When we arrived and hiked down the gate was closed. The light house had actually been closed for a couple hours. We were kinda bummed, until a couple that was there with us discovered that the lock was actually unlocked. With this discovery we decided to take a chance and shoot. We did have concerns of getting locked in the Point Bonita Area, which would have been bad. But as luck would have it there was a young coast guard who had left it unlocked and was cool enough to let us shoot there for a few minutes. This stroke of good fortune along w/ the AMAZING light proved to be a winning combination for some AWESOME photos.

Enough talking, check out the photos.

Happy Halloween!!!

Roots::Muang + Brandon

2009-10-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of being a guest at a wedding this time around. My father-in-law's side of the family who live in Illinois were having a small gathering to celebrate the marraige of my cousin. They had a destination wedding in Florida earlier in the year with just the two of them.

At first I told my wife I wasn't going to bring my professional camera equipment. But at the last moment my conscious made me pack one camera and a couple of small lenses. I'm glad I did as I had the honor to capture the love and chemistry between the newly weds.

Here are a few of my favs from their announcement party.

Our view for quite sometime driving down Interstate 80

In these parts of Illinois you always know what town your in with water towers that say the town name. My father-in-law's family lives in Depue.

I grabbed this shot @ 7am in the morning before we headed off from Chicago to Depue.

More to come soon!

Alia + Jay::Nine Two Six

2009-09-27T23:14:00.000-07:00

My mini-vacation down to Orange County ended off on an amazing note at the wedding of Alia and Jay. Alia actually came across my work when I shot Elizabeth and Hedi's wedding back in December and contacted me about shooting down south. I thought to even be considered was an honor in itself since there are tons of uber talented photographers in Southern Cal let alone be asked to shoot the wedding.

Anyways, the night was a bit warm and humid but the radiance from both Alia and Jay was evident. The emotions of the moment took a hold of Alia as she put the finishing touches of her dress. I guess she must have gotten it from her father, a warm and gentle man who's love for his daughter was on full display.

Check it out for yourselves!

I hired 2 assistants on the spot.

Jennie + Justin::Anyone Else...But You

2009-09-22T23:51:00.000-07:00

If you've seen the movie Juno you would understand the title of this post (click on the Juno link to see what I'm talkin' about). Towards the end of the night the guest who hung around on a Sunday evening were treated to a super cool presentation. Justin and Jennie put together an awesome video slash live performance of their own version of "Anyone Else But You". As he strummed his electric ukulele the video played and the lyrics were at the bottom of the screen. They sang, the bridal party sang, and all the guest including myself were entertained. It's by far one of the coolest moments I ever experienced as a wedding photographer. I'm trying to convince them to put it up online for the world to see so stay tuned. ***UPDATE*** The video is up on Justin's Face Book page. If I get premission, I'll post it.

Anyways, I am honored to have the blessed opportunity to document such a HUGE day in the lives of Jennie and Justin. We started off at Jennie's parent's place in North Beach in SF. From there we went and took some bridal party shots at the Palace of Fine Arts and Crissy Fields and then headed off to Brisbane to the Mission Blue Center for the ceremony and reception.

As Jennie made her way down the aisle w/ her mother (such a sweet lady) and father when all the guest rose to their feet she was overcome by emotions. It was an amazing and beautiful moment captured for time immemorial.

Special shout out goes to Green Fish Catering for hooking up a DELICIOUS vegetarian sushi roll.

Oh and not to forget special thanks goes to Quan for helping me 2nd shoot. He's seriously "the Man".

Check it out yourself!

Special thanks to Jennie's mom for assisting w/ this shot!

Shot and processed by Quan Nguyen

The Foundation::Mom and Dad

2009-09-17T08:19:00.001-07:00

Sorry folks for not posting for a while. September has been crazy busy w/ everything. Friends visiting from out of the country as well as personal events has kept me at bay from the world of blogging.

I recently found these photo of my parents when they were back in their home country of Laos. Look at my dad, so slick! My mom's a knockout as well.

2009 marks 15 years since my mother passed (I was 15 at the time) and 5 years since my father passed. I'm lucky to have had them as my parents in this lifetime. If it were not for their unconditional love and sacrifices I wouldn't be in this position of such blessing.

Now as I have my own family my level of appreciation for my parents has grown leaps and bounds at a deeper level.

Thanks Mom, thanks Dad for everything!

Their wedding day

Not sure if this is before or after they were married. She was the love of his life.

2009 Oakland Fine Arts Summer School Finally::Time of My Life

2009-08-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

As some of you guys were aware I participated again this year in the Oakland Fine Arts Summer School program here in Oakland as the photography instructor for 4th and 5th graders. Words cannot express how blessed I was for the opportunity to work with such wonderful kids doing what I love. Although the program ran for 4 weeks I'd like to share just the last two days of the program, one in which the kids put on a showcase event for their parents. This year there were some wonderful instructors in dance and theater not to mention an incredible set and costume design instructor. Since the death of Michael Jackson took place during the program the dance instructor appropriately put together a performance in his honor and the kids absolutely rocked it.

While documenting the showcase I couldn't help but be overwhelmed with a feeling of "My kids are all grown up!!!" I was so proud of all the kids who spent countless hours rehearsing and practicing. This definitely has to be one of the all time highlights of my life.

Lastly check out this article from the SF Chronicle about the program. Too bad they were just there for the morning program (I taught in the afternoon program).

See for yourself!

This year's theme for the Parks and Rec Department

Some of the boys doing their version of MJ's "I'll be there"

Irma + Ryan::Heat

2009-08-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to shoot w/ a friend and talented photographer Sam Hassas. This beautiful wedding took place at the Palm Event Center in Pleasanton in Fresno-like heat. The funny thing was that the bride is from the Central valley and at least one of her bridesmaids was from Fresno as well. For those of you who don't know I grew up in Fresno.

Anyways, here are a few from my vantage point.

My tribute to MJ: Straight out of Thriller

Sam contracted a 3rd shooter

Jayne + Jeff::Elevation - Post Wedding Shoot

2009-08-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, so 3 of my last 4 blog post has been on Jayne and Jeff. I'm glad you were paying attention. I promise this is it. What an amazing day after the wedding in the high elevation backcountry of Yosemite. The cloudless sky in the Valley turned out to be a cloud filled sky when we got to our first stop Tenaya Lake. Lots of these shots couldn't have been possible w/o the amazing help of my assistant Lisa.

He's an awesome photographer himself.

Pothole Dome, literally right off Tioga Road.

My favorite moment (rated PG-13)

Jayne + Jeff::Affinity

2009-08-15T23:00:00.000-07:00

Through out the course of the day documenting and capturing Jayne and Jeff's wedding at one of the most amazing places on Earth (Yosemite National Park) I had more than a few people who were guest of the party ask how long I've known Jeff for. On more than one occasion his guest thought that Jeff and I had known each other for many years and that I just happened to be a photographer as well. It's rather comical but from the get go during our consultation I felt as if Jeff and I were "brothers from a different mother" for lack of a better description. Even at their wedding this affinity that I have w/ Jeff manifest itself leading many people to think we are long time friends.

A shout out goes to Scott Andrew Studio for coming out to help me document this wedding as well as my sister-in-law Lisa who assisted.

Cheers!

Jaynie + Patrick::Law-ve

2009-08-11T00:02:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the awesome learning opportunity to shoot w/ Chung Li, a multi-talented wedding photography. Jaynie and Patrick are both lawyers. I took care of the groom and his men during the getting ready portion. They wed in a small but beautiful church in Berkeley and from there we headed to one of my favorite venues, the Brazilian Room.

Everyone was awesome and I had a blast shooting w/ Chung. I also had the opportunity to work with Wing of Wing Hon Films who was helping Chung shoot a promo video.

Here's Jaynie and Patrick through my lens.

Chung Li the man:

Jayne + Jeff::On Top of the World!!!

2009-07-27T00:04:00.000-07:00

Jayne and Jeff are two of the most down to earth people I've ever met yet far from Earth. Jeff proposed to Jayne atop Cathedral Peak (10,911 feet elevation) in the back country of Yosemite. He figured if she made it with him to the top of Cathedral Peak why not take on the ultimate peak that is life together.

This early August I have the great honor of capturing and documenting their wedding in one of the most beautiful places in the world, Yosemite National Park. As some of you guys know I'm an avid outdoors man myself.

Check out a few from their engagement session at one of their favorite places in the beautiful city of San Francisco, Corona Heights.

Blanca + Ben::Manifest Love

2009-07-09T04:45:00.000-07:00

Three weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet Blanca and Ben who found me through the Wedding Photojournalist Association. These two love birds met while at the University of Michigan with their paths eventually leading them to the Silicon Valley. I was honored when they asked me to shoot their engagement session and when Blanca mentioned Santana Row I was all ears. Santana Row has this romantic aura to it that I can't put my finger on it that helped manifest the love between Blanca and Ben.

Here are a few to get your mouths watering.

Naomi + Ali::Pious

2009-07-04T07:44:00.000-07:00

For those of you who aren't familiar to the word "pious" in an eastern philosophical tradition it means to show one's parents great honor and respect. In fact in Confucious teachings the term "filial piety" is a cornerstone principle. Last night's wedding in which I was asked to be a 2nd shooter for my good friend and uber talented photographer Luke Snyder both Naomi and Ali displayed great filial piety in three different traditional ceremonies: Persian, Western and Chinese Tea ceremonies. Ali, being Persian had his father conduct the Persian ceremony. Naomi who is half caucasian and half Chinese had her father conduct the Western ceremony. If you've ever seen an Chinese tea ceremony the bride and the groom kneel before both sets of parents as a sign of respect. The entire day was amazing as was all three ceremonies. I was touched as I had to hold back tears during the tea ceremony.

Enough with the sappy stuff. Check out the images from last night's incredible wedding for yourself.

Patty + Jose::Warmth

2009-06-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Words cannot even begin to describe the overwhelming warmth I felt the entire time shooting Patty and Jose's beautiful wedding this past weekend in Fresno. As you guys might remember we had an awesome and visually stunning engagement session back in March. When driving to the home of Patty's parents in the small town nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada's right outside of King's Canyon and Sequoia National Parks I immediately felt a sense of warmth. And no, I don't mean the triple digit weather conditions in the Central Valley. There's just a charm about the rural farm lands of the Golden State that brings such a feeling of peace and clarity. The warmth of love was ever so evident in the Patty's home where she and her family grew up in as soon as I walked in the door.

Their beautiful ceremony held at St. Rita's Catholic church in Tuluare was beautiful and sweet, and from there we headed to Fresno for an amazing and incredible night of celebration. I'm truly blessed and honored to have such wonderful clients and friends in Patty and Jose. Thanks for having me!

Now for a few goodies:

Mr. Torres, Patty's father is an amazing, good hearted man. I LOVE his expression seeing his baby girl in her wedding dress.

Mr. Torres again. He was crying almost the entire duration of the father-daughter dance.

Young patron waiting his turn during the money dance.

2009 OFASS:: 19 Days Around the World

2009-06-24T05:43:00.000-07:00

I'm so blessed to have this opportunity to do two things I'm passionate about: Teaching and Photography.

As many of you might know I pushed really hard for donations for this year's Oakland Fine Art Summer School program in which I am teaching photography. The first two days has went well, though most of it is going over rules and how to handle the cameras. Yesterday (day 2) I brought in the gear (2 of my own cameras, 2 donated cameras, and 3 in which I purchased out of my own pocket) and had the students play around and get familiar to the equipment.

Last year since the kids were using all my gear I had no chance to document the entire process. This year, I've made sure that I have my camera so that I may show everyone the journey we are taking during these next 4 weeks.

Here are some shots from my camera.

A couple of my students from last year. This girl in particular, Kijika (dreded hair) told me last year at the end of the program that she wants to be a photographer when she grows up. I was very touched by that.

This student isn't in my classes in particular but I liked his hair so I took a photo.

These girls are not in my class as well, but I thought they were adorable w/ their glasses.

That's my D300 w/ my 60mm AF-S lens. Don't worry, I taught them well how to handle the cameras. On top of that this student was from last year so he knows very well how to handle the gear.

I thought the expression on this student's face was priceless.

Thanks everyone. If you or if you know someone who would like to donate printing services please do contact me directly.

My New Assistant::All the ladies love him

2009-06-19T00:14:00.000-07:00

Ladies, eat your heart out. If you'd like to have a chance to meet my new assistant, you'd have to hire me first.

Here he is helping out on a photo shoot today.

Jennie + Justin::SF Kind of love

2009-06-16T01:13:00.000-07:00

Jennie and Justin were classmates in through out middle school but it wasn't until they both finished college when their romance sparked. We started off at their middle school Francisco Middle School and from there we went to Telegraph Hill right up the street from her parents house. Lastly we hit up the Ferry Building and did shots in and around the Embarcadero. It was so much fun hangin' out w/ this awesome couple. I can't wait to shoot their wedding in September.

Check out the photos from just hangin' out.

Cheers!

Tilden Park Little Farm

2009-06-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

Once again we took the kids (this time Ian's cousins Seydee and Ayden were in town) to feed the animals at Tilden Park's Little Farm. If you're ever in the Berkeley/Oakland area let that inner child inside of you come out and play at the farm. There's tons of animals. Bring some celery and/or lettuce as they won't allow any other types of veggies to be fed to the animals.

A Wedding Production::Melissa + Adam

2009-05-31T21:50:00.000-07:00

This Saturday I had the great honor in documenting the wedding of two self-proclaimed book worms, Melissa and Adam. The wedding was way out of the box in terms of the events that took place including the ceremony and first dance. It was an absolute blast to be a part of their big day. Special thanks to the wedding planner Jennifer Hui who ran a tight ship and kept everyone in the loop with all the events. Also a shout out goes to Alex Ho who came out to help me 2nd shoot.

Here's Melissa and Adam's love story.

In Memorial for all those who have served...and continue to serve

2009-05-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

This Memorial Day I'd like to say thank you to all the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for his/her country. Special thanks to all those who still are serving this country and to my little bro, who is currently serving in the Marine Corps based in Camp Pendleton.

Moments that will last a life time...and more.

2009-05-23T23:28:00.000-07:00

Often times I lose sight of the most precious and beautiful things in life in the pursuit of the mundane existence. I literally just took this photo just a few minutes ago and it's a great reminder for myself not to forget that the best things in life are free.

One of the reasons why I love photography so much is that it has really helped me appreciate moments like the one captured below. In the hustle and bustle of this world it's easy for me to forget that true happiness is from within. My job as your wedding photographer is to capture these moments on your biggest day in your life so that you'll always remember those moments of true happiness and joy for years to come.

Ron San Miguel::The Voice of the Wind

2009-05-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

First my apologies for not blogging more lately. Life has been busy outside of photography w/ friends visiting from out of town, family visiting, planning for my teaching opportunity at OFASS, putting together a Youth Summer Camp and just the daily grind.

Anyways I'd like to introduce my good friend Ron San Miguel, singer/song writer, Tai Chi instructor, and just a calming presence to be around. I first met Ron about a year ago at a small business seminar put on by the PR Lady here in the East Bay. Coincidentally I sat next to Ron during the seminar and it turned out that he too was a vegetarian (yes, I'm a vegetarian folks). We struck a friendship right away as I was drawn by his calm energy and friendly smile.

Ron writes beautiful music that is influenced by his Mexican traditions and culture and Mother Nature and combines it w/ his soothing voice to create beautiful music. I know because he performed at my house this past Thanksgiving. He's also a Tai Chi instructor at East Bay Aikido nestled in the hills of Oakland and at the famous Jack London Square. So for all you brides out there who's looking for some amazing music for your wedding, feel free to contact my good friend Ron San Miguel.

Here are a few shots from our shoot back in April at beautiful Lake Temescal here in Oakland.

Dragon Ball Ian

2009-04-21T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm the luckiest man alive to have such a beautiful boy.

More shots from Balmy Alley

2009-04-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

In my last post I showed everyone the beatiful photos taken at Balmy Alley of Sangeeta and Jeff during their engagement shoot. Unfortunately for us, that day was windy and cold particularly for an outdoors shoot. Sangeeta had mentioned how she couldn't believe how cold it was given that in a few days during the weekend temperatures were expected to be in the high 70s. We ended up only shooting at Balmy Alley for 15 minutes at most.

I loved that location so much I asked if they wanted to go back out there when the weather was better. Sure enough this past Sunday the weather in San Francisco was amazing, even at 6pm in the evening. We were able to get more shots in and around Balmy Alley.

Here are a few more shots.

This shot was fitting as they are having a destination wedding in Cabo San Lucuas.

Sangeeta + Jeff::Chemistry

2009-04-17T01:12:00.000-07:00

Late last month I received a wonderful email from Sangeeta. She had seen an engagement session I did for her roommate's friend, Lauren and Joel. Well, luck had it that she liked Lauren and Joel's photos so much she commissioned me to capture the chemistry she has with Jeff in this beautiful engagement session. Turns out that they met back in New York while working for competing bio-tech/pharmaceutical companies.

Check out our wonderful session shot just yesterday. Thanks to all my peeps on Twitter who helped out w/ locations in the Mission District of San Francisco. Special shout out goes to my "visual technician" aka assistant (doesn't visual technician sound so much cooler) Hardy Wilson.

A group of French tourist came by to check out Balmy Alley too. I figured why not use them as props.

We went to Nectar Wine Bar in the Marina after Balmy Alley.

Nisha + Sean::Music

2009-04-16T23:47:00.000-07:00

While attending the prestigious music school Berklee in Boston Nisha and Sean met. Their passion for music infused their love for one another and now they are to wed in Santa Rosa in the summer. When asking about locations for their engagement both wanted photos with a more nature and natural feel to it. Point Reyes National Seashores, one of the most beautiful gems in all of California was the perfect spot. On this particular day the wind was blowing at incredible speeds, but we still managed to get some incredible shots. Special shout out goes to my oldest son, Skylar, for coming out to assist his old man.

In the mean time, check out the beautiful music we created.

More Ian Love

2009-04-11T00:06:00.000-07:00

This is one of his mother's characteristics: long lashes.

I'm so blessed!

New blog layout!

2009-04-09T08:14:00.001-07:00

So...whatcha think?

True Happiness::Ian

2009-03-30T19:43:00.001-07:00

Though I was a bit under the weather today I had an amazing day with my baby boy Ian. Fatherhood is an absolutely amazing journey and I'm truly blessed to have the opportunity.

Here we are playing with manual focus and the self timer option on my D700.

At the California Academy of Science earlier today. He absolutely loves animals. Did I mention he's vegetarian like his mom and dad?

Melissa + Adam::Love Book

2009-03-28T02:08:00.000-07:00

All the elements came together this past Thursday giving us the most amazing Spring day to capture the love between Melissa and Adam. While talking and getting to know Melissa and Adam they'd mention that the theme for their May wedding is going to be books. It was quite fitting as we met first at the MLK library in downtown San Jose for their shoot and made our way around the campus of San Jose State University.

Not only are these two book smart, but they're smart on the subject of love and happiness.

See for yourself!

Julie + Dave::Unconditional

2009-03-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

I was given the great honor of documenting the wedding of Julie and Dave. If you guys recall just a few post ago I shot their engagement session. Julie and Dave are not only a beautiful, caring and compassionate couple but also truly emulate the essence of unconditional love. Their families were so full of warmth and vibrance it made for an amazing wedding day in Monterey. This is exactly why I love what I do.

Check it out for yourselves!

New Addition to the Family

2009-03-18T00:03:00.000-07:00

Good news to report. I have a new nephew to share the world with!

Congrats to my sister in law and her hubby, Nay and Chuck!

Real photos to come once I get the Okay from mommy and daddy. Don't want to spoil the surprise to any of their friends.

Alia + Jay::Warmth

2009-03-15T23:31:00.000-07:00

Alia contacted me a few days after I shot Elizabeth and Hedi's wedding. She loved how I was able to convey the emotions of the day for Elizabeth and Hedi and hoped I could do the same for her wedding in September. I was really humbled by her kind words and instantly knew we had that connection.

This weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to capture Alia and Jay in their essence of love at beautiful blue Lake Tahoe. It was cold in terms of temperature, but their genuine love and happiness kept the three of us warm during their engagement session.

Checking it out for yourself!

Patty + Jose::Love is in the air

2009-03-09T00:18:00.000-07:00

Patty and Jose are something special. I'm sure you've all met someone who you've felt like you've known him/her all your life even though you really just met. With Patty and Jose this was exactly how I felt. Maybe it's the fact that they're originally from the Central Valley just like me. Maybe the affinity is more deeply rooted than that. Whatever it is Patty and Jose made my job look easy as they took little to no direction from me during the session and just enjoyed the moments they had with each other.

The day was absolutely spectactular! Point Reyes National Seashores was absolutely jaw dropping today. Clear, sunny, wildlife, we had it all going for us during the shoot. Grand View Park in San francisco was also amazing. Though it was a little windy up there Patty and Jose toughed it out and we were able to capture some amazing photos. As Patty put it so perfectly, "Love is in the air."

See for yourself!

Estelle & Solange Show

2009-03-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Honeymag.com to capture some promo shots of Estelle (best known for her hit single "American Boy" featuring Kanye West) and Solange Knowles (yes, that's Beyonce's sister) last night at the Mezzanine in SF. Rel and Tim, both of the NYC, w/ Honeymag.com were awesome and so accommodating. Tim must have thanked me about 15 times. Anyways, it was good times. Definitely out of the ordinary for me but still tons of fun.

A few photos of the artist:

Suai, and up and coming R&B singer.

Solange doin' her thang.

Estelle bringing down the house.

Stacie + Matt::Rockin'

2009-03-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Matt and I have a long history together. I've known him for probably 15 years. When my brothers and I were all avid skateboarders back in the day Matt would totally hook us up w/ stickers because he worked at the local skate shop. Eventually my first job right out of high school was working with Matt at the skate shop. He was the one who put in a good word for me and got me the job.

So back in December Matt called me to inform me of his engagement to Stacie. Stacie's so awesome and the perfect fit for Matt. I was given the honor to capture their amazing wedding in Santa Barbara this past weekend and at the same time a chance to see some of my old friends. The wedding took place at the Santa Barbara Beach Club, a jaw dropping beach house over looking the Pacific and catered by the Epicurean Cowboy.

This wedding absolutely rocked! Check it out yourselves:

Santa Barbara!!!

2009-03-01T12:24:00.000-08:00

Really quick before I make my way to the wedding @ 1:30, a few shots from this mornings cruising around SB.

Vintage SB sign at a local surf shop

Pacifica Suites - our hotel. Awesome place to stay.

Our full breakfast at Pacifica.

Veterans for Peace exhibit commemorating all those who've fallen during the Iraq War.

Fishermen off the pier.

You know you're not in the Bay Area when you see palm trees lining up the beaches.

Skate or die! Too bad I didn't have my board to cruise around on.

Skateboarding is not a crime, or maybe it is.

Surf's up!

OFASS::Sharing the love w/ future photographers

2009-02-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

Last July out of sheer luck I had the wonderful opportunity to teach photography to 4th and 5th graders though the City of Oakland's Park and Rec Oakland Fine Arts Summer School (OFASS). It was a short 4 week program where children in Oakland have the opportunity to take all sorts of different art classes, one of them being my photography class.

This year I have the great honor to teach again. Last year I received a few donation of old digital cameras from talented photographers like Erica Berger and Bill Head and I purchased 2 extra digital SLRs and let the kids use my personal dSLRs. We had a ratio of 4 - 5 kids per camera, which was great for the first time. But this year I'd like to ask for everyone's help in getting equipment for the kids to learn on.

If you have an old dSLR that is just collecting dust we'd love to borrow it for the duration of the program. We'll do our best to return it in the same condition as we received it and if by any means it is damaged I will personally repay you out of my pocket. If you do have anything you'd like to donate to help, please email me at rob@nlightenimages.com. The program starts in June 22nd and runs through July 17.

Here are some photos that the kids took last year. Remember, the KIDS TOOK THESE PHOTOS!!!

Julie + Dave::Radiance

2009-02-28T00:29:00.000-08:00

After having to cancel twice because of bad weather I finally had a chance to get out there in the SF cityscape to get some shots of this amazing couple. I remember when I first met Julie and Dave they just radiated with life and love for one another. That radiance really shined through tonight in their engagement session.

Check it out yourselves and be prepared to nLightened by their love for one another.

Corina + Roger::Sweetness

2009-02-13T00:44:00.000-08:00

I had the great honor to work with one of my favorite photographers Scott of Scott Andrew Fine Photography for this wedding. Since it was in my home town of Fresno, Scott asked if I could help him capture this day for Corina and Roger. The weather was lovely (winter in Fresno usually isn't so lovely) and the people were warm. Nothing like a good visit back home.

Check it out the sweetness yourselves!

Letterpress:: The Way To Go

2009-01-30T00:49:00.000-08:00

A while back I remember coming across Ben Chrisman's blog and seeing his awesome letterpress business cards. I remember how classy they looked and how it really portrayed Ben's contemperory yet classic style of documenting weddings. It really left an impression on me in terms of how I want to brand my business and myself to potential clients. Well, during the holidays, I gave myself a gift (which I rarely do I swear) and ordered some AWESOME letterpress business cards from Zida and Studio Z. Holy smokes these cards are sweet! These photos can't really do them justice as the craftsmanship and quality is something you must feel and see in person to believe.

So for all you brides out there, if you're going for elegance, grace, classic, modern for your invitations, go letterpress w/ Studio Z. Zida is pure joy to work with.

A special shout out goes to my designer and wonderful friend Chan of Saechao Designs for her wonderful work in the creative design for my logo and layout for the cards. Look her up folks for some awesome graphic design work.

Natural Beauty:: Joy + Lye

2009-01-21T00:20:00.000-08:00

Luke Snyder again, was kind enough to let me tag along at this wedding to 2nd shoot just a few days ago. This was my first wedding for 2009. Both Joy and Lye were a blast as well as working with Olivia of Zoie Events from So. Cal. Here are a few from my perspective. Fore more, check out Luke's blog.

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Elizabeth and Hedi's wedding Featured on intimateweddings.com

2009-01-15T15:08:00.001-08:00

I'm blessed that Elizabeth is pretty active on different bridal forums. After I sent her some websized resolution photos that I blogged on the 1st, she's posted the photos on the different forums and it's been a huge hit. Now the good folks at intimateweddings.com have picked up the wedding and are featuring it in their "Real Weddings" section along with their blog.

Check out the screen shots from the intimateweddings.com. If you want to go to the actual post on the website, click on any of the screen shots below.

Cheers!

Featured on Rock 'n Roll Bride

2009-01-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

To my pleasant surprise I found out I was featured on Rock 'n Roll Bride on January 6. They featured Elizabeth and Hedi's wedding I just shot a mere 2 weeks ago. Pretty sweet!

Check it out for yourselves.

Classic::Elizabeth + Hedi

2009-01-01T09:32:00.000-08:00

First of all folks, HAPPY NEW YEARS!!! Life's been busy to say the least during this holiday season with tons of friends and family visiting thus the lack of blogging.

Well, I had the special opportunity last Saturday to capture and document Elizabeth and Hedi's beautiful and unique wedding. I remember when I first Elizabeth and she was telling me about all the fabulous details and events that were to take place. I was super excited at the opportunity because it sounded totally different and super creative from anything I've shot in the past. Well it sure did live up to expectation...actually surpassed my expectation. Not only was it an amazingly beautiful day but the wedding was an absolute knock out.

See for yourself!

Cheers!!!

Ballin'::Tina + Mike

2008-12-15T00:45:00.000-08:00

My good friend and basketball teammate Mike married his sweetheart of 9 years Tina this weekend here in the Bay Area. They gave me the chance to shoot my first City Hall wedding in SF and all I can say is "WOW!" That building is amazing! They had their ceremony on Friday and had their reception on Saturday in Berkeley. Fun times full of joy and happieness, just in time to get me in the Christmas spirit.

By the way, check out their engagement session done by my idol, Ben Chrisman.

Congrats guys!!!!

This was a cake!!! It's not real!!!

They celebrated Tina's sister's birthday too!

Josh+Nimia::O So Good!!

2008-12-10T23:10:00.000-08:00

After recently acquiring some new toys...eh, i mean equipment I was itching to test it out. It's the latest and greatest from Nikon, the top of the line in the photography industry. When Luke Snyder told me he had a wedding just 5 minutes from my house here in Oakland, I jumped on the opportunity not just to test out the new camera, but to help out a wonderful friend and a true professional.

Thanks Luke, my wife absolutely loved the jar of honey (not only is he a talented photographer, but he's a bee keeper too).

Here are some favs:

Tilden Park w/ the Family

2008-12-08T23:27:00.000-08:00

Growing up my parents took all us kids to the park at least 2 times a month following service at our church on Sundays. Now that I have my own family with two boys I look to carry on that tradition. This past weekend we had a chance to visit one of the gems of a park here in the Oakland/Berkeley area, Tilden Park. It's HUGE to say the least. My favorite part of the park is the animal farm where they have cows, ducks, geese, pigs, rabits, goats, and chickens. The kids love it and the inner child in me loves it.

I just thought to share some photos from our adventure.

Happy Holidays!

14 months old and RUNNING!!!

My little nephew Charles Paul

Big brother and little brother bonding

Inside the visitor center riding the cat!

Group photo

Diggin' for gold. I love my wife's expression!

The Season of Giving::Free Engagment Session if You Donate

2008-12-03T11:19:00.000-08:00

As Christmas approaches us I'd like to take the time to give something back to the community and to those who I've been blessed to meet in my life. This is the greatest form of appreciation as it reaches beyond just mere words. Instead it is manifested in your heart, mind and actions.

So I'd like to offer anyone who is willing to donate $100 to your favorite non-profit charity a FREE 1 hour session with yours truly. For a $200 donation I'd offer a 2 hour session. It doesn't necessarily have to be an engagement session. It could be any kind of session for that matter. Of course I'd ask for proof of donation.

So again, please remember the TRUE spirit of Christmas and that is to give. In essence it is only what you give that you'll truly gain in life.

Cheers and Happy Holidays!!!!

Lisa + Richie::Love by the Lake

2008-11-27T23:12:00.000-08:00

Erica Berger gave me a wonderful opportunity to help her capture Lisa and Richie's wedding day back in October here in my hometown of Oakland. In fact, the wedding took place right outside an area were I frequent w/ my boys at Lake Merritt. I absolutely love all the rituals and traditions in which took place. I'm a big fan as it reminds me that I need to always remember my own roots and heritage.

Here are some of my favs from that day:

Milena + Martin:: Stanford Uni E-Sessh

2008-11-23T23:23:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I meet a couple that is just so passionate about each other it really moves me. I had the great honor of documenting this great passion between Milena and Martin this afternoon at the beautiful campus of Stanford University. They made me look good as they both were so relaxed and natural w/ one another.

Milena and Martin, thank you for the opportunity!

Here are some teasers from the session.

Alexandra + Bill::Crissy Fields E-Sessh

2008-11-20T19:55:00.000-08:00

This past Monday the weather gods blessed us w/ the most AMAZING fall day here in the Bay Area. Lucky for me, I had a wonderful couple in Alexandra and Bill at a one of my favorite spots in all of San Francisco, Crissy Fields (picking a favorite spot in SF is like trying to pick a favorite Beatle's song). On top of everything we had going for ourselves, the Golden Hour struck and we had some amazing light.

Thanks Alexandra and Bill. You guys are awesome!!! I have to make it up to Sacramento to see Bill perform.

You are now looking at the newest member of the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA)

2008-11-14T09:07:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, the WPJA is a professional wedding photographer association that has some pretty strict standards to join. Of course you have to shoot in what is considered a "photojournalist" style and the quality of your work has to meet a certain criteria. About a week ago I thought I'd try my luck and filled out an application on their website. After reading the submission guidelines and not really knowing what the bench mark is for quality of work I wasn't too confident I'd get it. In fact, I know many really talented wedding photographers who have been rejected for one reason or another.

So yesterday much to my pleasant surpirse I received an email from the WPJA membership folks informing me that my application has been accepted. It's pretty exciting as it'll definately increase my presence in a saturated market. Also, I can now say that I'm officially a "Wedding Photojournalist." Doesn't that sound cool? And for all you clients or potential clients out there you can tell all your friends that your wedding photographer is a wedding photojournalist. Just kidding, just kidding.

Lauren + Joel::Engagement Sesh

2008-11-10T22:34:00.000-08:00

Lauren and Joel are an AMAZING couple who's love and life brought them to the most romantic city on the West Coast: San Francisco. Though they claimed never to have modeled before they made my work look easy as they were so relaxed and natural with one another. We shot this session in Cole Valley in SF literally all within a block of their home.

Here are some teasers!

Ryan + Jennifer:: Full of Grace

2008-11-07T11:20:00.000-08:00

I was blessed with the opportunity to work with Luke Snyder Studio for this beautiful wedding in late October. It was an AMAZING ceremony held at the famous Grace Cathedral, and the reception was at the romantic Clift Hotel. I really enjoyed this wedding as both Ryan and Jen were extraordinarily gracious and mindful.

Hope you enjoy!