Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Love is Love

'I believe that marriage isn't between man and women but between love and love' - Frank Ocean

Wedding photography was something I never thought of doing.  It's a day that needs to be perfect, capture every moment, and not to miss a beat.  That's a lot of pressure for wedding photographer and I give them all mad props for doing what they do and rocking it!

One of my great friends, Ashley,  whom I met in Okinawa finally made her way here to Southern California.  Not only was I stoked to have her right here in the same area code but also that I had the chance to meet her amazing family.  In meeting Ashley's family I got to meet her younger sister, Alisha and her then fiancĂ©e Taylor.  I have heard many great things about this couple just in talking with Ashley but when I met them in person I loved their connection to each other and the world around them.  You just want to hang out with them.  While all of the family was visiting SoCal, Alisha and Taylor were planning on getting married.  Ashley was planning on taking pictures herself since their wedding was a small court house wedding but I knew that wouldn't be a good plan.  Knowing the bond Ashley and Alisha had I knew Ashley would want to focus on her sister and nothing else.  So I offered up my services to Ashley and gladly she accepted.

The ceremony was small, quick, intense and emotional.  The day could not have been any more perfect with the clear skies, outside vows, and a very pretty court house which made a great backdrop.  Watching two people claim their love for one other is an amazing thing and I am so glad that in our state gender doesn't play a role in who you can marry.  Love is for everyone.  Congrats to the newlyweds and their new life together!

Looking down at the Latin saying 'Love Conquers All'. A perfect spot to exchange their vows.












 Sisterly love

 The only 'couple after the wedding' shots I got for the afternoon. 

 Mrs. and Mrs Gray

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Miss April {Teens}

This shoot was fun, spontaneous and during a Clickin Mom's walk in Okinawa. Being the 'victim' of having a parent that is a photographer can weigh hard on a child (go ahead and ask my son) LOL But for what ever reason when someone else is behind the camera the child comes to life.  April was a total natural in front of the camera.  She is all around gorgeous, has beautiful eyes and amazing hair.  One lesson learned from this shoot and my stay in Japan was never judge a location by the way it looks to the naked eye.  Buildings and textured backgrounds can be just as beautiful as a scenic ocean view.  This mini session was short and sweet but this girl rocked it! Big thanks to Pam at Pamela Olivera Photography for letting me steal April for a minute :) Enjoy! 
 Her tank was the coolest!



 And my favorite of the bunch...
So Okinawa, so soulful, and just the right amount of attitude.