Shannon Rutherford Photography

Rory and Alyssa :: Half Moon Bay Wedding

2011-11-15T10:07:00.000-08:00

Mark and Melissa :: Livermore Wedding

2011-10-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

Some summer weddings...

2011-08-23T14:35:00.000-07:00

Well, the kids are back in school so I finally have a little extra time on my hands which means that I can update my very neglected blog!! The following are pictures from four beautiful early summer weddings. There will be more to come!

Chris and Bre...

Ian and Erin...

Angelo and Penda...

Larry and Liz...

Elizabeth & Bryan :: Livermore, CA Wedding

2011-06-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the pleasure of photographing Elizabeth and Bryan and their beautiful wedding at Murrietta's Well in Livermore. It was an absolutely gorgeous day with big puffy white clouds and a cool breeze. I loved all the PINK details including the amazing flowers designed by Jessica at the Petal Company. Everything came together so nicely for Mr. and Mrs. Studebaker. In honor of the name they now share, Elizabeth and Bryan brought along a shiny red Studebaker truck..LOVED it! All those details make for great pictures!!! Congrats Elizabeth and Bryan!

Jennifer and Chris :: Santana Row Wedding

2011-06-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

I knew the first time I met them that Jennifer and Chris would plan a wedding to remember. They are the kind of people that live each day to the fullest and I could tell from the details they divulged that their wedding day would be a grand affair...the wedding of her dreams. At a hip boutique hotel, surrounded by their closest friends (including the "green shoe girls", a group of Jennifer's best girlfriends who all wore shoes died to match her own green shoes) and treasured family members, they tied the knot and partied like rock stars!

Wishing flowers...

2011-04-06T12:47:00.000-07:00

As we walked home from the park, we passed a grassy field brimming with dandelions (or if you're my Lucie, "wishing flowers"). The kids ran through it, grabbing at all the little weeds, all the while planning what they would wish for when they blew the seeds into the gentle wind. Lucie wished to fly and for an ipad, among other things. John wouldn't say for fear that his wishes may not come true. As I looked around at my happy little kids, Lucies crazy hair peeking from her helmet, John's pudgy cheeks (which get less pudgy and more "adult"every day), the warm air on my shoulders, all I wished for was more days like that one.

Stephanie and Russell :: Berkeley Wedding

2011-04-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Stephanie was beaming from the moment I first saw her on her wedding day. The room was buzzing with excitement as the girls put the finishing touches on the Stephanie, completing her transformation from beautiful woman to radiant bride. Then we headed up to Tilden Park for the festivities! Russ was waiting patiently to see his bride and was a (very handsome) ball of nerves when we arrived. Russell and Stephanie opted for a "first look" which allowed for lots of extra time to take pictures (which I was naturally super excited about!!). Despite the weather report calling for showers and rain all day, we got through the entire day without a drop! It was a magical day and I am so honored to have been a part of it! Good luck with everything, Russ and Stephanie!!!

Chris and Bre :: Pleasanton Engagement Session

2011-03-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

When I first met Chris and Bre, I fell in love with them. They have a peacefulness about them that is magnetic and they are effortlessly stylish. It is rare to find a couple who plans a wedding that truly reflects who they are and shows off their style, especially a young couple like Chris and Bre. I am so excited to shoot their wedding this May at a ranch in Oakdale. I think that if I could do my own wedding over again, it would be on a ranch. And like I've mentioned before, I totally live vicariously through my brides and grooms. This wedding will be no exception.

We decided on a rustic trail in the hills near Calipe Wildlife Preserve in Pleasanton for their engagement session. We lucked out with weather (unlike so many of my clients whose sessions have been rescheduled due to rain lately). The afternoon was sunny, but not the kind of sunny that you see once the heat arrives and turns the landscape grey and hazy. It was crisp and the colors were vibrant. Despite Chris and Bre being nervous to be in front of the camera, they were naturals. I had fun stomping through the tall grass with them and they were such good sports, backing up my initial impression of them being so laid back. Chris and Bre, thanks for the wonderful session. I look forward to the big day in May!!

Jamye and Daniel :: Livermore Engagement Session

2011-03-16T18:29:00.000-07:00

Daniel took a Saturday off so that we could shoot their engagement session so rescheduling wasn't in the cards. I was in the midst of the worst case of the flu that I can remember but went out anyway. I really like Jamye and Daniel. They are such kind people and the love that they share is so innocent and sweet. So I sucked it up, loaded up on medicine and cough drops, and drove out to "Daffodil Hill" in Livermore. Despite feeling like my head might actually detach from my body and fly away, the session went really well. I didn't get within three feet of Jamye and Daniel for the entire hour. The last thing that I wanted was for one of them to get sick. But they took my direction and kicked butt! I am so happy for them and can't wait for their wedding in July...not only because I think they are an amazing couple and I can't wait to document their BIG day but also because I will finally get a chance to shoot them while feeling more like myself:-) Jamye and Daniel, thank you for your patience last week! I hope that you love your pictures!!!

Greg and Rachael :: Walnut Creek Newlywed Session

2011-02-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

How cute are these guys? They've been married less than two months so they look at each other the way that newlyweds do. But something tells me that they will be looking that way at each other in forty years. I loved spending time with Greg and Rachael and wish them the best of luck in their brand new marriage!

Stephanie and Russell :: SF Engagement

2011-02-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

I picked them up outside their place in San Francisco. It was a GORGEOUS, sunny day in the city and I was excited! Stephanie greeted me with her trademark mega-watt smile and I went to say "hi" to Russ. We hadn't met before and I could tell he was a little apprehensive (as many grooms are the first time in front of the camera). He warmed up a bit as we talked on the way to Chrissy Field and it didn't take long for him to relax (some Heineken packed away in his bag for the road helped too:-)). WE had so much fun that afternoon. Stephanie and Russell are deeply in love and super-excited for their wedding next month! I was already really looking forward to shooting the wedding after meeting Stephanie a while back. And now that I've had the pleasure of spending some time with both Stephanie and Russ, I am ecstatic! It will be like shooting the wedding of old friends. We finished the session at one of their favorite little bars where we chatted over a cold beer. It reminded me of the pubs I visited with my Grandmother when I spent a summer in England with her many years ago. It also provided the perfect backdrop for a final picture and was the perfect way to end the day. Enjoy!

I Heart Faces / Best Face Photo Challenge

2011-01-30T22:38:00.000-08:00

This image is from the last job that I posted and I kept coming back to it when deciding which photo to enter in the "best face" challenge over at I Heart Faces. This little guy was so charming and charismatic! I just LOVE the face he is making in this photo♥

Baby Will and his Family :: Pleasant Hill Ca

2011-01-27T12:20:00.000-08:00

His Mom casually told me on the phone that he would be the easiest baby that I ever photographed. While it was good to hear, it was coming from his #1 fan, so I didn't get too excited. Then I arrived at his house. I turned the corner into their family room and little Will lit up with the most genuine, charming smile, got up on his pudgy, baby knees and raced towards me. After spending an hour with Will and his totally awesome Mom and Dad, I made it official. Will was, in fact, the easiest baby that I have ever worked with. In fact, it's baby's like Will that make me want another one for myself♥

Liz and Larry :: Walnut Creek Engagement

2011-01-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about these pictures of this totally awesome couple! Liz and Larry are super sweet, down-to-earth, and totally in love. They were clearly a little unsure of what to expect when they arrived to shoot engagement photos but, by the end of the session, they were seasoned pros! Liz, you are gorgeous (are you kidding me with those EYES!)! And Larry, you are so handsome! Love suits you both!

I Heart Faces / Innocent Wonder Photo Challenge

2011-01-24T09:15:00.000-08:00

Oh to be a kid again...when the sheer joy of soap bubbles filled us with such wonder!

From Shannon Rutherford Photography

Cheong Family :: San Ramon

2011-01-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

A super-fun, energetic family + overcast skies = one very happy photographer! This family was up for all my crazy ideas and even had some of their own! I had so much fun "playing" with them and I think it shows!

Taking pictures for me...

2011-01-11T18:52:00.000-08:00

This last year has been intense. Awesome...but intense. Last January, I resolved to take more pictures of my family. I had taken so many pictures of other people and wasn't very good about documenting my own world. I followed through and in 2010, I took lots and lots of pictures of my own kiddos (some of which I featured right here on the blog). I feel really good about that:-)

About a month ago in the beginning of December, I had a crazy Saturday booked. It was perfect picture-taking weather; the clouds looked as if they may burst at any given moment but held off so that I was able to meet with all three families. The colors POPPED like crazy that day and I didn't have to think about shadows once. These are the days I dream about!

And then the most amazing thing happened. My first session began and ended on schedule and because I had planned for the unexpected, I had about an hour before my next session. Instead of hopping in my car and staring at my blackberry for 60 minutes straight, I opted to pop in a new memory card and take a walk. It was one of the most peaceful hours I spent all year. I took about ten million pictures and they were all for me. The hills that I walked through inspired me and I felt so happy. This single hour reminded me why I got into the photography business. I LOVE taking pictures! This year, I resolve to take more walks, just me and my camera. I resolve to capture the inspiring things and moments in my life and in the world around me.

Clare and Rob :: Berkeley Wedding

2010-12-22T22:52:00.001-08:00

I knew right away when I met Clare that she would make a stunning bride. She was tall and elegant and had the most beautiful coloring. Then, Rob walked into the Starbucks where Clare and I sat talking about their wedding plans and she absolutely lit up. He is charming and handsome and clearly, they love each other very, very much. This is the kind of couple that I really enjoy working with. The thing is that I LOVE being around people who are in love.

Clare and Rob were married last weekend in Berkeley surrounded by their family and very best friends. It was an intimate ceremony followed by dinner at a lovely restaurant on the water. Clare and Rob made me feel like one of their guests and I was even treated to an amazing eight-course dinner. Thank you, Clare and Rob, for allowing me to be a part of your wedding day. It was one of my all-time favorites and was the PERFECT way to end 2010. Merry Christmas!

What it's all about...

2010-12-22T22:40:00.000-08:00

At this time of year, it's easy to forget what it is that we work so hard for. For me, it's all about these little cuties. They bring me such joy during the holidays and every day.

Holiday Season Overview

2010-12-19T18:23:00.000-08:00

You know how you feel when you FINALLY finish your holiday shopping? You've planned and planned, braved the crowds over and over again, dealt with people who you actually believe may be direct descendants of SCROOGE, and stayed up late wrapping gifts after everyone else is fast asleep. You know that big sigh of relief you have after the holiday craziness has finally subsided and you realize that you are DONE? Multiply that times a MILLION and that's the sigh of relief I just took after finishing the busiest holiday photography season of my life!!!! It was crazy, sporadic, exhausting, and invigorating all at the same time. And now, after my final wedding of 2010 last night, I am officially DONE!!! I love my photography business and am so grateful for all of my amazing clients but I am ready for a little break...and it begins now, just in time (because I actually thought that my head might fall off a few times recently!).

So, as promised, here is an overview of some of my favorite moments from a handful of sessions this holiday season. I SO enjoyed working with all of you! See you in 2011!!!!!!

Meghan and Jesse: San Diego Wedding

2010-11-16T17:21:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I boarded a plane to San Diego to shoot the wedding of my high school friend, Meghan and her fiance, Jesse. I remember our time at Monte Vista like it was yesterday. She was outgoing and funny and an extraordinarily good friend to everyone. My time in San Diego just confirmed that the things that I loved about Meghan years ago still define her today. On her wedding day, she was surrounded by amazing friends and family. She was a stunning bride, Jesse was an adoring groom, and I enjoyed every second of their bid day! The following images (I know there are a lot!) don't even begin to cover the day's festivities but you'll get the idea. A couple things to pay special attention to...the "first look" (Jesse and Meghan opted to see each other before the ceremony. It was a beautiful moment for them and allowed lots of time for pictures!) and the first dance (the newlyweds busted out an epic first dance that I will never forget!!!). Enjoy!

Shannon and Faruq :: Sunol Wedding

2010-11-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

Shannon and Faruq are two of the nicest people and really know how to throw a party! But what I found really intriguing about their wedding was the rich tradition and attention to detail. Shannon, Faruq, and their families worked so hard to make this a day to remember and their hard work paid off. It was GORGEOUS! I am so grateful to them for letting me be a part of their very special day!

Lisa and Eric :: Danville Wedding

2010-11-01T12:36:00.001-07:00

When my husband, Shawn, and I got married over eight years ago, we were really young. We had a fairytale wedding that is now the foundation of a very happy marriage. Still, we talk every now and then about what we would do differently if we could go back and do it again. Elope? Not a chance! But all kidding aside, we would have made the wedding reflect more of who we are and would have been a little less extravagant.

When I first met Lisa and Eric and heard about the wedding they were planning, I knew it was going to be just my style... a casual, garden party with delicious food, home-brewed beer, and a dessert table loaded up with homemade desserts. During their ceremony, Lisa and Eric said their vows, shared a pinky swear, and then skipped down the isle after being announced Mr. and Mrs. It was just perfect. And I was honored to be a part of all the cuteness.

Russell Family :: Tilden Park

2010-10-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

I met the Russells at Tilden Park, one of my favorite spots to do sessions. We actually met twice in one week because Mom thought ahead and realized that shooting the kids individually and together, shooting Mom and Dad, and shooting the whole family may be a bit much for the little ones to handle in one day.

The first session was dedicated to the kiddos. We found a little nook in the botanical garden and went to town. I typically don't play with new editing techniques with my clients' pictures but little Savannah inspired me. Something about the combination of her frilly pink tutu, her long blonde hair with a big white bow in it, and her spunky personality made for really, really cool pictures...kind of alice in wonderland-ish. So anyway, you can see what I mean in the first couple of shots below. Her little brother, Drake, is an absolute doll. He was so calm and patient and has those BIG eyes...you know, the ones that will make the girls go crazy later on:-)

A few days later we met again and spent most of the time on family shots and then dedicated some time to getting pictures of just Mom and Dad. The whole family was wonderful to work with. They are so cool and easy-going and, clearly, they know how to have a good time. Enjoy!

Marrah and Victor :: Walnut Creek Wedding

2010-10-03T14:59:00.001-07:00

I met Marrah at her hotel room where she was getting ready. She exuded happiness and was so at peace that I couldn't help but feel calm. Clearly, getting married to Victor was something she was confident about. Then, I got the exact same feeling from Victor. They had a really, really big wedding and yet, they didn't seem frazzled. I think that, more than any other bride and groom that I have worked with, they were beyond happy that the big day had finally arrived. Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Sweet Emma :: Danville

2010-09-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Emma. She is the daughter of my very good friend and is an absolute cutie. Elderly women are drawn to her curls and I can't blame them. Emma was born with thick, beautiful hair and photographing it actually makes me dance and giggle. We spent the morning documenting Emma at 8 months and I am so happy to say that it was a successful session. The following pictures are just a glimpse of sweet Emma.

Samantha and Ian :: Livermore Wedding

2010-09-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

It is always so fun for me to see the hard work and dedication of the brides and grooms that I work with come together on their wedding day to create something absolutely unique and beautiful! Sam and Ian's wedding was no exception. They planned their wedding in Livermore all the way from the East Coast. Clearly, this was what they had dreamed up for a long time and they exuded sheer joy when the day finally arrived! They made an absolutely gorgeous bride and groom and watching them become husband and wife was a thrill!

Casey Family :: Danville

2010-09-20T00:10:00.001-07:00

The Casey Family was one of those families that just make you smile. Mom and Dad were super sweet and laid back and the two girls were full of spunk and joy. Did I mention that they are beautiful?! I so enjoyed my time with them!

Little Lady :: Danville Birthday

2010-09-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

This adorable little lady celebrated her first birthday in style! Her parents planned a lavish party with an adorable ladybug theme. There were so many beautiful details...it was like a mini wedding! We spent some time before the party began getting shots of the birthday girl and then I roamed the party documenting the guests and party activities. So much fun!

Marrah and Victor :: Berkeley Engagement

2010-09-14T15:34:00.001-07:00

Planning a wedding can be extremely stressful and the stress can take its toll on the bride and groom-to-be. One really cool thing about an engagement session is that it gives the couple a chance to slow down, hold each other, and really LOOK at each other. As I guided Marrah and Victor through numerous poses, she commented that she and Victor hadn't really looked at each other much lately. Sure they had spent a lot of time together, but this was different. Their session was short, much shorter than a standard session as we got started really late. But during the twenty minutes that we spent shooting, I saw the way that Marrah and Victor looked at each other and I knew that they were meant to be together.

Shelly and Jon :: Gilroy Wedding

2010-09-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

Being a wedding photographer is fun for so many reasons. One of them is that I get to live vicariously through the amazing couples that I work with and experience all of the wonderful details come together on their wedding day! Shelly and Jon worked tirelessly with the help of so many good friends and family members to create the wedding of their dreams and the hard work paid off. I am so happy for them! Congratulations on your new marriage, Shelly and Jon. I am so honored to have been a part of your big day!!!

Lynn and Phil Wedding

2010-08-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

Lynn and Phil's wedding blew me away. There was so much emotion, so much adoration, so much family, so much love. It was clear to me (and everyone there) that Lynn and Phil were meant for each other. As a wedding photographer, I document this sacred event when two people join their lives together and it feels good to watch two people take vows and celebrate a marriage that I really think will stand the test of time. Their wedding took place at the Hayes Mansion in San Jose on a gorgeous summer day. The whole event was magical!

Hannon Family and Vernon Family :: Walnut Creek Family Sessions

2010-08-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

The first time I met the Hannon Family, they were a family of three...three of the sweetest people I have ever met, I might add. They were about to become a family of four, so Michelle called for a second session and I was so excited! I am sad to say that they moved to Texas shortly after this session but I was able to meet their new baby girl and see the Hannons as a family of four. Congratulations on your move and your beautiful new addition!

During their short time in California, the Hannons made many friends, including the Vernon Family. This beautiful family decided to do a session immediately after the Hannons on the same morning and I am so glad that they did. They are wonderful people and it was a pleasure to get to know them! Enjoy this double-post!

Lisa and Eric :: Walnut Creek Engagement

2010-08-06T17:57:00.000-07:00

Lisa and Eric are two of the sweetest people I have ever met. They are warm, friendly, and FULL of energy. They are the kind of people that you feel drawn to because they make you feel happy. I had so much fun at their engagement session. It was the first time we had met and I felt an instant connection with them. They are planning a small, intimate wedding in Alamo this October which I am SO excited to be a part of! After some coaxing, I was able to get some amazing shots of Lisa and Eric being "serious" but you can tell how naturally laughter comes to them! Enjoy!

Alyx and John :: Berkeley Wedding

2010-08-05T09:25:00.001-07:00

Alyx and John were married in Tilden Park in the kind of celebration that doesn't stress you out. Their laid-back personalities made the day so enjoyable and they were more concerned with their friends and family coming together than they were about tossing the bouquet or cutting the cake. It was kind of refreshing and I was happy that their wedding was a true representation of the kind of people that they are. Enjoy!

Barrios Family :: Castro Valley Family Session

2010-07-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

I have not spent much time around twins in my life. Even as a family photographer, I have not had the opportunity to shoot many families with twins. So, meeting the Barrios Family was exhilarating! Photographing twins just a month from turning two was a new experience for me and was quite challenging. It worked in my favor, though. I work well when I feel challenged. And these adorable little ones could not have been more fun. Who would have thought that twins could have such unbelievably different personalities??? The Barrios Family was a joy to work with. The love they share is ohhhhhh so sweet. Take a look...

Tortorige Family :: Oakland Family Session

2010-07-14T09:28:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing one of my favorite clients again and this time we met at the beautiful Mills College campus. It was unbelievably chilly on this particular morning but we managed to have some fun and take some great pictures with Olivia's visiting grandparents. Thank you, Tortorige Family for allowing me to document Olivia over the last year!

Stuart and Ashley :: San Francisco Engagement

2010-07-08T18:45:00.000-07:00

Stu and Ashley were recently engaged and decided to combine a very fun, super-chic engagement session with an engagement party. I met them at Golden Gate Park where we took the first round of pictures. I even got to meet and photograph their adorable English Bulldog, Dudley...ohhhh how I want one! Then we got in a limo with some of their very best friends and proceeded to a few of San Francisco's famous landmarks. It was a wonderful day and I truly enjoyed my time with them. As I headed back to BART, I found myself wishing I could continue on to the second half of their engagement celebration (cocktails and dinner at their favorite SF locations!!!). Congratulations, Stuart and Ashley! You are destined for a life of love and happiness and I am honored to have captured the beginning of your amazing journey!

Shelly and Jon :: Pleasanton Engagement

2010-06-25T00:15:00.001-07:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again...my clients ROCK! I am IN LOVE with people who are in love (so I guess I picked the right industry!). And somehow, I have managed to photograph the weddings of couples who are not only in love with each other, but in love with life! Shelly and Jon are so sweet and are planning a beautiful wedding in Gilroy, which I cannot wait for!! Our champagne picnic-themed engagement shoot was a blast (besides the super-sharp weeds that were practically attacking us!) and they were kind enough to bring an extra glass so that I could join them in the festivities! So fun!

Breanna and Steven :: Pleasanton Wedding

2010-06-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

Every couple has a different love story. When I met Breanna and Steven for their engagement session, it became clear to me that theirs was one based on a strong mutual respect and devotion to one another. On their wedding day, Steven vowed to take care of and love Breanna. He also made the same commitment to her six-year-old son. It was an emotional ceremony and a very, very happy day. I feel very lucky to have been a part of it!

Brandon and Esther :: Danville Wedding

2010-06-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

Brandon and Esther are so in love. Their wedding at the Crow Canyon Country Club in Danville was beautiful and I was moved by the sense of peace that they each displayed as well as the devotion of all of their friends and family. Most wedding days are full of chaos and stress but this one was not. I wish them nothing but the best as they enter a new chapter in their lives as husband and wife.

Millitello Family :: Danville Family Session

2010-06-13T23:45:00.000-07:00

I met the Millitellos in Danville on a cold, rainy day. The whole family would only be in the same town for two days and Mom really wanted some pictures of the group. Since rescheduling due to the rain wasn't an option, we sucked it up and met anyway. The rain let up as I pulled up to the park and we got right to work. We all braved the mud and wet grass and, despite all of the obstacles, the pictures turned out beautifully! Thank you for having some fun in the rain with me, Millitello Family! I hope we can do it again sometime when the sun is shining:-)

Anderson Children :: Castro Valley Family Session

2010-06-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to hear from Jaime a couple of months ago! They have recently moved into a new home and needed new pictures to put up. These will make a great Father's Day gift!

I met her and her beautiful family about a year ago when I did a family session for them in Pleasanton. Her kids, Peyton and Parker, are soooo cute and absolutely loaded with energy. Peyton was already comfortable with my camera last year but my how she has flourished since then! Something tells me that she's been told once or twice how pretty she is. It's only fair...one flash of those big eyes and my heart melts! Parker, on the other hand, wanted nothing to do with me or my camera until he decided he was ready. In typical two-year-old fashion, it had to be on his terms. But once he relaxed, we got some super-cute pictures of him too.

Jaime, thank you for bringing your kids out for another session! I am so grateful for my wonderful clients. I love photographing your family and can't wait to see you all again in August!

Breanna and Stephen :: Santa Clara Engagement Session

2010-05-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

We decided to meet at Santa Clara University to do Breanna and Stephen's engagement session. I could not have asked for a more beautiful location to document their love just weeks before their big day in June! Breanna brought along her six-year-old son and even got a few shots of the three of them together. Thank you, Stephen, Breanna, and Cayden, for sharing a beautiful afternoon with me! Enjoy the pictures!

Marshall Family :: Danville Family Session

2010-05-24T09:27:00.001-07:00

The Marshall Family moved here from Colorado recently. I met Jason, Ashley, and Ben in Danville at Hap Magee Park. It turned out to be the perfect location for little Ben, who loves to DIG! Shovel in hand, he led Mom, Dad, and me around the beautiful park, stopping to plunge his shovel into the ground every chance he got. He is such a sweetie! Welcome to California, Marshalls!

Paz y Mino Family :: Oakland Family Session

2010-05-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

Paul, Sue, and their adorable son, Gabe are friends of another of my all-time favorite clients. I was so excited to meet them at Mills College in Oakland. My sister is a psychology major there and I have always wanted to do a session on the gorgeous campus.
The session did not disappoint! I am so happy that I was able to document this sweet little family's love before they grow to a family of four this summer!

Alyx and John :: Berkeley Engagement Session

2010-05-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

I met Alyx and John for the first time at Tilden Park to shoot their engagement session. They will be getting married there in July so we thought it was a good spot to get to know each other. When I first saw them, my heart skipped a beat. See, Alyx and John looked like they stepped right out of a J Crew catalog and I just adore their style (just check out her shoes!). We only spent about twenty minutes shooting because it was freezing cold. I was pretty cozy thanks to John's warm jacket but after a while my bare legs couldn't take any more! Luckily the cold didn't stop us from getting these adorable shots. We'll just keep our fingers crossed that the sun decides to make an appearance on their wedding day! Enjoy!

You're The Best Mom In The World

2010-05-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

I'm Shannons husband and even though I know she won't like it I'm hijacking her blog to say what an amazing mother she is!!! Shannon you are truly the best mom in the world. When we met in HIGH SCHOOL, I thought you were so cute and kind and thoughtful. I had no idea you would be a great mother on top of it. My whole life I wanted to be a young father and you gave me that and much more. You are the rock of this family and that will never change. Thank you for balancing your business, your kids, and me. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. Happy Mothers Day!!!!!

Love,

Shawn

Berkeley & Patrick Engagement

2010-04-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

I first met Berkeley when I shot her and her family last year. When she called me to book an engagement session with her new fiance, I was beyond thrilled! Berkeley is so beautiful and easy to photograph. Now she is in love which makes her even more radiant. Her fiance, Patrick, is adorable and is clearly smitten. He absolutely shines when he smiles at his wife-to-be. These two are a photographer's dream; playful, energetic, and mostly...mad for each other. I had so much fun with them at Tilden Park and wish them the best of luck!!!

Tortorige Family

2010-04-28T10:18:00.000-07:00

Oh, Olivia...I first shot her when she was just a couple of months old. She has graced the homepage of my website as well as my advertisements ever since. Her big, round eyes and sweet smile are just adorable and something about her look is timeless...like I could have taken these pictures fifty years ago. The first go-round I shot her and her beautiful Mom as a gift for her Dad. This time, I got to shoot the whole family and document Olivia at nine months old. This happens to be my favorite age to photograph. Endless curiosity and an emerging sense of independence make for the most amazing pictures and Olivia did not disappoint. Our hour in the Botanic Garden at Tilden Park was awesome! The Tortorige family (like so many of my wonderful clients) were such a pleasure to work with. I am inspired by their love of life as well as their contagious energy. I can't wait to shoot them again when Olivia turns one this summer!

Carriere Family

2010-04-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

Matt called me to book a session for his wife's birthday. They ended up wine tasting to celebrate Jeanie's birthday so this session ended up being an early mother's day gift. Way to go, Matt! I have to say that I have had some of the nicest, most thoughtful clients and the Carriere's are no exception. We spent about an hour roaming around Hap Magee Park in Danville and even got some shots of the family playing together at the playground. Such a fun family and it shows in the pictures!

Lucie: 6 going on 16 and BREAKING my heart!

2010-04-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

Uggggg. Every time I turn around, she looks older and more mature. She melts my heart:-)

Amy and Fede Wedding

2010-04-21T21:36:00.000-07:00

These two lovebirds got married a couple of weeks ago while cruising the San Francisco Bay on a beautiful yacht called the Empress. It was a gorgeous evening. We lucked out with no rain and the sun even made an appearance in the late afternoon as we headed from Sausolito to San Francisco to pick up their friends. The captain took us all over the bay and even into McCovey Cove. As the crowd roared for the Giants, the newlyweds felt as if the applause was all for them. It was a moment I wont' soon forget. Amy and Fede were so sweet and madly in love. They were a pleasure to photograph!

Lewis Family - 40th Wedding Anniversary!

2010-04-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Mark contacted me several weeks ago to book a session for his family. His Mom and Dad would be visiting to celebrate 40 years of marriage and he thought it would be nice to have some photos taken during their time together. What a guy:-) His family was charming and I really enjoyed my time with them.

Anna and Mario Wedding

2010-04-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share the pictures from Anna and Mario's wedding! For the past several months, I have been learning like crazy and coming up with fun new ideas to incorporate in my wedding photography. Anna and Mario's wedding was my first of 2010 and it was beautiful! The rain that had been drenching the bay area disappeared just in time and by the afternoon of the big day, the weather could not have been better. It was truly magnificent!

Anna and Mario have been absolutely AMAZING clients. I really got to know them at their engagement session and feel so lucky to now call them friends. They are some of the kindest, most genuine people I have worked with and I wish them a happy marriage, full of laughter and joy, from the bottom of my heart!

I also want to quickly thank some of the amazing people I worked with at the wedding. Shannon (the coordinator for Anna and Mario's wedding at Casa Real) and the rest of the staff at this amazing venue were INCREDIBLE! They were organized, friendly, and worked tirelessly to make this wedding everything the couple dreamed of. Note: if you are considering venues for a future bay area wedding, Casa Real (http://www.casarealevents.com/) should be at the top of your list. The sunset first dance alone was epic and still gives me chills when I tell people about it! Also, Kevin of Fantasy Sound Event Services (http://www.fantasysound.com/) was the best dj I have worked with and made the entire event flow soooo nicely!

Enjoy the pictures!

Seriously? Could she be more gorgeous?

First dance at sunset...WOW!

The wedding party was awesome!

Anna and Mario's son is a future heart breaker!

Sunset!

Esther and Brandon Engagement

2010-03-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

Esther and Brandon are getting married in Danville in a few weeks. They are two of the nicest people I have worked with and are both a little shy in front of the camera. I am so glad that I got to spend some time with them before their big day! Esther is so beautiful. I can't wait to shoot her in a wedding dress! Here are a few shots from their engagement session.

New Year's Resolution Part Two - Mama's Boy

2010-03-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

So, like I mentioned in an earlier post, I have severely neglected my responsibility of taking pictures of my own family in the last couple of years. I spend a lot of time taking pictures of other people and when it comes time to document the moments in my life, I slack off. This year, I vowed to myself that I would make a conscious effort to take more pictures of John, Lucie, Shawn, and myself. So, here is part two of my New Year's Resolution post! Yay!

My little guy is four and a half. He is almost always barefoot, wearing pants with holes in the knees, and with dirt under his fingernails. Now, before I start to sound like a really bad mom, let me explain. This child is ALL BOY. He practically came out of my belly with bruises...come to think of it, he actually did enter this world with a bruised nose and swollen lip. When other babies rolled around on their backs contentedly admiring mobiles, my little man was trying desperately to pull himself up on the furniture, falling all over the place, and getting into everything!

These days, he insists on dressing himself to my chagrin. He seeks out danger (I spent two mornings in a row in the ER a couple of weeks ago...for separate incidents!). And no matter how clean he looks when he gets out of the shower, the dirt appears under his nails within a couple of hours. So, that said, I really wanted one batch of pictures of him with shoes on and gel in his hair. Don't worry! We spent about twenty minutes taking pictures before he talked his way into an ice cream cone... so much for the clean face!

Alcaraz Girls

2010-03-13T21:36:00.000-08:00

I met the Alcaraz family at an old ranch in Walnut Creek to photograph thier adorable little girls. I was in love with the location the second I saw it...old, rustic fences and sheds and rusty farm equipment made for shots with lots of texture. Mom wanted a picture of her baby smiling because she had had no luck getting good pictures of her thus far. We had a blast and the afternoon light was amazing! And when the baby smiled, her whole face lit up. What a cutie! Her older sister was awesome and even posed for me a little. What a lovely spring session!

Meet Emma

2010-03-08T23:23:00.000-08:00

Emma is the 7-week-old daughter of my very good friend, Larisa. She is just the sweetest thing ever and it's hard for me to be around her because it makes me want another baby girl. Nothing against boys...my little guy rocks my world every day but there is something to be said for baby girls. Her big brother, Jake is a sweetheart too. Larisa is one lucky Mama and now her family is complete. I am so happy for you, Larisa!

White Family

2010-03-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

The White Family is a lot like my own which is one of the reasons why I enjoyed working with them so much! It's nice to meet families with kids that have as much energy as mine do! They were laughing and smiling and having a great time...exactly the way a family should! They are laid back, fun, full-of-energy kind of people which made for amazing pictures! Thanks guys!!

Anna and Mario Engagement

2010-03-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

Anna and Mario are getting married on April Fool's Day. A little unconventional?...yes. But their devotion to each other is no joke and this engagement session proves it! Anna and Mario are crazy in love and I can't wait for their wedding! We had so much fun shooting in San Ramon. We started on some rocks but I couldn't stay away from a field of long grass with beautiful light and before you know it, we were walking through mud and muck to find the right location. But Anna and Mario were good sports! Thanks guys!!! By the way, how gorgeous is Anna?

Sam & Ian Engagement

2010-02-19T22:01:00.000-08:00

Sam and Ian are getting married in the beautiful Livermore wine country this summer.
After spending a couple of hours with them, I could not be more excited! Not only are they super cool and laid back, but my camera happens to love them! It is so much fun when a couple will relax and play a little in front of the camera. These two were amazing!

We decided to shoot their engagement photos in the hills of San Ramon. The tall grass, yellow mustard flowers, and unbelievable light worked in our favor and we got gorgeous shots...check 'em out!

New Year's Resolution Part One - Beautiful Girl

2010-02-06T16:44:00.001-08:00

2009 was such a crazy year! I was really busy and spent a lot of time photographing people I barely knew. It became apparent to me that I had not taken very many pictures of my own family when I sat down to make our annual calendar. Usually it is a HUGE challenge to choose which pictures will make the cut and find their way onto one of the twelve pages. This year, however, was different. Shawn and I had to scrape together pictures from the year. It was at that moment that I came up with my New Year's resolution. Take more pictures of my family.

So here I am almost halfway through February and just getting around to doing what I resolved to do in 2010. But isn't my Lucie beautiful?

Out in the Open

2010-02-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned a few days ago, I am working on a fundraiser at my son's preschool. It has been such an amazing experience! The children are really fun to photograph. Their natural curiosity provides so many opportunities for learning and growing which makes them perfect subjects!

I just made the images of the children available to the families in an online gallery. They can order prints to help support the school. This all sounds wonderful but I have been feeling a little vulnerable and it just occurred to me why. This is the first time that my work as a photographer has been on display for a large number of people to see. It makes me feel excited and nervous (you know that dream where you are standing on a stage in front of a crowd naked?) at the same time.

So far, the fundraiser is doing well. Parents are placing orders and I am getting some wonderful feedback. Fun stuff!

Here are some more images from the fundraiser...

The Joy of Learning

2010-02-01T21:08:00.000-08:00

When the director of my son's preschool propositioned me about photographing the students for a fundraiser, she recalled a photograph of her sister standing at an easel when she was a child. I knew right away what she envisioned. The images would be candid, capturing the children at "work" and would be black and white, giving them a timeless quality. The more I thought about it, the more excited I became. I know how fleeting childhood is. My youngest will be off to kindergarten in the fall and I can hardly believe how fast his first four and a half years have gone by. I still think of him as my baby but then I see his body stretch three quarters of the way down his bed and realize that he is growing faster than I would like. Right now he is like a sponge, absorbing every new experience with pure joy and wonder. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to give the families of these children an image that they can treasure forever, a glimpse into the world of their preschooler.

These are just a handful of the images I captured while spending time with these amazing kids.

Somsel Maternity Session

2010-01-14T21:14:00.000-08:00

Larisa is a close friend of mine. We spent an hour or so photographing her just a few weeks before she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl (pictures to come!). Congratulations Somsels!

Pettty Family

2009-12-16T22:36:00.000-08:00

My time with the Petty Family was short but sweet:-) Baby Julia was not interested in having her picture taken but we still snuck in a few good ones before she completely crashed on Mom's lap. I could see the disappointment in her parents' eyes when Julia fell asleep. But I am THRILLED that she did. The pictures of a sleeping Julia and her doting Mom and Dad are precious and I feel lucky that the session worked out the way that it did! My favorite picture of the day is of Julia sleeping on her Dad's shoulder...her sweet, chubby, baby face all squished. Too cute for words!

By the way, the Pettys are just another example of the kindness I spoke of in my last post. I was late to their session because my 4-year old locked us out of my car when I dropped him off at school (keys, phone, planner with phone numbers, etc. all locked in!). I pulled off a miracle (with the help of complete stranger and the most efficient AAA tow truck driver ever!) and still made it in time to photograph the Pettys at their home. When I got there, they were all smiles and completely understanding. I LOVE my clients!

I'm back!

2009-12-15T22:57:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! I know it may seem as though I disappeared off the face of our planet...and in a way I kind of did there for a while! The last couple of months have been a whirlwind of activity. Between TONS of work and my family's move (from our home in Danville to one in Pleasanton), I've been more than a little overwhelmed. But the end is in sight...as the holidays rapidly approach, work has slowed down a bit (at least enough for me to catch my breath!) and I decided to sit down and do a little blogging.

I will not blog about each session that I have done since my last post as that would take all night! I will, however, put together a group of some of my favorites so that you can see what I have been up to.

Oh, and one last thing...I just have to say that I have been RAVING about all the absolutely wonderful people that I have had the honor of working with lately. My clients have been a blessing to my life and have enriched my experience as a photographer more than they could ever know! THANK YOU!

I have to include one of my little ones on Halloween...so dang cute!

Playgroup Fun

2009-10-17T14:00:00.001-07:00

Butt Family

2009-10-17T13:46:00.001-07:00

Herbert Family

2009-10-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

Kramer Family

2009-10-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

Olivia

2009-10-15T11:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my blog!

2009-10-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to have a blog where clients can get a sneak peak from their sessions and where anyone interested can see what I've been up to! The plan is to post a few images from each session within a day or two of taking them. So let's get started! I am going to backtrack a little so that we can get some pictures on here right away...enjoy!