Shop Small This Season

SHOP SMALL AND SUPPORT LOCAL

Solo New York - a Long Island based luggage company. Solo is a brand I both photograph regularly and use constantly. I personally use one of their bags for travel similar to the Grand Travel TSA Backpack. My dad uses the same bag as well as a rolling bag for work and my mom uses one of their Hybrid Bags. Check out their Black Friday Deal!

What a year!! It’s been a hard one for everyone, but especially those who run small businesses. I’m really thankful to be a single (no kids), one woman team (other than contractors/second photographers/assists for weddings and shoots) without a brick and mortar location. Some businesses are not as fortunate as I am and have a full team to support, rent to pay, and their own family to provide for. Unfortunately a lot of small businesses weren’t able to survive the first round of lockdowns and with more lockdowns in the foreseeable future, others may not survive. Instead of shopping at big box retailers, support a small business and make sure they survive the pandemic. Here’s a round-up of brands I’ve photographed, personally used, and am excited to try/support this season. If you have any favorites, please send them my way as well!!

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O’Soy Candles - A female owned business based in Orange County, CA! My friend Justine is the woman behind O’Soy Candles and let me tell you, these are amazing! I received my first candle for my birthday 2 months ago and I loved it so much, I put in a massive Christmas order a few weeks ago!

All O’soy Candles are crafted with 100% american-sourced soy wax, the highest standard of oils and clean burning cotton wicks. All ingredients used are cruelty free, phthalate-free, paraben-free and free from the following harmful chemicals used by many candle companies today:

Not Your Basic Brows - another female owned business based in Dana Point, CA! My sweet friend Shelby is the queen of microblading and brow lamination! Seriously, if you’re in SoCal, look no further! She also co-owns The 202 Collective.

Erin Fader Jewelry - a female owned small business based in Cardiff, CA. Her commitment to the environment has inspired her to use her creativity in such a way that many of her designs begin with reclaimed objects and antique pieces. I discovered Erin after my friend and quarantine fitness instructor, Lindsey Harrod (check her out for amazing at home workouts!!) did a collab with Erin. I instantly fell in love with the pieces and they’ve become my go to everyday essentials. Erin also sent a personalized email to me thanking me for my order (such a nice touch!) and she even responded to a couple of emails about potentially working together.

Beauty Care Naturals - a female owned business started by one of my clients, Jessica. I photographed her wedding YEARS ago, but have followed her journey as she started this beauty brand and so many women rave about her products!

“Creating a product that would only add to your already feminine beauty and not damage your body in anyway or harm anything else in the process has always been my goal. Beauty Care Naturals was formulated with your health in mind."-Jessica Miller CEO

Dubsado - A husband/wife founded business, which is for all of my small business owners who need a CRM to help keep track of clients, invoices, and have standard forms/proposals. I’ve used Dubsado for the last 2 years (since an awesome Black Friday deal) and let’s be real, my business wouldn’t survive without it! Google Docs and Spreadsheets are great, but only for so long. Dubsado will help alleviate a lot of the extra work and make your workflow seamless.

Leveret Clothing - a New Jersey based company who I recently had the pleasure of working with. Their pajamas are so soft and comfy plus they come in an array of colors and patterns.

With families on our mind, our breathable, lightweight cotton ensures you and your little ones with the utmost comfort and a sense of unity by matching your loved ones... without the splurge.

BLVCK BREW - a Southern California based coffee brand, which I discovered while going to Grit. Grit had a bunch of foodies during their reopening and BLVCK BREW was one of them. I chatted more with the founder, Donny and learned about the process.

BLVCK® Organic Cold Brew Coffee is made specifically for black coffee lovers. We are NOT here to sell you a "brand". We are NOT here to sell you a "LiFE sTYle". We are NOT here to sell you merchandise. We do one thing, and one thing only. We're making coffee BLVCK again.  We ONLY brew fresh to order. We ONLY grind fresh to order. We will sell you the finest organic coffee, nothing more and nothing less. 

If you are local to the Southern California area - Your bottles will be brewed and bottled fresh. 

If you are outside of the Southern California area -  Your kits will be ground and packed fresh.

Tog - a female owned, London based brand perfect for any photographers. I met Alishia a few years ago while in London and we became great friends. She’s one of those people I make sure to see every time I’m in London even if it’s just for a quick coffee or to swap photos. She gifted me both the big and mini tog bag when she first created them in exchange for photos/a social media shoutout (a beneficial trade for both of us). I wound up really loving the bags and I still use both to this day! My initial question when she approached me was “will my 15in laptop fit?” and of course her answer was yes, which sold me! The fact that people don’t know it’s a camera bag makes it that much better. The mini tog bag definitely gets more use, but the big tog bag is perfect for travel when I don’t want to bring my roller bag. Alishia also released a roller bag, which I would 100% invest in if I didn’t already own one. These make the perfect gift for any photographer friends1

Bondi Skin Co - Bondi born brand Bondi Skin Co. was founded in 2020 by three best mates from high school: Chris, Dougie and Nick. Observing the need to simplify the market they took it upon themselves to create easy-to-use, effective products that maximized efficiency. Their commitment to simplicity did not stop them from using high-quality ingredients and ethical practices - that's why all their products are made from 100% natural ingredients, are vegan, cruelty-free and sustainably produced.

Dougie and I shot together last year after following each other on Instagram for years and trying to make a shoot happen. I was stoked when he announced his brand along with his two friends and knew I’d definitely support them!

Baxter of California - a California based brand specializing in men’s grooming and personal care. I’ve loved shooting for them over the years and always promote their products to any of my guy friends. I use quite a few of their hair products on shoots still.

Le Labo - an essential when it comes to personal care. I had no idea what I was missing out on until I invested in travel fragrances from Le Labo. They last for 12-18 months from the first spray, which is absolutely amazing and you’re able to get a variety of fragrances if you do the 3-pack like I did.. I can’t wait to invest in one of the bottles above, which had a longer lifespan now that I know which scent I love.

Independent Trading Co - A San Clemente based sweatshirt brand. Building on their roots in the action sports industry since 1987, Independent Trading Company is established as a leading manufacturer and supplier of high quality Custom & Blank apparel for Screen Printers and Brands all over the world. I initially was introduced to them last fall by my friend Chelse who thought I would be a great fit as their photographer. It’s been such a pleasure working with them as we’ve created their catalogs all around SoCal. You know your favorite sweatshirt from Tilly’s? It’s probably an ITC sweatshirt.

Mimi’s Mixes - Cookie mixes made with tons of love by the Jedi Cookie Master herself Frances in the heart of Brea, CA. If you’re in SoCal and not a baker or don’t have the time, alleviate the stress by getting some of the best cookies delivered right to your house.

Alabaster - A visually beautiful reading experience for the Bible.

Beauty matters in our understanding of who God is. We live in a visual culture. Everyone makes images and we are shaped by what we see. We value bringing this visual reality to a faith-based context. We believe in the divine inspiration, trustworthiness and authority of the Bible—and we bring this into everything we make and do.

The Brand Sunday - You no longer have to feel overwhelmed with the Bible. They create resources to make it easier for you to understand the Bible and to grow in your relationship with God. This is a brand I’m excited to dive into. I had heard about them from my friend Lauren, but I truly was introduced to them when my friend Paul started photographing them. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve definitely grown in my relationship with God during the pandemic. It’s been a beautiful season and I’m always on the search for tools and resources to help me dive deeper into that relationship.

Sins by the Saints - An Orange County based brand founded by my friend David Brisco. He and I started photography around the same time over a decade ago.

As a brand, our mission is to highlight the fact that no individual has to remain prisoner to the sins of yesterday and to start a conversation with hopes to turn groundless, default perspectives into more informed, open and receptive attitudes.

OMA the Label - A female owned brand focused on challenging homogenous industry standards, while creating quality and affordable pieces for the everYday woman.

Book Soup - If you’re planning to buy books this season, look no further! I first learned of Book Soup from my friend Eric Rutherford when he wanted to do some photos outside of the bookstore. If you know me well, you know bookstores are by far some of my favorite places. Whenever I’m in a new city, I always find a bookstore to wander around in for an afternoon.

Skydog Jewelry - If you are searching for heirloom quality jewelry, you have come to the right place. If you are interested in the finest gemstones and metals, it is here that you will find them. If you are looking to support a designer who is driven by more than just profit, you have arrived. It is here that you will find such things and so much more. If you’ve followed my work long enough, you know I photographed Skydog Jewelry while I was in college and was one of the first brands I collaborated with. I still wear Skydog pieces regularly.

Elevated Faith - A brand on a mission to share purpose, hope, and love to a lost world. The name Elevated Faith represents how we, as Christians, are never done growing. We will never be perfect; every single day we must work hard to grow in our relationship with our Creator.

What to Wear to Your Engagement Photos: 5 Tips to Choose Engagement Outfits

5 TIPS TO HELP YOU CHOOSE YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTO OUTFITS

Your engagement session is such an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful when it comes to deciding what to wear. You probably have been sitting on Pinterest searching for “engagement photo outfit ideas” or “engagement wardrobe inspiration,” etc. Stress no more because it should be fun and I hope these tips will help you choose outfits you’ll love during your engagement photos!

1. Choose Comfort Over Current Trends

Comfort is the most important thing during engagement photos - comfort in front of the camera, comfort with your photographer, comfort with your partner, comfort in your clothing. If you’re not comfortable in your outfit, it will show in the photos. Think about your personal style for a moment. Do you wear dresses or heels often or are you used to wearing jeans and a cute top? Those wardrobe pieces may look great on other people, but if you’re not used to wearing dresses or can’t walk in heels (hi, meeee!), it will show in the photos. Don’t let other people’s fashion choices encourage your personal style to a point of discomfort. The last thing any photographer wants for their clients is an uncomfortable session. If you’re set on wearing a new pair of heels or trying a new outfit, wear those pieces ahead of time. Practice wearing heels beforehand, even if for 10-15 minutes a day. It will boost your confidence if you’re comfortable.

2. Casual and Formal

Most photographers allow 1-2 outfits during an engagement session and personally I encourage it. Before any session I send an overview of what to expect, which details outfit ideas and what to bring. More specifically, I suggest to bring a casual outfit and a more formal outfit, so we can show diversity as we change locations. I suggest starting with the casual look first so you can get comfortable/warmed up. By the time you're in the formal look, you'll be a pro! Keep reading to see some examples a little further down.

3. Keep Your Backdrop in Mind

Hopefully you’ve chosen a backdrop before choosing your outfits or maybe you’re choosing the backdrop based on your outfits. Either way, keeping the location in mind is important. Colorful backdrops can either be met with even more color or simple outfits such as jeans and a white tank top as pictured above. If you are planning to take photos on a beach, aim to dress in clothes that are light and flowing. If you’ll be surrounded by fall leaves, layering in textures is a great option. Again this is where your personal style comes into play - choose outfits in colors and textures you’re comfortable in that will enhance the backdrop. Build a mood board of outfit ideas and poses based on your backdrop, too.

Casual outfits are perfect for poses with a lot of movement. Ever wonder how everyone looks so happy, comfortable, and natural? Well, a lot of it has to do with movement and action based posing rather than static posing. I tell all of my couples ahead of time to expect a workout, both cardio and lifting between running around the beach, piggyback rides, and spinning around. Don’t forget props like a skateboard, a blanket, or a save the date sign.

Casual-Formal outfits or what some might consider business casual outfits are also a great option for an in between outfit or if you’re planning to only do one outfit the entire session. It can be as simple as a romper/jumpsuit with your partner’s button down shirt with jeans/chinos or a long flowy top with jean shorts. I’ll say it again, think about what you and your partner are most comfortable in and build from there.

Formal outfits, I mean hello date night!! Need I say more? You’re likely getting your makeup done (pro tip: use your engagement session to do your makeup trial), doing your hair, and you probably bought a new outfit, which sounds like key components to a date night to me. This is likely the only time you’re planning to take photos with your hunny, so why not dress up a bit, get some beautiful photos and enjoy a date night after?

4. Try The Outfits On

Don’t forget to try your outfits on ahead of time. Don’t wait until the day of or the day before when it’s too late to purchase something else. Try your outfits on and take pictures in the mirror or have your significant other take photos of you in your backyard or on your evening beach walk. Practice some poses in the mirror while you’re at it, too. If can’t decide which outfit to wear, get some opinions on your outfits by sharing the photos with your best friends or your family.

5. HAVE FUN!

Go out there and have fun!! I know, cliche, but the sooner you start to think about this as fun, the more fun you’ll have throughout the entire process. One of my couples had a nightmare before their engagement session because they were so stressed out about taking photos. All of their stress and worries were alleviated as soon as the engagement session started. Remember, you’ve hired a professional, someone you trust, so if you’re still worried, talk to your photographer. By all means, I’d suggest to even send photos of your outfits to your photographer, too! Get ready to have some fun during your engagement photos!!

Top 7 Engagement Locations in Orange County

THE BEST PLACES TO TAKE ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA

Orange County is full of gorgeous locations and endless places to choose from! The number one tip I tell couples is to choose a location that is meaningful to them. That could mean a variety of things - it could the place you met or had your first kiss/date, it could be somewhere you two hang out often (like the beach or a hiking trail), a place you visit every year, (staycation or a festival) or a place you go to watch the sunset/check out the view. If none of those will work or you really can’t decide on a spot, keep on reading! I’m going to share 7 of my favorite spots to shoot in Orange County. I had to narrow down the list (originally 10) because a few locations are no longer available for shoots / require hefty permit fees.

After 4 years of photographing weddings and engagement and over 10 years as a fashion-lifestyle photographer, I’m full of locations and advice when it comes to locations. I love finding new locations, but there’s something about a location you know really well. There’s no guessing when it comes to lighting/the perfect time to shoot. I know which spots will work, which part of the overall location to start and end with, and I can really help with wardrobe suggestions. I’ve included current permit requirements and fees, but make sure to do your own research to find up to date permit requirements and fees.

1. Dana Point Harbor

Okay now I grew up in south OC, specifically on the border of Dana Point and Laguna Niguel, so I may be biased. Dana Point Harbor is one of the best locations in south OC! There are so many options - the harbor itself (do the full walk around if you’re able to), the Ocean Institute which allows access to a nature area, Killer Dana (the beach area) and jetty, the hiking trail up top, and of course the hill you drive to the trail up top. The beach is usually fairly empty, but make sure to check the tide forecast. There isn’t a permit needed here unless you’re looking to take photos on any of the ships or docks at the Ocean Institute.

2. Laguna Beach

Laguna is known for its beaches with rock formations, tide pools, caves, and secret/secluded beaches. I’m not going to name all of these beaches because a couple of them are fairly secluded and considered “secret”, but if you stumble upon it then by all means! Or if you hire me, just let me know you’d like to shoot at one of these beaches! The classic ones everyone does engagement sessions at are Shaw’s Cove, Montage, Victoria, and Tablerock. Keep in mind, a permit is required for all beaches in Laguna Beach, even the secluded ones. Find out more information and specifics here. The permit fee is currently $100 for 2 hours. Fines are currently $600, so make sure you get that permit!

3. Los Rios St

The hidden gem of San Juan Capistrano! If you’re a local or grew up in south OC, you probably know and love this spot, too! Plan ahead because this spot does get busy because of the cute shops, Hidden House coffeeshop, and restaurants as well as the train station right across the way. There are a lot of signs explicitly say “no photography,” so make sure to abide by those rules. The residents aren’t too bothered by photo sessions unless you’re disrupting the peace, not reading the signs, or illegally going into their yards. If you’re going to shoot somewhere that’s not along the street, please inquire with the owner. They’ll appreciate it and you’ll keep this space open for future photo sessions. Find out more information about permits here.

4. Newport Beach

Newport is another one of my favorite spots to shoot because like the other spots listed, it’s full of so many options! There’s the Balboa Fun Zone, the pier, the canals, and of course the beach. There are also tons of colorful houses and a variety of walls, plus you might come across a colorful VW van in the process. Bring your skateboard and some cute outfits and make a fun day of it! Don’t forget to research permit requirements and fees.

5. Huntington Beach

Grab your board and come down to HB for a fun little beach session! This is one beach I’ve shot at during all times of the day. The top photo and photo with the board were at 11AM, so pretty high sun, but we still wound up with some beautiful photos. The photo by the pier was at sunset of course, which is gorgeous, but expect to have people in the background. Make sure to get some shots on and under the pier to get variety. More info on permit fees here.

6. Top of the World Laguna

Check out that view of Laguna! You get such a mix here as well - some beautiful open field areas with rolling hills, which is perfect for sunset, plenty of rocks, and trails, too. I typically suggest couples start here and end at the beach since it’s an easy 10 minute drive to any of the local beaches.

7. San Clemente

Who doesn’t love San Clemente? You have the pier and main beach, where you’ll find plenty of rocks, a hiking trail, and cute neighborhoods nearby. North Beach is right near two of my favorite venues, Ole Hanson and The Casino. There’s also San Onofre and Trestles (which I just checked out today and I’m a huge fan!!). These beaches are huge, so there are more opportunities to find empty areas without people in the background.

I HOPE THIS BLOG POST WAS HELPFUL AND YOU’RE ABLE TO FIND A LOCATION YOU’LL LOVE FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION!

Tips To Have Your Wedding During COVID 19

A WAY TO HAVE YOUR WEDDING EVEN DURING CORONAVIRUS

The world is in panic mode. We are all more aware, but fear and worry are alive and well. I’m not going to get too deep into the effects of social media, BUT social media has the world stressed out. Couples are canceling or postponing their weddings, events, etc left and right because many of their guests and family are immunocompromised. I had a couple have to postpone their wedding due to their family flying in from Korea, as well as had a maternity session canceled because the wedding they were supposed to attend in CA was canceled. I was even supposed to second shoot a wedding yesterday and the couple decided it was best to cancel their reception and have an intimate ceremony with their immediate families on Friday night. This post doesn’t come lightly because I know things can change at the drop of a hat and this is unchartered territory for a lot of us.

In light of the current situation, I want all of my couples (past, current and future), I’m here for them to make sure their day or photo shoot is exactly what they envision it to be, which is why I want to provide a few tips that will allow couples to still move forward with their wedding day!

You and your family/friends’ safety is top priority, so I completely understand if you need to postpone due to COVID 19. You won’t be required to pay a new retainer and instead your original retainer will transfer to a new date. Before you completely cancel, consider a few of these options/tips below!

Consider Live streaming Your Wedding: This morning, I watched my church service from the comfort of my own home. I’m not immunocompromised, but people in my church are, so they gave an option for everyone. For those family members who can’t make the trip, give them the option to see it all live from the comfort of their own home.

Consider Hiring a Videographer: Photos really are worth a million words, but there are so many times I hear vows or toasts at weddings and I think, man I wish they had video of this. Now is your chance - again for those family or friends who can’t fly or be around that many people. When things calm down, throw a viewing party with those people!

Consider Getting Outside: People are already cooped up inside, so any chance to get outside and have some breathing room is key! I know rentals can get expensive, but bring in more tables if possible, so people can be spaced out.

Consider Serviced Dinner: Again, I know you probably are saving money with a buffet (just like less rentals), but the less people touching or even just breathing over the food, the better. Your caterers will take the precautions necessary to ensure you and your guests are safe.

Consider an intimate crowd: Invite your closest family and friends to celebrate you two! It’s a safe bet and you’re more likely to be able to interact with each and every person.

Ask those sick guests to stay home: If you’re still set on inviting every single person on your guest list, make sure to ask anyone who feels sick (even if it’s just a slight cough) to stay home. This is where live streaming and/or a videographer come in handy as well!

Consider a day of coordinator: If you don’t already have a planner, definitely consider a day of coordinator to help alleviate any stress so you can focus on enjoying your wedding day. A day of coordinator will make sure any questions go directly to their team instead of you as a couple, which will allow you to have the most fun on your wedding day!

Consider a big reception later: Hit the courthouse or even stick with your original venue, but with a smaller crew. It can be as small as you two, an officiant, and a photographer or as big as 30-50 people then invite everyone for a big reception later on! Make sure to let your vendors know and see what options they have for you in this case.

Consider your vendors: We’re all willing to work with you and understand why you may need to postpone, but please consider for a lot of us this is our full time job. Many of us don’t have another source of income and it’s also tax season, which means we are sending big checks to government while the average person is waiting on a tax refund. We’re here for YOU!! We can’t serve you unless you talk to us, so please ask questions and talk through the options with us.