Lines, once parallel, turning perpendicular | Irman & Robelene on Ocean Beach

Irman & Robelene. That headline encompasses a big part of this couple's story, penned by the imminent groom. You can't tell from these sunny photos, but it was super cold and windy on this San Francisco summer day. When Robelene asked for wardrobe suggestions, I asked for a flowing dress and for her to keep her hair in a bun. That was the right move for the blustery weather! They wore open toed shoes, which was also smart... I got run over by a wave and had to borrow her shoes. :) Always a good time with these two. Enjoy!

#Edymeesh 2nd Anniversary Portrait Session

What a joy it was to meet Michelle and Edison (aka Edymeesh) for their 2nd anniversary. Year two's anniversary gift theme is "cotton" -- and these two put on some new threads in front of the camera, looking as beautiful and in love as ever.

It goes without saying that they look amazing, but I was more so inspired by stories of their willingness to takes steps in the same direction together towards de-stressing, chasing good health, and ultimately becoming happier than the day before. I use the world 'willingness' because these things don't passively come to you like a wrapped present with a bow on top. You have to put in collaborative work together to make it happen, and never take those accomplishments for granted.

Anniversary shoots are a nice reminder to look at relationships in a different, refreshing way. Thank you for inviting me to spend this time with you! We had so much fun. Take a look below! 

If you've enjoyed this anniversary session and want to schedule one for yourself, contact me and I'll save your date.

Smashcakes aren't just for babies... Happy Birthday, Jeel!

One of my dearest friends of all time has a birthday today! To celebrate this special occasion, I set up a "smashcake" shoot for Jeel and her lovely sisters, Leizel and Jessil. Who says smashcakes are only for 1 year olds? Young ladies can have twice the fun with a little bubbly. :) 

Thanks, Jeely for your 2+ decades of friendship. You are beautiful and vibrant as ever!

And of course I had to get in on this yummy cake action! xoxo

Paul Love Catching Air in San Francisco

Big sky, big air, and big jumps in the big city of San Francisco is what you're seeing today.

I met Paul Love when my SF Portrait Meet group was shooting at Dolores Park, where his own group was skateboarding. We kept in touch over Instagram and finally found a time to do a formal shoot!

As Paul is an avid skateboarder, fisherman, and fan of the outdoor life, I wanted to put him in portraits taken from some of the most picturesque places that showed his personality. Between coffees and poki bowls, we put together our creative strengths and below is a fraction of the results. I'm so happy with these shots -- it was nearly impossible to pick favorites.

Thanks for trekking up to the city, Paul! If anyone would like to follow him, check out his Instagram.

If you'd like to set up a portrait session like this, contact me and I'll save a date!

Bright & Beautiful Golen Family Birthday Portraits

I remember it being about 90 degrees in sunny San Mateo this day. Being from the normally colder San Francisco (which is only 20 miles away!), I'm normally a melting pansy in the heat. The Golen family had superhero powers, literally in Superman & Wonder Woman outfits, running around and having an amazing time jumping, running, swinging and crawling through tunnels before Gracie's 5th birthday party at La Petite Playhouse in Redwood City. It was such a great time chasing the kids (and adults) around with my camera -- even following them down the huge slide! Thanks for inviting me along for the celebration, Shirley and Frederic. :)