Black and White | Temecula, CA Child Photographer

Here's a shot of my niece from a few months back.  I reworked it with a different style I've been fooling around with for my black and whites.  I think it works for this image...

Almost ready to pop! | San Diego, CA Baby Shower Photographer

Last weekend I had the honor of photographing Adriane's baby shower in Santee.  There were lots of guests, gifts, and yummy food.  I loved that all the elements of the party were coordinated-- from the white and purple cake and cupcakes, to the streamers and plates-- and even Adriane's dress!  She did a great job with the party.  And even though I know she had planned to throw a "non-baby shower", it turned out to be a pretty cute traditional shower with fun games and girly decorations.  I especially loved that her son wasn't left out of all the fun.  He had his own baseball shaped cake and received a big brother gift from mom and dad.

Congrats, Adriane and family!  I can't wait for your baby girl's newborn session in September :)

Here are a few shots from the party.

Sweet treats!

"Adriane is about to POP!  So thanks for coming and enjoy a POP, too!"

Guests had a fun time trying to guess the baby's name by using the letters on the board.

No one guessed correctly!

Oohh, la la! | Murrieta, CA Boudoir Photographer

A couple weeks back I had some willing bodies to help me with some boudoir photos.  These ladies are gorgeous.  And I'm not just saying that because they're my best friend and my cousin...hehe. I had a blast with this photo shoot and would love to do more in the future if anyone is interested.  These were done on location, so keep in mind that if you want to book a session like this, you'll need a bedroom with good natural light.

And here are my beauties!  Enjoy!

Sharonda and Aaron Married! | San Diego, CA Wedding Photographer

I'm so happy I was able to photograph Sharonda and Aaron's wedding this past weekend.  I've known Sharonda for at least 10 years and I've never seen her happier.  She was a perfect bride-- carefree, joyful and relaxed.  I couldn't have asked for a better couple to photograph for my first wedding.  Their families were so sweet and gracious, and obviously beyond proud of this couple.  Sharonda and Aaron share a beautiful son and a love that comes so naturally.  I wish nothing but the best for you two!  Congratulations!

Here are a few photos from their ceremony in San Diego, CA.  I'll try to post shots from the reception in the next few days.

Enjoy, and CHEERS!

Happy Birthday, little G! | Temecula, CA Child Photographer

One of my very best friends is celebrating her youngest daughter's first birthday this weekend, so yesterday we met at my go-to location for a quick photo shoot.  The plan is to hang some of these pictures at Saturday's party.  Baby G's big sister and cousins joined in for some photos for grandma and grandpa, too.

Here are a few that I think are just so sweet!

With One on the Way! | San Diego, CA Family Portrait Photographer

I love having a huge family and the networking that comes with it. Adriane knows a couple of my cousins and she contacted me a some months back about family portraits. It was the first session on my calendar that didn't include immediate family members! I met Adriane, her husband, their son, and pup at a local historic park this past Sunday. I had a great time getting to know them and hopefully they didn't think I was too much of a nerd. This cute family of three will soon be a family of four! Adriane is expecting a baby girl in September. I can't wait to photograph her "non-baby shower" party next month, and eventually newborn portraits. I hope you like this sneak peek!

More from Lindsey and John | Temecula, CA Couples Photographer

I finished editing the photos from Saturday's session and thought I'd share a few more. I'm so appreciative of the feedback I've received from some of these shots. It really makes my day :) Thanks for the support, everyone! Enjoy.

A Match Made in Orange County | Temecula, CA Couples Photographer

If by "match" you mean someone who matches you and is your match, then yes, of course Lindsey and John are a match!  OK-- so that sentence doesn't make a lot of sense, but that's how I explained it to Lindsey one night.  Ever since becoming a mom I often struggle with articulating my thoughts (I'm learning this affects lots of moms).  However it's said, it's the truth.  Lindsey and John are an adorable couple.  They have an honest relationship, one in which they can both say how they feel and express what's on their minds.  It's a blessing-- and sometimes hilarious.  The pair made the drive down from Orange County yesterday for a couples photo session here in Winchester and in Temecula.  I'm hoping to shoot their official engagement photos in the near future (hint, hint)!

Here's the single sneak peek I'll afford Lindsey.  You have to wait for the rest!  I hope you like it.

Fore Siblings | Orange County, CA Photographer

Tuesday I headed back out to Orange County for a session with a gorgeous set of siblings.  We set up in their parents' backyard, which also happens to be a golf course (hence the pun in the title.  Hey, I try!).  Luckily we weren't the unintentional targets of any stray golf balls.  This family was so nice to work with.  Great personalities and beautiful, too!   Here's one of the few shots I've worked on so far.   Hopefully Mom and Dad like the final product (a surprise Christmas gift from their kids)!  Thanks for asking me to be a part of the fun, Meghann!

Faith Bible Church Baptisms | Orange County, CA Photographer

Several weeks ago a former co-worker contacted me about photographing her daughter's baptism.  They attend Faith Bible Church in Ladera Ranch.  I had the chance to meet the church body on Sunday and be a part of a special day of baptisms.  Everyone was awesome-- so friendly, warm, and welcoming.  I got a few shots during service and then followed everyone to a member's beautiful home for a wonderful luncheon and then the baptisms.  I had a great time and will be working on editing the photos for the next week or so.  Here's a little sneak peek for the S family.  Thanks for inviting me to be a part of your joyous day!  Enjoy!

Hump Day Update | Winchester Murrieta Temecula, CA Photographer

Tomorrow is Thursday!  That means in just three days I'll be shooting an outdoor baptism over in Orange County.  I'm excited and nervous, too!  I was hoping to have my new gear this week, but that doesn't look like it'll happen.  Maybe next week.  I'm waiting on attorneys and paralegals, so obviously I'm not holding my breath.  I'm going to rent a lens instead, and I think I found a pretty good option in Inland Empire Photo Rentals.

My Moo Minis were supposed to be delivered today, but they failed to show up in my mailbox or my front door.  Hmm.  They better be here tomorrow since I paid extra for 2-3 day shipping.  Tomorrow is day four!

I've been reading up on some Photoshop tutorials courtesy of ILP and worked on some photos from my niece's shoot last week.  Here are some re-worked images.  What do you think?  I'm trying!