Digital photography certainly brings with it a lot of advantages and allows for clean, spontaneous capture of an event. However, growing up shooting film cameras, the technology of it’s day, I missed the tactile feedback of the motor advancing the film. Even the smell of the freshly release film from it’s canister invoke a certain feel of nostalgia. This involvement of the senses in creating the image allows me to slow down, refine my vision before making the capture. To top it off, the surprise you get when that roll finally makes it back from the lab and you get to see what you got on it is priceless.

So despite the additional effort to carry along an additional camera body; the hassle of shipping the film in advance so that the x-ray at the airport doesn’t destroy the media. And then finally shipping the exposed roll to a professional lab and waiting to get it back. I decided as a personal project to shoot more film this year. Certainly having a clearer understanding of the advantages to each medium will only allow us to refine our art.

So here’s a few frames that arrived from our pro lab of Tina and Bryan’s recent Engagement in Monterey.

Earlier in the planning, we had opted for a fun engagement session later in the Spring time to mitigate the risk of a rain; being that it’s an El Niño year after all. It was probably a good idea as we saw more storms hit California this year than I could remember in years past. But that was Winter, surely we are safe with a late Spring session right?

Of course, as chance would have it…the day of the original shoot approaches and we saw more rain forecasted. So a quick reschedule of hair/makeup and airlines and here we are, a couple of weeks later…enjoying beautiful weather.

Now back to the original story, I left San Diego on a gorgeous spring day and landed in San Jose to overcast skies and a very remote possibility of showers on the day of the shoot. As fate would have it, the showers did come in spurts. But we know that won’t dampen the love Tina and Bryan has for one another. Who has had the pleasure of seeing that love grow over their friendship, long dating and eventual engagement. We took advantage of the unpredictable weather for a varied and fun session at a destination the two love to visit, Monterey Bay, CA.

We started off the session with a nice walk around the park and neighborhood so Tina and Bryan can share the day with their beloved Emily.

The advantage of rain is that it provides for a lush, green landscape in the arid California environment.

And the stormy clouds makes for a dramatic backdrop to help frame Tina and Bryan.

Too cute.

Then we jump into the car and drove off to Monterey together. The drive together is always fun as it allows us ample time to get to know our couple more. We arrive to picturesque Point Lobos in advance of the storm to catch the view and gorgeous light. The coast between Monterey to  Santa Barbara is so varied and beautiful.

The reserve reminds me a lot of the Torrey hills down here in San Diego. Perhaps that’s why the surrounding areas of San Diego are appropriately named Carmel Highlands, Carmel valley and Del Mar to mirror this region of the state.

We even spot wildlife in the area. What a treat!

Seeing the love Tina and Bryan had for one another from behind the camera was just as magical.

On our way out of the reserve to a new location, I spot the sun light up this field in between the branches of the pine trees and knew we just had to make a stop. Look at the beautiful lighting and backdrop. That’s the Carmel Highlands to the south.

Amazing, enveloping light and an awesome couple to boot.

Sitting down amist the golden field that attracted me to this spot.

Sometimes, it’s not the surrounding but just a look between our couples that makes a photograph interesting to me.

Such is life, with risk there are can be rewards. We didn’t know what the nearly two hour drive to Monterey would yield us, but the conditions and surroundings makes for a myriad of photo opportunities. Case in point…

The mountains just to the east with the low laying clouds.

But compose the photo just a little differently yields baby blue skies and an alternate look to the photograph.

And when you point the camera to the west, you get a spectacular vantage point and an entirely new photo.

Wasn’t that all worth it? I say, heck yes!

A quick outfit change and to Carmel River State Beach for little bit of paradise without the packing and long security lines of an airport. A little tranquility as the storm system finally catches up with us. The rays of light that peeked through the clouds lit up the water to a tropical sea green hue.

Simply calming….

And when you point the camera the opposite way, you get an entire different backdrop. I love this place!

A fun little sequence.

Sometimes the moments before a kiss is just perfect.

But the kiss itself can be just as spectacular.

The rain finally caught up with us as you can see by the drops on my lens. But even that server to diffract the light in a way that makes for a wonderfully soft and warm moment to end the day.

Tina and Bryan – we hope you enjoyed our recount of the day and capture of your favorite destination. Ham already knows full well the magic of Monterey and I certainly got to experience it first hand with the two of you. It was certainly worth it to miss my return flight to San Diego. :) Click on the image below to view your slideshow and we are counting the days until we are there to celebrate your union among your friends and family. Rain or shine, it will no doubt be just beautiful.

Such intricate details in the traditional Chinese Qi Pao.

Each wedding culture has their own tradition that we love documenting. The donning of the green leaf is a first for me and I never got a chance to ask what it symbolizes. If anyone knows, I would love to hear.

Lovely.

We took advantage of the hotel lobby to recreated some old style Shanghai nights portraits. Isn’t Pham just fabulous in her Qi Pao?

From traditional Chinese to the traditional American wedding gown.

Fabulous details here too.

What do you get a Apple fan that he does not already have? Well, the iPad is not released yet…so these appropriately themed cuff link will have to do.

Some quick portraits of Albert before the first look of Pham in her wedding dress.

We are always on a look out for the wedding theme colors to bring a cohesiveness to the final album. The magenta and bluish green wedding color was a compromise between the couple and their parent.

I just love the movement, detail and lighting in this photo.

Pham was just beaming and radiant in her wedding gown.

Apparently the grand entrance raised the roof. Check out the reaction of the little boy in the following photo.

There were quite a few heartfelt toast.

As well as funny ones.

We love the following cake sharing sequence.

Strangely, Albert seems to love it just as much.

And the crowd’s reaction…

Getting your face smooch with cake is not always a bad thing.

The photobooth is always a fun place to be and where the craziness happens.

Case in point…

Pham and Albert – Your wedding contained so many great moments. Some of which I am sure Pham will only vaguely remember through these photos no thanks to a certain friend. ;) Don’t worry, good fun, good times and the moments that made your wedding uniquely yours were captured. We can’t wait to share the entire gallery for you to view tomorrow, hopefully via Albert’s new iPad. (We tested the client access site, and it’s compatible).

It was a beautiful blue skies day when we arrived at Jack London Square on the Oakland waterfront. A perfect day for a nautical themed wedding across the harbor. It is appropriately themed as James have been working hard on their yacht, getting it ship shape for their eventual journey together, first to Mexico and then eventually around the world.

Ham and I found the Waterfront hotel just as Millie was arriving, so we practiced our ninja style, stealth photography without being detected. It’s a requirement for all photojournalistic photographer.

Some lovely details on the wedding gown. Sparkling like the stars themselves.

Striking a quick pose on the way to the lobby.

The decor of the lobby was dressed to have a nautical feel. But Millie dresses it up even better.

Millie – you look absolutely radiant!

Some personal details as we waited for the wedding to start.

I love capturing the groom as he gets a good look at his wife to be. The look on James’ face says it all.

One of my favorite moments just after the ceremony. A shared moment of joy and elation.

Just married…with the bling to prove it.

I love this series.

James made a slideshow for Millie and their guest and I just love this moment as Millie turns around to take in the happy expressions all across the room.

One of the reasons we stay until the very end. You get to capture endearing moments like these that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

The wedding guest were rocking the room, literally. While we were downstairs to get the ring shot, we felt the ceiling thumping along with the beat. And there were some serious dancers in the crowd. Check out the compilation below and the slideshow for some serious moves. So fun!

Millie and James – We wish you bon voyage on your life together as husband and wife. May you find the beautiful blue skies like you did on your wedding day and smooth sailing on all your adventures. We look forward to getting some postcards from the different countries you guys will experience together. Enjoy the recap of your wedding day and the slideshow below.

Let’s start off with some details…

Taking advantage of the Tudor mansion on the grounds of the estate for a detail shot of the veil and wedding gown.

The gals and mom helping Josephine put on the final touches…

All my brides looks absolutely gorgeous. I have decided that my good luck and charm must be responsible for  attracting them as clients.

One more peek at the gorgeous and happy bride to be.

Gentlemen reading this and planning on a Chinese style wedding. Bribing your way in with cold hard cash works every time. Here’s Roberto working hard to get in to see his bride.

At one point, breaking into a song and dance routine reminiscent of the Backstreet Boys.

Josephine elegantly awaits on her man to break through the barrier that is preventing his entry.

I always love seeing wedding traditions play out at each wedding. It’s such an important part of our respective cultures. Tea Ceremonies…

Tea ceremony at the groom’s home with a more traditional Chinese dress. I love all the intricate details and embroidery.

The sun was out in full force for the ceremony. The surrounding trees putting the “palm” in Palmdale Estate.

Can it get any more perfect that this setting?

And while the ceremony was going on, I spied the flower girl through the bushes on an adjacent garden having a wonderful time while nobody is looking. Well, nobody except me.

This little ring bearer took a liking to me all day. I guess I attract gorgeous brides and cute, adorable children.

Putting some restraint on the little man. Little Addison made me miss my two boys all the more while away on wedding trips.

The bride with her brides maid and maid of honor. Sizzling!

Some bridal details…

Classic, timeless portraiture.

The day was hot, but it was worth coming to the adjacent garden for a different backdrop. We work quickly so our couples doesn’t melt and be able to enjoy their day.

A more dramatic shot of the bridal bouquet and rings.

Josephine and Roberto – thanks so much for entrusting us with documenting your day. It was so beautiful to witness an alumni of my alma mater wed and begin a new chapter of their life. Ham and I wish the best for you guys and have fun at your banquet in Hong Kong later this year.

We met Pham and Albert in the shopping and dining district near Crissy Fields in San Francisco. After enjoying some of the best cup cakes I have ever had in my life, we head over to Golden Gate park so I can start actually do my job. Golden Gate park is such an eclectic oasis on the metropolitian pennisula that is San Francisco. There are stadiums and baseball fields to lakes and museums. With flower gardens and Japanese tea garden to mini forest and passes. And that’s only describing a quarter of the park’s offering. On any given weekend, you can find artist and musical talents in the music concourse where we officially began our session.

Heaven in a cup.

Albert seems to agree with me.

Love tree covered paths like these. Without even closing your eyes, you can imagine you are not in the city anymore.

Pham, you look fabulous! The picture speaks for itself.

Striking a “Hero” pose in front of the portapotty? Why not? Actually a funny story…as we walked back to the car, we saw this series of portapotty. Pham said it would befitting for Albert to get a shot in front of them as he is constantly making trips to the restroom. Looking back at this photo, Albert almost looks like he has his Clark Kent disguise on. I wonder what type of super hero power Albert is gifted with?

An outfit change, clear skies and golden sunlight makes for a great photo with the famous Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop.

Add the ocean breeze for a dynamic photo.

A curious stranger drops by for a visit.

While I was capturing these great moments…

Ham was able to capture this awesome vantage and moment from his view.

I love it when my couples have fun during their session. This is always our goal and the photos really make themselves.

A photo op in front of the car. Love the light rays filtering through the structure.

One more outfit change and taking a chance. You guys look fantastic!

Pham’s sweet talks paid off and we were grant access for some quick photos in the Apple Store. I would dare to say Apple products may be Albert’s first love…well, second now that Pham’s in the picture. Let’s just say, you bring those two loves together and there were a whole lotta kissing going around.

Pham and Albert – We love talking and hanging out with you guys simply from the moment we first met you guys over coffee. Your personalities complements each other like butterscotch frosting on top of a deliciously moist cupcake. Thanks so much for introducing me to my new obsession and angst. No Kara’s cupcakes in San Diego. We can’t wait to kick off the new year with your wedding. Until then, enjoy the slideshow and we’ll talk soon.

Bill met Pam while she was on a conference trip to Washington, DC. Their east coast meeting and the numerous trips between the two coast culminated in a west coast style, sun-kissed wedding at Cornerstone Gardens. Keeping alive the notion that the “best things happen in two,” this garden wedding is their second, with the first being a civil ceremony.

Following the wedding, Pam and Bill wined and dined their guest, following the meal with dancing and a delightful spread of dessert that would bust any diet and automatically add extra pounds if one’s eyes happen to feast on them for too long. Of course, a second east coast reception is already planned and they will be joining their east coast friends to celebrate their happy marriage next week.

Pam and Bill – you guys know how to throw a party and keep everyone happy and fed. You guys kept things relaxed and allowed us to capture that nature with relaxed portraitures. We love how you named all the tables after the location of all your favorite eats, saving the name of “our kitchen” for the bride and groom table. We wish you the best trip back east and only wish we could be there as well.

A conga line back down the aisle? Heck yea!

Yummy golden light…

And even the night sky was just as yummy.

Smorgasbord of good eats…Yum!

And the last shot of the night featuring the the Cornerstone Garden tree that was brought back to life as an art piece.

Enjoy the slideshow!

When Pam first outlined her idea for an engagement day theme centered around old “haunts.” I didn’t know what to make of it. I knew there were a few places around San Francisco that was said to be haunted. Ok, I suppose being out of our comfort zone is a good thing. We like to capture our couple’s fun, interaction and love in and around greenery, urban-scape and golden light so yummy, one can almost taste it. Throw a couple of ghost in there, we can handle that. However, when we met at Pam and Bill’s west coast residence in San Francisco and learn that their definition of old hunts are all their favorite places to dine and hang out at, I knew these are my kind of clients.

We emerged out of the typical bay marine layer to glorious sunshine in the Mission District. I would take that as a good foreshadow of what’s to come as we arrive at Tartine before the usual rush and then later head over to the waterfront to enjoy some of Hog Island Co’s amazing oyster. Between the eating and the chatting, we got to watched two people who grew up on different coast enjoy the best thing of all, being together.

Pam and Bill – You say the best things happen in two and your story of how your relationship buds with the help of two mutual friends, two day dates and across two different coast is just amazing to hear. To keep the good time rolling, we can’t wait till these two photographers are able to meet up with you guys for your wedding and our second visit to Cornerstone later this month.

Sample of the colors of the Mission District.

We saw this bamboo grove earlier and glad we were able to find it again. Made for a fun session and nice contrast with the reds of their clothing.

San Francisco city is different than NYC…but I wanted to get a little of the vibe of east coast meets west coast in this series of shot in the alley way we found.

Chasing the setting sun, we head over to the sand dunes of Ocean Beach. Coincidently, we have a Ocean Beach here in San Diego too, but they look nothing alike.

Some of my favorites series of shots of the day. This is what I mean by yummy light so gorgeous you can taste it. Colors just pop and photos looks great out of the camera. How lucky they are to live only blocks away from this.

Definitely a different coast huh Bill. West coast’s soft golden light and the sun sets into the water for great view and perfect way to relax and cozy up with one another.

One of the first things Bill mention to me is during their research of photographers and coming across our work, a song I had used in one of my slideshow seem to have followed them around. I say it subliminal marketing and intentional. So I figure it befitting to use an alternate version in their engagement slideshow. Click below and enjoy!

Melissa and Herman – what a wonderful and beautiful wedding. You guys managed to keep the atmosphere relaxed and joyful, even when squeezing in a tea ceremony after the wedding. To be able to witness all your love ones crowd into a small room to bestow their gifts and well wishes upon your happy union confirms that you are both surrounded by love through and through. Thank you for allowing us the honor to witness and capture all that. Enjoy your photos and slideshow.

How much more meaningful and awesome to find that Melissa’s mom created this beautiful gown for Melissa?

Love incorporating the antique radiator heater  into the bouquet shot.

Not sure what the guys were thinking when Ham had them climb the narrow fire escape for this photo op.

But it looks like Herman and the guys can have fun anywhere.

Melissa spying on her man as he got into position for their first look. Love the expression of Herman’s sister while holding back the curtain for a better look.

I am pretty certain by Herman’s expression, that it was one powerfully, satisfying kiss.

Beautiful tea ceremony following the wedding.

Herman’s sister made a wonderful documentary video for the couple. I wish I could have stopped and watched it with them as it was so funny and well done. But then I wouldn’t have been able to capture moments like these of Melissa and Herman as they enjoy the video.

Love these moments of their first dance.

We snuck the couple out for a few shots parting shots in the mansion and the grounds outside.

When your couple spontaneously start dancing, all your technical training pays off to capture images like this in the dark.

Grace and Walter – It is such a blessing to be able to witness your warmth and happiness surrounded by your love ones. You guys laugh and cried and laugh lots more as you danced and party the night away. Even these many months later, I still find laughter in viewing your laughter. If that is a testament, I know you each will bring one another a lifetime of happiness with lots of laughter. And for those moments with tears, may Grace continue to be there to wipe them away.

Who needs sunshine when you can bring your own color with vibrant dresses like these. Red is my favorite bridesmaid dress color.

Grace looks so radiant.

The wedding gown is gorgeous hanging from the ceiling fan.

But it looks even better on Grace for sure!

Did I already say that Grace looks absolutely Radiant?

Sometimes bucking traditions is the way to go. Here the gals accompany Grace to meet with the groom before the wedding for their first look. Especially on days like this, it allow us to gather what little light there is for some beautiful photos.

The ladies look amazing.

The gents looks dashing and proper….

but boys will be boys, and proper is soon forgotten.

I love how careful the girls are as they help Grace get back inside before the heavy rain starts.

The rule is simple…a hole in one will get Walter and Grace to kiss.

Flag at the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego.

I just love going over the photos and timing the fades, transitions just perfectly. It’s a labor of love but the story of the event start to unfurl with each picture to melody. It’s always the best feeling…(or cheese?)…when the moment and action in the photo matches up to the song’s lyric. I just love it.

Anyways, I hope you all enjoy watching Josephine and Robert’s slideshow as much as I did making it. We also sell iPod formatted version of the slideshow for carrying around in your iPhone or iPod Touch. It’s another perfect way to share your photos with friends and coworkers.

We started off at the new parking garage addition and made our way towards the central Geisel library.

Strolling through one of the Eucalyptus forest at UCSD. Josephine and Robert are so cute together.

Then it’s a clothes change and off to the Cliffs nearby. I used to come out here just to gaze upon the horizon and the shores below. From this vantage point, the sunset is always magical…that is if the marine layer isn’t hiding that magic like it did during the engagement session.

I always love catching these moments. Josephine lovingly gazes into Robert’s eyes. The texture and the gesture gives this image a soft feel.

After getting the following shot, we were approach by a cute little girl asking if we are part of some TV production and whether the couple will be featured on TV. Love the innocence of youth. I guess the umbrella and remote flashes can seem like overkill.

I just love it when my couple bust out laughing. Whether at me or with me, it makes for a great photo.

When the wind picked up, I told Josephine not to worry. It makes for great, dynamic images.

Towards the end of the session, Josephine is starting to work it like a natural. Love it!

I won’t even say how much I love the feel of the following image. That’s the UCSD Scripps Pier in the background.

Josephine and Robert – thanks so much for coming all the way down to San Diego and making the engagement session uniquely your own. It was so much fun to walk through UCSD and discover all the new nooks and crannies. We hope you enjoy this preview of your engagement photos. We got many more awesome images that you’ll have to wait till tomorrow to see as a part of your slideshow.

Millie and James, thank you for dinner and kindling my own desire to travel and explore the world. It’s awesome to hear about your travel plans and your desire to allow a job and work be a means to that end, and not become an end in itself. Ham and I look forward to seeing you two again at your wedding and sharing in the beginning of your journey as man and wife. -David

Even though we are a little spares on the update, there are a lot of things happening behind the scene. For our clients old and new, the implementation of a album review and proofing site that should help our couples better view and communicate album changes so that the final product is exactly customized for them. I am always user friendly centric so we needed a process that is simple for our clients to use and grasp. We couldn’t find anything out there that fit our needs exactly so we built it from the ground up ourselves. We’re designer and creatives, not programmers…so it was hard and an ongoing process. But I think it is already ahead of what’s out there and we can’t wait to finish implementing everything we have planned for it. Here are a few screen shots.

The presentation view with background music…

Quick dropdown login…

Facebook style commenting system…

Some weddings and engagement sessions in the works:

Grace and Walter…

Millie and James…

Josephine and Robert…

My mom with her three grandsons.

We are going to try to enjoy the rest of the day with mom and we hope you all do the same. Happy Mother’s Day!!!

-David

We packed our gear light and went inside the museum for some shots before heading outside to explore the park’s grounds. Somehow we managed not to get kicked out while shooting inside the museum. But as we were shooting on the grounds outside the museum entrance, a lady kindly let us know that we are not allow to have professional photography in that area as it was an art exhibit in itself. Ooops and thank you for noticing we were professionals. :)

Loving this wall and sequence inside the museum.

I usually tell my client that Spring is my favorite time to shoot. Everything is buzzing with life anew. The flowering trees are starting to flower and makes for awesome backdrop.

We found this tunnel and set up the remote flash. Because we were trying to keep it on the down low in the museum, I left the Pocket Wizards in the car and toss a couple of the smaller ebay triggers in my pocket instead. We had a difficult time getting the trigger to fire consistently when blocked by Melissa and Herman’s body, but it was worth the hassle as it allow for one of my favorite shot of the day.

The sky was overcast most of the day but the sun did come out for a few minutes to give this scene nice contrast and depth.

Herman did his best to keep Melissa warm when the wind blew, and when Melissa’s feet hurt from walking on heels, Herman carried her instead.

Their outfit match the tones of this house perfectly.

Melissa and Herman – thanks for spending the afternoon with us. We had a blast exploring the museum and location scout in the Mission district. I especially enjoyed the ride to and from the area, including getting lost on the tilted and confusing streets of San Francisco. If I didn’t have to make my flight, it would have been especially cool to just hop out of the car and document that. We can’t wait to experience your wedding day with you two later this year. Until then, enjoy more images in the slideshow below.

Thank you so much Grace and Walter for the thoughtful gift. We can’t wait till baby Jason can try it on a few months from now. He’s growing by leaps and bound and have already gain 2+ lbs in the three short weeks he has graced us with his life. Three month clothes are already high watered on him so I am sure given a few months, I can have him don these cute onsies. We can’t wait to hang out with you two again and get some awesome images of your wedding this weekend. Good luck on the final preparation and we’ll be talking to you soon.   -David

However, this year my wife and I found ourselves anxiously anticipating the birth of our second son. It is odd how nine months seemingly flies by but the last week and days seem so slow. What is even more odd is the feeling we had as his due date came and went. Each day, I found myself too anxious to get any work done as I anticipate my wife calling for me to rush her to the birthing center.  Each night, we sit having dinner and wondering if tonight is the night. We found out that it would be seven days and nights of wondering before lil.Jason made his debut into our world.

Mom and dad have been anxiously anticipating your arrival little one. But we are happy and thankful that you arrived healthy. All 8lbs 3oz of you.

As our family enjoy our first Thanksgiving together with lil.Jason, we wish that all our clients and friends have a wonderful time with their own family. Have a safe journey to all those who are and will be traveling.

-David