Mindy & Tommy | San Diego Wedding | July 11th, 2010

Mindy & Tommy will forever hold a special place in my heart. Why? They allowed me to photography my first destination wedding! My good friend Lauren texted me one day and said, "Would you photograph a wedding in San Diego?" - I didn't know why she was asking, but I said, "Yes!!" Next thing I know, I get an email from Mindy inquiring about my services. When they booked me as their wedding photographer, I was so, so excited. Not only because Mindy and Tommy are awesome people, but because I had never been to San Diego before. Ever. We did their engagement session back in February so it was great to see them again a couple of weeks ago! Their wedding took place at the beautiful Admiral Kidd Club. Mindy's dad is a Captain in the Coast Guard (right, Mindy? Correct me if I'm wrong!) which allowed them access to this perfect wedding venue. The day started off a bit cool and overcast, and as Mindy and Tommy recited their vows, it somehow fit. It was romantic. Just as we were photographing their formals with their awesome (hilarious!) bridal party, the sun came out, creating the most perfect day. The speeches made were all witty, funny and heartfelt, and Mindy's first dance with her daddy had literally everyone in tears, even me. Watching her mom as she watched her only child dance with her father...wow. My "mommy" heart sang with love.

At the end of the wedding, everyone noticed that Mindy & Tommy had disappeared. All of the guests were asked to go outside. I overheard someone joke, "What? Are they leaving on a sailboat?" and the photographer in me screamed, "Oh please!! I hope so!!" Well, what do you suppose they left on? You got it. A sailboat. Mindy not only executed her wedding to perfection (The details! The DIY! So impressive) but executed the most perfect, romantic exit for she and her new husband. Happily Ever After, Mindy & Tommy!!

"Your Camera Takes Nice Pictures" by Erin Farrell

I came across this awesome blog post by fellow photographer, Erin Farrell. I am rarely sensitive when it comes to photography. I don't call myself an artist (although I do aspire to be one), I proudly call myself a photographer and not an "image creator", I don't mind sharing my knowledge and never feel threatened by others who wish to learn, and I fully admit that I am evolving, have things I do wrong and things to work on. However, it does sting just a tad when someone says to me what is in the title of this post. I have hit plateaus several times in my photography journey- moments where I was so frustrated that I thought I could never improve. Times when the words of other photographers made me cry and question myself. Times when I viewed the images of some of the best photographers in the world and had that sinking feeling that I could never be as good as them. So yes, I am proud of what I can do behind the camera, and it's not just the $1300 DSLR that does it for me. Trust me, I've seen my camera take junk photos even at my own hands. Each "good" photo that I produce is something that I am proud of! If you have ever said these words to a photographer, or even to me, don't feel bad. We understand that you didn't mean anything behind it. I just wanted to share because it offered a bit of insight. Your Camera Takes Nice Pictures by Erin Farrell

Candy & Salvador | Sacramento Wedding ~ July 9th, 2010

Candy & Salvador (aka Sal) got married at the beautiful Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Downtown Sacramento. Walking through the doors on their wedding day, I was filled with a sense of anticipation. The enormity of the space mirrored the enormity of the commitment that they were about to promise to each other and to God. Romantic, right? Following the ceremony we photographed their formals across the street on the grounds of the Capital - always a favorite of mine. We then walked a few blocks the Library Galleria. We were greeted by the sounds of a marachi band and warm laughter of their family and friends. Candy & Sal were showered with love during the many speeches made by their family, including an especially stirring speech by the groom's brother that had nearly everyone in tears.

Thank you again Candy & Sal for including me in your special day. What a privilege!

Also, a special thanks to my friend and fellow photographer Bree for 2nd shooting this gorgeous wedding with me!