Tina Louise Photographer

I Love LA!

2012-01-19T11:27:00.000-08:00

Just a really cool shot.

Christmas Lights

2011-12-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

One thing I really love seeing at Christmastime are all the lights. They're just so magical. In this photo I purposely focused on a branch, and not a light, so the lights would be a little blurry. This is known as bokeh, and to achieve it, you have to have your camera set at a very wide apature. I hope you enjoy all the sights and smells of Christmas, no matter your faith. Make sure you take the time in your life to appreciate the little things and open your eyes to all the beauty around you. xoxo -Tina

YOU!

2011-11-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

"You are born with a tremendous possibility of intelligence.You are born with a light within you. Listen to the still, small voice within,and that will guide you. Nobody else can guide you, nobody else can become a model for your life, because you are unique. Nobody has there ever been who was exactly like you, and nobody is ever going to be there again who will be exactly like you. This is your glory, your grandeur--that you are utterly irreplaceable, that you are just yourself and nobody else." ~Osho

Hummingbird in the Rain

2011-11-06T09:17:00.000-08:00

We just purchased a hummingbird feeder, mixed up the red concoction, hung it up, and the beautiful hummingbirds are here! Today in Hollywood it's raining, but the hummingbirds still came out to eat the delicious sweet nectar. :)

Love

2011-10-27T11:04:00.001-07:00

Shoot Someone

2011-09-28T13:41:00.001-07:00

Will it be you?

Paradise Cove, Malibu

2011-09-24T23:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I shot family photos at Paradise Cove in Malibu. I love the thatched umbrellas, beds to lounge on in the sun, and amazing view from the restaurant. Not to mention the slushy icy watermelon and other fabulous tropical drinks. :)

2011-09-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

Pinterest is a wonderful tool for creating idea boards. You can gather ideas for fashion, decorating, travel...you name it. It's so fun to play with too! Check out my Pinterest boards by following me by clicking the above button.

Enjoy!

THEOPHILUS LONDON

2011-08-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

I was pleased to have the opportunity to photograph the talented artist THEOPHILUS LONDON of Warner Bros Records. I'm a fan. xoxo T.

Music!

2011-07-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

I shot a few photos of the band Taking Back Sunday today (Friday!). Very talented, cool guys.

Christian & Jenny - Expecting!

2011-06-24T13:27:00.000-07:00

I first met Christian and Jenny a few years ago when I shot their engagement photos. Well, now they are expecting a baby girl and I got the chance to come up to their Hollywood Hills home and shoot some really fun, creative, happy photos last weekend! I love the house - Jenny is a fabulous decorator! I just love the sunny, happy feel of these photos. I think the shoot was a bit inspired by Palm Springs and the house. First a few traditional portraits of the gorgeous couple and baby girl bump...

I love this:

And this:

Major bling!

By the firepit which has clear glass rocks in it. *love*

Christian's idea and I love it!

Thursday Things I Love

2011-06-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

Hot Lips!

2011-06-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

I'm still obsessed with Prince the Miniature pony. I just had to post more photos of him! Check out his hot lips! Oh yeah!

Northern California Redwoods - Humboldt!

2011-03-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

I was so lucky to get the chance to visit my dearest friend in McKinleyville, California for my birthday this year! I miss seeing pine trees, the forest, and the grand beauty of nature I was brought up to appreciate. We're so lucky here in California to have all of this beauty, and I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit beautiful, healthy, healing, people in a like environment. Everything was beautiful. Let me start by posting one of my favorite photos of the amazing lush, green, mossy Redwood Forest. OMG. Such beauty. Mother Earth is an awesome place!
Can't wait for my next trip!!!

Jennifer grew up in the forest and is a talented horse back rider, ballerina, and forest fairy! Adorable! I had the perfect model. *love*

Horse riding lessons....and a dreadlock chicken!

We went by a local's house to visit the horses and took a few photos.

I think the horses are in love!

We were right by the beach the day before the tsunami hit. Luckily the house is up on a bluff almost right by the ocean.

There's a cool cave with water dripping on the beach.

Photo opp! Beautiful Christina!

This is Prince, the miniature-Shetland pony. He was a bit skeptical of me at first, but then we made friends. Now, I'm in love. I've always wanted a baby like this! Jennifer, you are the luckiest girl in the world! :)

I even braided his hair....see?

A big special THANK YOU to Jennifer for taking this photo of Prince and I, and thank you to all the family for the beautiful visit! It was great!

That's if for now. Hope you enjoyed this post!

Shawntae! Work it!

2011-02-19T09:48:00.000-08:00

My gorgeous friend Shawntae stopped by the neighborhood for a few portraits after work last week prior to our soon to be couples shoot in a field (can't wait!), so I thought I'd show you a few results of our little mini-shoot! I am always noticing this beautiful afternoon light as I take my walk almost every day passing by this area. It's funny how as a photographer, I notice LIGHT everywhere I go! I keep mental notes of spots with great light, like this, for future shoots. Shawntae - you look like a Supermodel (a certain song comes to mind Shawntae - Sashay - you better work it! Supermodel)

I love your photos Shawntae! You look fabulous!

The Getty Center - Art

2011-02-09T19:50:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I decided last minute to go to the Getty Center with a friend and take a few photos of some of the permanent collection there. This wasn't a photo shoot, or engagement shoot, but strictly me time to see art...and ride the little shuttle! Fun!
The current "featured" exhibit is French Manuscripts from the 1400 - 1600's which you are not allowed to take photos of. I snapped a few shots before I was told I wasn't allowed, and I'll be sure to post those amazing ancient books with gorgeous color in my next post. The truly are amazing with Old English font in French.
For now, check out these amazing pieces, always on display!
That's Medusa on the left.

A close up on the left of the painting on the right.

There was also a drawing exhibit.

I love the vibrant colors of this masterpiece.

Life Lessons

2011-01-28T09:01:00.000-08:00

This is from a 90 year old ladies life lessons. I thought this was definitely worth posting! Have a great weekend!

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and
parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie (clothes). Don't
save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd
grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Newborn Baby Diego!

2010-12-09T19:34:00.000-08:00

Diego was born at Cedars Sinai hospital in Los Angeles on November 15th. He was just ten days old when I shot these photos of his little adorable self! Newborns are so so sweet. Happy Birthday Diego!!! Congratulations Mommie and Daddy!
He's beautiful! xoxo

Useless Information

2010-10-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

Useless information:
Rubber bands last longer when refrigerated.
Peanuts are one of the ingredients of dynamite.
There are 293 ways to make change for a dollar.
The average person's left hand does 56% of the typing.
A shark is the only fish that can blink with both eyes.
There are more chickens than people in the world.
Two-thirds of the world's eggplant is grown in New Jersey.
The longest one-syllable word in the English language is "screeched."
On a Canadian two dollar bill, the flag flying over the Parliament building is an American flag.
No English word language rhymes with month, orange, silver or purple.
"Dreamt" is the only English word that ends in the letters "MT".
All 50 states are listed across the top of the Lincoln Memorial on the back of the $5 bill.
Almonds are a member of the peach family.
Winston Churchill was born in a ladies' room during a dance.
Maine is the only state whose name is just one syllable.
Only four words end in "dous": tremendous, horrendous, stupendous, and hazardous.
Los Angeles's full name is "El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora la Reina de Los Angeles de Porciuncula".
A cat has 32 muscles in each ear.
An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain.
Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur.
In most advertisements, the time displayed on a watch is 10:10.
Al Capone's business card said he was a used furniture dealer.
Bert and Ernie on Sesame Street were named after Bert the cop and Ernie the taxi driver in Frank Capra's "It’s a Wonderful Life".
A dragonfly has a life span of 24 hours.
A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds
A dime has 118 ridges around the edge.
It's impossible to sneeze with your eyes open (DON'T try this @ home!)
The giant squid has the largest eyes in the world.
In England, the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak.
The microwave was invented after a researcher walked by a radar tube and a chocolate bar melted in his pocket.
Mr. Rogers was an ordained minister. (Presbyterian)
The average person falls asleep in seven minutes.
There are 336 dimples on a regulation golf ball.
The average chocolate bar has 8 insect legs in it.

Kim

2010-10-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

OMG. I love this photo! I had to post one photo online at least today so we could enjoy it asap...NOW! Kim, you look like a pure goddess! (I can't wait to show you the rest the images.)

Kim is an amazing Esthetician from one of the top spa's in LA. She's the Esthetician to the stars! If you want beautiful, healthy, glowing skin like Kim's, check my upcoming blog posts for her contact information, website, and maybe even specials!

Lady Gaga Meets Desperate Housewives Photoshoot

2010-09-22T20:10:00.001-07:00

I love being part of photo shoots where everything is planned for me. All I have to do is show up and shoot. We shot at a beautiful mansion called "Monica's Castle" as seen in Robb Report: http://robbreportcollection.com/family-style I mean this home was so incredible even the restrooms out by the pool and the outdoor full kitchen were decorated perfectly! One of these days...
We had some amazing models and stylists and I wanted to give them all a shout out!
MODELS:
Anna Good
Ashley Johnson
Megan Bibbo
Trina Miller

STYLISTS:
Michelle Cunningham and Heather Skelton
HAIR AND MAKEUP:
Makeup -
Tianna DeGuire
Mona Malaki
Hair -
Kylee Heath
Diego Ortega

We started off shooting in harsh lighting conditions. I've trained my eye over the years to notice when a persons nose is in the sunlight and the rest of the face is not, etc. (that's the worst!)

This was my favorite model of the day. She knew how to work that body!

Then I had some fun with Pocketwizards (off camera lighting)!

Okay, I LOVE the lighting. Just look at her skin! No touching up required!

Love this one! Va va va voom!

Lady Gaga Inspired Photoshoot - Sneak Peek

2010-09-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a little sneak peek of a fun Lady Gaga inspired shoot! More details and photos coming soon.

Cindy & Jose - Wedding

2010-09-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

Cindy & Jose's wedding was nothing short of beautiful. It took place inside a lovely Catholic church and afterward we were able to shoot some photos in a patch of flowers! It was a beautiful day and you could feel the love in the air!
I'm swooning over Cindy's feather bouquet with rhinestone center!

Cindy and her Father

Cindy's Father walking her down the isle!

At the Altar

Very cool...a blessing...from everyone!

Married!

We headed out to the flower patch for more photos.
I love this one!

Juliette & Dan - Calimingos Ranch Wedding

2010-09-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Juliette & Dan were married last year at Calimingos Ranch in Malibu, California. The dangling lights are magical and I love purple, so I was in heaven. I spent a short time helping out at the main photographer and these are some of the photos I shot. Another fabulous couple!

Getting Ready

Some fab shoes!

A little fun with a fish-eye lens!

A classic photo of the bride.

We took some photos outside.
Charlie's Angels!

Dan is placing the ring on Juliette's finger.

Beautiful!!!

The first dance.

Julie & Alex - Greystone Mansion Wedding

2010-09-03T18:43:00.001-07:00

Julie and Alex were married last year at the Greystone Mansion in fabulous Beverly Hills! And I'm just now posting a few photos. It was a picture perfect day and the grounds were lovely backdrops for photos. The dove release was beautiful and I loved how Julie and Alex laughed, joked, and played all day! Julie was a gorgeous bride Alex was just a ton of fun!

2010-08-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Is this like a bird in the hand is like two in the bush? I'm having trouble understanding my fortune cookie note. Any ideas? Comments? Maybe this means something for a short time is better than nothing at all? Any input is welcomed!

Miss Lily

2010-08-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

Miss Lily was kind enough to allow me to take her photograph a few weekends ago when I was over for dinner...well, actually she took me by the hand and insisted I take her photograph! She's my new best friend. I know because she told me.

Headshots

2010-07-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

Just fooling around taking a few photos for my friend's boyfriend.

Emma & Joe - Griffith Park Observatory, Part II

2010-07-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a few more shots of Emma & Joe at the Observatory in LA. I love love love the 1920's deco style of the windows. It's so old Hollywood. My fav!

Emma & Joe - Griffith Park Observatory, Couples Session

2010-07-05T18:18:00.000-07:00

Joe and Emma met in high school in the San Fernando Valley where they grew up. Emma is a gorgeous model and Joe is into trance music. In fact, when we happened on a sign that read "entrance", Joe automatically put his hand up over the "en"... so I asked him if he was into trance music, he said yeah, and we snapped a photo! I had fun wandering around the Observatory with you both!
First up, some portraits.

Then we wandered around and found this cool patina art-deco door:

Emma is absolutely stunning!

We found lots of places to shoot. Like on these hidden steps.

I love this one...sexy! Joe, you're a lucky guy!

So pretty!

Emma & Joe - Griffith Park Observatory, Teaser

2010-07-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a little teaser of my next blog post - check out Emma....rawr!

Happy Father's Day Dad

2010-06-19T20:17:00.000-07:00

To my "Dear Old Dad" (as he liked to call himself):
I have missed you for so long now...I've forgotten your scent. I thought that would never happen, but it finally has. There were so many great things you showed me and places you took me to. The country; ridin' a dirt bike with you cross country at age 8 through the California desert every weekend; how to pick weeds in the backyard; etc. You took wonderful care of me when I was sick and I felt how much you loved me. I'm thankful I had a Dad for the time I did. I remember how every time I turned over on my tummy when I was falling asleep, you knew I'd soon be knocked out and whispered to me "goodnight". In the morning you would say "morning glory!". I love you. Happy Father's Day. I will always miss you.

Checkout the Last Supper on the wall! This photo was taken at my Grandma's house in San Pedro circa early 70's!

Izzy The Basset Hound - Give me a HO if you've got your funky bus fare!

2010-05-11T17:03:00.000-07:00

Hilzi, gilzirls! Yilzall hilzave t' milzove ilzout the wilzay silzo the gilzuys can plilzay bilzasket-bilzall (Hey girls! Y'all have to move out the way so the guys can play basketball) GIRLS: I say wizzat? Nizzo-izzo wizzay! (Say what? No way!)
Meet Izzy - the beautiful basset hound my Mom just adopted. She's such a love and is dying to give kisses and be constantly touched. She finally set still long enough for me to get a few shots of her! We went on a wonderful walk today. Next time I MUST bring her snacks. I love Mzz Izzy and can't wait to see her again!

She has such soulful eyes!

Maui

2010-05-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

Here is where my mind and heart is. Sadly, I'm not there in Maui now (in case inquiring minds want to know!). I love all those beautiful colorful fish underneath the water, at the reef right down this beach. It's some absolutely amazing snorkeling! My son even saw a turtle here. I almost feel like we better see as much of the sea now while it's still alive and I hope we ban offshore drilling and go solar (or similar alternative) like, yesterday. I'm so saddened by the spill in the Gulf and the massive, lasting impact this will have on the beautiful creatures of the sea and birds and their next generations. The news on tv says "they're" pouring chemicals on the spill now and burning the oil off. Ugh. I love our planet. I pray we wake up and take care of it.
We don't own the planet, it owns us. We are of it.

The Real Thing

2010-04-10T16:20:00.000-07:00

In my last post "Rooftop Tropics" below I showed you my tacky fake tropical umbrella I sometimes lounge under on my sundeck. While reviewing photos today I found this from a year ago this month. There's nothing like the real thing. I love all things tropical.

Hotel Mayaland, Yucatan, Mexico

Rooftop Tropics

2010-03-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

Today is expected to be around 80 degrees here in LA and I've got my umbrella, lounge chair, sweet tea, hat, and magazine all ready to go on my rooftop sundeck! :D

Have a nice day today.

Bobby - Portraits

2010-03-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

LA has an endless gold mine of backdrops all around the city. Bobby is a singer, so when he contacted me for some headshots / portraits, I thought some local North Hollywood back alley backdrops would be perfect. To find out more about Bobby check out his myspace page. We happened on some grafitti artists while shooting and chatted them up a bit. They were redoing my favorite blue grafitti wall! I'll miss it, but I can't wait to see how the new artwork looks. I had a blast photographing Bobby and I'm really happy with how his photos came out! These are just a few of my favorites from the day.

Headshots

2010-02-20T13:41:00.000-08:00

I love my brides and Jenny is one of my very favorites. Jenny is a bride-to-be and you may recognize her from an earlier post of when I shot Jenny and Christian's engagement photos last year. We were all over Los Angeles! When Jenny called and asked me if I could do some headshots for her I jumped at the chance! Jenny you are drop-dead gorgeous. You made my job easy.

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T12:56:00.000-08:00

I woke up and made my son this heart shaped pancake for Valentines Day today! I made the heart shape by starting with two circles of batter then I took my spoon and pulled some of the batter down into a point at the bottom. You can see a little syrup mixed with butter and those are turkey sausages with it. We like them nice & brown!
Happy Valentines Day!

Anna & Alex!

2009-11-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

I got together with Anna and Alex one Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago to shoot some photos at the gorgeous Self Realization Center in the Pacific Palisades. It is so amazingly beautiful there! I love how there are different religious statues peeking out from here and there and the message is universal that translates across all religious denominations. Anyway I had a fun time exploring this gorgeous place with Anna and Alex.

After that we headed over to Melrose to grab a few grafitti shots before it got dark. Work it!

Rawr.

Christy & Andrew - Expecting!

2009-10-31T19:23:00.000-07:00

I love the feeling of knowing a new baby is coming into the world. Everyone's excited and everything is a little surreal. My friend Christy is expecting a baby girl - Samantha, so I thought it was important to document this major life event in photos. Congratulations on your new baby Christy & Andrew! This is my first maternity session, but Christy & Andrew were more than willing to do whatever I asked of them which made my job fun.

I can just imagine how gorgeous Samantha is going to be with genes like these! We headed to the park in Pasadena and took a few more shots outside.

Sun flare!

Erin & Zak Married!

2009-10-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

Erin and Zak were married in Santa Barbara at Stella Mare's on October 4th. It was a gorgeous day. Erin and Zak are so sweet and I was really honored to be a part of their wedding. Erin cares for wild birds and even has a hawk and an owl, so it's fitting Erin made amazing little fabric DIY birds for each of her guests! So cute! They went perfectly with the french country decor at Stella Mare's. You may remember Erin and Zak's engagement shoot I posted on my blog a few months ago where we included a few shots of her owl and hawk. I had a blast that day in Ojai!

Venue & Catering ~ Stella Mare's

Cake ~ LaStarr & Co

Flowers ~ Fleurs De Vie

Hair & Makeup ~ Punam Pattel
Violin ~ Kevin Bishop, Golden Scroll Soloists

The Maid of Honor's bouquet. I love purple.

This cake is too cute with the adorable bride and groom birdies! So sweet!

The room was beautifully set for the wedding. A big thanks to Navy Sou for shooting with me! Navy took this photo.

The bride and her beautiful blue, blue eyes! (not to mention incredible skin)

The groom looking dashing.

Getting ready.

I do.

Right after the cermony, we took a few shots outside.

We took a few more photos inside in front of the fireplace. Love the decor.

The violinist added another touch of elegance to the day.

There were lots of amazing details.

Congratulations Erin & Zak!

I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness.

**UPDATE!**

I couldn't resist adding these car shots! I love Zak's old Datsun 260zx.

Fairmont Hotel, Santa Monica

2009-10-11T17:16:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely poolside breakfast today at the stylish restaurant FIG at the Fairmont Hotel in Santa Monica with my very good friend Christina who is visiting from Northern California. Christina & hubby Andrew stayed in a wonderful little bungalow during their visit. Love it. Breakfast was great, and the surroundings were deserving of a few snapshots. It was fun to eat, shop, and hang out you today Christina! xoxo

John Galliano for Christian Dior Spring 2010 Couture Line

2009-10-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at John Galliano's absolutely beautiful spring 2010 couture line so much I thought I'd blog about it today! The line is very "old Hollywood" and that's what inspired Galliano's designs for his spring 2010 show in Paris yesterday. Galliano is hands down my favorite designer! Such elegance and creativity come out of this man, it's just incredible to me. Being an LA girl all my life, I hold this couture line close to my heart. It's so completely beautiful!
John Galliano said this line is his version of Sunset Boulevard - he had a dialogue from the 1950 movie open the Paris show. "It came from a research trip to L.A.," Galliano told Style.com. "I went around the old houses of Hollywood and imagined how stars like Tallulah Bankhead, Lillian Gish, and Mary Pickford lived." LA is a very nostalgic place full of twentieth century history. These designs really represent that to me.

Happy Friday!

Yucatan Images

2009-09-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

For months now I've been wanting to post more Yucatan photos from my trip last April. It was a whirlwind visit in the heat. There was so much to photograph and not enough time...beautiful historic architecture, color, interesting culture, flora and fauna, one could spend weeks there just taking photos, and then a few more months relaxing. :)

These images are a mix of Merida, Progresso, and Chichen Itza.

Enjoy!

More Yucatan photos.

Christian & Jenny Engaged

2009-09-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

Christian & Jenny met through mutual friends, fell in love, and are now engaged! I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to photograph them. Aren't they just ridiculously good looking?

First we shot a few photos at the merry-go-round at Griffith Park. Get your tickets!

I love this photograph!

Christian and Jenny are renovating their home in the gorgeous Hollywood Hills, so we took a few shots there in the lush greenery and by the pool. Isn't Jenny just stunning?

The Hollywood sign.

City of Angels

We just missed the sunset - but still got the gorgeous colors! Thank you Christian & Jenny for the tour of LA!

I can't wait to show you the rest of the photos!

Haley & George

2009-08-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing my niece Haley & George! I saw them Sunday at the bbq for my Mom's birthday and pulled them aside for 15 seconds out in the backyard for these shots. Happy Birthday Haley! Va va va voom! You look fab. :)
I love this little sequence. Is two enough for a sequence?
Haley looks so pretty!

Channel Islands

2009-08-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

Had a lovely visit with Mom in the beautiful Channel Islands area of Oxnard. The weather was perfect, so I took a few nature shots.
First, Mom's lovely hydrangeas in her cute little backyard...
Mom's sweet kitty Sofie. I love this cat, and I've never been much of a cat person. Check out her little paws curled up!

I made my way down to Oxnard Shores and took this photo of the sparkling ocean looking towards one of the islands. Totally tubular! The beach gets stuff on your lenses too, as you can see by the black dots in the photo. I just thought I'd leave that in for effect.

These are cool patterns made by little holes in the sand. I love photographing interesting textures and patterns.
I love the beach in the summer.

25 Random Things About Me

2009-07-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

Here goes!

1. I consider myself to be kind and compassionate. I'm a wild woman at heart though!

2. I'm obsessed with art. I love photography, painting, clothes, & jewelry. I've been drawing and painting since I was in kindergarden. I got my first slr when I was 15 or 16.

3. I love fashion and have had almost every issue of Vogue since age 11. I designed many, many gowns when I was about 8 -10 years old

4. I grew up riding dirt bikes since I was 8 with my dear old Dad who showed me nature, exploration, and how to ride a dirt bike cross-country through the desert! We travelled all over the West in our motor home - one time for a 3-months straight. :)

5. My son's pediatrician said he's going to be 6'7"!!! I'm 5'9".

6. I kind of wish I went to art school. I majored in journalism/art in jr college

7. Right now I'm trying to paint a 20x20 landscape of lavendar fields in Provence, Italy :)

8. My first child was my pit-bull Chuey Moo. He passed away in 2004 at the age of 13 and I constantly think about him. I told my son that was his brother - ha! (Is that bad?!!)

9. When I was a teenager, I was completely obsessed with Elvis Costello - I actually met him once too at the Santa Barbara bowl after one of his concerts! I almost died.

10. I love to dance to a great dj playing great music with fun friends!

11. I work in the entertainment industry - no, not like that! ha!

12. I want a puppy and a backyard sooooo bad!

13. Sometimes small talk is way boring to me. I'd rather be adventuring, or at the beach, or doing something artistic

14. My Mom and I used to go out to breakfast and go shopping every single weekend. We stopped that after I had my son, and now it's not as easy since we live an hour apart.

15. I've got tons of acquaintences, and about 6 very good, solid girlfriends I think I'll know for life

16. I used to think I wouldn't live a long life, now I think differently!

17. It took me about five years to stop crying after my Father passed away.

18. I am obsessed with the Caribbean - I want to go island hopping for a month straight; then travel the world! ya!

19. I love my son so much, and am a little overprotective

20. I drive an older Honda Civic

21. I live in the big city. I also love the country, but probably couldn't handle living there

22. I used to be into acting. I took a drama class in high school and college and was an extra on a bunch of movies and tv shows

23. My grandmother on my Mom's side was one-half Irish and one-half Cherokee and my grandfather called her "Squaw". My other grandmother was Croatian - and spoke Croatian. Oddly, they were both born in Texas.

24. My Mom is a lot of fun (thats where I get it from). I love her intensely and I call her everyday

25. I have a major weakness for chocolate and Mexican food. I could eat Mexican food every day of my life!

***Now leave a comment & tell me some random things about you!***

Becca & Barrett - Bridal

2009-07-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday a few of my photographer friends and I and shot bridal photos of newlyweds Becca & Barrett around Griffith Park in Los Angeles. I love the fact they suprised us by bringing their vintage Saab along for the shoot! So, we began at the Fern Dell area of Griffith Park which is near the Greek Theatre off of Los Feliz Blvd. I had never been to that area before - not even to scout the location for this photo session - and I was amazed at how green it was. It's like a forest in the middle of the city! Apparently, there's like fifty types of ferns that grow at Fern Dell. It totally reminds me of Northern California. LA is full of unusual locations you might never know about unless you stumbled upon them, or were taken there.

Here's Becca!

A portrait of Barrett (love his name!)

After Fern Dell we mosied over to the old LA Zoo area at Griffith Park which was not used after the 1960's. I had never been there before either! Check out the car! Love this shot.

You can go inside some of the old cages. In this case, Becca & Barrett look a bit like 1930's gangsters hiding out, or imprisioned!

I can just hear him saying c'mon baby, please!

I'm loving the angles of her arms in this dancing shot.

Zak & Erin - Engaged!

2009-07-02T19:33:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I made my way up to gorgeous Ojai to shoot Zak & Erin's engagement photos. Their backyard was like a mini bird sanctuary complete with a hawk and slightly loco owl (due to being hit by a car - poor thing). Erin let me hold the hawk on my arm, which was really cool. I absolutely loved the locations Erin took us to, an abandoned building, a field with bunnies, and an orange grove with super easy access!!!

Thanks Erin & Zak for being such great models and for a fun time in Ojai. You look great in your photos and I can't wait until your wedding in October! There's a ton of photos, but these are most of my favorites.

I really like this one.

This old abandoned building was great!

This photo is so representative of Ventura County, California! The oranges so look juicy and good too. Loving these grove shots.

What a cute couple in beautiful scenery!

Zak's cool ride.

Gorgeous light.

This one is sweet. They both have their eyes closed.

Venice Carnevale

2009-06-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

The annual Venice Carnevale was on June 6th this year so my friends and I headed down to the beach to check it out. I'm so glad I went because finally I experienced a little summer sunshine. I really enjoyed this reggae band. They were seriously great and had a positive message in their lyrics. Loved it!

This dancer was amazing. I like the stripes.
Apparently, this guy got REALLY inspired! Everytime I'm in Venice I say, "I've seen it all now".

Here's plant guy. Interesting.

We stopped at Americal Apparel so I could pick up an off the shoulder tunic top/dress on the way to Venice. This is what I saw during the walk from my car to the store.

Hope you had a fun weekend!

Bridal Photos - Ganita & Nick, Laura & Dustin

2009-06-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I attended the Tilt n Shift workshop with Doug McNamee and Henry Wang and a ton of other photographers...and it was ton of fun! Thanks for coming out and getting all gussied up Ganita, Nick, Laura, and Dustin! You look uh-mazing!
First I shot some photos of Ganita & Nick looking all fabulous and all.

So romantic!

Yummy sunshine.

Introducing Laura and Dustin! Laura sings and Dustin plays guitar and they have music posted on youtube and myspace! I love it! I don't think I've mentioned it before on my blog, but besides photography, I work for one of the top three record companies in the world and love music intensely. I become engulfed it it. When I get into a cd, it becomes the world I'm living in. I live it or something. I'm sure lots of people feel the same way, right? I'm completely obsessed over art - photography & painting, fashion, and music. Anyway, I love it Laura and Dustin are following their dreams and persuing a creative lifestyle. If you would like to hear some of what Laura and Dustin play click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7WaRHQ01X8&feature=channel_page

I love the intensity in Dustins eyes. This photo is so moody.

Bridal Shoot Teaser

2009-06-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

I got together with a group of photographers over the weekend for a fun bridal shoot. Here's a little preview of my next post.

Bridal Shoot - Athena, More

2009-05-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

Here are two more of my favorites from our shoot this past Sunday in Long Beach with Athena. I can't wait to do another bridal shoot!

Bridal Shoot - Athena

2009-05-19T18:47:00.001-07:00

A few photographers and I got together for a little bridal shoot this past Sunday in the LBC (that's Long Beach) with Athena and I shot these images. It was fun meeting photographers from around LA!

Tiffany

2009-05-14T20:42:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I rose from my wonderful bed bright and early on Saturday morning - which I rarely do - and drove over to Malibu with Tiffany to shoot a few photos in the morning light. I'm so glad I did! It turned out to be a beautiful day and I had allot of fun investigating locations, running across PCH, trekking through the weeds, and wading in the Pacific Ocean, taking photos.

Progresso, Mexico

2009-05-08T18:29:00.001-07:00

I love these photos of a few of my favorite couples at the beach in Progresso, Mexico. That's the beautiful blue carribean sea behind them. There's a pier on the left in the photo, which looks small here but is "touted" as the longest pier in the world. It extends five miles out into the Gulf of Mexico. Incredible.
Okay. These two are such a cute couple. I mean seriously, these two are soooo obviously made for each other.

Another absolutely adorable couple with these amazing colorful boats and blue, blue water. I wish I was there taking more photos right now.

The warm glow of the sunset. Nice. I like.

Cory & Melissa, Merida, Yucatan, MX

2009-05-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more of Cory & Melissa with the beautiful yellow Mayan backdrop.

This toucan was at our hotel.

This is a decorated beetle. Eeeu! Kind of cool though.

Cory & Melissa's Mayan Destination Wedding

2009-04-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

Melissa and Cory were married Saturday, April 18th at the Convent of San Antonio de Padua Izamal, Yucatán, Mexico. The wedding was a well planned event by Evelyn Salas. We flew into Merida last Thursday where we stayed two nights, then on by bus to the church, and finally to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza for another two nights. I have so many photos I couldn't decide which ones to post! Thank you Cory and Melissa for allowing me to document and be a part of your special destination wedding!

First, a few getting ready shots of Melissa with the help of her sister Stephanie in Merida. After that, were were on to the Convent of San Antonio de Padua Izamal, Yucatán by bus.

This little staue was in the room Melissa and the bridesmaids were getting ready in.

The bride and bridesmaids took a sprinter bus, and the groomsmen and the rest of the party people were on the big bus!

This is the Convent of San Antonio de Padua Izamal, Yucatán. The whole town is yellow which is symbolic of corn, and the Maya culture in general.

This church has such an amazing domed ceiling.

A very ornate gold altar.

There was a buttefly release and one landed on the groom - Cory.

Here's the bride and groom, along with the rest of the colorful bridal party.

I love all the color!

What can I say about this?

From Izmal we got back on the bus and travelled another two hours or so to the heart of the Yucatan to the ruins for a pyramid light show and reception at Hotel Mayaland. Those are bottles on their heads in the photo below.

Cory played a song for Melissa on his accordion. It was my favorite part of the wedding. So sweet!

I heard someone say "you know it's a good wedding when the wedding planner jumps in the pool". I second that! Here is Evelyn Salas, fabulous Yucatan Wedding Planner, jumping in the pool! Go Evelyn! If you're planning a trip to the Yucatan, get in touch with Evelyn Salas!

The next day we were able to shoot just a few shots at the pyramid before the Mexican policia or security came and made me delete my few photos! Luckily I was able to retrieve some.

This one is so casual and happy!. It makes me smile.

A Mayan Shaman came out and blessed everyone including the brides nephew, Christian who totally got calm and quiet while his blessing was going on. :) I got to meet him later in the lobby and hold his hand and meet his wife.

Cory & Melissa, may you have a beautiful long life together! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of it!

The Yucatan is a beautiful place full of rich culture and beauty!

Brodie & Vicki - Engaged!

2009-04-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite shots from Sunday's photo session at Zuma beach with Vicki & Brodie! I had a great time with both of them and it was just a classic, amazing day in Malibu with a clear view for miles. I just love Vicki's gorgeous long locks. Vicki is rockin this shot!

Brodie & Vicki - Engaged

2009-04-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

I headed over to Zuma beach in Malibu Sunday to meet with Brodie & Vicki to check out the Sunset Restaurant as a potential wedding ceremony and reception spot. We had lunch, and then wandered around to shoot a few engagement photos . Vicki mentioned she used to frequent Zuma as a teenager - like I did! It was a sunny, beautiful day in Malibu, and when I say sunny, I mean some major sun! I got to see some dolphins playing in the ocean and even a wedding ceremony taking place on the beach. It was a perfect day.
What an adorable, fun, social couple Brodie and Vicki are. Brodi is in a band, and their close friends are in a band, so their wedding is really gonna be a party! I'll post more photos soon, but for now, here's my favorite shot of the day. Check out the rock on her hand!

Fryman Canyon - California Wild Spring Flowers

2009-04-05T09:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos of the wild California spring flowers blooming along the Fryman Canyon trail, just off of Mullholland in the Hollywood Hills. I love nature, and this hour long hike is perfect to clear my mind and get my cardio on.

Spring has arrived!

Navy!

2009-03-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Navy!

Navy and I share the same birthday so, it's no suprise she's so incredible!

Navy is also a photographer and a very good one at that. Check out her blog at http://navysouphotography.com/

We met up for a photo shoot last week and I got these amazing shots.

Jack & Susan's Wedding, Long Beach, California

2009-02-19T21:30:00.000-08:00

I had the incredible honor of photographing Jack & Susan's wedding in Long Beach at the Shoreline Yacht Club Sunday. Jack & Susan have a ton of friends and you could just feel the love and admiration exuding from all their guests. Everything was just perfect.

First, some getting ready photos. Susan looked so beautiful and she seemed so calm!

Susan had two bouquets. This one was for the bouquet toss.

Jack gave his bride a gift just before the ceremony. So sweet.
After the ceremony, we headed outside for a few shots by the fountain. It rained all weekend, but the sun came out for this special occasion!

Pretty!

The Bridal party.
To the reception party via decorated bridal boat! Awesome!
What a gorgeous couple!
I LOVE the chandeliers inside of this tent!
Some of the details...

Congratulations Jack & Susan!

Jack & Susan's Wedding - Preview

2009-02-16T20:43:00.000-08:00

Jack & Susan were married in Long Beach Sunday in a lovely ceremony with an awesome reception at the yacht club - and they arrived by private boat! I had a great time and am honored to have been a part of their truly special day.

I'm looking forward to posting a bunch more images soon, but for now, say hel-lo to the new husband and wife!

Wedding Traditions

2009-02-10T10:01:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered how certain wedding traditions started? I thought this was really interesting! Hopefully, you'll agree.

Tying the Knot- This comes from the days of the Roman empire when the Bride wore a girdle that was tied in knots. The Groom untied the knots before they, well… you know.

Diamond Engagement Ring- Italians started this tradition, they beleived the diamond was created from the flames of love.

Garter- Brides originally tossed a garter, rather than a bouquet, at a wedding reception. In the 14th century, this custom changed after Brides became tired of fighting off the drunken men who tried to remove the garter themselves!

Ring Finger- Prior to the 5th century, the ring finger was actually the index finger. Later, it was believed that the third finger contained the vena amoris, “vein of love” that led directly to the heart.Tossing the

Bouquet- Guests used to try to rip pieces of the bride’s dress and flowers in order to keep some of her good luck. To escape, the bride would toss her bouquet and run away. Today the bouquet is tossed to single women with the idea that whoever catches it will be the next to marry.

The Best Man- ”Marriage By Capture” this goes back to when men would kidnapp or capture the woman they wanted to make their bride. This obviously was not a one man job, and of course the future groom would only choose the “best man” he knew to come long for such an important task.

The Groom’s Boutonniere- This goes back to medieval times when a knight wore his lady’s “colors,” proudly displayed for all to see.

Because all posts are better with a photo, I am posting a photo of a beautiful little church in North Hollywood.

Bugs & Daffy

2009-02-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

I put together a little collage of bugs and daffy. Somehow, it ended up all fitting perfectly into a little square. Ta da! Here it is.

WB Tour Carts

2009-02-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

I see these cute little tour carts almost everyday and think they're so adorable! To me, they're a little reminiscent of the way things were in the old days at the studios. Smaller, and more intimate. The tours weren't as big of a commercial situation like Universal Studios now where you're on a large tram; and on the wb tour you're still just on this long golf cart puttering around!

Anyway, I love these carts! Call me crazy.

It rained really hard yesterday afternoon and kept raining until about 3pm today when the sun finally came out for just an hour or so and I shot this photo. The sky was full of big clouds. Clouds are great!

Christina's Santa Monica Bridal Shoot Continued

2009-01-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

What's this? The cops???

Is there a law against getting married?

Hands on the car Mrs!

We had such a fun time with this wonderful Santa Monica Peace Officer! I can't believe we were so lucky as to get the SMPD to take a few moments after responding to a stolen bicycle report to shoot a few photos with the bride! The officer told us he had a call and had to go, so I quickly shot a few photos to go down in the record books.

Christina made her getaway on the fire escape!

Christina - Bridal Photos, Santa Monica

2009-01-23T19:57:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I got together with my dear friend Christina (we used to walk home from high school together!) and shot some fun bridal photos in Santa Monica. She was so adventurous and basically willing to do whatever, so of course we had an amazing time together! I had some good belly laughs hanging out with her.
Bam - there it is!

Christina and her daughter Jennifer look really beautiful in this photo.

Jennifer is such a great model!

Just beautiful.

Christina decided she needed to work off a little steam! I'm just crazy about this photo. :)

Then Christina decided to go for a little ride on the boardwalk.

After that we walked down to the water and the next thing I knew....

Hey!

Timothy & Jessica's Wedding - Santa Barbara

2009-01-18T14:14:00.001-08:00

Check out the photos from the fabulous wedding of Timothy & Jessica at the Glen Annie Golf Club in Santa Barbara, CA. It was an incredibly beautiful day out for a wedding. In fact the bride researched the weather statistics and that's how they couple came up January 17th for their wedding day. Glen Annie Golf Club is absolutely beautiful, and refreshingly green. The wedding details were gorgeous and everything was very well done. I think my favorite things were the ocean view, the harpist and the amazing leopard shoe cake! Love it. A big THANK YOU to Candice Cunningham for inviting me along with her to shoot!

To start with, some gorgeous details:

A boot cake for Tim. I loved the green pears in the details.

A leopard high heel cake for Jessica. My two favorite things combined...shoes and cake!

A major close up of the brides maids bouquets.

The ceremony begins. Here is Timothy awaiting his bride.

Here comes the bride in her amazing gown.

Being married.

This location is totally stunning. I love Santa Barbara - Goleta.

You may kiss the bride!

Woo hoo!

Jessica's dress was featured on the show CBS Sunday Morning last week. I just happened to catch it on TV too.

The recession.

The brides maids looking fabulous!

JK around

A shot of the bride.

I had to include these adorable little girls too.

Such beautiful blue eyes!

I truly enjoyed and was honored to be a part of Tim & Jessica's special day!

Look Where I'm Going!

2009-01-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

Melissa and Cory met while in college then headed to Los Angeles to pursue their professional dreams. Now, they're planning their dream destination wedding in the Yucatan at the Mayan pyramid Chichen Itza!
I can't wait to shoot Melissa & Cory's wedding! They have quite an itinerary planned for their guests too. :) Documenting this beautiful event with such a great couple and their fun friends at one of the "new seven wonders of the world" is going to be absolutely amazing!

I received this lovely invitation in the mail last week. Those are little pyramids on the envelope. Love it!

*For privacy reasons, I blurred some of the personal information in the photo.

Miss Lily

2009-01-03T14:25:00.000-08:00

So dang adorable! What a little sweetheart. I'm glad I finally got a chance to take a few photos of Miss Lily in all her cuteness.

Happy New Year 2009!

2008-12-31T10:01:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's already 2009! I'm looking forward to the new year and the good things it holds in store. I hope everyone has a safe and fun New Years Eve and may all your wishes (& mine!) come true in 2009. To close out 2008, I thought I would post some of my fav photos from the year.

Oh how I love this photo! This was at the beautiful beach in Ventura, CA.

This couple was so in love and boy does it show! Awe.

This is at the beach in Venice.

I think the light in this photo is just amazing.

I haven't posted this photo yet. It reminds me a bit of Diana Ross and the Supremes.

STOP! ...in the name of love!

Oh yeah! Probably my all time favorite photo so far. I can't wait until their destination wedding in April!

You know I love the doggies! I once had a really cool rented genie costume when I was a kid.

This photo is so colorful and lively.

This one too.

And this one.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T20:08:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! I hope you have a wonderful day with your friends and family - wherever you are.

I just love this great five-foot tall wood Santa in front of my sisters house!

Here's a shot of our Christmas dinner table. As always, everything was superb! I love those red jeweled napkin holders and gold cloth napkins. Everything was so pretty.

Rob Collister at The Comedy Store!

2008-12-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

This is my friend Rob Collister (in the next photo down) who performed at the Comedy Store on Sunset Blvd. last night. He was hilarious! If you're in the Los Angeles area and get a chance to see him, do it. Click here to check out Rob on his myspace page.

This comedian was very, very, very ODD. He had these weird, lame dead pan one-liners that were so stupid they were funny! I think his strange image helped.

The House of Blues on Sunset right across from the Comedy Store.

Tyler - No Ho Arts District, Part 3 or 4

2008-12-13T13:51:00.000-08:00

I love all the color in this grafitti wall in North Hollywood! So artistic; and the colors go great with his shirt!

In this photo you can tell Ty is just about done for the day. I think he may be going into a trance! His eyes are so deep and intense, they sort of suck me in.

This is the last of the November No Ho Arts District grafitti shots. I really wish Ty didn't have to have that earpiece hanging out of his ear. Maybe he's really a spy working for the secret service!

Tyler - No Ho Arts District

2008-12-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

Happy face.

Tyler

2008-11-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

The many expressions of Tyler.

No Ho Arts District

2008-11-29T17:11:00.000-08:00

This is Ty and just one of the colorful grafitti walls in the No Ho Arts District, our neighborhood.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

I am so completely thankful for everything I have. I am thankful for my family, my friends, the earth, and all living things in it. I'm thankful to have a place to live, food to eat, a job, and a car. I'm especially thankful to have a good heart, soul, and mind.

So, I guess Ty and I first sort of made a token of thanks to all poultry everywhere and got up Thanksgiving morning and fed the geese and ducks their Thanksgiving dinner of lettuce and breadcrumbs in Encino and then hopped on the 101 to have dinner with the family in Ventura. Everything was absolutely perfect. Dinner was incredibly delicious with all my favorites and more and the table was set beautifully.

I actually loved the yams, which is a first. I guess this means I've grown up.

This is Peanut after his bath, after his wild romp in the mud outside! Not sure if Tyler had anything to do with that. It's quite possible though.
My son Tyler took this great photo of Peanut's Mom, my sister, Pam. Hope she doesn't mind me posting this! Awe. Pretty!
My wonderful son bringing his cousin Haley, Aunt Peggy, and I pie! What a nice guy.And a few other spur of the moment photos.
What a handsome young man.
Oh, and Tyler took this shot of Jack the Nipper. Didn't want to leave him out. Pam said he just nips at the ankles a bit. Nothing to worry about. Nope. We had quite the time with Jack when we first arrived! Later though we made friends with Jack.
Good dog.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T11:02:00.001-08:00

Just for fun, I thought I'd post this photo Christina in Eureka, CA sent me of her son Chris, daughter Jennifer, and cute little horse Prince!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Cory & Melissa, A Couple More

2008-11-22T15:46:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple shots I have been wanting to post from Cory & Melissa's shoot in Santa Monica a few weeks ago. Is it me, or is that an MC spray painted on the wall? :)

Amy - Bridal Shoot

2008-11-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

Beautiful light. I met up with Amy in downtown Los Angeles for a bridal shoot and we had a blast. We ended up at the Standard Hotel on the roof enjoying the scenery.

The Onlooker

2008-11-15T09:47:00.000-08:00

I know he was wondering what was going on!

Melissa & Cory - Engagement Photos, Santa Monica

2008-11-12T19:37:00.000-08:00

I had a great time photographing Melissa & Cory in Santa Monica Sunday. They're both totally fun to hang out with, cool, intelligent, not to mention they donate their time to an orphanage in Mexico - Corazon De Vida. Check them out here: http://www.corazondevida.org/. I think these two are extremely adorable!

Our beach photo plans didn't quite work out as planned due to the freaky gail force winds in Santa Monica the day we finally hooked up for the shoot, but we found some other fun spots to shoot at around town. I had a ton of fun with you both I can't wait to get together again for more photos soon sans the wind! Cory wasn't so anxious to have his picture taken, but he got used to me after awhile! Thanks Cory. :)

Melissa & Cory will be wed April, 2009 in Merida, Mexico with the reception at the Mayan pyramid Chitzen Itza! It will be a wedding fit for a beautiful Mayan Princess and her Fiance.

It was so windy! It made it a bit difficult to get a photo without the hair going wild! Melissa is still stunning even with hair flying everywhere!

More Haute Dog Halloween Photos

2008-11-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

I just can't get enough of them. :) Here are some photos I didn't have a chance to post yet from Justin Rudd's Haute Dog Halloween Parade. Thanks to all the dogs and their parents for coming out!
This photo cracks me up! He looks so intimidating.

Howl'oween Parade

2008-10-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

Here are more photos from the Haute Dogs Howl'oween Parade 2008 in Belmont Shores, Long Beach, California. All the dogs were so adorable in their costumes...however, something about this first gorgeous and stunning celebrity dog really intrigued me! Love the necklace, the platinum hair, the gorgeous Hollywood smile! Make sure you stop by the Haute Dogs site for info on upcoming dog events like the Easter Dog Parade and other dog stuff.

This is absolutely hysterical! The Incredible Hulk!

Haute Dog Howl'oween Parade

2008-10-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

I had an incredible time photographing dogs all dressed up and out for Justin Rudd's annual Haute Dog Howl'oween Parade in Belmont Shores, Long Beach today. There were cheerleaders, ladybugs, gun slingers, the incredible hulk, fairies, police men, jailbirds, a genie, a hula dancer, a construction worker, even a trojan warrior! It was great being with all the sweet pups, and their very nice owners, and really fun to be in Long Beach by the ocean. I took so many photos I couldn't post them all today, but will asap - tomorrow, so check back. Some are really hilarious! :) Crazy characters!

Check out the Haute Dog site at http://www.hautedogs.org/howloween.html

This blog is now a featured photo gallery on the Haute Dog site! Just click on link 5 of the photo gallery on the above link!

*If you would like rates for beautiful portraits of your dog or you and your dog, send me an email at tinakatnich@hotmail.com*

I LOVE DOGS!

I thought this dog was maybe a doo wop singer or some other 50's guy, but I just realized he's actually a LION! Too funny!

Mr. Jones

2008-10-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Jones and his Mom. I thought Mr. Jones was quite introspective and had allot on his mind, not to mention his fur was like a wonderful curly white rug. I love this look he gave me when I called his name! Mr. Jones is ten now, which is seventy in dog years!

Dogs rule.

Dave & Dawna's Wedding

2008-09-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

I love these photos of Dave & Dawna's wedding! Dawna looked absolutely beautiful and their love for each other just radiated. I later found out the ceremony kiss was their very first kiss ever! As you can tell by some of the photos, I guess once they got started, they couldn't stop!

Runyon Canyon Sunset

2008-09-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

view from the hollywood hills

2008-09-12T22:58:00.000-07:00

It's been really clear and you can almost reach out and touch downtown, but the evening I took this photo we had a misty looking sky due to the marine layer earlier in the day. This photo has a little "mood" though. That's downtown LA in the background and Hollywood up close. It's the view from our mwf hike!

Katie - Santa Monica Pier

2008-09-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I met up with Katie at the Santa Monica Pier for a shoot with her. I especially liked these fun photos at the Roll a Ball and the Whack a Mole games! Katie is absolutely gorgeous don't you think? By the way, these photos are un-retouched and straight out of the camera. Katie has perfect skin. I wish I had her beautiful complexion. :)

Aerial Performers!

2008-09-06T11:16:00.001-07:00

This one is like she's flying in heaven. I love the light in the sky behind her!

I'm just amazed at how graceful they are and how stong they must be! I think it's just beautiful and so artistic, like ballet - poetry in motion. I can't wait to meet the rest of the troupe and circus (yay!!!) and see a show!

Checkout: http://www.thedollfacedames.com/

Love them!

Look who got in on the act. Ty! He learned how to do the candycane!

Check Out Who I Got to Shoot This Weekend!

2008-08-30T15:24:00.001-07:00

Amazing~beautiful~talented~poetic

One of the things I love about photography is that you get to meet all kinds of fun, gifted, interesting people. Today I had a great morning shooting some incredibly talented and beautiful aerial artists - from The Dollface Dames! http://www.thedollfacedames.com/. So cool to get to meet them and see them in action! I am a total fan now and I am so impressed with how beautiful they looked in the air!

Babies!

2008-08-27T18:48:00.000-07:00

How cute are these two? I love his little feet sticking straight out!
Even dogs want peace on earth :)

Happy Birthday Mom

2008-08-17T17:53:00.001-07:00

The Mag on the mag.

This weekend I went to my Mom's fabulous 72nd birthday lunch in Ventura with my sisters Pamela & boyfriend Efrain, and Peggy, at one of my Mom's favorite restaurants Marys Secret Garden. We dined on exquisite gourmet vegan food. I had tacos made with nicely spiced mushroom meat, avocado, pico de gallo, in cabbage shells. After our main courses, we treated ourselves to some delicious peanut butter chocolate cake, peach cobber ala mode and in the photo below Mom had pecan pie ala mode. All are made with no dairy products and no white flour. Mom is a vegetarian because she loves animals and doesn't want to eat them. I can appreciate that and I love that about her. Happy birthday Mom! I can't believe how time flies.

The ceiling had all shorts of nice messages like: "right now is the moment you are living right now", and "unconditional love".

Chris & Jessica's Ventura Wedding 08/08/08

2008-08-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Awe.
Sweet

It was a beautiful, SUNNY day on the beach in Ventura for Chris and Jessica's wedding on 08/08/08. I had a blast photographing them and am so grateful to have been a part of their very special day! Chris & Jessica I wish you tons of love and happiness. You are awesome!