What's new!

Ashley + Monty Engagement

2010-05-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

So much fun photographing these two. I've known Monty since he was in high school, and have photographed him many times. When I was taking photography classes many years ago, I hand painted a black and white photograph of him leaning on a fence - my first effort at hand coloring. That was in the early 1990s!

Ashley is a sweetheart. Loved getting to know her a little better. One of the absolute pleasures of being a photographer is that I get to connect with family, friends and clients quickly. This creates a special bond that I cherish.

Herding Cats - Photographing Families and Groups

2010-05-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

1. Photographing families is often like herding cats, but it can be done. Embrace the role of director.

2. Pay attention to height levels or direct some people to stand and others to sit. Encourage everyone to compose themselves at an angle to the camera.

3. If your family is affectionate - show it. If they are more formal, set up your shot in a more traditional way.

4. Don't be offended by lack of cooperation. If you can't reel in a family member, use the situation in a humorous or interesting way.

5. Once you've got everyone's attention, start out with a series of shots where all eyes are on you. Do whatever it takes to accomplish that. Then, spice it up. Is the family playful or silly? Do they all love something you can play up? Is there a friendly rivalry?

6. Remember, light is the key to all photography.

Indoors: Position family members facing a window or light source. Place yourself between family and the light.

Outdoors: Keep your family's eyes out of the sun. Find open shade or use a device (a sheet, a reflector) to block the sun. If you don't have great light to work with, put their backs to the sun and use fill flash.

7. Don't just line 'em up. Come in with a plan, then veer as the opportunity arises.

Create Authentic Kid Photos

2010-05-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

1. My first tip is a surprising one - leave the kids alone. Photograph with your longest lens and capture them as they are playing and exploring.

2. Encourage them to do what THEY like to do. The perfect moments are ones that are authentic. Kids have the advantage of being adorable, regardless of what they are doing.

3. Use a fast shutter speed to capture their movement (1/500th or faster). Take a series of photos to show the beginning, middle and end of their discoveries.

4. If you direct them, make it into a game. Be creative - you can make up a game or use familiar ones.

5. Encourage them to show off for you. How high can you jump? How far can you throw? How fast can you run?

6. Celebrate your child. Let her show you how funny and clever she is.

7. Photograph the things that will later remind you of your child at a particular age - artwork, worn shoes, sports equipment.

8. As always, play with your point of view. Photograph straight down with your child lying on the ground. Or photograph straight up with you on the ground.

Eight Tips for Better Portraits

2010-05-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

1. The eyes have it. It's no surprise that the expression in the eyes is crucial in most portraits. The question is - do you want your subject's eyes engaged with your lens or not? Eye contact carries with it an intensity and immediacy, whereas your subject looking away gives your shot a more candid feel.

2. Take a wide variety of photographs to learn what works for you. Don't be afraid to move your feet.

3. Decide at key moments whether it's better for you as the photographer to interact with your subjects or to step back and take candids. Do both!

4. Look for patterns. Learn to assess the direction of the light.

5. Find the meaningful story. Think of yourself as a visual storyteller and include the elements that tell that story.

6. Try not to photograph your subject straight on. A tip for a comfortable, flattering way for the subject to stand is with the torso at a diagonal and the subject's weight on the back foot.

7. Take a few shots after your subject thinks you're done. Look for the in-between moments.

8. Move around to create a background that adds to the story. Watch for background poles and trees coming out of the subject's head.

Joel + Oliver

2010-05-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Site: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa
Catering Manager: Catherine Merry
Wedding Coordinator: Kelly McLeskey, A Savvy Event
Flowers: Lavender Floral
Catering and Cake: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Video: Boyer Productions International

This was a perfect wedding at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. The bride was meticulous in her choices, then relaxed on her wedding day.

The Fairmont has so many beautiful areas to photograph - everywhere you look there are arches, ivy covered buildings, beautiful walkways and lovely sculpture. It was a sunny California day. The ceremony area was bathed in shade.

I loved photographing this wedding - classy and elegant and joyous and fun. The bride is gorgeous; the groom a sweetheart with three great kids.

In the Park with Luca and London

2010-04-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

Expecting Marco

2010-04-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

Loved photographing Michelle and Tim. Baby Marco is expected May 31. Will write more later about our adventure!

Just Walking with Julie_Day Four

2010-03-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

Mustard is becoming more sparse. Julie is walking a little faster. This was taken before she arrived at our walking spot. Some were taken on our walk. It's fascinating to see the terrain change with the season.

Santa Rosa Dancers

2010-03-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

Love working with these talented dancers. The theme for their upcoming performance is "Moving through Life." May 7, 8, 9.

Just Walking with Julie_Day Three

2010-03-04T09:14:00.000-08:00

At dusk, just after a rain. Shorter walk. A hair faster. It's an amazing feeling to be able to record what I see - and how I see.

Love hanging out with Julie; love the SLOWNESS of this.

Just Walking with Julie_Day Two

2010-03-01T15:57:00.000-08:00

Same place, different time, different weather. Just walking with Julie. We walked too far. Julie was sore and her leg a little swollen the next day. Still on crutches.

Just Walking with Julie_Day One

2010-03-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

My dear friend and walking buddy, Julie, broke her leg in a skiing accident the day after Christmas. We normally walk at a good clip - Julie is an amazing athlete.

Julie is slowly getting around on crutches, and we're starting our walks again. I decided to bring my camera for our walks, since we're walking slowly enough to really see what is around us. As she gets better, the photos will be more fleeting. For now, here is a sampling of my "Walking with Julie" series.

Caroline + Michael

2010-02-25T09:30:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day Wedding!
The Setting: Private Residence, Napa Valley
Caterer: Melissa Teaff Catering
Production: Five Star Productions
Cake: Sweet on Cake
Florist: Susan Carr
Officiant: Father John Crews
DJ: Troy Gittings

I was thrilled to photograph this lovely Valentine's Day wedding. I've known the bride for twenty + years. All the vendors were top notch. We all prayed for nice weather, and we got a beautiful sunny 67 degree day. Fabulous!

Caroline + Michael

2010-02-24T08:39:00.000-08:00

More to come of this beautiful wedding!

Savanna_Six months!

2010-02-24T07:26:00.000-08:00

We launched Savanna's Savanna's modeling career at six months. Seriously, don't you think she'd be perfect for a Baby Gap ad? Adorable, personality plus, easygoing, big brown eyes, curly hair....

I photographed her mom and dad's wedding and pregnancy. Thankfully, we've stayed in touch and I get to be in their lives as they grow their family.

Her mom is an interior designer and Brazilian dancer. I knew about those gorgeous feathers and asked her to bring them. We used them for the pregnancy photos too. Wow!

Best Friends Forever

2010-02-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

High school seniors - check out this amazing special for you and your best friends. For the price of ONE senior photo session, I'll photograph you and your best friends anywhere in Napa or Sonoma. A great deal for your parents and lots of fun for you!

NEW SPECIAL!

Up to three friends.

Group and individual photos.

Photos posted on line.

Fun video/photo slide show.

High school juniors - sign up too.

Pass it on!

Scrapblog Valentine - Free site

2010-02-09T07:04:00.000-08:00

Daniela Eight days old!

2010-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

I couldn't wait to meet Daniela. Here she is at eight days old. So beautiful!

I've never seen a newborn with such big, open expressive eyes. She is clearly very bright and already engaged with the world. I'm in love with her! Her parents are quite wonderful too.

Also, meet Mrs. Beasley, Daniela's guard dog!

Celebrate Valentine's Day at the RED Gala

2010-01-30T09:35:00.000-08:00

Join me for a fabulous evening with internationally acclaimed singers, the Napa Valley Youth Symphony, Sinfonia, and NOT-TO-MISS amazing auction items.

The RED Gala will be presented at the Lincoln Theater on February 13 to celebrate Chinese New Year and Valentine's Day. For tickets and more information go to www.lincolntheater.org

I photographed the Youth Symphony musicians for the invitation and promotional materials. The fabulous Susie Schoonmaker designed all the graphics.

Facebook Photo Special

2010-01-27T10:36:00.001-08:00

Retouching - what difference does it make?

2010-01-26T07:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick primer on photo retouching. Remember, doctoring of photographs has been around for years. With photoshop, however, the possibilities are at a new level.

In general, digital image files that see the light of day are in one of three states - unretouched (or straight out of the camera), retouched, or enhanced.

Unretouched images, for those who shoot with jpegs, are images where the CAMERA makes the the decisions based on the settings made in the camera.

Retouched photographs include some post-processing changes to the digital file made in an image editing program such as Photoshop. (Yawn - don't fall asleep yet - there's more!)

For portraits, this includes removing or modifying blemishes, wrinkles, reflections, unwanted shadows, stray hairs, red-eye, etc. It may include smoothing skin and some dodging/burning, whitening teeth, brightening eyes. My barometer for retouching is to keep people looking natural AND like they've had a great night's sleep.

In this photograph, most of the retouching involved smoothing the shadows on the left side of this beautiful bride's face. I also removed the color cast on her dress, brought out the detail of her veil, smoothed some of the shadows on her arm, and brightened the photo a touch.

Enhanced photographs include some further interpretation of the photograph using an image editing program such as photoshop. Here are a few examples of enhanced photographs. Which interpretation works best for you?

Black and white conversation and partial color are additional possibilities.

At a most basic level, the original digital file is the foundation of the photograph. The retouching and image enhancement are what make the photograph sing.

Baby Photos - Vote for your Favorite

2010-01-25T10:51:00.001-08:00

Babies - who can resist them? So adorable. Just for the fun of it, VOTE for your favorite baby photo selected from a handful of this past year's sessions. All the babies are supremely sweet and are attached to wonderful families.

The baby photo with the most votes will win his or her parents an 11 x 14 museum canvas photograph from their photo session.

The photo number is below each photo. Vote in the comments section at the bottom after baby #12. One vote per person, please and include your name. Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter. Thank you!

Thanks for your vote! ~ Suzanne

Happy New Year from Suzanne

2010-01-23T15:22:00.000-08:00

Fabulous twins

2010-01-15T17:25:00.001-08:00

I had so much fun photographing these twins and their family! Their parents didn't seem sleep deprived - how could that be?!

Photo session at Bronk Studio.

The twins are approximately six months. Their sister is three.

Waiting for Baby!

2010-01-15T16:24:00.000-08:00

So adorable! Silvia likes to collect rubber duckies when she travels. She has lots!

Photo session at Bronk Studio.

Silvia is eight months pregnant.

Elaine + Morley + Juliana + Nathan + Alicia

2010-01-01T21:53:00.000-08:00

Great family - so lovely to photograph. Thanks for starting the New Year off so well!

Meet Peter, Lexie's Friend

2009-12-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful, sunny NOVEMBER day in Napa. We slipped this photo session in the afternoon before Thanksgiving. Peter is almost one year old - happy, running around and exploring. His wise mom brought several changes of outfit; Peter likes playing in the mud and water. Fun!

Newborn Baby Nicholas!

2009-11-30T16:03:00.001-08:00

Anticipation is lovely, but meeting baby Nicholas is even better. Here he is at two weeks old. Gorgeous!

His mom works for Adobe. To my delight, she brought this adorable onesy for Nicholas to wear. I'm a big Adobe fan (and user!).

Holiday Cards

2009-11-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

Custom designed holiday cards ... if I've photographed your wedding or portrait, I am happy to tailor a designed holiday card for you. I still love sending and receiving cards - I hope you do too!

• 5 x 7 Folded Cards

• High quality matte "green" cardstock

• Message, text font and card colors can customized

• A design element can be added or subtracted

• Photos can be added

• Envelopes with return address included

• Quantities of 25

EASY and ELEGANT!

Email me with the style number you like, the photo numbers, and any other details. Deadline: December 1

Marna + Mitch

2009-11-21T08:22:00.001-08:00

What could be better than photographing Marna and Mitch for their engagement session, on a gorgeous and warm November day? We were watching the weather, hoping to dodge the rain.

I photographed Marna when she was in high school, and saw her a few years ago at her friend's wedding. It was a particularly sweet and poignant treat for me to hear from her, asking me to photograph their upcoming wedding in September. Can't wait!

Happy, happy Lexie

2009-11-17T14:12:00.000-08:00

Lexie isn't yet one year old, and she's moving like a pro. I see dance or music or gymnastics in her future. Fortunately, we met on an unusually warm, almost summer-like Napa day, so Lexie could run, dance and jump in the sun.

Ten Reasons not to work while you're sick

2009-11-13T15:33:00.000-08:00

#10. You print client photos on CD labels, because you didn't change the paper.

#9. You think you are being productive, but your brain begs to differ.

#8. You sign your emails to clients with xxoo. INAPPROPRIATE.

#7. You are too tired to write a note, so you just throw stamps on an envelope, write no note, and put the photos in your mailbox. So rude - no personal touch.

#6. You sound like Atilla the Hun on the phone.

#5. You sound like a mobster on the phone.

#4. You don't rest, so don't get better. UGH!

#3. You sound like a broken record with excuses.

#2. You tell Mercado Global that you will photograph their pieces. They are so beautiful - you want the photographs to reflect how gorgeous they are.

#1. BUT - a reason TO WORK when you are sick - you find out some people actually read your blog and want all ten reasons.

Photography Books: Tuesday Blog

2009-11-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about the way people enjoy photographs. So many people experience images fleetingly and on screen. I wonder if they miss out of one of the most important qualities of personal photographs - their evocative nature.

I have come to love photography books as one of the most intimate and accessible ways to experience photographs. Books allow the story telling aspect of photographs to unfold. They allow the series or succession of images to be presented as such, often creating a visual crescendo.

Most of us have many, many photographs and don't have enough space to display them. A gorgeous coffee table book is just the ticket.

Mercado Global School Visits

2009-11-09T15:02:00.001-08:00

Mercado Global Napa Valley Event

2009-11-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

Mercado Global Role Models

2009-11-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

Two of our nineteen Mercado Global Role Models. Following the benefit event this Thursday at the Napa Valley Museum, I will post the entire set of photographs with more information.

Role Model Initiative Statement

The Mercado Global Role Models initiative highlights the power of women to affect positive change in their communities and at a global level as leaders, consumers and business professionals.

The Role Model photo sessions will feature the artisans’ new collections with strong, successful women leaders as models. The women we select to model our partner artisans’ pieces have played an instrumental role in socially responsible consumerism initiatives or have positively impacted their communities through social action.

Mercado Global

Mercado Global is a Fair Trade nonprofit that uses markets to empower indigenous women artisans in rural Guatemala to break the cycle of poverty and become agents of change in their own communities.

Napa Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra

2009-11-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

Invitation Photographs - Here is a sneak peak at the direction for the invitation photographs for the big February fundraiser. The background will be changed from green to white or swirls or reds or something fun. The invitation is in the capable hands of Susie schoonmaker with Kim Teevan Productions.

Jess + Craig + Maggie + Eliza

2009-09-12T17:43:00.001-07:00

There's something very satisfying about working with a family through the years. This week, I'm photographing three families I've photographed many times. This is the first of the three.

Trust - shared aesthetic - fun. It all works together to create a great experience and yummy photographs!

Whole Foods Napa Valley Employees

2009-09-12T17:16:00.001-07:00

• Photographing 130 Whole Foods employees at 7:30 a.m. - No problem.

• Photographing 130 Whole Foods employees at 7:30 a.m. precisely while a hot air balloon floats overhead - Only in Napa Valley!

Intersections/Fast Forward

2009-09-05T16:48:00.000-07:00

My longtime dear friend, Sheila Scobba Banning, recently published a book called Intersections. Sheila is one of the funniest, wittiest people I know. Intersections is "an eclectic collection of short stories exploring love and loss in modern times, this book merges literary fiction and science fiction in one volume."

Sheila's exciting "hot off the press" news is that Intersections was just picked up by Amazon. BRAVO!!!

I highly recommend you go to her site and look around. DO NOT MISS her essay, Weeping and Laughing. http://www.scobba.com/Essays.htm I had the privilege of taking her author photo.

Activities for Kids at a Wedding

2009-09-04T16:27:00.000-07:00

I just discovered a wonderful resource for wedding couples who will include kids as guests. Napa Valley Activities will entertain the kids at a wedding or create custom parties for you. Their related business provides babysitting services.

Napa Valley Activities studio space on Industrial Way is a gem too. In their large space, they have a pottery, glass and clay studio. They host parties of all kinds and for all ages. Adorable!

Laryssa + Steve _ Waiting for Nicholas!

2009-08-31T14:43:00.001-07:00

Candido Family - web video!

2009-08-25T07:27:00.001-07:00

Danielle Senior Photos_Part 1

2009-08-16T17:16:00.001-07:00

Oh my - Danielle is such a talented dancer and a treat to photograph. This is part one of two parts. Her non-dance senior photos will be done in the Spring. Stay tuned!

Brandi + Jeff Wedding

2009-08-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

The Setting: Private Residence, Napa Valley

Officiant: Rev. Carmen MAson_Brown, MDiv

Caterer: Back to Earth

Florist: Garaventa's Florist

Cake: Sweetie Pie's

Brandi + Jeff

2009-08-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Brandi + Jeff were married at a private estate in Napa. The estate owner drove the bride to the ceremony site in style. Check it out!

Rebecca is 13 - almost! Video

2009-08-02T18:41:00.000-07:00

Rebecca's Bat Mitzvah photo session video is adorable - as is she!

Kerry + Brent

2009-07-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

The setting and Caterer: La Residence, Napa Valley

Coordinator: Alana Willson

Flowers: Polly Harrington of Valley Flora

Cake: Kara's Cupcakes

Hair: Whitney at La Rouge, Napa

La Residence is a luxury inn with whimsical butterfly sculptures, located near Don Giovanni in Napa. It's is a perfect property for a wedding, and is especially well suited to a destination wedding. Guests can stay at the expansive property which includes large lawn areas, a pond and fountains, porches, a pool and beautiful vines.

Kerry looked like a elegant model from a 1940s Vogue Magazine - gorgeous and styish. Brent is a sweetie. Although the families had just recently met, they fell in love with one another and had a blast.

Kerry + Brent Photo/Video

2009-07-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

Laura + Jordan

2009-07-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

Site: BR Cohn

Site Coordinator: Paula Horosco and Kirsten Cadaret

Day of Coordinator: Sharon Yap

Caterer: Park Avenue Catering

Cake: Alexis Baking Company

Flowers: LaniElizabeth

Hats off to Laura and Jordan for completely savoring each moment of their fabulous wedding at BR Cohn Winery in Sonoma on Saturday. They made each guest feel as though that person was the guest of honor.

As always, a sense of humor goes a long way. From the four year olds to the grandmas, this was a group who knows how to have fun. The day was filled with laughter, love, dancing and joy.

Here are a few photos. I had too many favorites to post them all.

Laura + Jordan Wedding at BR Cohn: Photo Video

2009-07-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

Almanac Almanac: A big wedding at The Sequoias (June 3, 2009)

2009-06-03T08:41:00.001-07:00

Love can be found at any age and any place. Sallie and Jack met each other an active senior residence nestled among the huge sequoia trees in Portola Valley California. Both are 83 years old. On their wedding day, they showed the range of emotion that I see in couples of any age - excitement and elation and nervousness and utter joy.

This wedding was the talk of the town among the senior set in the Woodside/Palo Alto area. Imagine how inspiring Sallie and Jack are to the other seniors!

Sallie and Jack had a traditional church wedding with one of Sallie's Stanford classmates officiating. Their huge reception was held at the main hall of the Sequoias. They squeezed in 350 celebrants in a space with a capacity of 250. It was windy and cold that day, so everyone stayed inside.

The best line of the day: Sallie and Jack promised each other fifteen good years.

Click on the article below from the Woodside Country Almanac to read more.

Almanac Almanac: A big wedding at The Sequoias (June 3, 2009)

Shared via AddThis

Lexie

2009-05-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

Meet Lexie!

Lexie was giggly, smiley, attentive, responsive and engaged the whole photo session, and she's only a little over 5 months. She held up even though the air conditioning in my studio wasn't working properly on a 103 degree day. Wow!

Misty + Jon

2009-05-18T17:47:00.000-07:00

Misty and Jon are getting married in the Houston area in the fall, and came up to Napa Valley to celebrate their engagement. They are very natural, and clearly thrilled to have found one another.

I found them both to be totally open and easy to photograph. It was a hot, hot weekend, so we started at 8:30 in the morning at Domaine Chandon. It worked out well because Misty and Jon are morning people and there were very few people around. I am lucky to meet and photograph wonderful people like these two.

Lisa + Isabella + Max

2009-05-18T16:08:00.000-07:00

Lisa and her kids were willing to go anywhere for our outdoor photo session, so I took them to a fun spot in Sonoma. The main criteria was to go someplace where the kids didn't know anyone - totally understandable when you are 8 and 10.

The kids were fun and playful. I don't know if Max is an aspiring actor, but he certainly is annimated. There was a definite need for food on everyone's part toward the end.

To Boldly Go

2009-05-08T15:42:00.001-07:00

Where no man has ever gone before ... the Starship Bronk.

What stardate did James start standing on line for the new Star Trek movie?!!

Photographing in the Rain

2009-05-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

Robin's senior photos had two parts. Because he is an accomplished swimmer, part one was to photograph him at the MEL preliminary swim meet. Part two was in the studio two days later.

No problem - right? Yes, except one thing. We Californians don't expect RAIN in early May. And I went to the wrong high school pool. Fortunately, I brought a huge umbrella with a big handle.

Here is my correspondence to Robin's mother, Michele:

All’s well that ends well! Robin was a great subject – really open and nice to photograph. I got shots I like a lot.

One small bit of humor – I had stuck my umbrella in the front of my pants because at one point it was pouring and I couldn’t hold the umbrella along with my camera and my camera bag.

After I photographed Robin’s dive, I walked quickly over to the starting blocks. Unfortunately, the umbrella got stuck, and I couldn’t get it out. Argh! The parents by the starting block must have thought I was crazy pushing through there with my big umbrella.

I finally got the umbrella out from my pants, but I wasn’t able to close it. I tossed it in the back toward the fence and was able to capture one or two strokes. I did get some nice shots of him at the finish. Needless to say, I’ve never had that happen before (I’ve never stuck an umbrella in my pants), but it worked out. It was pretty functional when I was photographing his dive in the pouring rain. Cameras stayed dry. It’s a good story anyway!

From Michele:

Nice, I wish I had seen that. Makes standing in the rain worth it when something like that happens to someone other than me. Robin seemed really pleased with what you two were working out together. He's looking forward to tomorrow's session.

Prom is tonight of course, he is on a big bus with a group of dancing fools I think. So, when you are looking at the 'negatives' photoshop out just a wee bit of the black saddlebags under his eyes would ya' please?

Put this on your Christmas list, one of those little umbrellas that comes with a head harness and optional miner's lamp in the front. Fashion forward and keeps soggy umbrellas out of your pants. Works for shade in the summer and rain in the winter!!

Waiting for Savana_Video

2009-05-01T07:02:00.001-07:00

Waiting for Emma!

2009-04-30T06:35:00.001-07:00

Emma Jean is due May 25.

Cheri loves quilting and has many quilting friends. This is one of the quilts given to Emma at Cheri's baby shower. I might add that Cheri hates being photographed, but is a beautiful subject, nonetheless!

Britt + Darren

2009-04-29T15:26:00.001-07:00

I received a call from Britt a few months ago about photographing her wedding at La Belle Epoque, an adorable B & B in Napa. It turns out her husband to be is the son of the owner. Here are a few of my favorites from Saturday's wedding.

Her dress had an antique feel, so these photographs reflect that feeling. I couldn't resist those blue shoes - fun!

I didn't meet Britt or Darren ahead of time, but both have a lovely sense of humor and humility. They were easy and open - a recipe which allows for beautiful, artful photographs.

To have and to hold. The plate was found by the bride at Etsy.

The flower girl peeks in at the bride.

Those electric blue shoes. Love them!

A reflective moment...

The bride's sister was the maid of honor. A quiet moment before the ceremony.

Happiness!

One of La Belle Epoque's gardens.

Congratulations!

Those blue shoes again. Can't resist!

A kiss - PLEASSSSSSE!

Another View

2009-04-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

Thinking about photography ... Photography is clearly a modern artistic medium and is moving in directions that we are beginning to glimpse. It's increasingly accessible to the wider population as a way of seeing the world and as an artform. The merging between other forms of art and photography is now common.

Here is an interpretation of one of the pregnancy images below.

Waiting for Savana

2009-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

I photographed Regia and Emilio's wedding in June and was thrilled to hear from Regia that she is pregnant. I am touched and privileged to continue photographing their life events.

At their wedding, Regia surprised Emilio with a performance of Brazilian dance in full feathered costumes. The dance troupe included the bride.

When Regia contacted me about her pregnancy session, her photos flashed in my brain instantly. Of course, her pregnant belly had to be flanked by those remarkable feathers.

A word about the feathers - they work so well in these photos because they are authentic for Regia with her background as a Brazilian dancer. I can't wait to photograph Savana, coming this summer!

How to Photograph Movement

2009-04-19T13:02:00.001-07:00

For those of you who would like the nitty gritty of photographing motion, here are the basics:

1. Set your camera to ISO 800 or above, depending on light conditions.

2. Set your shutter speed to as fast as possible 1/500th or 1/1000th of a second. If you are using a point and shoot, set the icon dial on the athlete.

3. Anticipate where your subject will be at the capture point.

4. Find a way to pre-focus on that capture point. Press your shutter half way.

5. As your subject is moving, complete the shutter press. Try to do so at the peak of the action.

6. Watch the hands or feet, depending on what you are trying to capture.

7. Practice! Use the few kids up at bat before yours to practice your timing or ask someone to jump for you. See if you can take a photo while her feet are at their highest point.

Senior Photos

2009-04-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

A few senior photos from this year.

Recent Dance Photographs

2009-04-19T12:30:00.001-07:00

Alexx's Senior Portrait

2009-04-15T08:04:00.001-07:00

Marci + Jeff

2009-04-13T14:59:00.001-07:00

Aspiring Actor

2009-03-19T11:04:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I photographed Marley, as aspiring young actress. She wanted a very simple, clean look to her shots. The final photo will be cropped into a tight head shot.

Mayee + Anthony

2009-03-12T09:04:00.001-07:00

I photographed Maycee and Anthony at my studio then out and about in Napa. Both grew up in Napa but went to rival high schools. I found them to be open and so sweet. As you can see they are gorgeous - attractive both inside and out. Here is a video of a selection of photographs. There were so many lovely ones, it was hard to choose. I like photographing both in the studio and outside. The studio allows for a very simple, yet dramatic look. Photographs outside give context and are more dreamy. What do you think?

Two of the cutest boys ever!

2009-03-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

Luca and London

2009-03-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

SO adorable! Not only are these two among the most adorable kids you've ever seen, but they both have charming personalities that will melt the hearts of all around! I've had the privilege of photographing both of them every three months for the first year of their lives, beginning at newborn. It's among the most satisfying kind of photography for me. I get to establish a relationship with them AND watch them grow up!

Napa High Dance

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

The Napa High Dance Department is top notch. Hollie Schmidt, the Napa High head coach, director and dance technique teacher was recognized in Dance Spirit Magazine as one of the top 25 directors in the nation.

Last night, the Napa audience was treated to a preview of the spirit leaders' performance before they head to competition in Florida. The jazz 1-2-3 programs were featured too. All excellent!

Harvest Inn Wedding

2009-02-23T09:29:00.001-08:00

... A fall destination wedding I photographed at the Harvest Inn in St. Helena. Jessica and Gary have an amazing love story. They were both in the traveling cast of Sesame Street when they found me to photograph their wedding. Now Jessica teaches theatre. Kimberly Thompson was the officiant extraordinaire for this wedding!

Napa Valley Marriott Wedding

2009-02-19T11:27:00.001-08:00

A beautiful wedding at the Napa Valley Marriott. Perfect!

Napa Valley Marriott

2009-02-19T11:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a beautiful wedding at the Napa Valley Marriott. Perfect!

Carrie + Jeff

2009-02-16T08:55:00.001-08:00

A small video of Carrie + Jeff's Valentine's Day celebration!

A note received from Carrie:
Hello Suzanne,

Thanks for putting this together for us.
Everyone has been so touched by the video/photos.

Thanks again for being part of our big day!
We were very lucky to find you.

Kind regards,
Carrie

Carrie + Jeff

2009-02-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

What could be more fun than to photograph a Valentine's Day wedding? Carrie + Jeff celebrated their Napa Valley wedding with a small group of close friends. No problem with the rain - Carrie said it will bring their marriage good luck. I was grateful that there was a small break, so we could do a few outdoor shots.

Say I do ...

Loved the RED shoes!

The happy couple!

My favorite valentine card

2009-02-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Tamar (10) and Simone (9) for this fabulous Valentine's Day card to my husband and me. We love it!!

Lolo's Second To None_Click Here

2009-02-12T11:55:00.000-08:00

Last Spring I photographed a St. Helena store - Lolo's Second to None - to launch their web presence. Owner Kristine Waldenburg sells quality pre-owned merchandise in her upscale consignment store and is now selling on the web. Check out her sight periodically, because the merchandise changes and you are sure to find some gems. She has lots and lots of cool items!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-12T09:47:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays - it celebrates and recognizes ALL kinds of love. Romance is alive and well, as is deep friendship.

Happy Valentine's Day to you!

Annie Leibovitz_ Vanity Fair, Click here

2009-02-12T09:32:00.000-08:00

I really do subscribe to Vanity Fair for the pictures ... although I respect much of what is written in the political realm too. In the latest issue, Annie Leibovitz photographed President Obama's cabinet - at least the cabinet at that moment. (Already out of date with Tom Daschle included.) It's worth looking at her take on the team running our country. Compare it with the photographs by Nadav Kander in the New York Times Magazine a couple of weeks ago. What do you think? (Alright - I thought Kander's were soulless, boring and scary.)

On a related note, did you notice that the Huffington Post was added to the white house press corps? The reporter looks like he's about 12, but it's still a recognition of new media.

Kudos + Brides Against Breast Cancer

2009-02-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

Getting great feedback from clients always makes us feel good and validates the care and personal attention we put into each wedding. Here is a letter from our December 27th wedding written by the groom. I am always touched by a kind note, but it is particularly sweet and a bit unusual to receive a note from the groom.

I want to put another plug in for the organization "Brides Against Breast Cancer" where Katie purchased her wedding gown.

Dear Suzanne:

Katie and I cannot thank you enough for everything you did in helping capture our special day. Your creativity and artistic vision are gifts. We absolutely love the photos. They are nothing short of perfect. You and Michelle went above and beyond any of the highest expectations Katie and I had. The pictures from around town are some of our favorites. Thank you for taking the time to find such beautiful backgrounds.

It was a challenge for us trying to coordinate and plan an entire wedding weekend from across the country. It was a pleasure working with you and Michelle as you made everything go smoothly for us. Again thank you for your flexibility and creativity in dealing with our unique situation.

Thanks again for all your effort. Please pass our thanks and praises to Michelle as well. We wish you both the best of luck in the future. We cannot wait to work with you on creating an album and it was our pleasure to send a glowing recommendation of your services to the Marriott.

Sincerely,

Steve and Kate

Penelope Jane Wedding Cakes_Click here for her website.

2009-02-06T08:32:00.001-08:00

As a Napa Valley photographer, I get to peek at lots of services and products offered in the valley. One gem I've found is Penelope Jane Wedding Cakes. She created this gorgeous wedding cake for one of my December weddings. The yummy cake had sugar coated grapes on the top - quintessential Napa Valley!

Napa Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra

2009-02-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Napa Valley Youth Symphony's fundraiser concert "Make Our Garden Grow" is coming up on February 28. I photographed a handful of orchestra members last year for the invitation. For this year's auction, I'm donating a museum canvas piece using photographs of those musicians. The music used is a piece from their November concert. The NVYSO sounds great and is comprised of many of the best young orchestral musicians in the valley. Click on the title above to purchase tickets and to learn more about the concert.

More Photo Jewelry!

2009-01-28T08:09:00.000-08:00

The jewelry pieces have a clean, modern look. Here are necklace samples...

His and her keychains...

Celebrating with President Obama!

2009-01-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

Many of us worked hard to help elect our new President and are filled with hope and a sense of possibilities. We couldn't let this historic event go by without a celebration! We invited our new President to join us and had a blast!

NRDC Nutcracker

2009-01-18T11:20:00.001-08:00

Here are a few more Nutcracker images that were just added to the Nutcracker posting on my website. What amazing dancers! Reminder to the Nutcracker families - the Nutcracker posting on my website goes off line on February 23rd. Thanks!