Another View

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

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

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

A few senior photos from this year.

Recent Dance Photographs

Alexx's Senior Portrait

Marci + Jeff

Aspiring Actor

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

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!

Luca and London

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

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!