Joleen Willis Photography

Lara & Matt: Married!

2011-09-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

The story goes something like this: Lara had escaped from town to her childhood home, her cabin hidden by trees, approachable only by winter stream crossing, to have some time alone. She was taking a nap, not expecting any company at her hideout, when along came Matt. Now we're not talking the kind of home where people drive by, or people just stop in, this home is off the grid, accessible only by a dusty dirt road. So, seeing another someone was a surprise.
She went out to meet this someone, who happened to be Matt, Matt being someone who worked with private forest landowners, which Lara was. She asked some questions, questions a mountain girl such as herself already knew answers too, and Matt promptly volunteered answers, but not all of them to save some for the coffee date he wanted to take her on. Now correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the story goes Lara vetoed coffee for a hike. And here we are, at their wedding day. THIS is the very spot they met:

This is just exactly how Lara had laid out her things for me to photograph. I didn't even touch them. I arrived early to the house to take pictures of details, while Lara hiked in from her hidden campsite in the forest.

I'm not sure if Lara ever got around to putting her boots on, as far as I know she spent the day barefoot.

Lara told me she never pictured herself in a traditional wedding gown, she figured it would have been something simple and cotton, but when she tried on this gown, she skipped. That's how she knew.

Lara's bouquet was picked herself the very morning of her wedding, entirely of wildflowers.

Lara & Matt opted for a First Look, making the rest of their day stress-free, and being fully present at all of their reception. She wrote me later and said that having that time to see each other alone before everything started happening was just what they needed. Lara, if you're reading this, maybe you could put your two cents on having a first look? Is it as special?

Before I took this picture, I had the bridal party in a nice little line, but it just wasn't them. Then Lara was like, "Can we climb on the rock?" Of course. Once up there she said, "Now THIS is MY bridal party!' :)

When Lara first snuck a peek at her groom she announced to all her ladies, "Now I understand why men wear suits."

Quick moment with Matt's mom before the ceremony.

How nice to be lead by accordion to the ceremony meadow!

Ah, the meadow. Lara's childhood home. The place she's always felt most safe. Now shared with Matt, the one who makes her feel the most safe.

Lichten played an important part in Lara & Matt's wedding day and decorations. It's naturally present in abundance throughout the meadow, but it was also important, as Lara explained, the kind of relationship it represents.

No flower market here, these are all from the meadow!

Another yummy cake from Alicia!

Mother of bride and mother of groom, laughing at father of bride.

First Dance!

Having a little trouble with that cake until someone produced a toy chainsaw.

Julie & Zac: Married! Sonora Wedding Photographer

2011-09-11T15:06:00.000-07:00

Oh Julie & Zac, you struck a soft spot in my heart from our very first meeting. So YOUNG AND IN LOVE. I loved the way you guys looked at each other, leaned on each other, talked about the future together. I loved your secret plans turned not so secret (and also not-so-elopement). I love that all that mattered was being married.

Thank you for letting me share a part of your wedding day. With all the twists and turns leading up to it, I'm so blessed to have been included in the plan. Love you guys, Joleen

PS I wanted to give your pics a little vintage flare, something I rarely do. I hope you like 'em.

Oh Julie, so classicly beautiful, even in your flannel.

Bouquet made by family friend!

One of my all time faves. She looks like an actress, from a time when being such was glamorous.

Cake made lovingly by a friend!

Flower girl Hosanna, Julie's niece.

I've mentioned before I have a thing for eyelash pictures, and BAM. Look at that. Natural!

Lauren & Garrett: Married! Twain Harte Wedding Photography

2011-08-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

It was one of those days that went off without a hitch...two people very much in love, surrounded by friends and family. All through out the day everyone kept saying the same thing: "FINALLY Lauren & Garrett are married (even though Lauren and Garrett are fresh out of college), they just seem like old souls that have known each other forever."

This dress was very special because someone very special to Lauren (also the one who did her hair) wore it on her wedding day. Forget new wedding dress, I'd take one with a story and love already in it.

Lauren is a ballet dancer, making my job a breeze. She's a total natural in front of the camera with perfect poise.

The lovely ladies.

Gangster.

I always love the expression of the groom as he sees the bride come down the aisle.

Again, look at Garrett as Lauren reads him her vows.

Aww the recessional, another one of my favorite moments.

The Twain Harte Tree Farm makes for such lovely pictures! Thanks Don & Peggy!

To the reception and first dance!

Apparently Garrett was not up to date on his Justin Beiber education. These boys educated.

Another delicious cake by Alicia's Sugar Shack!

ha ha ha ha ha ha

See all the pics at here here.

Kelsey & Trever: Married! Sonora Wedding Photography

2011-07-20T19:08:00.000-07:00

What a fun, colorful, down-home wedding this was! I have major appreciation for Kelsey, Trever and their posse who planned this wedding and put together such a beautiful event. Of course, as I'm sure all the guests had a great time (well, I did anyway) we all know what really matters, and that is Kelsey and Trever are now Mr. and Mrs. Once it's all said and done, and the pictures are finished (on my part) I usually find myself reflecting on the couple, what it was that stood out about them to me, and for Kelsey and Trever, at the front of my mind was "fun and in love!" I really hope you see this in their pictures!

The Red Flower on my Cactus

2011-07-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

It started with my morning coffee on my porch, during one of my favorite parts of the day. I like to sit before the heat of the day assaults our little town, and listen to the wane of the crickets wrapping it up. I've made the porch a little sanctuary, due in part to a little disorder I've come to call plant hoarding. Today in particular, I noticed something new, a perfect, red flower on top of my Aunt Mildred's cactus. It appeared overnight.

Maybe I'm feeling a bit nostalgic today. But the flower made me think of my Great Aunt Mildred, who passed away just about a year and half ago. Before she passed, I'm so thankful a school assignment gave me a little motivation to document a part of her life, and I think it's a story that is worthwhile to be shared, as she lived through a time many of us can't relate to very well. Here's a little part of her story:

Mildred, age 11, and her sister, Ellie, were playing in field at their Oklahoma home. The year was 1935, and the land was in the throws of the Great Depression. It was the same year Mildred and her family would take the legendary Route 66 to a promised better life in California.

And then, the girls, amongst their play, heard It. Something they had never heard before: It started small, a whining in the distance… but with increasing rumble the sound was soon to fall on them, and fill every nook and cranny of any previously safe place.

Mildred and Ellie ran. Their bare feet kicked up dust along the rows of peanuts battling to grow. They struggled to make time against the net of faded, homemade, cotton dress that entangled their knobby knees.

The noise did not retreat. In fact, it’s mighty thundering grew. In what they thought was life’s last attempt they dove, trying in vain to cover themselves with the sparse leaves of the peanut plants. They looked up to the big Oklahoma sky, sure to witness the second coming of Christ, and to their surprise saw a big metal bird. An airplane. The first airplane they had ever seen, or for that matter heard. It continued on its flight, unaware that two girls below were sure the breath they took was their last.

Mildred was born in Spiro, Oklahoma. She lived with her family in a plain house on a dry patch of land. They farmed peanuts, onions, and potatoes. She was one of eight children. She had six sisters named Bessie, Nina, Leila, Juanita, Mildred, Ella, Ellie and , and one brother, Virgil. Her parents were William and Manuerva (who they called “Nuervy”) Davis. The house wasn’t small, but the whole family slept on the bottom floor on account of the enormous rats that lived upstairs. Three or four of them would share the same bed. Mildred remembered, “I bet we stunk when we went to school, but everybody was in the same boat and lived the same way.”

I can't take credit for these flowers, they're actually from a future bride of mine's, Lara Ford's, garden .

There was no electricity, no telephone, no running water. They burned coal oil lamps and cooked on wood stoves. “When we took a bath about once a week we would all take a dip in the same tub.” Said Mildred.

When it came time to leave their Oklahoma home, the family loaded the flat bed Ford with all that it would carry. They put rails up on the side to force the little truck to carry even more. Mildred said as she remembered, “The sideboards was leanin’ so much I don’t know what kept us all from fallin’ out.”

In addition to Mildred Davis and her family, they brought an uncle, a cousin, and picked up four more in Arkansas for a grand total of 16 people and as many belongings as they had room for on the road. “There was a big ole box built up under the truck where we would keep all the dishes and food.” Says Mildred.

Every night they slept on the road. It was not unusual to see another family camped a few yards away, especially if it was a spot near water. Mildred said, “It was more like a wagon train because so many of us were comin’ from back there.” When they were near water Mildred and her sisters would help fill big canvas bags to bring with them, mostly to use for the radiator. Every morning and night Ma Nuervy would make the family breakfast and dinner right there on the side of the road. In the morning all the men would have to help push the truck to get it going again.

At the 25 to 35 miles per an hour they traveled, it took the 16 of them a little less than four weeks to arrive in California. They went to Chowchilla relying on the promise, that a man they had known from Oklahoma, who had arrived before them, could give them jobs. Mildred spent her first night there with her family camped out under a bridge along Highway 99.

As many of the migrants found, life was not much easier in California than the places they left. Mildred started to work in the fields or the orchards with the rest of her family. Mildred was never too fond of cotton picking and remembered that her sisters were often better then her, her sisters totals being around 500 pounds of cotton while hers were usually only 300. She was paid about a dollar for every one hundred pounds she picked.

Amanda & Cory: Married! Sonora Wedding Photographer

2011-07-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

Does the rain really matter?

Not if you're marrying the love of your life. Rain or no rain on this June day could dull the glow of bride Amanda's anticipation. I stood by as on onlooker for much of the day, watching as each little moment of preparation, inside the bride's room, and outside at the apple ranch turned into a beautiful wedding, but more importantly, two people's marriage.

Amanda & Cory's wedding was a delight to witness. My favorite moments included Amanda & Cory's homespun vows, and also the songs Cory and Amanda's dad sang for her. Two families truly came together, uniting even in talents.

ADORED the ruffles on this dress.

Amber, one of the bridesmaids, hand made ALL of the bridesmaids gowns! And what's even more, each gown was just a little bit different to suite each girl.

I have an unnatural affinity for eyelash shots, and Amanda's did not disappoint:)

I couldn't help but notice Amanda's tattoo just seemed to be perfect for her wedding.

En route to the ceremony!

LOVE. IS. IN. HIS. EYES!!!

Not my idea, I think it was Cory's, and such a fun shot! Totally going to copy this!

Another yummy cake from Alicia's Sugar Shack.

First Dance

Just love Amanda's expression as she dances with her dad.

A part of the day I always really love is watching the bride and groom's faces as people toast to them.

Cory & Amanda's dad are both musicians, and they had prepared three songs that were special to Amanda to play.

Ring on the finger!

"All the single ladies..."

The rain finally started to clear, so we took a few last minutes to take advantage of the fabulous classic cars the bridesmaids had arranged to be borrowed just for the wedding. I wish we had so much more time with them! But, I think we all had fun none the less.

Amber and "Amber's Lover"

Lindsay & BT: Oakhurst, CA Wedding Photography

2011-06-22T23:28:00.000-07:00

It was dark when they were first introduced by their friends, but Lindsay already knew she liked BT by his firm handshake. Maybe I just liked the sound of it, but Lindsay and BT met on lemon orchard by night. It only took one night of laughing around the BBQ with friends for BT to invite Lindsay back the following weekend. The next weekend they watched UFC, but, the best part, the night ended with a kiss and by stumbling Lindsay into a lemon tree by (a nervous, I'm sure) BT. Five years later, here is their wedding:

The bride and groom (and Trooper, of course) opted for a First Look for a stress-free day:)

Photo courtesy my fabulous friend Erin Milnik.

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Kim & Royce, Wedded Bliss: Turlock Wedding Photographer

2011-06-08T23:23:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh Royce and Kim, keepin' it real from the beginning. Something I loved about their wedding was that every little detail was done in consideration to the couple, not to what wedding tradition has dictated to many an engaged couple in the past. Kim & Royce kept it modern. Kim rocked the tea-length dress (and after seeing her on the dance floor I can't imagine her in anything else) and neither of the couple likes cake, so they had donuts. Thanks Kim & Royce for letting me capture the moments!

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Lara & Matt Engaged!

2011-06-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I took a drive out to Brownes Meadow Ranch, property that's been in Lara's family for 150 years. This piece of land was Lara's childhood home, and although already rich in family history, it's log has grown more meaningful and sentimental since Lara met Matt.

Matt happens to work with private forest landowners, of which Lara just happens to be. And as he walked onto Lara's family property that day, the history of the land got a little bit richer.

Matt & Lara had their engagement session at this very same ranch, with their wedding ceremony to follow soon (and true to the couple's nature, the invitation suggests to bring a sense of adventure).

I hope in these images you will see the couples love for the outdoors, and their love for each other.

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Eric & Kaylie Engaged: Santa Cruz Engagement Photography

2011-06-02T22:50:00.000-07:00

Kaylie and I go way back. Somewhere I have boxes full of pictures, many of which are of Kaylie and I...swim team, marching band (YUP, I said band), missions trips...
But this blog post is not about mine and Kaylie's (slightly embarrassing) history, it's about her and the new season of her life she has started with her love, Eric.
It was my joy to travel to Santa Cruz (where Kaylie & Eric will be wed!) and photograph their engagement session with a vintage flair. I hope you'll see the fun we had while taking these photos, but mostly I hope you'll see how much Kaylie & Eric love each other.

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Product Highlight: Digital Negatives

2011-04-26T22:02:00.000-07:00

How do you want to preserve your wedding photos? I'm a firm believer in holding prints in your hands. In fact, it's hard for me to put so much time and effort into pre-visualizing your wedding images, directing and creating them, editing them, just to prematurely end the creative process by handing over digital files. That being said, I understand their importance, and I appreciate so much that so many of my brides and grooms want to keep every single image.
I want you to have that option, which is why I offer all your files (Digital Negatives) as an option to add to your wedding day package. But as a believer of holding art work in your hands, you will always receive an album with your wedding package.

Digital Negatives come in a custom image-wrap photo case with magnetic closure.

My good photographer friend, Erin Milnik, had the great idea of putting the copyright release right on the back of the cd case, that way, you'll never lose it!

Ready to package.

When considering which ways you'd like to keep and share your wedding photos, you may want to consider a proof box (containing 400 prints), an album (of course), wall portraits, or maybe a web resolution disc (complimentary, and a great way to share your images on Facebook, or blog!).

Gabe & Liz: Wedded Bliss!

2011-04-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

Liz wore her Grandmother's pearls, this is her on her wedding day above.

Growing up I spent many an evening at the Carter's home. I've always loved the view from their living room windows, and today they gave me beautiful light.

Liz approached Gabe from behind for their First Look. She wore her boots as it had snowed the night before, and it was quite wet and chilly outside. We even had to move our photo location to a lower elevation where there was no snow!

Liz & Gabe are so fun and especially like Legos! Not only did they have a Lego cake topper, but also a Lego ring box, and Lego table at their reception!

1st Dance

To the get-a-way car!

Cory & Amanda: Engaged!

2011-04-19T14:20:00.000-07:00

The other day I got a really good haircut from a friend of mine named Amanda. She just so happens to be getting married! Why am I so stoked for Cory and Amanda's wedding? Amanda's fabulous sense of style, Cory's super laid-back and easy-going-ness (oh, and PS, he's in a band, so rockstar), and the way I had so much fun on their photo-shoot! Cory and Amanda, thank you for having me in your lives!

Not gonna lie, my personal fave!

Corey and Amanda are looking pretty rockstar right here, but I have to admit, I really love the roughed up onlooker in the background. True to Columbia Salon style, I suppose.

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DIY: Aisle Decor {Almost Free from Nature}

2011-03-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

As a wedding photographer, I've been to A LOT of weddings, and I've seen some really great ideas as far as theme and decor. I love the idea of being able to "style" a wedding, which unknown to many, "wedding stylizing" is an industry in itself. If I'm already your photographer, fabulous, if you'd like to include my on your wedding day decor ideas, even better!

One such bride has allowed me to take such a part, and so a DIY project was born. Her wedding is in a grove of oaks, with fresh spring grass, sprinkled with bright yellow buttercups (fitting as her colors are blue and yellow). Check out these cost-effective aisle decorations:

You will need:
Branches that will work as shepherd's hook (enough to line your aisle)
Mason Jars (enough to line your aisle, available at Wal Mart in Kitchen department, but I found mine at thrift stores for $0.25 each).
Burlap (available at Wal Mart in the fabric department)
Hemp Cord (available at Wal Mart in craft department)
Pretty Flowers

I started by going to the river to find some suitable "shepherd's hook-esque" sticks.

Here's my stash:

And my assistant stick-hunter, Lunchbox:

Once I made it back home with my stash, I started by cutting about an inch wide by about 14 inch long piece of burlap. The length will depend on the mouth of your mason jar. Then I tied it just below the mouth of the jar. Masons are nice, because there is a lip that will hold the burlap in place.

Next, cut a piece of hemp about 16 inches long (or at least enough to let it hang freely with flowers in the vase). Tie the hemp around the burlap.

Since it's spring, I had no trouble pushing my branches into the ground. All that's left is to add your flowers and hang from the branch!

Check back soon for the aisle decor in action at Will & Lana's wedding!

Cost:
Giant hemp roll (that will last you your lifetime) $9.
Mason Jars (from thrift store, 20 of them) $5
Burlap (about a $1/yard) $1
Sticks FREE!
Flowers (that's up to you!)

TOTAL COST $15.00!!!

Calaveras Bridal Faire

2011-03-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night I was laying in bed, awake, after setting up my bridal faire booth for the Calaveras Bridal Faire the very next day. I was a little anxious after all the planning, preparation, and thrift store shopping I had done just to put together this booth. I pulled out my less than fabulous phone and looked at the picture of it all set up one more time, and it hit me: immense gratitude for all the people that helped me make this happen. Right then I recounted all the people that made this happen:

My brother Kile (and also licensed contractor, and single, ladies) built my booth, not the easiest way, but the way I wanted it. He sacraficed an entire day off just to build it, and a Saturday to drive it to Calaveras, to set it up for me.

All of my updated wedding packages include an album by KISS Wedding Books. The album swatches are pictured here.

My sister, Ruby, helped me set it up, reminded Kile (as we set up) that setting up for bridal fairs is actually fun, and moved her schedule all around just so she could be with me the day of the event.

My best friend since elementary school, Amanda, came to my rescue just in time, when I realized, at the last possible moment, "Yes, my booth is built, but not painted or wallpapered!" She was there like that. AND even took home four very large bags of laundry for me, just because she knew I wouldn't have time to do it.

Amanda's husband, Nathan, who took care of two little ones just so his wife could be my helper.

Check out this custom Digital Negative disc case. Comes with every wedding package including digital negatives.

My very good friend, Tanya, who modeled for me, just for the bridal faire, so I could have a bride in a fantastically poofy dress.

My new friend Heather, who is also a photographer, and a very good "finder of light" at Tanya's shoot.

My long time friend Rachel, who has been all the way across the world with me, and lived with me in 4 different houses, set up the two shoots displayed on my photobooth walls.

I tell most people, you can spray paint just about anything; as was the case with this heart shaped dish. Just love it in blue. On another note, I'm sponsoring a give-away for a $500 gift card...and I'm going to extend it to anybody following this blog. Watch for another post to enter!

Instead of a traditional proof book, many couples have opted for a "Proof Box," containing your best 400 images, which I think is way cuter and more fun to hold in your hands.

And finally, my parents (because we all really know that my dad is not that interested in the bridal faire) drove all the way to Calaveras to help me tear it down and bring it on home.

A couple I met, Ryan and Annie, just made my day. They especially liked my booth because they met at a bookstore (if you can't tell from the pictures, I used a lot of old books). But what really made me so excited, was that they liked my little "about" brochures so much, they asked me to make them as programs for their wedding ceremony.

This is an inside view of my brochure. I often tell people one of the most useful classes I took to get my art degree was an optional bookmaking class. I've used things I've learned from it over and over again.

This was the second time I've put together a booth to represent my work. This time I took it a slightly different direction. I wanted to really show who I was at this fair, and I've always been one that has loved "found" art, and old things, things that may have stories attached with them from a previous life. I often use found items from thrift stores as props when I do a shoot. So in this booth, I brought all those found items to the table, literally. I wanted people to see and touch my aesthetic, so I could find those couples that share it in common.

Thank you to all of you that helped me at something I love to do, and thank you to all the couples that took a few minutes to stop and chat!

Allie: 2011 Senior!

2011-03-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Allie does it all!
I first met Allie at our first photoshoot location, the Springfield Airport, right here in Columbia. Allie is getting her pilot's license for her senior project at Sonora High. She walked me around the airport grounds, and I asked her questions in my non-pilot vocabulary, brainstorming what fun we could have with the brightly colored airplanes, Allie's aviator sunglasses, and what I called her "Alaska cargo pilot vest" (which I loved, by the way).

Allie came complete with an entourage, mom, dad, flight instructor, best friend, and family friends (who let us borrow their sweet airplane). I kinda felt like I was a part of a really fun, exclusive field trip.

After the airport we headed to her Grandparen's house, to take some country-esque pictures true to Tuolumne county style. I had so much fun taking pictures that day, we had to schedule another one to take her quad out to a mountain stream to take some more!

Wedding Day Photography: Planning for the Big Day

2011-03-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

No one is exaggerating when they tell you your wedding day is going to fly by. There are so many things to consider when, together with your photographer, you plan how much time you will budget for photography on the day of.

Here are some things that factor into how much time your posed wedding day photography will take:
~How many members are in your bridal party.
~How many family and group combinations you would like captured in a traditional, posed setting.
~If you and your fiance will opt for a "First Look" rather than waiting for the ceremony to see each other for the first time.
~If you'd like for your photographer to bring along a professional, second photographer assistant.

Amongst the excitement of the day, together with the details that have been planned for, as well as the ones you will find forgotten on the day of (for example, "Really, it takes twenty minutes to button all 30 buttons on the back of that dress?!"), it is very easy (and appears almost shocking to brides on the day of) to get behind. My advice for all your wedding day scheduling is to factor the time, and then (ladies) begin getting ready an ENTIRE HOUR earlier than you think you need. Trust me on this.

When we have our consultation, we'll talk about how much of your day you want to spend taking posed pictures, and if you'd like to have a "first look," but generally, the following time schedule tends to yield the most variety for you to have later:

Beginning THREE HOURS prior to ceremony start time:
1 hour with Bride and Bridesmaids alone
30 minutes with Groom and Groomsmen alone
This schedule allows for enough time for travel to and from photo location(s), as well as enough of a buffer to account for getting behind a bit and pre-ceremony "quiet time."

Post Ceremony:
30 minutes Family & Group Portraits
30 minutes Entire Bridal Party
1 HOUR Bride and Groom alone.
This schedule may change if you do not have a very extensive list of family and group combinations. I could easily photograph siblings, parents, and grandparents in 15 minutes.

Now, you may be thinking, "I don't want to make my guests wait that long for us to arrive at the reception!" I don't blame you, as neither would I, but at the same time, I want to give you pictures like you see on my website, not rushed "stand tall and look at the camera poses." The emphasis of my photography is on creativity and emotion, which takes longer than a quick 15 minutes to develop naturally.

And so to solve our problem of not keeping your guests waiting, you may want to consider a "First Look." A First Look is simply when the bride and groom plan to see each other before the ceremony on the day of, allowing for un-rushed picture taking time, as well as photography of a very special moment, the moment you first see each other. With a First Look, we can finish all of your posed pictures except the Family and Group portraits, and have you off to your reception in just a half hour!

I am a huge advocate of the "First Look," simply because you don't have to take your most important photos (you and your new husband or wife) worrying about everyone waiting for you at the reception! The "First Look" eliminates so much stress on your wedding day.

What if you don't want to have a "First Look"? It's ok! My goal is for you to love your pictures, and so I've built a "Day After Shoot" into all of my full coverage packages. A "Day After Shoot" is just exactly how it sounds, your Bride & Groom photoshoot the day (or week, or month) after your wedding day. The advantage of the day after is your flowers are still fresh, but that's no biggie. We can always buy a stand-in bouquet.

I urge you to take advantage of this option, as I know most photographers DO NOT build Day After Shoots into their packages. If you are a couple who truly responds to creative, emotional, romantic photography, then take the time to spend a few hours devoted to it (on the "Day After"). I promise you will treasure the investment of your time YEARS after your wedding day. What's more, I include all your images from your Day After session with your digital negatives from your wedding day, so they truly are yours.

Liz & Gabe: Engaged! Part 2

2011-01-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

Continuing on from my first post, here's more of Liz & Gabe!

...and from our final location:

Congratulations Liz & Gabe! Copy, paste, share!

Liz & Gabe: Engaged!

2010-12-29T10:46:00.000-08:00

The first thing I loved about Liz & Gabe: they were up for anything! I had so much fun with them driving all over the county (and beyond) to take some engagement portraits.
Here's a few from our first couple of locations...

That's me in the window there...I got to be in that one!

That's all for now! Check back soon for our next two locations. Copy, paste, share!

Joseph & Shauna's Wedding! Part I

2010-12-17T16:12:00.000-08:00

Far, far away in the most beautiful little town, nestled at the foot of blue mountains, in Ashland, Oregon, Shauna & Joseph got married! Although the forecast claimed snow, we woke up to a beautiful, brisk fall day. Shauna was absolutely radiant as she prepared, glowing with anticipation of seeing her groom. Stay tuned to watch as Joseph sees his bride for the first time!

Check back to see the "First Look"!
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For Photographers: Custom White Balance

2010-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Oh have a I struggled with white balance in the past! But those days are over. After many, many Google searches, and all kinds of little experiments, I finally found the most simple tutorial for white balance. You can view that tutorial right here.

I've been putting this method to use ever since, I could not be happier. As I was editing tonight I came across this image, where I had forgotten to set my custom white balance, but caught it after a few shots. Take a look at before custom white balance (straight out of the camera, no Photoshop!):

It's not bad if you don't have anything to compare it to. But now look at this (again, straight out of the camera, with custom white balance):

The colors look so much richer to me...maybe even give the image more depth.
This literally took me 5 seconds and will save me at least an hour in post. That is so worth it to me!
You should totally watch the tutorial! And I imagine if you don't own Gary Fong's fancy diffuser (I happened to own this particular diffuser even before I found this tutorial, and it really is my favorite for it's diffusion purposes, but has totally proven itself now that I can use it for WB as well), a $2 gray card would probably get you really close.

Hope this is helpful to somebody!

Mrs. Rumrill: Bridal Shoot {Trash the Dress}

2010-12-09T15:08:00.000-08:00

Whoever got the idea to roll around in the mud in their wedding gown is beyond me. "Trash the Dress" is what photographers commonly call a bridal shoot that does not happen on the actual wedding day. Granted, I've seen some pretty awesome shots of muddy girls on tractors in their wedding gowns (my Tuolumne county side just can't help itself), but despite the connotation of "trash the dress," you do not, in fact, need to destroy your wedding gown!
I love an opportunity for a "trash the dress" or "day after" session. Not only does it allow myself, the photographer, so much more time, but it's fun and stress-free for you or you and your beloved to enjoy the photoshoot on a day other than your wedding day.
I'll get off my soapbox. This is the take-home message: you will be glad you did a trash the dress or day after session. Promise.
But now for the matter at hand: the lovely Chelsea!
I have to admit, it was a bit sentimental for me to take these photos, as Chelsea is like a little sister to me, and some dashing young man has come and swept her off her feet and taken her away from us! But she does look beautiful in that gown. Who can blame him, I guess?
She may look like a delicate flower, but don't be fooled, this was at 7am and, if you look closely, you can see the raindrops falling from the sky. She pulled it off no problem.
Thank you, Chelsea, for letting me a little part of this big, important part of your life.

Mike & Hannah's Wedding! (Part I)

2010-12-03T16:40:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Mike & Hannah got married! I arrived to the bride's suite bright and early, and to my complete satisfaction, I found she had bedazzled the bottom of her shoes. This was her something blue!

I may have ignored Hannah completely for the first half hour, as I was having a love affair with her shoes. But it's ok, the amazing Ellie Hahn was busy working her magic.

Meanwhile, a few miles (and possibly a few hours away) the guys were getting ready too. But to see those pictures, you'll have to stop by Erin Milnik's blog, because she's awesome, and she took the pictures of the guys.

You couldn't ask for a better bunch of bridesmaids, they kept Hannah totally at ease, laughing, and got her in that dress in a flash.

After leaving the hotel, we headed to the Mountain View shoreline to take some portraits of Hannah and her lovely bridesmaids.

This beautiful bouquet is the work of the talented Chrystal Keller at Sweet Pea's Floral Design.

Check back soon for more images from Mike & Hannah's wedding! (and to meet Mike!)
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Royce & Kim: Engaged! (Part IV)

2010-12-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

...and finally to complete my little mini-series on the cuteness that is Royce & Kim (if you'd like to get caught up here's Post I, Post II, & Post III), we hit up the tall grass at Sierra Glen, and the apple orchard on the way home.

and off to the apple orchard...

Royce & Kim: Engaged! (Part III)

2010-12-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

And continuing on (here's Part I & here's Part II), our next location was the Sierra Glen Ranch. The owners were so nice to let us explore all over. I may have over done it with the sunflowers....oh well, guilty I guess. Oh, and I also may have taken way too many pictures, so that's why there's a part two just to Sierra Glen. Guilty again.

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Royce & Kim: Engaged! (Part II)

2010-11-30T16:35:00.000-08:00

Continuing on from a previous blog post (which you can view here!), Royce, Kim, and I were getting ready to move onto our next location, when, while they were changing, I spotted this park (I often forget about) in downtown Sonora. I loved all the yellow leaves on the ground. I told them we had to make a quick detour (although "quick" has always been hard for me). Here's a few from there, but there are MANY more from our next locations, so, check back again soon!

Oh but wait....this isn't from the park! Couldn't help it...love all the crazy sun. More coming soon!

Danielle & Siddalee: Christmas Card Shoot

2010-11-30T15:41:00.000-08:00

I was so happy to hear from Danielle when she told me she wanted to do a Christmas card shoot with her sweet little dog, Siddalee. I met Danielle this summer when I was giving away free photoshoots from my booth at the Motherlode fair. I felt like the lucky when Danielle ended up being one of my winners. She's so photogenic (both myself and the camera love her), has the cutest clothes, and the cutest dog! Merry Christmas Danielle & Siddalee!

Royce & Kim: Engaged!

2010-11-26T20:59:00.000-08:00

It always make me so darn happy when friends from long ago look me up and say, "Joleen, I'm engaged!" And I also like it even better when that's followed by, "...and we want you to photograph our wedding!"
Such is the case with Royce. I met Royce when I was only 15 years old. Together with his brother and our church friends, we quickly became a posse...riding the chappies...taking spontaneous trips to San Francisco and Santa Cruz...camping galore....Mexico....
BUT! This story is not about my glory days, it's an even better one, about Royce making his own stories with his betrothed, KIM!
So what can I say about Kim?
I like her a lot!
She's funny, and smart, and works with the youth at church, and I like her clothes, and, well, she's perfect for Royce. Meeting her for the first time, I felt instantly comfortable, like I was seeing an old friend.
Our engagement photo journey began in the Candy Vault, where the awesome owner welcomed us warmly. This couple is just so good-lookin,' I took way too many photos. To do them justice, I'm dividing their engagement photos into separate entries, so check back again soon for more!

Mike & Hannah's Sneak Peek!

2010-11-19T21:47:00.001-08:00

Amazing groom & groomsmen portraits by Erin Milnik!
Images from the wedding, in it's entirety, will be available to view and purchase here!

Curtis & Margaret's Wedding

2010-11-14T00:14:00.000-08:00

Margaret and Curtis were friends long before they were husband and wife. They started dating when Margaret was only 15, and Curtis 17. It's needless to say their wedding was much anticipated!

I have known Margaret in the way that most Tuolumne county residents do, for a very long time, from way back when. I met Curtis for the first time at their engagement shoot, and it became so obvious so quickly, Curtis will do anything to make Margaret happy. It made me so happy to see such a sweet boy with such a kind girl.

I hope you can catch a glimpse of the adoration they hold for each other in a few of their photos!

I love this. This is the way it should be. The bride is SURROUNDED by her friends and family. Every person there made it their personal goal for Margaret to have the best day possible.

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Baby Zander has Arrived!

2010-11-13T00:44:00.000-08:00

You may remember the hot, little mommy-to- be Sabrina from a few weeks back. Well, her little man, Zander has arrived! I have so enjoyed watching Sabrina dote over Zander with so much love and adoration. As she has said herself, "Zander is my everything."


I love seeing him all curled up in mommy's arms.

Glowing mom.

True to Sabrina style, we had to get some of Zander on his rock star blanket, made by mom, of course.

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Custom White Balance: For Photographers

2010-11-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

In the battle of Joleen vs. white balance, I am victorious! Very simple, quick tutorial, thank you Gary Fong!

Yolanda: Expecting

2010-10-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

I always feel so honored to be welcomed into a family's home and witness the love and anticipation that comes with pregnancy. Yolanda, and her husband Frank, embodied this beautifully, as they allowed me to capture the moments. I hope you enjoy them.

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Jerry & Norah's West-Mex Weddin'

2010-10-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Jerry and Norah's wedding was very special to me since we all grew up together, all of us even in the same grade and elementary school. I've always remembered Norah for her for her creativity and fantastic collection of vintage clothing. Her wedding was to be no exception to her fabulous unique-ness and vintage flair. It did not come as shock to me at all when she explained that her and Jerry had picked a "West-Mex" theme. Simply put, Jerry and Norah are FUN...ALWAYS. Anyone of their 400+ guests that gathered to celebrate with them could vouch for that. I knew these wedding photos would be different from the beginning, and I made it my mission to make them as much "Jerry and Norah" as I could. I hope that they feel like themselves when they see these!

Norah & Jerry had a friend of theirs, Luis Torres, custom-design their invitations for them. I love them! I believe his site is designographer.com.

Lauren ties a perfect bow! Norah's ladies each made a felt flower for their hair. I believe the flower in Norah's hair is the handiwork of Danielle.

I was so happy I brought my Polaroid camera for this one, since they had Polaroids in their invitation. Just a side note, this is the very last picture I took with my Polaroid before I ran out of film, the film that no one makes anymore! Does this make it extra-special, I think so.

THE BRIDAL PARTY were all very good sports and made Norah & Jerry's pictures awesome.

...beneath the stars and the moon.

Norah's brother, Terry, married them. He's dressed for the occasion, love it!

The perfect backdrop for the exchanging of the rings? OBVIOUSLY Terry's shirt. Norah's nails ain't lookin' bad either.

First dance!

I love this one of Norah with Jerry's dad.

Jerry cut the cake, the ENTIRE cake, with gusto.

Let's finish it off with one of my favorites.

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Sabrina Rocks the Belly!

2010-10-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy that I had the chance to meet Sabrina. As many of you know, I frequent the Starbucks to work on my photos, which is where I met the lovely little barista, Sabrina. I found out in the early days before she was even showing that she was expecting a new baby. I mustered all my courage to move beyond "random girl with computer in Starbucks" to meeting her and asking if maybe she'd like to do some maternity portraits one day when she was much farther along. I was thrilled when she seemed as excited as I was! Sabrina is much farther along these days, and little Zander is sure to be making his entrance into this world soon. I'll introduce you to him soon...

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Sarah: 2011 Senior

2010-10-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

What can I say, Sarah is workin' it! She's a total natural in front of the camera and made me look an extra-good photographer! Thank you Sarah!

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Bradlyn: 2011 Senior

2010-10-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

Doesn't she look like an even more beautiful Carrie Underwood? And those eyes, my goodness!

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Alyssa: 2011 Senior

2010-10-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

I love Alyssa's style: her pretty florals and frilly laces. She is a perfectly calm, easy-going, go-with-the-flow type of gal. The black dress with vintage lace details was my favorite.

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Welcome Kinslee

2010-10-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

A couple months I was honored to be welcomed into the household of an expecting family. And now their sweet little new addition has arrived. Everyone, meet Kinslee.

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Allie: 2011 Senior

2010-10-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

I've known Allie since she was born, literally. Growing up, we were next door neighbors,her older sister and I were best friends, and Allie was friends with my younger sister. As Allie put it we grew up "rolling around in mud puddles and hanging from trees." Today Allie is an amazing athlete (and has been for some time), and a graduating 2011 senior!

Sam: 2011 Senior

2010-10-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sam was so fun to photograph! I love her unique honey-colored eyes. She's also best friends with Kayla, and quite the volleyball player.

Kayla: 2011 Senior

2010-10-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

Kayla makes me laugh. She's smart and funny and impressed with her little insights on the quail and trees and the Kentucky derby (she knows what I'm talking about).

Peter & Amanda: Slideshow Sneak Peek

2010-09-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

Quint & Nichole

2010-08-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

August 21st is the day that Quint and Nichole were married!
I had another opportunity to work for Rich Miller (of Rich Miller Photography, Sonora), as the black and white candid photographer. This is the second time I've photographed a wedding with Rich, and as a wallflower at heart, I've fallen in love with being the more discreet, candid photographer. I love that Rich offers this to his clients, and I hope Quint & Nichole will appreciate what I was able to capture in the behind-the-scenes at their wedding.
Oh, and by the way, Nichole was OBVIOUSLY stunning and I love her taste of flowers, jewelery and dress! Quint didn't look bad either:)

Welcome Kaylee

2010-08-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

I was so thankful to be welcomed into the Karpus home to take some pictures of their sweet little baby girl, Kaylee. When I walked in the door, mom was already ready with a box full of fun, girly headbands, hats, and blankets. Kaylee didn't sleep long, but even for the few moments she did, she was the picture of perfect, precious innocence. And when she woke up, I got to see her big, blue eyes.

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Joslyne Chapman

2010-08-20T11:52:00.000-07:00

Something I loved about Joslyne right away was that she had a vision. Not that I don't like it when people say to me, "I have no idea what I want to do, do whatever you want." I certainly enjoy creatively "doing whatever you want" but it is nice when someone has let an idea grow in their mind, and then they trust me to help bring it into reality. And in a way, it really does challenge my creativity when I have certain parameters to work within. And that was Joslyne.
Joslyne had many ideas, but since she is at the start of her modeling career we decided to narrow her ideas down to two, a formal outfit, and a more casual outfit with a little vintage flair.

Location: Apple Valley Ranch, & Columbia State Park

Natalie:1st day of 1st Grade

2010-08-19T22:29:00.000-07:00

Natalie was still in a great mood after her first day at first grade at a new school. She still had on the outfit she picked out for the special day when I arrived late that afternoon: pink, with pink, with more pink. If they made pink cowboy boots, like Natalie's, in my size, I would undoubtedly own a pair. What can I say Natalie, I like your style.

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My Favorite 2 Year Old

2010-08-19T00:50:00.000-07:00

I remember the day very well, my family was visiting me in the Bay Area, and we were getting ready to go to the Oakland Zoo. And then, my phone rang. My friend, Amanda, whom I have known all the way since the 1st grade was on the other end. Straight to the point, I think she said something like this, "Sooo...the doctor says we're having the baby today."

In less than an hour I was waiting in the San Francisco Airport to board a plane to Oceanside. It was the day I became an honorary aunt (or rather it may have been the very early morning the following day...) and I met one of my favorite people, Abby. (Photographer's note: Abby was literally photographed within seconds of her entrance into the world.) A little over two years later, I'm still completely delighted with her!

PS Mom and Dad Amanda and Nathan are alright too. Hahahaha

Photovision

2010-08-09T23:04:00.000-07:00

One of my goals as a photographer is to always be inspired. It is so important to me to re-invest in education, ideas,and inspiration! One of the things I really enjoy is the DVDs that Photovision puts out every other month. I've learned so much from them, and what's more, I enjoy watching them! I can't wait for them to come in the mail. If you're interested click here.
Enter this code to get if for the whole year for only $39!
PVFAN

Kelsey Bucci:: Lumber Jubilee Queen

2010-08-08T21:27:00.000-07:00

I first met Kelsey just a few moments after she was crowned queen at the Lumber Jubilee in Tuolumne. (If you're wondering what the Lumber Jubilee is, you can read about it here). I believe our first conversation went something like this, (amongst hugs and congratulations), "Hi, can I take your picture...I'm not a creeper or anything, I'm taking pictures for the Jubilee." Which is exactly what I was doing. Although events showing off (mostly) men and their brute strength in all areas logging are not my specialty, it was still fun to be a part of. But anyway, I was more than happy to take a quick photo of the new queen with her sparkling crown and bouquet of roses (a little different from the log cutting and chainsaw greasing I photographed most of the event!) I eventually got in contact with Kelsey's mom, Kara, and I started thinking, it might be a fun tradition to give the Lumber Jubilee queen her own photoshoot. And so, here's my very first Lumber Jubilee queen, Kelsey:

We started in Tuolumne, in a patch of yellow flowers that I had been eying for awhile

Kelsey was a trooper. I had her get all up in those yellow flowers, which I mentioned in an earlier post were actually sticky, smelly weeds. But hey, they looked pretty.

Next we headed to downtown Sonora


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Sneak Peek Slideshow! Adrianna & Jacob

2010-08-07T18:27:00.001-07:00

Adrianna & Jacob's Wedding

2010-08-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

Adrianna breezed into the room. The bridesmaids, awaiting her arrival, burst into little squeals of excitement (the way girls do). The bride, only carrying her dress still in it's bag, was already glowing. Today was the day she would marry her love, Jacob.

The girls wasted no time in helping Adrianna pull on her lovely, embroidered, mermaid-cut gown. Even with all the commotion, the bride's mind was on one thing, seeing her groom.

Adrianna wore a very special piece of jewelery that day, a bracelet with a heart shaped pendant, engraved with her and Jacob's names, and also their wedding date.

The couple chose a pale yellow and black color scheme, and the bride and bridesmaids looked positively summery, bridesmaids in their light chiffon dresses, and bride perfectly tucked into a dress that could not have shown off her figure better!

After a few pictures, there was no time to waste. It was about time for the ceremony to begin!

The couples first act act as Mr. & Mrs. was to take communion together.

Everyone knows what comes after the ceremony, pictures, pictures, pictures...

This is Jacob's family, with Best Man, and brother, Joel.

And Adrianna's family, with Maid of Honor, sister Shayna.

And the whole bridal party, striking a pose...

Congratulations Adrianna & Jacob!

Feel free to copy, paste, share these pictures! To read my original post, click here.

Best Batch Watermark Tutorial Out There!

2010-08-07T10:34:00.000-07:00

If any of my fellow photographer friends ever check up on my blog, I just wanted to share with you a link to a watermark/branding tutorial video I found. I don't know about you, but batch watermarking/branding/resizing has been a giant pain for me. I make an action, it works great the first day, but the next time, "WHAT?? ERROR?!" Anyways, maybe this will be helpful to someone: BEST WATERMARK TUTORIAL

Danielle & Kirsten

2010-08-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

In my last post I mentioned I started an awesome weekend off by photographing two great girls, Danielle & Kirsten.

I was so happy to meet Danielle when she stopped by my booth at the Motherlode Fair. I was trying to be brave and shouting out to the kinder looking passer-bys, "I'm giving away free photoshoots..." and Danielle walked up and said, "You're Joleen? I've seen your photography!"

Well, that simply made my day.

Danielle brought along her friend Kirsten, who was just as fun to have a long, and both of the girls were so easy-going, getting each other to laugh and holding my reflector.

Both Danielle & Kirsten are dancers, and hopefully one day soon I'll be able to photograph them in dance mode. But for now, here are some of my favorites from our little desert spot alongside highway 108.

Location: Jamestown, CA (Old Highway 108)

Four Day Photo-Safari

2010-08-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, starting on Friday, was photographic bliss. I seemed to bounce from one photoshoot to the next. I'm planning on doing full post on each of these events, but for know, here's a little re-cap.
The weekend started with friends Danielle and Kirsten. Danielle was one of my $100 gift card winners from the drawing I held at the Motherlode fair. We wanted to do something desert-y with lots of warm tones to match her golden brown skin. I scoured the sides of highway 108 for a couple of days, looking for a good spot where we both wouldn't get ran over, and could also, possibly use some of the old highway of yesteryear. And finally I found it! Besides being very, VERY hot, the girls were great models, and I think we got some images that are show just how lovely they are. This is Kirsten on the top, and Danielle on the bottom.

Location: Old HWY 108, Tuolumne County, CA

The next day, Saturday, was Adrianna & Jacob's Wedding. They decided on a later ceremony, which I think was a good decision, as it was another HOT day in Sonora. A bunch of friends and family literally transformed Calvary Chapel in Sonora to the perfect wedding venue. The candles on the reception tables twinkled as the sun set over the couple during their first dance. Let me just describe Adrianna in the words of my 15 year old brother, as he walked by while I was editing photos, "DA-aaaang she's so hot. She's MY wife." "Uhhhh no. Obviously, Silas, she is JACOB'S wife." I'm sure you've gathered that Jacob is a lucky man!

Location: Calvary Chapel, Soulsbyville, CA

The next morning I was off again, this time to photograph the Lumber Jubilee Queen of 2010, Kelsey. Kelsey was great to work with and didn't complain a bit when I stuck her in a patch of yellow "flowers" (...sticky, smelly weeds). I had been eyeing this particular patch of flowers for some time, and Kelsey looked simply lovely in the middle of them all. After we picked the stickers off her, we headed to downtown Sonora, where she worked her skinny jeans and heels.

Location: Tuolumne, CA

Location: Downtown Sonora, CA

That night I was off again, where I was the second photographer for a wedding by Rich Miller. Rich offers something I really like, a purely candid disc of all black and white images. He also assigns a photographer to capture only these images. He had me set my camera to black and white, which I had not done in years since we can always render our photographs as black and whites in post-processing. It was interesting, because as soon as I started shooting strictly black and white, it got me thinking in a completely different way: trying to search out the emotion in everything that was happening around me. It was a really good exercise to remember to find the emotion of the photograph, especially for wedding photography.

Location: Sierra Glen Apple Ranch, Sonora, CA

And finally, to finish the weekend strong, I photographed aspiring model Joslyne. Joslyne was also one of my $100 drawing gift card winners from the Motherlode fair. We started at her home where she let me raid her closet and we put together one formal and one casual outfit we thought would work well for the start of her portfolio. Joslyne was an absolute natural in front of the camera and hardly made me think at all with the way she just seemed to fall into a beautiful position. She has big plans (which makes me so excited when people are gutsy enough to follow their dreams), and I really think you will all agree with me, she has what it takes!

Location: Apple Valley Ranch, Sonora, CA

Location: Columbia, CA

Kevin & Kimi's Wedding

2010-07-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

Towards the end of June I had the absolute honor of photographing a wedding that really touched my heart.

I met Kevin & Kimi over a year ago when I did their engagement portraits. I felt like we hit it off right away. Female to female, and not in a weird way, Kimi's the whole package. She is positively sweet, sincere, funny, and naturally beautiful. Kevin must have felt the same way.

As on their wedding day, they were a joy to photograph. They were so caught up in the moment, and enjoying each other completely. I think it shows in their photographs and I hope all who view feel the same.

During their ceremony, especially when the couple took their very first communion together, and Kimi's younger sister, Elise, played a beautiful acoustic and harmonica version of the song Divine Romance, I had to fight tears myself. That has never happend to me before. I had to give myself a quick pep talk, "Pull it together Joleen! How good can your pictures be if you're crying??"

Their ceremony was very personal, recounting Kevin falling for Kimi as he has grown to love her over the past ten years, and us as an audience felt more like participants as we witnessed their commitment to each other. Kevin & Kimi, thank you for being such a beautiful example of the way God intended & designed marriage.

Randi Ray::Photoshoot in the Weeds

2010-07-26T19:30:00.000-07:00

Randi has been a friend of mine for a long time. She is also a very talented singer/songwriter. When it came time for album artwork for her album, "Rush of my Heart," I was absolutely delighted when she asked me to photograph her. Be sure to check out her music here!

Senior Photo Locations

2010-07-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

I love taking senior portraits! Part of the fun is finding a location that fits you, your personality, your style, and your taste. As I do more portraits of fabulous people here in the Motherlode, I'll be keeping a running list of locations you may want to do your senior portraits at. Keep checking back for more!

Sneak Peek! Kevin & Kimi's Wedding

2010-06-30T14:52:00.001-07:00

61st Annual Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee 2010

2010-06-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

I think the Tuolumne County's Visitor Bureau may have said it best when describing the Lumber Jubilee, "Four glorious days of merriment and lumber education." Well, I got plenty of "lumber education" as I photographed the professional logging competitions yesterday. If you'd like to see more pictures, of which I have MANY, you can view ALL of them here, Lumber Jubilee Pictures (please check back soon, I'm still uploading).

You can visit the official Lumber Jubilee site here.