A Weekend Away

Since I was young, I've harbored a deep-seated desire to explore California – a sentiment I am sure is shared by many who reside on the East Coast. While Upstate New York holds its own allure, my longing to venture to the opposite coast has remained steadfast over the years.

In September of 2023, my partner and I embarked on a journey to the Pacific Northwest, immersing ourselves in the captivating landscapes of Oregon and Washington. The memories from that trip are etched into my heart; it was an experience unparalleled in its beauty and serenity.

Yet, my yearning to set foot in California persisted, fueled not only by the allure of the Golden State but also by the prospect of reconnecting with a dear friend. Finally, the opportunity arose, albeit briefly. Though my stay in San Diego was fleeting, it was enough to capture glimpses of the city's undeniable charm and natural splendor.

The Beach

Of course, when heading out west you have to see the beach. My first view of it was nearby these gorgeous cliffs filled with these gorgeous flowers and resting seagulls. I took my Fuji camera (Fujixt30ii) along with my 35mm f2 (50mm equivalent) as it is my lightest set up. The color Fuji produces is such chef's kiss!

I was surrounded by so many warm tones, it was lovely. I find that while in the east coast of upstate New York; there are just SO many greens. It leaves images very blue toned often, but while in California I found my warm palette to be easily achieved with minimal editing.

As I walked around Balboa Park, San Diego, I had my earbuds in listening to the Her movie soundtrack. This further helped me romanticize my time walking around taking photos of not only the landscape but also the people. I highly recommend doing so especially around California. It's one of my favorite movies.

For the above photo, I was standing (or sitting I can't recall) and framed my shot with the beautiful tree you see. I took a few shots and waiting a little bit for something to come and liven up the image. A few people walked by, and I snapped some shots but this couple holding hands pulled it all in. Here is an example where waiting is sometimes better than rushing by and taking the first shot you think of.

Take it Slow

I encourage you to pause for a moment, whether you're seated or on the move, and truly observe your surroundings – even if it's just your familiar home environment. There's an abundance of beauty waiting to be noticed, and all it takes is framing it with your perspective. This is a lesson I've been embracing lately.

Simply carrying my camera with me, even on days when I don't expect to take any photos, has been transformative. It's amazing what catches my eye when I'm open to seeing the world through a lens. This practice has eased the pressure I often put on myself for the perfect shot, allowing me to find joy in the process rather than solely focusing on the end result.

While my background is primarily in conceptual and portrait photography, I've found immense value in capturing the everyday moments unfolding around me. It's helped me appreciate the beauty of slowing down, finding artistry in the simplicity of life's moments.

Not Just a Wedding Photographer

In my journey towards pursuing photography as a full-time profession, I initially dismissed the idea of venturing into wedding photography. It seemed to clash with my preconceived notions of the industry, fueled by images of weddings that didn't resonate with me artistically. However, as fate would have it, I found myself immersed in the world of wedding photography, and to my surprise, I fell in love with it.

What I hadn't realized back then was the immense potential for creativity and personal connection that awaited me in this field. I soon discovered that I could carve out my own niche within wedding photography, catering to couples who appreciated my unique style and vision. This revelation was not only liberating but also deeply fulfilling as I embraced the opportunity to capture the love stories of those who aligned with my work.

Stepping into the world of wedding photography with an open mind allowed me to shed my initial reservations and embrace the beauty and diversity within it. Each wedding I photograph is an opportunity to tell a unique story, to capture fleeting moments of joy and emotion that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Looking back on my journey, I am grateful for the unexpected path that led me to where I am today. Wedding photography has not only become my profession but also my passion, allowing me to create art that celebrates love in all its forms.