Malena's Baptism - Sunnyvale, CA

November 24, 2014 in family

I first met Eileen and Chris on Huntington beach a decade ago. April and I had just started dating seriously, and Eileen grew up with some of April's room mates at the time. Ever since that first meeting, Eileen and Chris have been nothing but beautiful to us in every aspect, so it wasn't surprising that their burgeoning family is following that familiar pattern.

Their first, Mason, is ever the delight; earlier this year Malena came along, and captured our hearts as well. When Eileen and Chris asked us to be her godparents we were honored, but our next thought was that baptisms have a dress, accessories, a ceremony, and a reception; right up our alley!

We arrived at Chris and Eileen's home early to catch Malena getting into her dress, but were first greeted by Mason, who showed us around then ultimately settled into some cartoons with April in the living room. He was ready to head to the ceremony early on, his only faux pas was thinking that his two-tone Crocs went with his nice dress pants and shirt; quickly remedied, and great for the camera! Getting Malena into her dress and accessories tested her patience, having been up for a few hours already and really needing a nap by the time came to head to the church. Eventually, the confluence of a baby needing a nap, a three year old changing into dress shoes then running to play kick ball in the street, and Chris trying to manage that while Eileen got herself together, provided us with plenty of charming chaos to document.

With a little help from Malena's friends and family during the ceremony, we were able to participate fully as her godparents. I have to say that the smiles were abound that day, if for no other reason than for so many people important to Malena celebrating her and spending time with her. Malena's lunch reception at Pacific Catch in Mountain View gave everyone the opportunity to indulge in some great food, and also gave Malena's family connect with her. The day was a reminder of the inherent joy had when with friends and family. Congratulations Malena, and thank you so much Chris and Eileen.

-Joseph

E+S Wedding - Hotel Sainte Claire, San Jose, CA

November 17, 2014 in wedding, city

Weddings are about the minting of a new family, celebrated into the world by the families that are already there. This could not be any more the case than in this wedding at which Scott Mosher of Scott Mosher Photography asked me to assist. At our arrival, the bride's home was already bustling with at least 3 generations getting ready for the day; the energy was nurturing and warm, with everyone from grandma to niece attending the bride and making sure her every need was attended.

The couple themselves could not have been more in love. The groom was just as much a personality as his new wife, giving a speech that was memorable for both its humor and heart. Despite all the activity around her, the bride was never lost; even at this first meeting, her personality and genuine joy for the day shone through. Looking back, she was no doubt enervated by all the friends and family who gathered that day, because she didn't light up more at any time than at the reception. E+S, both from Greek families, chose to feature traditional Greek music from a live band, and I've never seen anything like it. The appeal of the music crossed all ages, making the dancefloor the center of the celebration and moving family portrait.

This was a day spent very quickly; it was easy as a photographer to be taken and inspired by the energy of the day. Thanks again to Scott for having me out! -Joseph

P+N Wedding - Nella Terra Cellars, Sunol, CA

October 27, 2014 in wedding, wine country, indian wedding

When Yuliya Molitvenik of Yuliya M. Photography approached me about second shooting a wedding with her this past August, I was excited for two reasons: First, I knew her work and was familiar with her as a person and I knew it would be great to work with her, and second, I only knew Indian weddings by reputation then, and this would be my first. I was hoping for people as vibrant and exciting as the colors of the saris worn by the guests, and I was not disappointed.

Nella Terra Winery was a beautiful backdrop for P+N and their guests, and became a character unto itself. The grounds were perfect for an appropriately grand Baraat, allowing the Groom and the wedding party to cascade down a hill just before a procession on an adorned horse. From this opening, the joy of celebrating the pending union between P+N was palpable, and this excitement carried through the entire day. After a quick change of attire for the couple, the reception program was capped off by a choreographed Bollywood-inspired dance number that got the dance floor started for the rest of the evening.

Overall, just great times with some great people; shooting with Yuliya was just a huge bonus!

-Joseph