Cheryl Welch Photography

Funkranomicon at the San Jose Jazz Festival

2011-08-20T16:12:00.000-07:00

It was their biggest and most exciting performance yet! Check out Funkranomicon on the Main Stage at the San Jose Jazz Festival. Click on the photo above to see more images from this album. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on fast speed.

Become a fan of Funkranomicon on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/#!/funkranomicon or check out their upcoming schedule @ http://www.funkranomicon.com/.

Thanks for viewing my photos. Questions and comments are always welcome.

Natural Bridges

2011-08-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

An outing to Natural Bridges State Beach in August provides plenty of beauty to focus on including surfers, kites, birds, colorful tide pools and one very happy 3rd grader. I'm going to make it a point to get down there more often.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this album. For hands free viewing and a large display I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed. Thank you for viewing my photos. Questions and comments are always appreciated.

Getting to know you...

2011-08-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about creating portraits is that I get to meet and spend time getting to know some pretty incredible people. Meet Sue Kuivanen. Sue is a fellow San Lorenzo Valley resident and author of a book every parent should read.... A Mother and Daughter's Journey in a Junk Food Society.

Sue is also the co-creator of SLV LOCALS, a grassroots community group reaching out to parents, community members and the San Lorenzo Valley School District to assist them in overcoming obstacles towards a fresher, stronger and healthier lunch program. As a result of this group's tireless efforts, our local public schools have already started to provide healthier food to our children. What an invaluable gift to our entire community. Big thanks and congratulations to Sue and all the volunteers! To learn more about SLV LOCALS click here: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/SLVLOCALS/

To order a hard copy of Sue's book click here: http://stores.lulu.com/parentsdiethandbook. To download the e-book click here: http://www.amazon.com/PARENTS-DIET-HANDBOOK-Daughters-ebook.

Funkranomicon at the Hop'n Barley Festival

2011-07-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

Another outstanding performance by Funkranomicon, this time in Scotts Valley at the Hop'n Barley Fest. I really enjoy focusing on passionate musicians and dancers, especially at an outdoor event like this!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this album. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed. Thank you for viewing my photos.

July 4th in Boulder Creek

2011-07-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

It was another picturesque July 4th morning in our small town of Boulder Creek. I look forward to this event each year... So fun to see so many friends and smiling faces, both in the crowd, and walking in the parade. Big thanks go out to everyone who worked together to make the holiday so bright and beautiful.

Click the photo above to see more images from this album. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on fast speed.

Questions and comments are always appreciated. Thank you for viewing my photos!

At Home with Danielle

2011-07-26T10:52:00.001-07:00

She couldn't be sweeter, more precious, or more loved. The daughter of my good friend, Allison, and the purpose of our incredible trip to China, Danielle fills so many hearts, including mine, with joy. Watching Allison and Danielle unite and bond has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I get all choked up just typing about it!

I had so much fun playing with and focusing on Danielle during our last visit. Click on the photo above to see some of my favorite images from our very relaxed Weekend At Home Session. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Thanks for viewing my photos! Questions or comments are always appreciated.

Memorial Day in the City

2011-06-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

Now, here's something I should do more often... A just for fun outing to one of my favorite places with friends and cameras. 100% fun! Thanks Georgia & Cindy. Let's do it again soon!

Click on the image above to see more photos from our afternoon in San Francisco.

For hands-free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium speed.

Questions or comments are always welcome. Thank you for viewing my photos.

A Day in Hong Kong

2011-05-26T21:25:00.001-07:00

It was a fascinating day exploring Hong Kong. Truly a feast for the senses! Click on the image above to see more photos from this gallery.

Comments and questions are appreciated. Thank you for viewing my photos.

Lantau Island, Hong Kong

2011-05-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

Home to the Po Lin Monastery and the tallest bronze Buddha statue in the world, Lantau Island is also the largest island in Hong Kong. Originally the site of fishing villages, the island has been developed in recent years with the construction of the Hong Kong International Airport, the Ngong Ping 360 & Hong Kong Disneyland.

Click on the image above to see more photos from our afternoon on Lantau Island.

Funkranomicon

2011-05-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Santa Cruz area funk band, Funkranomicon, gave a groovin' performance down at the Boulder Creek Music & Art Festival just last week.

Click on the image above to see photos of the band getting their groove on.

For hands-free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Questions or comments are always welcome.

Farming Village, Nanchang

2011-05-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

A fascinating outing to a farming village near Nanchang.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. For a large display and hands-free viewing, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium speed.

Thank you for viewing my photos. I hope you enjoy.

Park & Porcelain, Nanchang

2011-05-10T11:40:00.000-07:00

A group outing to a beautiful park followed by a stop at a porcelain shop. Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China

Click the photo above to see more images from this gallery. For a large display and hands-free viewing, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Questions or comments are welcome and appreciated.

A walk in Nanchang

2011-05-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Ahhh.... finally a chance to sit down and make my first post since I returned from China. Wow, what can I say? Too too much. Where to begin? Well, I'm not much of a writer, so let me tell you all about the trip my favorite way... in pictures.

Click on the photo above to join me on a walk through the streets of Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China - a.k.a. "Real China".

As always, questions or comments are encouraged and appreciated.

Interested in seeing more? More photos from Nanchang, Guangzhou & Hong Kong coming soon, so stay tuned for future posts.

Flynn & Gianna

2011-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

Meet happy and handsome seven year old, Flynn, and his sweet and beautiful two year old sister, Gianna. What a pleasure to focus on these two children. I have known Flynn and Gianna's parents since before each of us were parents. Now, we sit back, with gratitude, and watch our kids play together. We can share in the moments of joy and the moments of frustration as we watch them grow up right before our very eyes. Wow! So so much to be grateful for!

Sending a big thank you out to both, Flynn & Gianna, and their parents, Bill & Julia, for filling a mostly cold and rainy weekend with warm conversation, smiles and laughter.

Click the photo above to see more images from our fun weekend with these two cuties. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on fast speed.

Tamera

2011-01-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

My first "official" photo session with my sister, Tami. So much fun! Beautiful with a capitol B, isn't she?

Sending big hugs and thanks out to my sister for sharing her beauty and charm with me and my lens!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this portrait session. For hands free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the full slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Tara

2010-11-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

Here's one for the dog lovers. Meet Tara. She is one super sweet and super fast dog. She chases a ball with as much passion as any dog I've ever seen. When not chasing a ball Tara enjoys lots of affection.... which is A o.k. with me!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. Sending a high five to Kai for top notch ball throwing and a big thank you to sweet Tara, who fills many hearts with joy and love.

For a large display and hands-free viewing, I recommend using the slide-show mode on medium or fast speed.

At home with Scott, Lynn, Alex & Iain

2010-11-23T13:12:00.000-08:00

When friends, Scott & Lynn, asked if I could come out to their home to do a family portrait session I got excited. I knew I would be getting to focus on one beautiful family in one beautiful setting.

The day of our session started out storming. But we got lucky and the rain cleared out just in time. I had so much fun working with this family while exploring their breathtaking mountain property.

Big thanks to Scott & Lynn for coming to me for family photos. I also want to thank Alex and Iain for being as happy and polite as they are handsome.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this on location Family Portrait Session. For hands-free viewing and a large display, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Mia & Aiden

2010-11-12T14:28:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed tons of smiling, laughing and being goofy with these two cuties. Between Mia, in her feminine dresses and Aiden, in his leather jacket.... these two gorgeous children just about made my heart melt. Big thanks to Mia & Aiden, and their mom, Theresa, for a fun filled studio session!

To see more images from this double studio session, click on the photo above. For a large display and hands free viewing, I recommend using the full slide show on medium or fast speed.

Ruth & Kim

2010-11-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

A studio portrait session with two of my favorite people in the whole world. Needless to say, I completely enjoyed focusing on these two blue-eyed beauties. Thanks Kim & Ruth!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. For a large display and hands free viewing, I recommend using the full slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Lori & her boys

2010-11-08T15:33:00.000-08:00

Focusing on Lori and her two handsome sons while they laugh, love and play together was a real treat. Combine that with beautiful scenery, perfect weather, ocean air, and sand between the toes... what more could one ask for? Thank you Lori, Lucas and Logan for a beautiful and fun evening at Natural Bridges State Beach!

To see more images from this family portrait session, click on the photo above. For a large display and hands free viewing, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium speed.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Halloween....filled with colors and costumes, smiles and joy... and endless photographic opportunities. If there were only more hours in our days!

Halloween in our small mountain town is always a treat! Having the opportunity to see so many familiar faces, friends and neighbors, always makes this holiday a memorable one. Feeling so grateful to be a small part of such a wonderful community.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. I recommend using the full slide-show mode on medium or fast speed. Hope you enjoy.

Lucas & Lauren

2010-10-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

Boy did I have fun focusing on Lucas, as Anakin Skywalker, and his sister, Lauren, as the Pretty Peacock. These two beautiful and happy siblings were full of smiles and laughs during our double studio portrait session. Watching the love and kindness these two share with each other was a complete joy.

Big thanks to Lucas, Lauren, and mom, Shireen, for a wonderful & fun session!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. I recommend viewing the images in slide show mode on fast speed.

Luma

2010-10-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

Click on the photo above to see more images from a mini pet portrait session with sweet and handsome Luma.

Brooke

2010-09-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Talk about one sweet and happy girl! I had a such a great time playing with and focusing on beautiful Brooke. We shared tons of fun & laughter during our 90 minute school portrait session. This session was done entirely indoors using natural light. Brooke brought a variety of outfits which helped us to capture quite a nice collection of images.

Big thanks to Brooke and her mom, Kerri, for coming to me for school portraits and for such a fun and successful session!

To see more images from this session, click on the photo above. For hands free viewing, I recommend using the slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

The Rope Swing

2010-09-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

New spot discovered. Talk about fun!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Belle of the Fall

2010-09-22T22:52:00.000-07:00

I give thanks everyday for my sweet sweet Belle girl. No one makes me feel more at peace.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Camp Joy

2010-09-13T20:28:00.001-07:00

The name says it all. Next time, I will arrive earlier!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. I recommend viewing the images on slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Zaira

2010-08-30T13:05:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the world Zaira! A beautiful name for a beautiful girl.

What a joy to meet and focus on one week old Zaira! For this newborn portrait session, the beautiful summer weather allowed us to do a combination of indoor and outdoor images. Big brother, Elijah, is so cute and sweet and looks just like dad. Parents, Joe & Eli were gleaming with pride and joy... their happiness downright contagious.

Big thanks to Joe and Eli for allowing me the opportunity to focus on their beautiful new family of four. Congratulations to you and your entire family!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this newborn session.

Mark & Gail

2010-08-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Mark came to me looking for both business and anniversary portraits. Once I learned Mark was a 5th generation Santa Cruzan, I knew we needed to come up with a session location that would be both symbolic of Santa Cruz as well as have special meaning to Mark. We decided to meet at Mark's former school, Santa Cruz High.

I really enjoyed exploring the campus with Mark and his lovely wife, Gail. Their affection for each other was a joy to watch and capture. Soon they will celebrate their 20th Anniversary. Congratulations Mark & Gail! Best wishes to you both. May the love that you share last your lifetime through.

To see more images from this portrait session, click on the photo above. I recommend viewing these in slide-show mode on medium or fast speed.

Summer 2010

2010-08-16T12:36:00.001-07:00

Some photos from this weekend... just hangin' out in the backyard with my two cuties.

Can't believe this is the last week of my son's summer break. We are going to enjoy every last moment that we can. While I will miss spending our days together, the more flexible schedule and the many fun summertime activities, I'm so looking forward to getting some much needed uninterrupted production time. There is so much to discover, to learn and to accomplish.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Trees

2010-08-11T16:07:00.000-07:00

Trees are the earth’s endless effort to speak to the listening heaven.
- Rabindranath Tagor

An impromptu outing to Big Basin State Park, (http://www.bigbasin.org/). Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Tami

2010-08-08T13:41:00.001-07:00

Recently awarded for her accomplishments in business, Tami came to me in need of portraits for both print and online use. To accommodate Tami's busy schedule, we decided to meet right at her office for a mini-portrait session.

I really enjoyed talking with Tami, learning more about her recent awards, and focusing on her beautiful smile. Congratulations Tami!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this 45 minute business portrait session.

Zoe

2010-07-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

With a little help from my husband, our good friend Cindy, from Ottawa Canada, managed to give me one of the best gifts ever! A surprise visit from her and her husband, Andrew, for my 40th Birthday party was one of the best gifts I can EVER remember receiving! My jaw hung open, for I think several minutes, as they walked inside my house. And to make the visit even more incredible, I was able to meet and get to know their beautiful, 1 year old daughter, Zoe!

I so enjoyed playing and snuggling with Zoe. She is so sweet and so happy, and those mesmerizing blue eyes... What a joy to be around! Of course, I couldn't resist grabbing the camera throughout the weekend. I mean.... WHO could resist?!

Happy 1st Birthday Zoe! Cindy & Andrew.... I can't thank you enough for making the trek out here and for all the great memories!

Click on the photo above to see images from our fun-filled weekend. For hands-free viewing, I recommend using slide-show mode on medium or fast speed.

A decade of love

2010-07-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

It must have been 110 degrees in Riverside that day. I remember walking around the corner and seeing her precious face hanging out of the dog house. Showered her with affection the whole 7 hr+ drive home, only to receive the cold shoulder in return. Understandably so. Well, it didn't take too long for that to change... :)

Celebrating 10 snuggly years with our sweet sweet Belle Girl.

Summer Evening

2010-07-22T10:58:00.000-07:00

"Summertime often goes by too fast. Enjoy every moment." ~unknown

Went out front last night to enjoy the evening light and summertime foliage. The arrival of a hummingbird was a joyous surprise. I'll head out there again soon... next time with a zoom lens. :)

Click on the photo above to see three more images from last evening. For the largest display and hands-free viewing, I recommend watching the slide show set on medium speed.

Big Trees Big Fun

2010-07-21T12:28:00.001-07:00

A quick trip to see, smell and climb the big trees, with good friends, Julia & Flynn. I think Big Basin is as much heaven on earth for the boys as it is for me!

To see more images from this gallery, click on the photo above. I recommend viewing these on slideshow mode, medium speed. Hope you enjoy!

Ariolimax Californicus, aka California Banana Slug

2010-07-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

"Banana slugs are native to the forest floors along North America's Pacific coastal coniferous rainforest belt (including redwood forests) which stretches from Southeastern Alaska to central California, just south of the San Francisco Bay Area, (Santa Cruz).

Slugs are detritivores or decomposers. They process leaves, animal droppings, and dead plant material, and then recycle them into soil hummus . They seem to have a fondness for mushrooms and they spread seeds and spores when they eat. They move relatively slowly.

Slugs secrete a slime that contains pheromones to attract other slugs for mating. Slugs are hermaphrodites and reproduce by exchanging sperm with their mate." ~Wikipedia

To see more from this gallery, click on the photo above. I recommend viewing the images on slide show mode, medium speed.

Boulder Creek Fourth

2010-07-05T23:58:00.000-07:00

Proud to be a member of the Boulder Creek Family Network! And, yes! That is a banana slug following behind our new banner, slime trail and all! Big thanks to Diane, Kira, Cyndi, Kim & the whole parade team. Congrats on a well deserved 2nd place!

Click on the photo above to see more photos from the parade.

I recommend viewing these in slide-show mode on medium speed. Hope you enjoy!

Chloe

2010-07-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

I had a great time getting to know beautiful & sweet 16 month old, Chloe, and her parent's, Scott & Giselle. On the go, non-stop, Chloe kept us on the move for our full 90 minute session. A challenge I was prepared for and completely enjoyed! Thank you Scott, Giselle & Chloe!

Also, big thanks to grandmother, Kathy, for top notch bubble making! And to Aunt Nancy... who's meticulously landscaped yard is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen!

To see more images from this 90 minute portrait session, click on the photo above. I recommend viewing these on slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Two Cute!

2010-06-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

As soon as I laid my eyes on my friend Laurie's kitten, Celia, I said, "Oh, I think I need to come back with my camera." So, yesterday, I did just that. Celia's adorable play-mate, Chuckie, has got to be one of the best watch dogs this side of the Mississippi! Of course, under that bark is all love and play.

Big thanks to Laurie for allowing me the opportunity to focus on her two adorable pets!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this 20+ minute mini-session.

Photo Contest Winner!

2010-06-21T22:52:00.000-07:00

I read Kent Weakley's informative and inspirational website & blog regularly and have learned so much from him and his followers. I entered one of my favorite images in his May Photo Contest and lo and behold....WON!)@(*$_!*_)!*+%

Thank you to my supportive friends and family! Your clicks got the photo to the judging round! Also, much appreciation to my beautiful model, Andrea, and her parents, Amber & Greg. And, of course, BIG thanks to the judges! I am completely surprised, excited and honored!

Click on the image above to see the announcement on kentweakley.com. Also, check out the cool video of the canvas being made @ http://kentweakley.com/blog/photo-contest-winner-prize-canvas-0610/.

Butterfly

2010-06-21T22:43:00.000-07:00

After many unsuccessful attempts at capturing a nice crisp shot of a butterfly, (boy are they always on the move), this one decides to give me a gift. Thank you Madame Butterfly!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

My Guys

2010-06-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

A trip to Seabright Beach on Father's Day with the two loves of my life. I feel like the luckiest woman in the world!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Mountain Design Company

2010-06-20T09:47:00.001-07:00

Graphic Designer, Kira Ruvo, spoils me with her talent and 15+ years of experience. Check out this ad for the 2010/11 edition of the San Lorenzo Valley Business Directory(http://www.slvbd.com). Thank you Kira!

I recommend Mountain Design Company for all your graphic design needs. To see more, click on the ad/image above or go to: http://www.mountaindesigncompany.com/

Louanne

2010-06-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed my time with Louanne! She was looking to obtain portraits for both personal and professional use. The session took place right at Louanne's home. Her adorable dog, Kip, decided he wanted in on the attention and he was quite cooperative! Thanks Louanne & Kip!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this portrait session.

Big Sur Celebration

2010-06-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

What a way to celebrate one experience filled year with my first SLR, (oh sweet Canon)!
A fun camping trip, with friends and plenty of kids, in majestic Big Sur provides limitless photographic opportunities. Oh... if there were only more time in the day!

WOW! I have learned so incredibly much over the past 12 months and I do realize that my journey has only just begun! Feeling so much joy being able to do something I'm so passionate about.

Big thanks to my understanding husband and son who see mom attached to her MacBook, let's just say, a lot. I feel so lucky to have so many supportive friends and family. Thank you all. And a special thanks to friends that, along with much appreciated encouragement, continually share their talent and knowledge with me; Software Engineer-Michelle Engler, Photographer-Estrella Bibbey. and Graphic Designer-Kira Ruvo.

To see some of the nature images from our weekend in Big Sur, click on the image above. I'll be adding more to this gallery, and it's sister gallery, Big Sur Fun, over the next week or so.

Sidewalk Studio

2010-06-09T21:19:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to meet talented SLV architect, Patricia Pollock, of Sidewalk Studio recently. She was looking to have photographs taken of a couple local residential projects. Well, with my interior design background, this was a new challenge I was very excited to take on!

First step... wide angle lens. Second step... read, study up and practice. Third step, adjust to working with a tripod. Fourth step, collaborate with architect to obtain the images she had in mind and more.

I had a great time getting to know Patty and I am looking forward to working with her again in the future.

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery. To view the images hands-free, I recommend using slide show mode on medium or fast speed.

Funkranomicon

2010-06-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

If you live in the SF Bay Area, you don't want to miss this band! Based out of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Funkranomicon pairs up groovin' originals with a fantastic selection of funk tunes from the 70's. Put on your dancin' shoes and get ready to smile the night away!

Click the image above to check out Funkranomicon on Facebook!

Dad's Hat

2010-05-24T11:24:00.001-07:00

So, my 7 year old comes into the kitchen wearing his dad's hat. He looked so darn cute, and so "grown up" and so much like his father. I just looked at him with adoration in my eyes and said, "You look so cute in Dad's hat. Guess there's no chance you would let me grab a couple of shots while you're wearing it." And to my surprise, his response was an enthusiastic YES. Wow... my little boy is growing up. The time just keeps flying by!

The antique table in the background of this image is a Welch family heirloom adding a little extra meaning to the composition. I like that I can see, what are, family photos on top of the table. I also like the table's reflection on the floor and how it's lines wrap parallel to my son's shoulder.

To see a few more of my faves from this 10/15 minute session, just click on the photo above. I recommend viewing this gallery on full slide show mode on medium speed.

Anderson's Birthday Party

2010-05-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic day to celebrate Anderson's 2nd Birthday at the Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club. I had so much fun observing and interacting with the birthday boy and his many adorable friends!

This was one of the most memorable child parties that I have ever been to. The location, the food, fun activities, the thoughtful details, the weather, and of course all the happy friends and family! Thanks to Estrella and Jerry for throwing such a fantastic party and allowing me the opportunity to take part in the fun!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this Gallery. For hands free viewing, I recommend using the full slide show mode on fast speed.

Kai on Djembe

2010-05-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

A 3rd generation drummer, Kai is an absolute natural on the djembe. Of course, his dad did get him on the congas at the ripe old age of 6 months, so that may have something to do with it too! :) Sometimes I'll hear the soulful rhythms from across the house or out in the yard and I can't tell if it's him or his dad playing. I'm going to figure out how to add audio to future posts like this one!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this gallery.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day, Birthday, Anniversary, or just because.... Whatever the occasion, a fresh family portrait is sure to make mom smile! Wishing moms everywhere a very Happy Mother's Day!

Sydney

2010-04-16T15:25:00.001-07:00

I had a great day touring San Lorenzo Valley with Sydney. Sydney's beauty paired with absolutely perfect weather and many fun locations made this shoot something special! Thanks Sydney!

Click on the photo above to see more images from this portrait session. I recommend viewing these on slide show mode on fast speed.

Kim & her girls

2010-03-27T19:18:00.000-07:00

I love arriving at the beach just before sunset. Being able to work in the beautiful outdoors is one of my favorite benefits that comes with being a natural light photographer. And I find no place more inspirational then the beach.

I completely enjoyed getting to hang out with and focus on Kim and her girls down at Seabright Beach. There's nothing like the love between a mother and her daughter/s. Big thanks to Kim, Autumn and Indigo for sharing their beauty and fun-filled energy with me and my lens!

Click on the image above to see more from this one hour beach session. I recommend viewing this gallery in slide show mode on fast speed.

Morning in the Redwoods

2010-03-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

A couple of Saturdays ago, the early morning weather was just too heavenly to not indulge in. With both boys still sleeping, I decided to escape while I could! :) The blue skies and extra warm temps inspired me to head up to one of my favorite places, Big Basin State Park, where the morning sunlight dances between the redwoods. And as much as this special place provides a feast for the senses, the opportunity at peace and solitude is perhaps the biggest treat of all. A perfect time to sit, reflect, enjoy the moment and give thanks.

Click on the image above to see more from this gallery. I recommend viewing this gallery in slide show mode on medium speed.

Spring Joy

2010-03-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring! Love and gratitude is in the air! Huge thanks to Avery and her parents for giving me my first opportunity at a newborn session! I had such a good time getting to know this family. This session lasted 3+ hours. We allowed all the time necessary for baby nature calls, feedings, sleeping images, awake images...

I feel so incredibly lucky to have had such a beautiful new family to focus on! I can't tell you how many times my heart was truly touched watching the love between these three. I simply lost count. :) Thank you Avery, Janelle & Darcy!

To see more images from this Newborn Session.... click on the photo above. I recommend viewing this gallery in slide show mode on fast speed. Hope you enjoy!

Plan ahead for Mom

2010-03-08T15:55:00.000-08:00

Time flies, doesn't it? Before we know it, Mother's Day will be upon us! This year, consider a gift for mom that will last a lifetime. Schedule an individual, family or pet portrait session by early April to ensure that your photographs are ready and in your hands by May 9th..... Mother's Day!

March already?

2010-03-03T15:18:00.000-08:00

The weeks just keep flying by! Feeling so incredibly lucky and appreciative to be spending so much time doing something I'm so passionate about! Every time I go out on a shoot I am refilled to the brim with energy and gratitude. Thank you to my customers, friends, and family for helping me to make this dream a reality. I am forever grateful.

Filled up my MacBook Pro already!? So, after many hours of purging and organizing way too many photos, I have collected a file of my favorite shots from over the last 8 months. Here are just some of them. I hope you enjoy.

Click on the image above to see more from this Compilation Gallery. As with most galleries, for easy hands free viewing, I recommend viewing this gallery in "Slide Show" mode on "Fast" speed.

Welcome!

2010-02-22T09:24:00.000-08:00

Thank you for visiting my new Blog... still a work in progress. I would love to hear your thoughts/suggestions/comments! To leave a comment, click on the small icon below. Scroll to bottom of page to subscribe to future posts.

Ashley

2010-02-20T00:23:00.000-08:00

Weather was rolling in as Ashley and I headed out to one of my favorite spots in Boulder Creek. Time and light were limited, but the breathtaking surroundings combined with Ashley's charm and stunning beauty made this session a photographer's dream! Thank you Ashley! Click on the image above to see more photos from this mini-session. As with most galleries, I recommend viewing these in slide show mode on fast speed.

Santa Cruz Naturopathic

2010-02-18T14:37:00.000-08:00

I completely enjoyed focusing on the team down at the Santa Cruz Naturopathic Medical Center this week. Located in a beautiful Victorian right in down town Santa Cruz the center offers holistic health care for the entire family. Awarded the Metro Santa Cruz Gold Award for 2009, this group of warm and friendly women specialize in naturopathic medicine as well as body work. To find out more, please visit their website at http://www.scnmc.com/. Click on the image above to see more photos from this session.

Valentine's Day at the beach

2010-02-15T12:31:00.000-08:00

LOVE kids, LOVE dogs, LOVE family and the beach! What a perfect Valentine's Day it was being able to chase around adorable 2 year old, Eric, and his sweet lab, Casey! The lighting at the beach is a photographer's dream and I had fun playing with it while on the move. Big sister, Brianna couldn't be more beautiful with her totally natural poses.... no directions from me!! I must mention that this location has a special meaning to this family. Mom, Laurel, grew up about 30 feet above this beach... a backyard dreams are made of!!!! Thanks Laurel, Eric, Bri & Casey! Click on the image to see more photos from this beach portrait session. I recommend viewing the images in slide show mode on fast speed.

Mabeline

2010-02-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

Mabeline is an adorable and energetic three year old. Her mind was on one thing only. Playing ball! Having said that, getting a few shots of her without that big tongue hanging out was the biggest challenge of this session. Luckily, soaking up all that great laid back dog energy reminds me to just relax and go with the flow. Mabeline's friend, Moonshine, was super sweet too! Click on the image to see more photos from this 30 minute Mini Pet Session. I recommend viewing these in "slide show" mode on fast speed.

Wool Art by Sandra Wiley

2010-02-10T17:04:00.000-08:00

Made with wool, a needle, patience and talent! Here's Big Red by Sandra Wiley! Click on the image to see more photos from this gallery. You can also check out this local artist's work on Etsy.... http://www.etsy.com/shop/sandrawiley

Clouds 365

2010-02-10T12:53:00.001-08:00

I've been enjoying viewing and sharing clouds photos on FB's Clouds 365 Page. Click on the image to view more photos from this album. I recommend viewing these in full slide show mode on medium speed. Hope you enjoy!

Jenna

2010-02-09T14:21:00.001-08:00

I had so much fun with Jenna and her mom! Two natural beauties alright! They came over just after the sun had set behind the mountain. Luckily I had my new lens! We ventured back into the wilderness just a bit and got to witness a beautiful sight. The sun lighting the clouds above the mountains, fog rolling into the valley. What a treat! Thank you Tracy & Jenna! Check out mother and daughter enjoying the beautiful moment together. Click on the image to see more photos from this portrait session.

Early Out Day

2010-02-09T13:39:00.000-08:00

What can I say? Another fun early out day with a friend! It was also Wacky Hair day!
Kai and Vinny have tons of fun and I see what I can capture. Click on the image to see more photos from this album.

Niki

2010-02-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful day in California! I had a great time with Niki and her mom out at the UCSC Arboretum. Niki is not only sweet, smart and pretty but also a great artist and a natural on stage. I found myself, again, enjoying the mother daughter shots the most. I can FEEL the love between these two! Thank you Niki & Eileen! Click on the image to see more photos from this portrait session.

Papa Bear has a new home!

2010-02-09T12:21:00.000-08:00

Love, love, love the pet sessions! My good friend Kerri adopted 9 year old Papa Bear. Everyone at the rescue cheered as she walked out with the oldest dog in the place! And what a gift for both Kerri & Bear! He couldn't be any sweeter! Thank you Kerri & Bear! Click on the image to see more photos from this pet portrait session.

Hans

2010-02-09T11:20:00.000-08:00

They don't come any cuter then Hans! I had SOOO much fun chasing around this little cutie! This session took place right at Han's home. A combination of indoor and outdoor shots, Hans gave me the workout I was prepared for! Focusing on this precious face.... what a treat! Thanks Hans & Michelle! Click on the image to see more photos from this child portrait session.