What to wear to your summer photoshoot on the beach
You’ve booked your Summer of Self Love photoshoot — now it’s time to start dreaming about your outfits. This isn’t just a shoot; it’s a celebration of who you are right now. And what you wear should feel just as powerful, playful, and beautiful as you are.
Here are my favorite outfit ideas for capturing your energy, honoring your body, and looking absolutely stunning on camera:
1. Swimwear That Makes You Feel Sexy (and Secure)
Whether you're rocking a one-piece, bikini, or something custom — choose swimwear that highlights the parts of your body you love and makes you feel held. Think bold colors, high-waisted bottoms, supportive tops, or strappy silhouettes. Patterns are welcome too — florals, metallics, and retro vibes all photograph beautifully.
✨ Tip: Don’t stress about trends. Wear what you feel amazing in. Confidence is the most photogenic thing you can bring.
2. Lingerie That Feels Like an Extension of You
Soft lace, sheer mesh, bodysuits, bralettes — this is where we tap into your sensual side. You can go as bold or as delicate as you like. Lingerie doesn’t have to be revealing — a robe, silk set, or even an oversized button-down with pretty undergarments peeking through can be incredibly powerful.
✨ Tip: Bring options! Neutrals and rich tones (like burgundy, deep green, or bronze) look incredible in natural light.
3. Flowy Dresses & Skirts That Move With You
Movement adds magic. Flowy fabrics catch the breeze and create beautiful, ethereal shapes in photos. Long skirts, wrap dresses, off-the-shoulder maxi dresses, or even an open kimono can bring a soft, feminine energy to your shoot — especially when paired with bare feet or statement jewelry.
✨ Tip: Go for light fabrics (chiffon, cotton, silk blends) in soft or earthy tones for a dreamy, timeless look.
Bonus: Accessorize With Intention
A sunhat, body chain, anklet, or hair scarf can take a simple outfit to the next level. We’re not going overboard — we’re highlighting you. Choose pieces that tell a story or feel connected to your self-expression.
Still Not Sure What to Wear?
That’s okay — I’m here to help. When you book your session, we’ll chat about your comfort level, personal style, and how you want to feel in your photos. We’ll curate looks that make you feel empowered, not just styled.
This retreat is about reconnecting with yourself and seeing your beauty through a new lens. Let your wardrobe reflect that.
Let’s create something unforgettable — together.
2. Email Announcement for the Blog (General List)
Subject Line:
Wondering what to wear for your self love photoshoot? I’ve got you 💕
Body:
Hi [First Name],
The Summer of Self Love retreat is coming — and one of the biggest questions I get is:
"What should I wear for the photoshoot?"
So I wrote a new blog just for you!
From swimwear and lingerie to flowy dresses that catch the breeze, this post is full of inspiration to help you feel confident, radiant, and 100% YOU in front of the camera.
✨ Click here to read the blog and get ready to feel amazing in whatever you choose to wear.
Whether you're already booked or still dreaming about joining us this August, this blog is for anyone looking to celebrate their body with intention and joy.
xo,
Alex
3. Subscriber-Only Email (Warmer, Insider Tone)
Subject Line:
Hey babe — here’s your exclusive guide to what to wear 💫
Body:
Hi [First Name],
As part of my email fam, I wanted to share something a little special.
The Summer of Self Love retreat is coming up, and I know picking what to wear can feel overwhelming — especially when we’re talking swimwear or lingerie. That’s why I put together a guide to help you feel confident, beautiful, and so ready for your shoot.
🌿 Click here to read the full outfit guide
I break down:
My favorite types of swimwear (no, you don’t have to wear a bikini to look fire 🔥)
Empowering lingerie looks (soft, sexy, YOU)
Flowing dresses and styling tips for that effortless goddess energy
Bonus tips for accessories that elevate your look
This shoot isn’t about perfection — it’s about self-expression and celebrating where you are right now. I’m so honored to photograph this version of you.
Let me know if you want help picking outfits or shopping links — I got you 💛
With love,
Alex
Graduation Photos at William Land Park, Sacramento California
If you are looking for a location in Sacramento or are in a city near Sacramento and need a spot for photos or just to visit, William Land Park is your spot!
First off, congratulations to this amazing grad! Kathleen is graduating from Sacramento State University with a Masters of Science in Finance. She has worked for the state finance department and currently works with some of California’s largest companies helping with their finances. She has worked so incredibly hard, sometimes working two or three jobs and started a seasonal business all while earning her Bachelors and Masters!
Location
This giant park is located next to the Sacramento zoo and has a rock garden, ponds, ducks, geese, and miles of walking. Theres even a mini theme park, so this spot is perfect for spring weekends and summer days off!
Photoshoot Details
There is so much at william land park that it is impossible to stay in one spot. So we walked around the rock garden, ovr by the wall that blooms in the spring, and down to the pond with the ducks in the background!
I never leave posing up to my clients! Usually, clients have no modeling experience, so I don’t expect them to know how to stand or where to put their hands. I direct the entire photoshoot and guide clients to different little spots so we get variety.
Planning
Planning your photoshoot should be a seamless experience guided by your photographer! I always start with an initial free consultation to describe the process and make sure all your questions are answered. If you choose to book on that call, we will imediately dive into planning to save you time down the road. We will talk about locations, outfits, hair, and makeup to ensure you have everything you need to feel your very best during your photoshoot!
After I have gotten the details to your dream session, I will send a recap email so you have a written copy of everything that needs to be done before your session including location and time options and recommendations.
After your photoshoot
After your photoshoot, the experience continues. While I offer a variety of packages that includes a specific number of images, you have the freedom to choose which images you’d like to have. You also will have the option to purchase additional images if you’d like!
Once you have picked your photos, I will get to editing an usually have your final photos delivered to you in a password protected digital gallery! You have access to both your proofing and final gallery for up to five years. So, if later down the line you want to purchase additional images, you can definately do so! In addition to long term storage, you also get access to my professional printers directly from your gallery so you don’t have to waste time researching and you will get the best possible quality.
On top of all that goodness, you will also recieve 10% off any future photoshoots with me.
How to choose a photoshoot location
One of the first things that needs to be planned when planning your photoshoot, no matter the type, is where you’re going to have your photos taken. But, choosing the right location can be confusing, there are a lot of beautiful places, but what’s the best spot? Or, what’s the easiest to access? Are there parking or entrance fees? I’ll walk you through how I help my clients choose the perfect location for them!
Favorite location
If you are planning your photoshoot, I want you to consider any spots you have been to that you love. Think of first or favorite date spots! A picnic spot you loved, the spot you got proposed to at, an area you love to sit and watch the world go by! Spots that are meaningful to you are often the best location to choose for your photos, not only will they make your photos that much more meaningful, but a location you are already familiar with will make you feel more comfortable and have more fun!
Location Type
If you can’t think of a location that is particularly special to you, that’s okay! I always recommend thinking about the types of locations you love or fit your personality! For me, I really love the ocean and gardens so I might choose a beach location or a garden location. I also really love San Francisco, so maybe I would choose a beach in San Francisco! If you can’t think of a type of location, think of what you might want to wear, this can help you choose a location type. For example. If you feel really comfortable in a yellow sundress, you might want to consider a garden location surrounded by flowers or a beach location at sunset! If you’re wanting to dress up in a red carpet worthy dress you might want to consider a location like a ball room or city hall. The palace of fine arts a San Francisco City hall are great options for suit and ties and ball gowns! If you want to wear a long flowy dress, consider the beach. And if you want to wear cowboy boots and a hat, a field might be a good spot for you!
Next Steps
After you have decided the type of location you want, it’s time to narrow that down!
ask your photographer for locations like that within their range, they should a few options or be able to easily find one!
Google Is your best friend!
apple or google maps: This is my best friend!
subscribe to my newsletter, I frequently share new locations in my blog and newsletter!
How to add Star Wars details into your wedding without being tacky.
We all love a good theme, but sometimes its hard to execute that theme without it being tacky! Here’s some of my tips for, specifically, a May 4th wedding where you want to add in Star Wars details but aren’t exactly sure how to go about it!
1. Elegant Accessories with Galactic Inspiration
Small pieces like replica or inspired jewelry, cuff links, and tie or bow tie designs are a great way to nod to the series. Think subtle emblems, character motifs, or colors that align with your favorite Star Wars figures. Look for metallic tones or minimalist engravings that pay tribute without overpowering your outfit.
2. Hair & Makeup Inspired by Iconic Heroines
Channel your inner Princess Leia, Padmé Amidala, or Rey with hair and makeup looks inspired by Star Wars’ leading ladies. From braided crowns to sleek updos and bold liner or natural beauty palettes, these looks bring an empowering energy while remaining elegant for any ceremony.
3. Star Wars-Inspired Cake Details
You don’t need a full-on themed cake to showcase your love for the saga. Add subtle patterns or textures from Star Wars ships, costumes, or symbols using edible gold, silver, or white finishes. A simple cake topper with a themed design—like silhouettes, quotes, or miniature characters—adds a tasteful finishing touch.
4. Signage, Stationery, & Music with Subtle References
Use classic fonts and calligraphy to include famous Star Wars quotes on your signage, invitations, or vows. This keeps the look refined while still speaking to your fandom. Enhance the atmosphere by using composed or classical arrangements of Star Wars music during the ceremony or cocktail hour. It’s a subtle way to set the tone that only the most attentive guests will recognize.
5. Floral Details from the Galaxy
Believe it or not, Star Wars features real-world flowers that you can incorporate into your bouquets and centerpieces. The Star, candle wick, damsel, and marina ring flowers have all appeared in the series. Including them adds a meaningful touch—especially for fans who know their lore.
6. Crowns, Tiaras & Headbands Fit for a Queen
Throughout the saga, queens and heroines have donned stunning headpieces. Consider incorporating dainty headbands, elegant tiaras, or celestial-inspired crowns as a nod to the regal women of Star Wars.
7. Color Palettes & Metals that Speak to Fans
From Naboo’s warm golds and creamy whites to the dark silvers of the Death Star, use Star Wars-inspired color schemes to build a cohesive design. Use metallic accents in your décor, table settings, and even bridal party attire. These details won’t scream “sci-fi,” but they’ll certainly resonate with fellow fans.
International Women’s Day Photoshoot
Every year I put together a photoshoot for International Women’s Day. I get together a group of women with all different backgrounds, ethnicities, and life experiences and do a large group photoshoot! In addition, if we have extra time, I will also throw In some complimentary solo shots for the ladies too!
Fashion Editorial in Savage X Fenty
Hot & Humid is a sultry fashion campaign-style photoshoot featuring a bold Savage X Fenty black lace slip dress (Nightshade dress). While this editorial was not affiliated with the brand, it was inspired by the confidence, sensuality, and strength that Savage X Fenty embodies. Shot in warm tones and a natural setting, this lingerie photoshoot blends soft light with moody moments—making it the perfect blend of editorial photography and creative direction. Keep reading to explore this intimate Savage X Fenty-inspired shoot, perfect for anyone seeking lingerie photoshoot ideas or a peek into high-fashion styled collaborations.
Styling the Look: The Savage X Fenty Dress
We chose a signature Savage X Fenty piece for its bold simplicity: black satin, delicate lace, and a high side slit that created natural movement and drama. The way it caught light and hugged the body made it a perfect statement for this "less is more" concept.
This look wasn’t about revealing—it was about revealing power.
Creative Vision and Location
Set in a private courtyard with warm textures and a peaceful water feature, we leaned into the moody, campaign-style aesthetic often seen in high-end fashion editorials. The combination of architectural lines and natural elements grounded the shoot in something timeless and confident—just like the woman in front of the lens.
Empowered Imagery Through Collaboration
What made this shoot special wasn’t just the styling—it was the collaboration. Our model brought softness and strength to every pose, reminding us that being “hot” isn’t about looking a certain way—it’s about owning your moment.
That idea sits at the heart of all my work.
Why This Matters: Creating Space for Self-Love
As a photographer, I’m deeply passionate about more than just capturing beauty—I’m committed to creating space for empowerment and self-love. Shoots like this aren't just editorial—they're healing. They’re powerful reminders that sensuality and softness can coexist, and that every woman deserves to see herself the way we see her through our lens: bold, beautiful, and fully present.
This is the same vision that fuels my signature self-love photoshoots—private, empowering sessions that focus on confidence and connection. Whether in lingerie, swimwear, or natural light, these sessions are for you.
Interested in Your Own Empowering Photoshoot?
Let’s create something bold and beautiful together. Explore my self-love, swimwear, or confidence-boosting editorial sessions!
Filoli Photoshoot Guide and Timeline
Filoli is a stunning location to enjoy year round, and is one of my favorite locations to photograph! So here is a full guide on what you need to know about Filoli!
The greenhouse
A great spot to stop and sit for a minute or grab a few extra creative photos any time of year! This little green house is perfect inside and outside!
The pools
While the pools and ponds are stunning photo ops, you may only look at these stunning water features, not swim in them! There are three main pools/fountains. The tower pond and the blue pool are directly across from each other just outside the greenhouse. The tower pond is most popular for photos, but, you shouldn’t overlook the blue pool to sit and talk with your friends!
Nursery and Gift shop
Located around the corner from the main estate house, you can purchase an array of plants and gifts from hand made soaps to ornaments and snow globes.
Rose Garden
The rose garden typically blooms during the summer, think mid June if you are wanting to save your trip for the rose garden. The rose garden is located passed the wall located behind the greenhouse.
Tulips
If you are wanting to see hundreds of species of tulips, you should visit from late march through early may. The tulips are located all throughout the entirety of the property.
Christmas lights
The Christmas lights are one of the most popular attractions at Filoli, including dripping string lights from the trees to a light tunnel for you and your family to enjoy! The lights are usually available for viewing just after Thanksgiving.
Photoshoots
Photoshoots are allowed on the property, however, you cannot bring live flowers onto the property to avoid cross pollination. You also cannot use additional equipment like lightstands. If you’re interested in booking a Filoli photoshoot, tickets included, click here!
Visiting
Filoli in every season
Cottage Core Engagement Photoshoot in the Bay Area
We aren’t gate-keeping anything here! We are giving away exact location, outfit inspo, planning details, and even the exact photographer for this San Francisco Bay Area Engagement photoshoot!
Location
We met up at Coyote Hills Regional park located in the East Bay. Coyote Hills does have a closing time, at dusk, however you are able to exit shortly after closing over the no backing security grate. We specifically met at the Coyote Hills Visitor Center just before the Quail Trail and walked over to the board walk just off of the Chochenyo Trail. There is a wide variety of trails for different views from green and gold hill top views of Autumnal looking boardwalk surrounded by the golden cattails. No matter where you choose to shoot, you will have an amazing view of the hills and water in the distance. There are also public restrooms available that are open until closing time, which varies depending on the seasonn
Outfits
The couple chose to wear cottage core themed outfits. The corset top Is from Cider, but there are also similar options on Amazon. The dress and Menswear are also all from amazon and Renn Fair shops. Our photographer also has many options available for rent for your photoshoot!
Photographer
Photographer: Alexandria’s Photography follow us on instagram for more inspiration.
Christmas Themed Wedding Insperation
Now is the time to start planning your December 2025 and early 2026 weddings! And since we are starting planning our winter weddings, I thought I should share this Christmas themed wedding that I photographed this last Christmas!
The couple
Grace and Malia met through friends and instantly had a connection. Grace describes Malia as the “always calm” person in the room. While Malia Describes Grace as loving and kind. Their friendship and love grew through their friend group’s game nights until one day, they decided it was time for something more.
The Details
All florals and greenery were done by Janet’s Flowers in Modesto.
The Venue is “The Wedding Chapel” which is owned and run by Janet’s Flowers in Modesto.
Wedding and Engagement Photographer: Alexandria’s Photography and on instagram
Makeup, decor, etc was done by the bride’s and their friends and family.
Pink Blush Maternity Discount
About Pink Blush
Pink Blush Maternity is one of my favorite online stores to purchase photoshoot gowns, outfits, and swimwear weather you are expecting or not! Pink Blush carries maternity and every day clothing, including plus size options for most pieces. I use their dresses frequently and have some options in my client closet that I have had for years!
The Code
Use Code: thatbeachyphotographer25 for 25% off your order with no minimum
Samples
More
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Finding a Graduation photographer for your Highschool or college senior
Finding the perfect photographer for your senior can be super difficult with the wide variety of price points, and packages! California and Hawaii are especially difficult with the density of photographers! So I will go over everything from prices to deliverables and legalities for you to think about when it comes to booking your senior photographer!
.1 Price Points
Many Senior portrait sessions pricing is based off a combination of number of locations, outfits, hours in front of the camera, and your photographers personal experience and ability!
$50-$100: typically a very new photographer with little to no experience. This photographer will more than likely not have contracts, insurance, or a concrete booking plan
$100-$300: This photographer is usually a bit more established and perhaps a bit more polished in their work and their pricing may not necessarily reflect the quality of their work, rather their experience and professionability… but not always. This is still not a livable wage for most photographers so it is usually a side gig price point!
$300-$800: This is a pretty average price range for a wide range of established and talented photographers who are going to be generous!
$800+: More than likely, you are receiving a luxury photography experience and are working with a real pro!! But, be sure to see their portfolio; work that they did themselves to ensure that you will be receiving the best of the best!
.2 Contracts
This is a more difficult subject to cover, as every photographer has a slightly different contract, but here are some things to look out for in contracts.
Make sure they have a contract, if they don’t this could be a major red flag, because the photographer should be educated on this subject and want to protect you and themselves!
contract should inlclude what you are receiving and how much it will be. You should only pay for what is laid out in the contract, this includes possible charges for last minute add on’s like additional hours if they are willing, and everything you are getting like a proofing gallery, number of finished images, time in front of the camera, number of outfits and locations, and if there are any physical prints included
there should be a cancellation and re-scheduling policy
there should be a refund policy
.3 Portfolio
A Photographer MUST have a portfolio and should know the difference between a portfolio and inspiration board and inspo pics. They should be able to provide a website, instagram, or Facebook link to showcase their work or, all three!!!
.4 The Dreaded Call
Once you have reviewed your photographer’s portfolio and website, it’s time to schedule a call! UGH! I know, so scary! But, if they are the right photographer to you, they will not make this scary! They will make it fun and full of information for you to decide on them! If they are unwilling to hop on some sort of call, they may be a scammer!
My Reccomendations
Check out Alexandria’s Photography for ALL your photographic needs! Alexandria’s Photography is a mid-priced, pro photographer who makes everyone feel comfortable!
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Best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge + best times to view the Golden Gate
Today you will get the best locations to view the Golden Gate Bridge, learn about the best times to view the Golden Gate, find cool food and beverage spots around these locations, maps links, and a bonus!
Locations
Tourist Favorites
Some tourist favorite spots to view the Golden Gate Bridge and are budget friendly are going to be spots like:
H. Dana Bowers Rest Area which is located on the edge of the Golden Gate Bridge right outside Sausalito, just minutes from San Francisco. This spot is great if you are on the road and visiting multiple locations. you can park, use the bathroom, and look out at the bridge!
Crissy Field, a popular spot that includes a great area to walk, visitor center, bathrooms, beach, and more!
Battery Lancaster: This is a great spot even if you aren’t a tourist, it includes educational content, a great coffee spot, and walking/hiking trails!
Local Favorites
These local favorite spots are hidden gems and are great for viewing the Golden Gate Bridge if you have some time to spare!
The Wave Organ: This spot is really unique in that it is also a rock sculpture that provides great photo ops, views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. You will be right outside the Golden Gate Yacht Club and surrounded by yachts, sail, and other boats for your viewing pleasure!
Perles Beach and point knox on Angel Island: This little island provides great hiking, 360 views of the bay, and a great full view of the Golden Gate Bridge. you can take the Blue & Gold Ferry, from the Tiburon Ferry Terminal on the north side of the bridge out to the island
China Beach: this beach has a great walk up and down and, despite all the stairs, it is wheel chair accessable with a long ramp down to the main building and a ramp down to the beach from that. There is free parking, but spotty service, and only port-a-potties, but this spot is well worth it and one of my personal favorites to visit.
Close up views
If you want to get up close and personal with the bride, visit these cool spots
Fort Point National Historic Site
Lookout Cove and Fort Baker Pier
Hendrik Point
Walk the Golden Gate Bridge
Food and Beverage
If you are visiting San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bride, you will need a place to grab food and coffee, here are a few of my personal favorite spots in the area!
Equater Coffee at the round House Cafe
Cliff House
Cafe De Casa
Golden Link Concessionaire is great because it’s super convenient and in the epicenter of the Golden Gate Viewpoints!
When to visit for best conditions
Best Gallery and Booking Platform For Photographers
Pixieset
If you are just wanting a recommendation, mine is Pixieset! Plus, I have A $20 off discount link for you here to get you started on your professional journey!
Features
Pixieset is awesome for photographers at all levels in their carreers and can really give you a boost of professionalism for those awesome five star reviews and seamless experience for both you and your clients!
Here are some of the five star features that I love
Unlimited galleries that are available for 5+ years to both you and your clients that are backed up to the cloud
website builder tool
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Booking site
discount codes
print shop for professional prints that are easy for your clients to order from with dozens of product options and is customizable to what you would like to sell
easy to use affiliate code
payment portal for your clients
project folders to help you keep track of your different tasks
contact page to keep track of clients, potential clients, and other vendors
contract templates
questionarre templates
ability to create a gallery app for your clients to give them even easier access to their images and always have them on hand
and more!
Discount code
Ready to start your journey? Click here to sign up now!
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How to find your wedding vendors; 5 questions to ask the pro’s
Finding your vendors can be really hard when planning your wedding! Especially in diverse areas like the Bay Area! So here are my top 5 tips to finding the right vendors for you as a long time wedding and event photographer!
Ask about their website
Most professional wedding vendors will have a website filled with all kinds of information including reviews from past clients, their booking process, package deals, and info abut themselves for you to get comfortable with them as your vendor! My website even includes a photo of myself, so you know who to look for, a blog page like this one to help you learn and save, and more! If they don’t have a website, this doesn’t mean that they are not a real or trustworthy vendor, you will just have to ask for more resources like instagram and Facebook pages to see their reviews
2. Ask about their business License and Insurance
I highly recommend booking vendors who are liscenced and insured! Insurance is not expensive and does not require a business liscnece to get, just a fictitious business name, so, If they don’t have either of these, it may be your first red flag! Alexandria’s Photography is both licensed and insured to make sure that there are no bumps in your booking process and to ensure your money is going to a real small business!
3. Ask to hop On a call or video call
One thing I ALWAYS do to make my clients feel comfortable is to hop on a Zoom call with them before they even send over their first payment to book me as their photographer! I do this to create trust, get to know each other, feel out each others vibes, and to more easily answer questions and show real examples through the screen sharing feature so that my clients know I am real, trustworthy, and worth their money!
4. Ask about hourly rates and minimums
Not every pre-made package is for every couple, and that’s okay! Many vendors, like myself, are always open to creating custom packages and catering to your unique needs, we often just have a minimum hourly or dollar point minimum to ensure that we are able to best serve you!
5. Ask about tolerance
This sounds really weird, but It is really important to get to know what each vendor supports, tolerates, or are allies of. If they are not respectful of your religion, culture, or even sexual preference, this may be problematic for your wedding day! And, just because your photographer is a different religion, ethnicity, culture, or color than you also doesn’t mean that they don’t support you or are not an ally to you! For example, I am a non-practicing christian and believe in God, But I am also a Gay and POC ally!
6. Bonus: Contracts and more
Contracts are incredibly important and as a wedding photographer for over 10 years and having worked with third party companies, I know how important contracts are, and I would never personally book a vendor of any kind without some sort of written agreement or contract.
Contracts protect everyone involved and lay out everything from service provided to price point and overtime pay and travel expenses. Every vendor will have different agreements or policies for their business and it is important that their policies align with your own.
It is also important to realize that these vendors do this for a living and need to charge a livable wage for themselves and if they have employees or freelancers working for them.
On top of that, these vendors should be able to clarify their policies to you and answer any questions you may have about them in a kind and professional manner.
My Preferred Vendors List
Click here to check out my preferred vendors list, serving all of California and beyond!
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Alternative Reception Venue & Theme
Riley & Wade had an elegant ceremony at the palace of fine arts. Their theme was a night at the disco and they pulled through!
Venue
This retro reception was held at Bimbos 365 club in San Francisco, just a few minute drive from the Palace of fine arts and in a comfortable part of town!
Want to hit up another bar after your club reception? La Rocca’s bar is less than a block away with no turns!
Dinner
Riley and Wade opted for a chill dinner reception with pizza, beer, and signature cocktails.
The pizza was ordered from a local deep dish pizzeria.
Music
Riley and Wade danced the night away to a live band covering the 70’s through the 90’s and winded down with one of the Best DJ’s I’ve ever seen!
Give me a follow on Instagram to see more photos from this wedding!
Ready to book?
Pixieset Discount: $20 off
What is Pixieset
Pixieset really is an all in one platform where you can create a booking site, discount codes for bookings, upload galleries of images and videos, and create your website! I am a photographer and have been using pixies for over 7 years now and I am in love with it! They are constantly adding new features to make you and your clients experience seamless and professional!
The discount
Use this link when signing up for $20 off! : https://pixieset.com/ref/lgp2dc5vRv
International Women’s Day 2025: Mermaid Photoshoot
Every year, a week before international women’s day, I put on a mermaid photoshoot. I invite local Bay Area women to participate and give away 5 slots for free. Check out this years photos and mood board.
Mood Board
The theme is mermaid swimwear. Mixing salmons, pinks, tans, browns, and greens for an oceanic and natural vibe.
Mermaid photoshoot mood board and color pallet for International Women’s Day 2025
Grad Photos at Stanford’s Arizona Garden
This last spring, I was able to help out Michael in getting some graduation and modeling photos to start off his career at the Arizona Garden on the Stanford campus! Here are some things to know about this location:
Parking
Parking is extremely limited and is paid Monday through Friday during business hours. After hours and on weekends, there is free parking at a Stanford facility close by, less than a half mile away and very walkable as there are no steps and almost no incline or decline. The walk over can be hot on late spring and summer days as it is in direct sunlight.
Park Conditions
This park is super cute, one of the larger cactus gardens in the area, free to access, and surrounded by other beautiful parts of the campus including statues, the Stanford Family Moselium, and so much more! This area is clean and safe. It is pet and child friendly and often very quiet and serene. There are many people accessing this area including photographers, families, students studying, etc, so please be respectful of how loud you are where. There is also wildlife as this is a large and very green campus, you will see everything from birds and squirrels to the possibility of other small hunting animals and prey like rabbits. Due to this, it is important that you clean up after yourself and leave the area better than you found it! Do not feed the animals, as this can create a dangerous relationship and expectation between the animals who live in the area and other human visitors.
When To Visit
Of course, the free parking will promote weekend visits, But I would suggest parking a bit aways and Ubering in on week days to avoid crowds. Avoid holiday weekends or weekdays as many students will have off and will be more likely to be roaming around the larger parts of the campus. I have gone at all times of day and all days of the week, and all of them have been pleasant visits even when busy!
Plants and Wildlife
like I mentioned before, you will more than likely see an array of animals like rabbits, black squirrels, stray cats, and the possibility of other carnivorous mammals. Do not approach the animals as it could be harmful to you and the wildlife. You are less likely to see the larger animals as they tend to avoid people and this being a busy spot, they will try to avoid you, but if you do, please be respectful and give them space and never feed them.
There are a lot of different succulents and other desert plants in the Arizona Garden at Stanford. Many of these are very sharp and different sized and variations of cacti that can be dangerous, especially if you have young and exploring children, or children who are not inclined to listen! I have pricked myself a time or two trying to get “THE SHOT!”
Michael’s Gallery
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San Francisco Beach Wedding
A Perfect Harmony: A Beach and Garden Wedding with a Musical Theater Theme
When it comes to weddings, few things are as magical as blending the natural beauty of a beach and garden setting with the vibrant energy of musical theater. Recently, I had the honor of capturing a wedding that did just that—creating a day filled with love, joy, and theatrical flair. Set against the stunning backdrop of the ocean and a serene garden, this wedding was a true celebration of not only the couple’s love for each other but also their shared passion for the arts.
The Setting: A Tale of Two Beautiful Locations
The day began at a tranquil beach, where the couple exchanged their vows surrounded by the soothing sounds of the ocean and the soft embrace of the sand. The foggy, misty morning added an ethereal quality to the ceremony, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere that was simply unforgettable. The bride, dressed in a flowing off-the-shoulder gown, looked like she had stepped straight out of a fairytale, while the groom’s laid-back elegance perfectly complemented the relaxed vibe of the beach.
Following the beach ceremony, the celebration moved to a lush garden where guests were treated to a reception that seamlessly blended nature with the dramatic flair of musical theater. The garden’s vibrant greenery and the intimate, cozy setup made it the perfect location for the couple to celebrate with their loved ones. The contrast between the beach’s expansive, open space and the garden’s intimate setting created a dynamic and balanced flow to the day’s events.
The Theme: A Nod to Musical Theater
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear that this wedding was something special. The couple, both passionate about musical theater, incorporated subtle yet meaningful nods to their favorite shows throughout the day.
The bride’s entrance was nothing short of theatrical, with a soundtrack that paid homage to classic musicals, setting the tone for the rest of the day. Their vows, filled with lyrics and quotes from beloved musicals, added a personal and heartfelt touch to the ceremony. The couple’s love for the arts was evident in every detail, making the wedding not just a celebration of their union, but also a reflection of the creative passion that brought them together.
The Details: Capturing the Magic
Every detail of the day was carefully considered to create a harmonious blend of romance, nature, and theater. The bride’s bouquet, made up of wildflowers and roses, mirrored the natural beauty of the surroundings while also adding a pop of color to the soft, neutral tones of the beach. The groom’s boutonniere, a delicate arrangement of blooms and greenery, tied in perfectly with the theme.
The reception was a continuation of the couple’s love story, with tables named after iconic musicals and a playlist that kept the energy high and the dance floor full. The cake, decorated with music notes and a quote from their favorite show, was both a feast for the eyes and a sweet tribute to their shared passion.
One of the most touching moments of the day was the couple’s first dance, set to a song from a musical that holds special meaning for them. The joy and love between them were palpable as they danced under the stars, surrounded by their closest friends and family.
The Photography: Telling a Story of Love and Art
As a photographer, my goal was to capture not just the events of the day, but the emotion and connection that made this wedding so unique. The images from the beach ceremony are filled with the soft, romantic tones of the misty morning, highlighting the couple’s deep connection and the intimate atmosphere of their vows.
In contrast, the garden reception photos are vibrant and full of life, capturing the joy and celebration that followed. From candid shots of guests laughing and dancing to quiet moments of the couple stealing a kiss under a tree, every image tells a part of the story of their day.
The details of the musical theater theme are woven throughout the images, from close-ups of the cake and table settings to wide shots of the beautifully decorated garden. These photos not only document the day but also serve as a lasting reminder of the love and creativity that went into making this wedding truly one-of-a-kind.
Conclusion: A Wedding in Perfect Harmony
This beach and garden wedding with a musical theater theme was a celebration of love, creativity, and the joy that comes from sharing your passions with the person you love. The combination of natural beauty and theatrical flair made for a day that was as unique as it was unforgettable.
If you’re planning a wedding and looking for ways to incorporate your own passions and interests into your special day, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a beachside ceremony, a garden reception, or a theme that’s close to your heart, let’s create something beautiful together that tells your love story in the most authentic way possible.
What to wear to your Grad Photoshoot
Theme
Depending on your own style and desired outcome of your photos, you might want to consider a theme. Maybe the theme is to match the colors of your cool vintage car or matching to your location or even school’s mascot or colors.
For example, if you want a really girly or dreamy theme, you might want to consider long flowy dresses, pastel colors, and accessorizing with dainty jewlery.
If you want a vintage theme think about the era you want to represent and brint the colors and styles into your wardrobe like bell bottom jeans and a brown shirt or a crochet dress matched with knee high boots and a flower crown.
School Colors
You may want to consider dressing in your school colors or complimentary colors to your school colors.
A complimentary color is typically the colors on either side of the main color or directly across from it. You can also go monochrome: wearing different shades of the same color. If your school color is mainly green you could go with a green dress or green cargo pants and a matching shirt or black shirt… kinda like Kimpossible…
Location
When thinking about what exactly to wear you may want to first decide on where you want your photos to be taken and come up with an outfit for each location.
If you are standing in front of a statue of your schools mascot, you may want to wear your letterman jacket or dress in your schools sports attire. If you’re in a nice park you may want to wear a sundress or your favorite pair of jeans and a crisp white t-shirt. On the beach you may want to wear a button up with the sleeves rolled up and a pair of jeans or a flowy dress.
Cap and gown
Your cap and gown can be a great accessory or add on to any outfit! If you have a black cap and gown, then you are lucky! If you have a different color, you may want to go back and look at the school colors section and think about complimentary colors or monochrome.
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