San Diego military homecoming

It's Memorial Day and a great chance to acknowledge those that fight for our country and all of the sacrifices they make. Last year I was honored to photograph a Navy homecoming of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson for another photography studio, Studio 512

These two have quite a story!! Shortly after getting married and moving to a new town, Mikaela's husband was deployed for a long 9 months on the USS Carl Vinson. The newlyweds were reunited in June of last year... and to say it was emotional is an understatement. Check out the story below. Documenting events like this in people's lives is what inspires me and gives new life & meaning to my work.

And thank you to all of those who serve in the military. Happy Memorial Day!!

San Diego welcomes the USS Carl Vinson home.

The anticipation was absolutely palpable as we waited for the sailors to disembark.

"Omg I can see him"

New dads are let off the ship 1st to meet their babies for the first time. It was hard not to choke up witnessing such touching reunions!

This moment was like a scene from a movie. We hear him yell "Mikaela" and runs through the crowd. Picks her up in an embrace and swings her around while everyone stops to watch.

Together at last!

"Let's go home"

A few quick portraits before they headed to their hotel to celebrate!

Julia and Kevin | San Diego nautical wedding

The rain cleared, the clouds opened up and San Diego gave us a gorgeous day out on the water!

Julia + Kevin chose to have a nautical destination wedding here in San Diego all aboard Flagship Cruises and Events. With views of downtown and Coronado, it was the perfect place to recite their vows in front of family & friends. Funny story, Julia and I actually went to high school together in Boulder, CO. We randomly reconnected (thru our dogs) both living in San Diego, were neighbors and have kept in touch since... So happy I got to photograph her wedding celebration and share in their marriage joy!

Gorgeous bride Julia with her million watt smile!

Loved all the fun nautical details. Just perfect!

san diego boat wedding 012.jpg

Sloane | San Diego newborn session

I just love doing in-home newborn sessions! I love the intimacy being in my client's own home provides... and it helps keep baby + parents relaxed and comfortable being in their own environment.

We start with some cozy posed shots of the baby. I bring a few blankets and props but try to keep it to a minimum to focus on the infant's natural beauty. After that we try for some lifestyle portraits with the whole family. I really hope to capture the magic and emotion that is in the moment. It is a special time right after bringing your baby home and it's amazing to me that I get to document it! Including feeding and diaper change breaks, the whole session takes about 3 hours.

This family booked a maternity + newborn package. So awesome I got to be a part of their journey to parenthood. See their maternity session here.

And check out other recent in-home newborn sessions here and here.

Mother's Day mini sessions

Mama & Me mini sessions are here just in time for Mother's Day!

Sun, April 24 @ 8:40, 9:00, 9:20am

Mama & Me mini sessions include:
* 20 minute photo session of Mama + children
* 5 high resolution images via digital download
* Private online gallery for proofing/purchasing

How to book: Mini sessions must be paid in full to secure your spot! Choose your desired date + time from the above dates. You will then receive an invoice sent to your email. Once paid you are booked for that time slot.

San Diego maternity session

I wanted to share this lovely maternity session because I've just received news that their baby girl was born... and I can't wait to meet her for her newborn session tomorrow!

Did you know that if you book a maternity & newborn combo you receive $100 off? Stay tuned for newborn pics of this itty bitty!