From Palm Springs to San Diego

I kind of always knew I’d love the west coast but I was still unsure of what to expect. Everyone tells you its so different from the east coast and they were all right. Even the sea water smells way different.

I think I also expected the water to be so warm, people its not compared to that Florida life. But boy was the weather perfect. I now understand why there are a million things to do there because being outside all day is just lovely.

I even got the chance to see Imperial Beach where my Dad grew up. I’m low-key jealous of him now. Even the hotel where he worked (Hotel Del) was beyond cool. LUCKY! I will always love Ohio but not for weather reasons HAH!

We got to meet up with with my cousins too which was long overdue. I’m pretty thankful no matter how far away they are still like an old friend. I also am glad I got to get a cool Hansen surfboards shirt. I can add that to my Roxy Quicksilver pile.

Whatever coast travel is always a good idea!

PS- peep those photos of the SAN ANDREAS FAULT LINE! I still can’t believe how it cut that huge rock in half. Between the earthquakes and water wars coming to California I think visiting from afar is still more my style. I do enjoy visiting though— THE COOPERS WILL BE BACK CALI!

Married: Julie + Jordan

I met Julie and Jordan last summer and knew right away how great they were. Things like not having the location we planned on doing portraits may have been the worst thing to ever happen to a couple on a wedding day ended up being totally fine with these two. There was a festival going on at Scioto Mile the day of the wedding so getting down there was extremely difficult. We decided on Franklin Park Conservatory last minute and I'm so glad we did- it was perfect! They also handled the extreme heat with complete grace. I just loved getting to spend such a day full of love with them... She was the 9th Bride to wear that beautiful veil even! If that isn't passed down love I don't know what is. Every detail was just perfect. HAPPY WEDDING DAY TO THESE TWO AGAIN, CONGRATS!

behind the scenes

Today I want to talk about behind the scenes of shooting a wedding because we see the final product of photos usually and not all of the 'what goes into' the photo parts. Like movement of a dress-- (every fabric even photographs differently). I've second shot with so many different photographers and every single one has their own style. It's important to also know what your Bride + Groom need from you too. Some people like a lot of direction, with posing and some don't like it at all. I always get moms hugging me a ton for some reason so I think I'm the kind of person who is really aware of everyone around me and I want to make that work for YOU. If I see small moments like a sister tearing up over a first dance, I know moms will love those photos too-- I totally appreciate when they notice and hug me too ;)

Even second shooting I'm the girl seen tapping my feet to music, shouting hellos to everyone I meet, and I may even do a couple tumbles to get the perfect shot (or a laugh!). Over many weddings I have met so many great people to shape the way I take photos now and I promise to give you the best experience! I wanted to blog some photos from a wedding I actually second shot! I got the chance to hang out with the guys (which a second shooter usually does) and it was so much fun! This couple was absolutely adorable trading gifts and letters too:

Venue: Boat House at Confluence Park