Wedding Day: Justina & Jamie (Castro Valley, CA)

It is always an honor to photograph a wedding day and even more so when it is my very own friends and family. For me, it’s also more personal (and probably more emotional) since I know more about the couple’s story and have seen them grow closer to one another. Meet Justina, one of my best friends from high school and her husband, Jamie. I was asked to spend the morning with the girls while they got ready and also photograph some traditional Chinese wedding ceremonies. Continue on for some beautiful and funny moments.

There were two dresses for the wedding day – the white dress for the ceremony later that day. Since it was such a perfect dress for Justina, I had to take the time to photograph it.
Castro Valley Wedding Photographer For the traditional Chinese ceremonies, the bride wears red and, in this case, chose to go with a modern and beautiful dress.
The groom and his friends showed up to take part in the traditional Fetching of the Bride. This is the first time I had heard of this tradition and witnessed it and it was so much fun! I couldn’t help but laugh as the guys did their best to win their way into the house. There were questions to answer, dancing to do, songs to sing, blind tasting and identification of food and lots of negotiating.
Of course Jamie and his fellas were talented, charming and ultimately won their way into the house. Then we all took off for the traditional Wedding Car Ride. (Everyone in this car was a major trooper too, because it required running out in the pouring rain!)
Then it was time for the Tea Ceremony. While working on the images, I was really struck by how much honor and importance is represented in this ceremony, but by how well it was balanced with such love, sweet moments and laughter. It really acknowledges the role elder family members have played, while also being a celebration of a new family forming through the bride and groom. And, since we had a smaller group for the morning events, I asked if we could do a quick shot with everyone – turns out they have a fun crew!I am so excited for this couple and the happiness they have found in one another. All my best wishes as you continue your journey together!

Family Photos: the Penticos (Castro Valley, CA)

This fall photo session was great timing for so many reasons – a little girl celebrating her first birthday, family photos for those holiday cards and a little surprise (scroll down to the end of the post for that). It’s always a pleasure to catch up with this family and spend time with them.

And, I also got to help them share some exciting news – this little girl is going to be a big sister!

Headshots: Dale / Accountability Coach

Always a pleasure to work with people I’ve know a long time as they continue their journeys through new work ventures. Dale needed some updated head shots for her new website and I was more than happy to meet up with her to take some relaxed photos amidst catching up. Here are just a few favorites from our photo session together.

Baby Photos: Brooklyn (Castro Valley, CA)

You’ve met this little lady before and she is growing up fast! While the family was in California, we took the opportunity to do another photo session and spend some time together. We met up at the same location we their maternity photos and it was fun to recreate some of the images from before, now with Brooklyn joining us.

And a few photos with a beloved family friend!

Baby Photos: The Gibbons (Castro Valley, CA)

At May 28, 2015
By faye
In Children, Families, Newborn, Photography
0

I’ve got to be honest, one of the best parts of being a photographer is getting my friends and family in front of the camera. It means I get to spend extra time with them and capture awesome moments in the lives of people I enjoy. When there’s a new baby in the family, it’s the perfect time to meet up!