Home is where the He(art) is: An in-home Maternity session

I first met Owen and Amanda on the day of their elopement, accompanied by their beautiful dog at the ceremony. Later, they reached out to have me photograph their maternity session—but they really wanted to incorporate their home, which has been such a meaningful part of their journey.

They purchased a fixer-upper and poured so much love and hard work into transforming it into their home. It's pretty amazing to witness this life they're building together.

Originally, they asked for a simple maternity session, but Amanda later came back and asked if we could do it in their home instead. I was thrilled to say yes—this kind of intimate, in-home storytelling is actually something I specialize in!

Since their elopement, they’ve also adopted another sweet dog, so it was even more special to capture all the love, growth, and joy of this season in one heartfelt session.

As a fun bonus, I had them do a baby clothes folding contest—because why not? They're first-time parents, and watching them laugh through folding was both funny and sweet.

It was a reminder of why I do what I do: because home is where the he(art) is. And documenting love within those walls is always something special.

That time I photographed a “senior prom” (but not that type of senior)

I’m talking about retirement home seniors!

I’ll start by saying that I’ve always wanted to do something like this. And the opportunity showed up at a time when I needed it most.

I was scrolling through Facebook when I came across a post looking for a DJ to host a prom at a local retirement home. I thought, that’s so sweet. I wonder if they need a photographer. I messaged the original poster and asked if they were looking for one, and she said YES.

The date and time of the prom just so happened to be on the same day I had a radiation appointment. (I had breast cancer removed just the month before.) I also had another doctor’s appointment earlier that day. I think in the past I would’ve skipped something like this under those circumstances, but if there’s one thing cancer has taught me, it’s Carpe Diem.

I was honestly so excited to do this. I knew it would take my mind off everything because photography always does that for me. And since I hadn’t done much of it in a while, this felt like the perfect low-pressure way to warm up and get back into it. No pressure, just fun, especially since I was volunteering. That didn’t mean I wasn’t going to give it my all, though.

Let me just say, they were having a good ol’ time! They even had a Prom King and Queen. There was one from last year, and they crowned a new one this year. Everyone was dressed up, smiling, dancing. The event coordinator even made aprons painted to look like dresses and tuxedos for the prom-goers to wear over their clothes. You could tell how much it meant to them to be seen, celebrated, and just have fun.

Saying yes to this opportunity turned out to be a gift I didn’t even know I needed. The smiles, the stories, the sense of community—it all reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Not just to capture moments, but to truly feel them.

MORE THAN A MATERNITY SESSION: HONORING AMANDA’S STORY OF STRENGTH

I usually don’t respond to Facebook posts seeking a photographer because they’re often flooded with photographers offering their services. Sometimes, I’ll watch as the comment section quickly fills up with “I’d love to be considered” responses. Recently, I came across a post from someone looking for a maternity photographer and thought, “Why not take a chance?” So, I left a simple comment: “Hello, congratulations! I do maternity sessions. Here’s my website.” Then I moved on and didn’t think much of it.

A few days later, Amanda reached out to me through DM, asking for details about my maternity sessions. After I responded, she expressed interest in booking. Fast forward to our session, and Amanda arrived in a lovely yet simple forest green dress with a flower crown—perfect for our location. We were surrounded by rolling hills, dry grass, and trees, creating a vibe that reminded me a little bit of Shakespeare’s "A Midsummer Night’s Dream."

Amanda came alone, which isn’t unheard of, but in the past decade, most maternity shoots have included couples. Toward the end of our photoshoot, Amanda shared why her partner wasn’t there—he had tragically passed away during her first trimester.

I know two other women who have experienced this unthinkable tragedy: losing their partners during pregnancy. Both have navigated their circumstances with incredible strength. I know the path Amanda is on will have its own unique challenges, but in the short time I spent with her, I felt confident in her resilience. Despite the immense pain of her loss, Amanda carried herself with grace during our session. Her quiet determination and the deep love she already has for her unborn child were evident. Capturing these moments reminded me of the profound strength within us all, even when faced with life’s most heartbreaking challenges.

Photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about honoring each person's journey, their struggles, and their triumphs. I’m grateful Amanda allowed me to be a part of her story, even if just for a moment. I hope these photos serve as a reminder of her strength, the love she carries, and the new beginnings that await her and her child.

David and Georgina’s 40th Anniversary: Honoring a Timeless Love

Forty years of marriage. Forty years of being a team. Forty years of partnership. This definitely calls for a celebration! Farah and her siblings put together a beautiful brunch for their parents, David and Georgina, to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Of course, they wanted to have this special day captured.

David and Georgina met in Pakistan before moving to the U.S. and getting married, bringing with them a rich blend of traditions and culture. These are some of my favorite celebrations to capture—those that are deeply rooted in cultural elements and personal history. For the event, Georgina wore a gorgeous red dress, while the guests arrived in white or very light colors, with many women wearing fabrics adorned with delicate embellishments. Another detail that stood out to me was how many people were drinking chai. I love chai, and seeing it enjoyed so earnestly as part of the culture has given me an even deeper appreciation for this beloved drink.

The event started at 11:00 a.m. on a warm, beautiful day, and the kitchen island was transformed into a breakfast buffet bar featuring cereals, donuts, and muffins galore. Once everyone arrived, a series of heartfelt speeches were given by Georgina’s brother, who is a bishop, their four children, the flower girl from their wedding, and a few other relatives. Beautiful words were spoken, revealing how generous and humble David and Georgina are, always opening their doors to loved ones and helping so many. The couple then thanked everyone for their presence and for the lovely words.

With that, the feasting began, and of course, I was offered a plate—and how could I refuse? The buffet had pancakes, sausage, chilaquiles, lasagna, and more. My plate was full, but my heart was the fullest by the end of my work capturing this event.

When I’m hired to photograph these types of celebrations, I understand how important my job is. I’m not just gathering people for group photos; I’m capturing micro-moments—those intimate exchanges, the greetings, the reactions during speeches, and the warm hugs. To me, these micro-moments are some of the most important. As someone who was once a bride at a fairly large wedding, I missed out on many of those moments. I would have loved to have them captured to look back on forever. That’s why I approach each celebration with the utmost care, knowing that the moments I capture today will become treasured memories for years to come.

What to Wear: Wardrobe Tips for Your Photo Session

Here are some tips to help you and your family look like you consulted a wardrobe designer! Okay, maybe that’s a bit of a stretch—but these suggestions will definitely help you feel more confident as you prep for our photo session together. Many of these tips also work for sessions outside of the fall and winter seasons.

KEEP PATTERNS MINIMAL
Too many patterns can be distracting in photos because the eye tends to focus on them instead of faces—especially when the patterns are bold or large. Solids are always the safest choice. But if you do want to wear a pattern, try something with small details like subtle graphics or embroidery. That way, the focus stays where it belongs: on you and your connections.

Mommy & Me

Mommy & Me

STICK TO NEUTRALS
I know that sometimes neutrals can sound a little bland or boring, but I promise you—my photography is not bland or boring! Don’t hesitate to wear creams, whites, tans, or soft earth tones in the winter and fall or pastels in the spring. If you want people to notice your faces and the emotion in each moment, this is the way to go.

Family/Maternity Session

Fall Family Session

That said, I don’t recommend everyone wear the exact same color. Instead, mix and match different neutrals to create some depth and visual interest. Think of it like layering textures and tones for a timeless look.

When Bright Colors Work

Primary colors like blues and reds can be great choices for an urban shoot. This is one of the times I’ll actually encourage bold colors! Why? Because in a city or downtown setting—with concrete, brick, steel, and all those neutral tones—bright colors really pop. They create contrast and energy in the images, and they help you stand out against the background. So if you love color, this is the perfect setting to go for it.

If you're doing a group or family session, you don’t all have to wear bold colors. In fact, it usually works best if just one or two people wear those standout tones, while the rest stick to softer shades. That way, the look feels balanced and intentional, and your photos stay visually clean and cohesive.

This is also a great time to dress the kids in simple patterns—think classic stripes or plaids. These add just the right amount of texture and personality without pulling attention away from the faces and overall vibe. Just make sure the colors coordinate with the rest of the group for a polished look.

Urban Family Session

ANOTHER DAY OF SUN: congratulations to emily

When you’re a high school senior who loves the movie La La Land and plays on the high school golf team, you come to me with all your ideas, and I help make them come to life. This grad session was an exciting adventure, taking place over two separate sessions at two amazing locations: Griffith Observatory and Upland Hills Country Club Golf Course.

Griffith Observatory was our first destination. This was my first time doing a session there, and I wanted to take full advantage of the stunning views and incredible architecture. The backdrop was simply perfect! However, we had to shoot at Griffith Observatory twice. The first time, the overcast was so bad that it gave a grey cast over the images. Not one to settle for less than perfect, we returned the following week when the sky was clear. The difference was stark. The blue skies were visible, and the sun was beaming, giving us gorgeous light. I had zero regrets driving all the way back up there.

Our second session took place the day after at Upland Hills Country Club Golf Course. We scheduled a tee time and arrived right before golden hour. We got into our assigned golf carts and zipped off to the 7th hole, perched on top of one of the hills. The view was breathtaking, offering a heavenly panorama of the Inland Empire foothills instead of Los Angeles. It was my first session at this location, and I was thrilled to capture such a unique setting.

How fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful place that offers so many choices for photo sessions! These two locations provided the perfect backdrops to capture this high school senior’s passions and personality. I love my job, and experiences like these remind me why.

IT’S PARTY TIME: Crue’s 1st Birthday

One day you’re bringing them home from the hospital, and before you know it, they’re climbing everywhere, putting everything in their mouth, and testing the strength of their arms by pulling on everything within their reach—giving parents the best in-home workout ever!

I've had the privilege of capturing so many special moments for Crue’s family, from his parents’ wedding and holiday photos to maternity shots and now their newest addition’s cake smash. It’s the best feeling when families call you back over and over again. I must be doing something right! The great thing about finding the right photographer for your family is that with every session, we get more comfortable, and the sessions become easier.

Crue is such a chill little guy. He waddled around the park, balancing himself, and I have no doubt he had a great time eating cake and going for a ride on his wooden horse while wearing his dad’s cowboy hat. Cake smashes are messy and comical. How lucky am I to get front-row seats to these shenanigans?!

LAST BUT DEFINITELY NOT LEAST

Welcome to the world, Sebastian! You lucky duck, you’ve joined one of the most amazing families I’ve ever had the privilege to know and photograph. The Silva family is the absolute coolest, but more importantly, they are full of love.

The arrival of a new baby is always a special occasion, but there’s something uniquely magical about a Fresh 48 newborn session. These sessions capture those tender, fleeting moments within the first two days of a baby's life. It’s a time filled with raw emotion, new beginnings, and the sweetest of introductions. I was beyond thrilled to document these precious first hours for the Silva family as they welcomed their fourth child, Sebastian, into the world.

I've had the honor of photographing the Silva family for many years, capturing their most precious moments—from their wedding to each pregnancy and newborn. Each session is a new adventure, and seeing the family grow has been incredibly rewarding. Now, with the arrival of baby Sebastian, the Silva family is complete with four beautiful children.

make this sound a little bit humorous: Sebastian’s Fresh 48 session took place in their tranquil hospital room. With this being their fourth child, Linda and Chris are pros at this, so there was no anxious energy in the room. It was a serene moment, the kind that feels almost suspended in time. It always seems like the world pauses when you’re in the presence of a newborn baby.

JUST ONE MORE: The Silvas 4th Baby

I have had the honor of photographing the Silva family for almost every significant moment in their lives, from their wedding to each pregnancy and newborn. We go way back! It’s incredible to see them as the proud parents of four kids. Sure, it can be challenging, but they truly have a great time together. To make it easier on everyone, I chose Redlands’ Prospect Park as our location. Since they live in the Inland Empire, it was the perfect distance and scenery—a win-win.

Watching Linda and Chris engage in all these fun activities with their kids makes me nostalgic, wishing I could rewind time and experience those moments again with my own children. So, you’re probably wondering how this session went with a 9-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a 2-year-old. It was crazy, fun, and beautiful—just as you’d expect!

I’d be lying if I said we didn’t have to chase the little one and bribe her at times, haha! But that’s part of the charm. Linda and Chris always go with the flow, not setting their expectations too high. They cherish every moment I capture, and I love them for it!