Joey and Katie's Unforgettable Microwedding in San Diego, CA
Joey and Katie had originally planned to have a destination wedding in Mexico in 2024, but the couple threw caution to the wind and orchestrated a dream day in just two weeks. The result? An intimate microwedding set against the backdrop of a cozy Airbnb in San Diego, surrounded by their closest friends and family.
Joey was stunning in a gorgeous black dress for the ceremony, flipping tradition on its head. Later on in the evening, she switched things up in a satin white gown. And Katie rocked a dark maroon suit, stealing the spotlight with her undeniable style. It was classy, it was unconventional, and so them.
The vibe of the day was relaxed, yet thoughtful. This couple wasn't sweating the small stuff; they were there to soak up every ounce of love and joy. And let me tell you, that vibe was contagious. This laid-back atmosphere allowed everyone to fully immerse themselves in the moment, cherishing the laughter, tears, and embraces throughout the day.
The ceremony was officiated by Joey's father, a pastor, which added an extra layer of meaning and intimacy to the day. Vows were exchanged, tears were shed (mine included), and hearts were full. Afterwards, the newlyweds and their guests gathered in the heart of the Airbnb - the kitchen - to raise toasts, indulge in catered Mexican food, drink delicious personalized cocktails, and savor a slice (or two!) of cake. When music started from a bluetooth speaker, everyone was joining in on one of my all-time favorite things - a dance party in the kitchen!
But the festivities didn't stop there. With a burst of energy towards the end of the night, the couple made a splash - quite literally - by jumping into the pool. It was a moment of pure joy and spontaneity, and such a fun way to cap off the night!
In the end, Joey and Katie's decision to forego tradition and seize the moment resulted in a wedding day that was as unique and unforgettable as their love. They remind us that love doesn’t need a fancy venue or a detailed plan. It’s about seizing the moment and celebrating each other, no matter what. From the heartfelt ceremony, to dancing in the kitchen, to poolside shenanigans … every moment was a testament to the power of love, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. So here's to Joey and Katie – may your love story continue to be filled with spontaneity, laughter, and joy. Cheers!
What is a lifestyle photographer?
There are numerous genres and styles in the photography world - fine art, branding, landscape, portrait, and so many more - each style serves a different purpose in telling stories. I’ve been calling myself a lifestyle photographer for a while now, and I realized … maybe people don’t know what that means? So I'm here to share a little bit about how I interpret it. In this blog post, I'll share my insights into what it means to be a lifestyle photographer and provide examples of my work in various contexts, including family, couples, newborn, and maternity photo sessions.
What is a Lifestyle Photographer?
As a lifestyle photographer, my mission is to capture moments that reflect your real-life experiences. Rather than relying on posed shots and studio settings, I want to document your lives in a natural and unobtrusive way. While I still help guide you when you’re in front of my camera, I strive to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that allows people to be themselves. I work with both natural light and carefully chosen environments to capture genuine emotions, connections, and moments.
Family Photo Sessions
One of my favorite aspects of being a lifestyle photographer is working with families. Instead of formal portraits, I encourage families to interact, play, and be themselves during the shoot. This approach results in heartwarming images that truly reflect the love, laughter, and dynamics within the family.
For instance, imagine a family gathered together sharing stories, playing games, or reading together. My goal as a lifestyle photographer is to capture these candid moments of joy, creating a timeless family album filled with authentic memories.
Couples Photo Sessions
Couples in love hold a special place in my heart, and lifestyle photography allows me to capture their connection in a romantic and natural way. I encourage couples to express their love and affection in a genuine manner, resulting in intimate, emotional, playful, and joyful images - all within one session.
For instance, a couple's photo session might involve a romantic walk on the beach, a picnic by the lake, or simply cuddling at home with a cup of coffee or glass of wine. My focus is on their smiles and laughter, stolen glances, and gestures of affection (yes - I want as many hugs, kisses, and touches that you’ll give!), creating a visual narrative of their love.
Maternity Photo Sessions
Maternity photography is a celebration of the beauty and anticipation of pregnancy. As a lifestyle photographer, I aim to capture the natural glow and excitement of the expecting parent or parents in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
Picture a maternity session where a couple strolls through a serene garden, shares a quiet moment by a lakeside, or simply embraces in their cozy home. These images capture the love and excitement surrounding the upcoming arrival of their baby.
Newborn Photo Sessions
Newborn photography has evolved, and I am here for it! Instead of elaborate sets and props, I focus on capturing the tenderness and simplicity of those precious early moments with a newborn.
Imagine a lifestyle newborn session featuring a baby peacefully sleeping in their nursery, parents gently cradling their child, a mama nursing in her favorite chair, or siblings cuddling their new baby brother or sister. These images provide a heartwarming glimpse into the early days of a child's life.
As a lifestyle photographer, my role is that of a storyteller, using my camera to document the genuine moments, emotions, and connections that make life beautiful. Whether it's capturing the love between couples, the joy of a growing family, the innocence of a newborn, or the anticipation of pregnancy, lifestyle photography provides a unique and authentic perspective on life's most precious moments. So, if you're looking for a photographer who can freeze those real-life moments in time, let’s chat.