I graduated from Hallmark Institute of Photography and walked away not only with a great education but some wonderful friends. We just finished a workshop in Balboa, CA and it was amazing. Having my colleagues around was an aphrodisiac and I took so many photos. Everyday that I held my camera, I looked at my environment differently. Nothing was normal anymore.
Following are some of my favorite takes.
Inspired.
I had an instructor ask his students how long they were inspired after hearing a great lecture. Then, I claimed i was inspired all week. Looking back, I realized I was inspired for a day. I sit in and listen to a great photographer talk about his experiences, methods and recommendations. I’d take pages of notes thinking how I would do what he/she says. But then the next day comes, and already my overactive mind has moved on to a new concept, topic or idea.
Now, I realize it’s not about holding on to an inspiration. It’s about building on to it and remembering.
As a photographer, I have archives of photographs. I’ll forget about an image, a scene or a moment. Today, I want to remember a beautiful moment.
The image below was taken at my friend’s apartment. I glanced outside and saw the sun disappearing behind the horizon. The sky was changing to a darker shade of blue. Cars were speeding by on the highway. The apartment was sparse, but that’s not a complaint.
The scene was set.
I was ‘looking’.
All that was left was for me to capture it.
No matter where you live in the country, it’s almost impossible not to be exposed to different cultures. Although, when you take a trip, it gets even better. Here are some memorable takes from my recent trip to SF and Napa. I meant to visit the wine country to indulge in some Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but my plan never goes accordingly. Rather, I soaked in the blue skies, winter chill and photographed moments.
Alma, the perfect subject! You rocked that leather jacket! Oh, and there’s JB, the photographer, who kept getting in my pictures! 
(I didn’t know you liked being in front of the camera, too!) The reflection was nice in the last of these photos so I included myself!
The city of San Francisco welcomed me with clear nights perfect for witnessing all the holiday decoration. I got to capture the city life and lights, and the best part of all, eat delicious restaurant, cafe or home cooked meals with friends. Thanks to everyone in SF! I’m happy you didn’t tell me to get out and go home, but rather, got me to stay another night. It was great plan!
Lastly, a composite piece that reflects how I felt while at Castello di Amorosa.
It’s only a few days before December hits, but us Southern Californian’s can’t resist going to the beach. After lunch at the Crab Cooker (they serve your water in paper cups and your order on paper plates and the food is delish!!!) where we discussed the photography world, we headed off to the Newport Beach boardwalk.
Sweet tooth:
One day wasn’t enough, so the following night, we visited Balboa Island. Here’s a photo from last night:
(They did it backwards, but you get the meaning.)
The Avalon in Hollywood is a must see! It’s been quite a while since I’ve been there, but as soon as I walked into the event venue, I was dying to take photos: who can resist a dressing room decorated all in red and white? Check out my Feature Gallery: Portraits. The rooms were my inspiration but so were the people. It’s wonderful when the environment and the people connect and when I see the image from start to finish.
A big thanks to the individuals in the following photo for not telling me to get my camera out of their face. You guys rock.
