Megan and Niklas met in the military as corpsmen. They got married beside a creek in a private redwood grove in Corralitos, California — here's how the day unfolded. Megan and Niklas met in the military, both serving as corpsmen — drawn to each other through a shared commitment to military service, fitness, medicine, and helping people. They see the world in a similar way, different enough in personality to complement each other, similar enough in values that a redwood grove beside a running creek in Corralitos felt like exactly the right place to make it official. They described the day they wanted in a few words: outdoor, family, bright. Rustic, simple, light, with room for humor. That's exactly what we built the day around. Getting Ready The morning started at the Rio Sands Hotel in Aptos, just off the beach, where Megan got ready alongside her mom and closest friends. Instead of the traditional groom's-eye first look, this one belonged to her family — her dad, her brother, and her grandparents seeing her in her dress for the first time, right there at the hotel, before anyone made the drive out to the ceremony site. By 12:15, the group was on the road to Corralitos. The Ceremony The property sits under a canopy of tall redwoods beside a creek, and the ceremony space built into that grove had the kind of hush that only old trees and moving water can give a place — private, still, like the forest had been waiting for this. The 1 PM ceremony opened with a prelude of music as guests found their seats. Niklas seated his own parents; his brothers, Mattias and Garrett — standing in for a bridal party they chose not to have — seated the grandparents. Then Megan's processional into the redwoods. The ceremony opened "unplugged" — one deliberate window for guests to grab a photo or an epic selfie before phones went away and everyone was simply asked to be present. From there: the story of how Megan and Niklas fell in love, their vows, the exchange of rings, prayers from Megan's father, and a unity candle lit in two stages — first their parents lighting Niklas and Megan's individual candles, then the two of them together lighting the larger shared flame between them. The newlyweds were presented to their guests under the redwood canopy. A Private Moment After the ceremony, Megan and Niklas walked to a separate area for a foot-washing ceremony — a quiet, deliberate gesture of humility and service to one another, which felt like exactly the right ritual for two people who built their relationship on service to something larger than themselves. Guests were sent ahead to the reception area while the couple stayed back for a few minutes of private vows, just the two of them. They specifically asked for this moment to be photographed — not performed for an audience, just real, and documented quietly from a distance. The Walk to the Reception From the ceremony site, everyone walked together to the house where the reception was held — champagne and strawberries passed around along the way. We used that hour to hour and a half to gather family and friends for portraits: Megan and Niklas together, the direct family on both sides, brothers Mattias and Garrett, and one gloriously chaotic group photo of everyone at once, because a day this genuine deserved at least one picture where nobody was posed. The Re ception The reception area told its own version of the couple's story: photos and mementos strung up on lines throughout the space, turning the grove into something between a wedding reception and a gallery of their life together. Cake cutting, a close-up round of ring photos, and the first dance closed out the evening under the same redwoods that had held their ceremony a few hours before. Why This Wedding Stays With Me Some weddings are about spectacle. This one was about intention — every piece of the day, from the unplugged ceremony to the foot washing to the string of photographs overhead, was chosen on purpose, by two people who've spent their relationship in service to something bigger than themselves. The redwoods and the creek just gave it somewhere quiet to happen. If you're planning a wedding that's more about meaning than spectacle — in a redwood grove in Corralitos, on the Santa Cruz coast, or anywhere in between — get in touch here and let's talk about your day. You can also see more of what Corralitos and the surrounding Aptos area look like for a wedding on my Santa Cruz service area page or try my Location Finder to see which spot fits your style..

When a flash flood, a canceled flight, and a vanished rental car stood between us and a Keene, New York wedding, here's how we made it — with minutes to spare. When Mother Nature throws a flash flood at your travel plans, a simple trip turns into a 19-hour saga of lost bags, phantom rental cars, and a race against the clock. Here's how we made it to Karen and Grant's wedding just in time. From Santa Cruz to San Fransisco airport to New York, final destination Keene. The challenge started with a canceled flight to Burlington due to a flash flood in New York, which left us stranded in New York without our luggage. Two frustrating hours later, we finally had our bags back — only to discover every rental car in the vicinity was gone. We ended up at the TWA Hotel in the middle of the night, hungry and with nowhere to stay, but were able to get a late night meal there. The only option left was an expensive, lengthy Uber into the city. From there: the AirTrain to Jamaica at 2 AM, a train to Penn Station, and, with no direct options left, a ten-block walk and a two-hour wait for two seats on a Megabus to Albany. We reached Albany at 7 AM, grabbed just enough rest in the bus to function, and Ubered to the train station. By some miracle, we snagged the last available rental car — which meant a two-and-a-half-hour drive straight into Keene, arriving moments before the 2 PM ceremony. This was a miracle we could get a rental since in New York all rental companies were strapped due to the flooding. Two energy drinks later, it was time to be exactly who they'd hired me to be. Exhausted didn't matter. Relieved didn't matter. It was time to work. Why I Travel for Weddings I travel for weddings because there's something about being the person a couple trusts enough to bring across the country for their day that I take seriously. Out of every photographer they could have picked, they chose you, specifically, to be there in the place that matters most to them. When Karen and Grant reached out about their September wedding at The Bark Eater Inn in Keene, New York, I didn't hesitate. The Adirondacks in late September. Peak fall foliage. A historic inn in a valley framed by mountains. I booked my flight. On September 30, 2023, Karen and Grant got married, and the Adirondacks were, without exaggeration, on fire with color. The Bark Eater Inn The Bark Eater Inn has the feel of a place with history — a working inn in Keene Valley, the kind of property where the wood is worn in the right ways and the windows look out onto mountains. Guests started arriving at 2 PM to spread out across the grounds — drinks in hand, a plate of snacks, a game of ring toss or bocce going in the grass while the afternoon warmed up. There's a different energy at a destination wedding. Everyone has traveled to be there. Nobody is popping in from down the street. Every person on that lawn made a choice to be present for this specific day, in this specific place, and that choice shows up in the photographs. The Ceremony By 3:45, Karen had changed into her dress in a room on the ground floor of the inn, and by 4:15 she was hiding — genuinely hiding — in a lilac bush at the edge of the property with her three closest friends, Elena, Julie, and Michal, the three of them tasked with carrying her train down the aisle. There's something wonderful about photographing a bride tucked into a lilac bush, stifling laughter with her friends, minutes before she gets married. It's not a posed moment. It's just what was actually happening. Once she was in position, the guests were called down to the field where the ceremony would happen. Karen's friend Shani played violin — the Butterfly Waltz — as Karen's niece and nephew walked the aisle first, scattering flower petals ahead of them before taking their seats in the front row next to their dad. Tucked in their pockets: the rings, ready to be carried up when the moment came. Then Karen emerged from the lilac bush and walked down the aisle with Elena, Julie, and Michal beside her, the three of them peeling off to their seats once they'd delivered her to Grant. Karen's sister Amber officiated — reading her own sister's vows back to her, in front of everyone who mattered most to both of them. Late September in Keene Valley is something to see. The maples go first — deep red and orange against the hillsides — then the birches turn, their yellows catching the light. The mountains above the valley hold the color the way a bowl holds water, and the whole landscape becomes a photograph before you've even raised the camera. Karen and Grant were married in the middle of all of it, the ceremony wrapping right around 5 PM. The Reception As soon as the ceremony ended, most of the guests headed back to the tent for hors d'oeuvres, while the wedding party and closest family stayed behind on the ceremony lawn for group portraits. Once those were done, we rejoined everyone at the tent — but not for long. As golden hour rolled in between 5:30 and 6, Karen and Grant slipped away with me for portraits, just the two of them, while everyone else kept the cocktail hour going. Dinner was served around 6:30. Once the plates were cleared and dessert and champagne made their way around the tent, the speeches started. Then the first dance, then everyone up and dancing together, the whole tent moving. As the night wound down, a bonfire took over from about 8 to 10 — the kind of low-key, unhurried ending that only a destination wedding really earns, everyone too full and happy to want to go anywhere else. A Favorite Moment If I had to pick one moment from the whole day, it's the lilac bush. Karen, in her wedding dress, crouched down with three of her closest friends, all of them trying not to laugh, waiting for their cue — it's the kind of moment nobody stages and nobody forgets. Golden hour with Karen and Grant alone came close behind it; the valley held onto that late-September light exactly the way I'd hoped it would. The Morning After The day after the wedding, the whole group headed out together for a hike into the Adirondacks — still riding the high of the night before. I brought my drone along and got some aerial footage of the mountains that I don't think a ground-level camera could have captured. Would I Do It Again? Without question. The Adirondacks in fall are one of the most photogenic wedding settings I've ever worked in — the color, the mountains, the intimacy of a valley inn, and a couple who built a day this specific to who they are. It makes for images that look like nothing else in my portfolio. Karen said it better than I could, in her own words after the wedding: "Jason recently photographed our wedding. Despite having gone through a very challenging travel ordeal in order to make the wedding on time, he maintained a warm, calm, and professional demeanor. He did a fantastic job capturing the joy of the day in a very authentic and beautiful way. Whenever I show people the photos, the word most people choose to describe them is 'stunning.' I highly recommend working with Jason!" — Karen & Grant Justice If you're planning a destination wedding and want a photographer who treats the travel as seriously as the work, I'd love to hear about it. Get in touch here and let's talk about your day.

03.05-06.2020 During the first Thursday and Friday of March, El Señor de la Conquista happens in San Miguel De Allende. Nestled in the heart of Mexico, this enchanting town comes alive with color, music, and heartfelt devotion during this annual event. Amidst the rhythmic beats of drums and the soulful melodies of mariachi bands, the air is filled with an electric energy that ignites the senses. Indigenous Conchero dancers, resplendent in colorful feathered headdresses, move in graceful harmony to the hypnotic rhythm, their dance a tribute to one of the most revered statues in the Parroquia – ‘Christ of the Conquest’. As a photographer, I am privileged to capture the beauty and significance of this momentous occasion. From the radiant smiles of children to the intricate details of the dancers' costumes, every image tells a story of faith, resilience, and community spirit. El Señor de la Conquista is more than just a festival; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of community. Through my lens, I strive to capture the essence of this remarkable experience, preserving its magic for generations to come. Whether on the sidelines or in the heart of the action, every moment is a treasure to behold. This headdress below was so large. #SanMigueldeAllende #ElSeñordelaConquista #MexicoTravel #MexicanCulture #TravelPhotography #CulturalHeritage #IndigenousDance #FeatheredHeaddresses #ChristoftheConquest #CommunitySpirit #PhotographyLife #TravelStories #ExploreMexico #CulturalFestival #TravelInspiration #TravelBlog #PhotographyBlog #WorldCulturalHeritage #FestivalPhotography #CaptureTheMoment #Wanderlust #CulturalExperience #FiestaTime #PhotographerLife #TravelMemories Please write me a comment and let me know what you think about the photos. Would you like to go see this in person?

Creating High Dynamic Range (HDR) Photography art as a professional photographer is a captivating and immersive experience. HDR Photography is a technique that involves capturing multiple exposures of the same scene and combining them to achieve a wider dynamic range of light and detail. When engaged in HDR Photography, I carefully select my camera settings to capture a range of exposures, from highlights to shadows. This allows me to capture the full breadth of tones and details that may be lost in a single exposure. The process requires patience and precision, as I strive to maintain a balance between capturing the scene's highlights and preserving the intricate details in the shadows. Once the multiple exposures are captured, I merge them using specialized software during post-processing on a program called Photomatix Pro. This blending process results in a final image that showcases a broad range of tones, from the brightest highlights to the deepest shadows. The final result is a photograph with enhanced depth, texture, and visual impact. Photographed in Jasper British Colombia, Canada Photographed in British Colombia, Canada Photographed in Southern Oregon during Wild Fires in the distance. Photographed during sunrise in Oahu, Hawaii. Photographed at Bow Lake in British Columbia, Canada. Photographed during sunrise climbing Mount Batur in Bali. Photographed in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The beauty of HDR Photography is that it enables me to create images that closely resemble what the human eye perceives. By capturing a wider range of light and detail, HDR Photography allows for a more immersive and realistic representation of a scene. Engaging in HDR Photography art offers a unique creative avenue. It allows me to emphasize and manipulate the contrast, color, and texture of a scene, enhancing its visual impact and creating a captivating aesthetic. The process of capturing and processing HDR images requires technical skill, artistic vision, and a keen eye for detail. As a professional photographer, the experience of creating HDR Photography art is a blend of technical precision, artistic expression, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of light. It offers a unique way to push the boundaries of traditional photography and create images that evoke a sense of awe and wonder in viewers. HDR ART - A View From Laos

Unlike your other wedding service vendors— flower arrangements, visual and music, venue, and cake— photographs are something you can’t hear, smell, see, or taste at first. So, you do not really know what you are getting until after the event happens. You can see the past photographs from photographers, but they are from different places, times of days and different people people are in it; so it can be hard to envision what your special day might look like after it has happened. This means that you need to make careful research and being extremely selective when choosing your wedding photographer. So, here are some things you need to consider to choose the best and reliable wedding photographer for your big day! Decide on Your Style There are various styles for wedding photography and different photographers specialize in different styles. So you need to consider what style you want in order to narrow down your list of suitable photographers. Classic or traditional Photographers work from a shot list in order to make sure that they capture all traditional photos and the ones that the couples specifically requested. Photojournalism A more documentary-style, this is where the photographer follows you to take fewer posed pictures and try to tell the story of your wedding in a more naturalistic style. Illustrative photography A combination of both traditional and photojournalism style, this photography includes posed photos but are more relaxed and emphasis on informal poses. Fashion Tend to be a bit dramatic than the rest, this style makes the subject appear more styled and glamorous. Look Early Booking a wedding photographer needs to be the first thing you need to do after setting the wedding date. Wedding photographers tend to be in high demand, especially during the busiest year for weddings. Thus, you need to book them 6 months to a year in advance. Check Their Work or Online Presence Nowadays, most businesses and professionals will choose to advertise online. Here, you need to see how they present themselves. Check for any reviews from people. Also, be cautious not to be influenced by the images on their website. Better yet. You can visit their studio and see their work. Don’t just look at the select photos displayed on their website but ask if they have a whole album to present. Photographer Personality After taking a peek of their work, you should interview the potential photographer in order to determine their technical skills as well as their personality. If you think that you dislike the photographer for whatever reason, then this can create a negative atmosphere or dynamic on your big day. You want to make sure that you feel comfortable around them and your guests can relax and have a good time with them.

Choosing to capture the beautiful journey of pregnancy is an exciting decision filled with joy. For many expecting mothers, maternity photography serves as a treasured keepsake that celebrates their growing figures and the joy of becoming a mother. Santa Cruz, California, with its stunning coastal views and diverse landscapes, offers many options for maternity photographers. However, the challenge often lies in selecting the right one to capture your unique journey. This blog post will guide you on how to find the right maternity photographer in Santa Cruz, ensuring your memories are beautifully preserved and cherished for years to come. Why Maternity Photography Matters Maternity photography is more than just taking pictures; it commemorates a significant time in your life. The feeling of carrying a new life within you is profound, and capturing these fleeting moments allows you to reflect on the anticipation and love filling your heart. Research shows that mothers who engage in maternity photography often feel a deeper bond with their pregnancy and new baby. In Santa Cruz, the breathtaking scenery creates the perfect backdrop for these sessions, enhancing the emotional narrative of your photos. Whether it's the tranquil beaches, lush redwoods, or charming urban spots, the options are plentiful. A skilled photographer can make the difference between a simple shoot and a memorable experience. Understanding Your Vision Before choosing a maternity photographer, it's important to clarify your personal vision. What style resonates with you? Consider whether you prefer candid moments or more posed portraits. Would you enjoy an outdoor session with nature surrounding you, or do you prefer a cozy studio setting? Knowing your preferences helps narrow your options effectively. Also, think about themes that inspire you. For example, you might want to incorporate elements of nature, use soft, earthy colors, or feature personal items that tell your family’s story. A well-defined vision will allow for better communication with your photographer, ensuring the images align with your expectations. Researching Local Photographers Once you have a vision in mind, it is time to conduct thorough research on maternity photographers in Santa Cruz. Platforms like Instagram and local directories offer insights into different styles and portfolios. Look closely at their work to see if their aesthetic matches your vision. Observe the colors, poses, and emotions in previous maternity shoots. A photographer's portfolio should showcase not only technical skill but also their ability to capture the essence of motherhood. Considerations When Choosing a Maternity Photographer Experience and Style When selecting a maternity photographer, consider their experience and focus on this specific genre of photography. Not all photographers have the same skill set, and maternity photography requires particular knowledge of lighting, posing, and how to highlight the beauty of an expectant mother. For example, a proficient maternity photographer will typically know how to work with various skin tones and body types. You should see examples in their portfolio that showcase diverse clients and styles to ensure their approach can complement your unique features. Client Reviews and Testimonials Client feedback is invaluable in assessing a photographer's work quality. Look for testimonials on their website and social media that praise their professionalism, creativity, and ability to make clients feel comfortable. If reviews are not readily available, ask for references. A recommendation from someone who has worked with the photographer can validate your decision. Communication and Comfort A successful portrait session relies not only on skill but also on the comfort level between you and your photographer. Before booking, have an initial conversation to gauge your comfort. Discuss your vision and any concerns. An effective photographer will listen, provide guidance, and create a relaxed atmosphere that allows you to shine in front of the camera. Packages and Pricing Understanding the pricing structure is crucial. Make sure to inquire about what each package includes, like the number of images, editing time, and additional services like prints or albums. While it’s important to adhere to your budget, remember that this is an investment in a once-in-a-lifetime event. A well-executed maternity shoot can become a cherished keepsake for generations. Preparing for the Perfect Maternity Shoot Once you select the right photographer, preparation is key for a successful session. That means having an idea of what your style is, a shot list, location, and any props that might enhance the shoot. Outfits and Styling Carefully plan your outfits, as they play a significant role in how your images turn out. Choose clothing that flatters your growing belly while ensuring comfort. Flowy dresses are popular for maternity shoots, adding a soft, ethereal quality to the images. Be mindful of color coordination with any partners or children in the shoot. A cohesive color palette ties the images together beautifully. Choosing the Right Location Santa Cruz boasts numerous stunning locations for your maternity shoot. From majestic ocean cliffs to serene forests, the choices are endless. Discuss with your photographer about favorite spots that might resonate with your vision. They may have hidden gems that provide beautiful compositions and impressive results. Capturing the Moments that Matter During your maternity session, try to relax and enjoy the moment. Trust your photographer’s guidance while remaining open to spontaneous interactions – these candid moments often become favorite images. Your photographer will suggest various poses, but don't hesitate to express your comfort level. The goal is to capture images that genuinely reflect your unique journey. Follow-Up and Image Selection After your session, your photographer will typically provide a gallery of images for review. Take your time selecting which photos to keep; this is your chance to relive those magical moments and reconnect with the emotions of your pregnancy. Some photographers offer professional retouching services. Ask about their editing process to ensure the final images meet your expectations. Embracing the Journey of Motherhood Choosing the right maternity photographer in Santa Cruz is a significant step in capturing one of the most beautiful times in your life. By understanding your vision, researching local photographers, and preparing adequately, you can ensure that your maternity session will be a joyful occasion that perfectly embodies your journey into motherhood. In a town filled with natural beauty, the right photographer will help portray the love, anticipation, and happiness that accompanies this pivotal moment. With thoughtful selection and preparation, your maternity photos can become cherished memories for you and your growing family for years to come.

The California coastline whispers romance. From the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur to the vibrant energy of San Francisco, it offers a kaleidoscope of backdrops for love stories of all sizes. Witnessing these celebrations, big or small, fuels my passion as a photographer. Recently, I had the privilege of capturing Tanya and Erica's intimate elopement at Garrapata State Park Beach, a place that holds a special place in my heart. A Personal Connection to Garrapata This wasn't just any location for me. Garrapata, with its crashing waves, soaring cliffs, and endless stretches of sand, played a starring role in my own wedding day. Having experienced its magic firsthand, I knew it would be the perfect canvas for Tanya and Erica's elopement. Planning Makes Perfect No matter the size of the celebration, meticulous planning is key. Working with Tanya and Erica, we meticulously crafted a timeline that captured the essence of their elopement, from pinpointing the perfect beach location to selecting the ideal time of day for stunning light. Raw Beauty, Unforgettable Memories The day arrived, and the California sunshine bathed the beach in a warm glow. As Tanya and Erica exchanged vows, the raw emotions of their love story unfolded before me. My goal was to capture not just the posed moments, but the genuine laughter, the tearful embraces, and the pure joy that filled the air. Beyond the Stills Elopements offer a unique opportunity to share in the most intimate moments of a couple's love story. Witnessing Tanya and Erica's elopement was truly a privilege. Stepping outside my comfort zone and offering a video of their vows which is something that they wanted. I don't offer video professionally yet, but I was able to use a rode mic to help combat the sound of the crashing waves in order to hear their sacred vows. I knew I had documented a day they would cherish forever. Your California Dream Starts Here Are you considering an elopement, micro-wedding, or full-blown wedding celebration on the California coast? From Garrapata State Park to hidden gems along the Big Sur coastline, or the bustling streets of San Francisco or San Jose, I can help you explore locations and craft a photography experience that reflects your unique love story. Let's discuss how to turn your dream into a reality – contact me today!