My good friend Hanssie (aka Queen of Everything) asked me if I was available to lead some groups for this shootout, which happened to be one of my favorite styles. Of course I said yes! I’ve done this once before and it’s always a great experience talking to other photographers and teaching. In this case, I did less teaching and more shooting. Everyone was excited to get time with our lovely model. She was so great, it was hard to get a bad photo of her. And everyone loved her! (And so does the camera.)

Thank you so all who participated in this!

Organization: SoCal Photog ShootOut
Model: Isabel Dresden
Hair by Diego Ortega
Makeup by Jennette Pulecio
Styling by Heather Skelton and Kaylee Sizemore
Venue: Casino San Clemente

Some of me, Hannsie and the shooters!

Here’s some of my favorites from the day:


I brought my camera since it fits so well!

Isabel is the perfect mid century modern gal!









The whole group of “Mad Men” models.

I was testing the light and got this one of the other model, Kayla Lighthizer.

I shot these of my friend Chase in Newport Beach. Not too many waves, but that wasn’t the point. Just Chase and his surfboards.

This is what Newport Beach looks like in January.

My surfer friend, Chase. More to come..

The first part of my light, contrast and beauty project. I was a little intimidated to shoot Maile because she has so many amazing pictures of herself and I also find her photography moving. She takes incredible, intriguing self portraits and other photographers have shot amazing pictures of her… But that’s the thing I’ve realized is number one creativity killer; fear! Forcing myself to shoot even if everything isn’t “perfect” can only help me grow as an artist. So I was so excited with how these turned out. She loved them and will let me shoot her whenever I want, which means you’ll be seeing more of her gorgeousness soon.

Jessica Rey asked me join this shoot featuring her new cover ups. She had planned it with Kristin Rogers (who happens to be a dear friend of mine). I love Jessica’s philosophy: that a bathing suit can be flattering and modest while still being cute. I’ve had such anxiety trying to find swimsuits that don’t show too much and this sort of thing is perfect for someone like me! Plus I heart anything vintage or vintage inspired!

Designer – Jessica Rey
Designer Asst. – Rebecca Christian
Second Assitants – Camila Vilareal and Alyssa Ramos
Make Up – Sheila Northcut
Make Up Asst. – Jennifer Hernandez
Hair – Tiffany Loggins and Victoria Buge
Models – Models: Lindsey, Tracy, Aurelia, Celeste, Christian, and True (his real name)
Location – Berni Neal