Phong & Thao

Monday, September 28, 2009

Sunday, August 23rd began rather early in the morning. At 4:00am, Thao, the beautiful bride of the day began her preparations for the all day wedding celebration. For the next 17 hours, Thao and her true love Phong brought together their families and friends in a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese bridal traditions with special American bridal fun. Not 3 weeks before their wedding, Phong and Thao changed their mind about another photographer, and booked me for their wedding.

We had, in a word, an absolute b.l.a.s.t.

Here are some of my favorite shots of the day.

Abby

Saturday, September 26, 2009

I've known Abby since my very first photography class in Dallas Texas four years ago. Since then, we took every single class the Institute in Photographic Studies had to offer - together. This last year, Abby joined the ranks of me and the other IPS instructors, teaching photography for several of their classes.

This year, Abby came out for 3 weeks to spend with IPS in Colorado. We had a reunion, held our basics in photography class, and last week we wrapped up the photo processing class, PWP II. During this class, Abby told me that her fabulous boyfriend [and Navy Seal], Andy was really missing her. She decided to bring me in on a special portrait shoot for her guy. We kept the shoot really simple. One window. One reflector. One chair.

But wow. Did these photo's come out nice.

I always feel especially satisfied when I achieve a successful portrait session with fellow photographers. This 30 minute shoot was no exception. DC photographer Abby loved the pictures, and is sending them off to her Andy one day at a time.

If you want a similar portrait session, be sure to give me a ring!

Christina

Evalyn

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

 I don't often have the opportunity to shoot children and infants. But when those times arrive, the time spent with these precious little people are so incredibly enjoyable.

Evalyn is a little girl whose parents are now renting my old house in Portland. I have never met a child who at 3 months I considered a dear friend. She spoke through her eyes as though she didn't even know she was not speaking with words. Precious. Beautiful. Aware. I miss Evalyn already. I look forward to seeing her in a few months when I make a trip back out to Portland.

Benjamin and Jennifer : Sneak Peek!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

One of the most classy weddings I've photographed to date, this Toledo event was completely fantastic. Benjamin and Jennifer have a style and class unlike anyone I've ever met, and it was such an honor to be with them on their wedding day.

Here's just a sneak peek of some of my favorite images! And wow! Do we have a l.o.t.!!!!

Stay tuned for more!

"Risk Love"

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Sometimes there are certain things that really inspire you. They inspire you because you realize that you are needed. They inspire you because you understand how much you matter. They inspire you because you catch a vision of something you never thought possible before. They inspire you because they challenge you to be better, be more authentic, be more true.

For me, one of these things is the idea of Foster Care.

You see, one day when I was a little girl, I asked my mother why we never saw her Mommy and Daddy. I remember how she turned to me with sadness in her eyes as she explained. "My Daddy died when I was 10. My Mommy died when I was 12. I grew up in many homes - in the Foster Care system."

My mom was finally placed with a beautiful couple in Northern California. Many changes came to her life - many good changes. After years of feeling alone, she finally found a family who would look out for her and care for her. It was difficult, but my Mother became the beautiful and inspiring person she is today because of those experiences.

Since then, the idea of Fostering and Adoption through the State has been something that truly inspires me. So much so, that the last 6 months I've donated time and energy working on a multimedia piece to inspire others to Foster and Adoption also. Volunteering with a nonprofit organization in Oregon and Washington. This multimedia piece artistically outlines the story of adopting from the foster care system. This was truly a dream project for me to work on with Revolutionary Media. 

I was so blessed working on the "Risk Love" project. Every time I hear the title I am reminded of what life really is supposed to be about: loving others.

Watch "Risk Love" NOW on Youtube. I hope you find it inspiring.

By the way, be sure to check out the work of another Portland philanthropist and photographer, my friend and fellow wedding shooter Jocelyn Edlin. This girl is so full of heart and vision. I can't wait to work with her more!

Be Inspired Today!

Christina