new blog header

A few months ago we said that we would try to put a new blog header up every month....ooops! With such a busy summer, I think we may have missed a month. The latest header shows the little man with the dance moves. We had such a good time with his family that we couldn't resist seeing his smiling face everytime we visit the blog. Leave us a comment and let us know what you think. Hope you like it!

-Jason & Julia

The previous header is still one of our favorite images of all time....

I hope you dance...

Leann Womak's song "I Hope You Dance" tells the story of a mom encouraging her child to enjoy life. This little man gets the same message from his loving parents. He eagerly pointed out every airplane flying over Balboa Park, lead us around the park to see the water and butterflys, and earned a special place in our hearts in the process.

During our session we even learned a new dance.....the Eko Shuffle (it's a little mix of the twist, some feet stompin' and a smile that lights up a room!)

packing her things

I still remember moving away to college and the feelings of being on my own. I loved the sense of Independence, the excitement of new friends and location, and the hope of something new and different. Growing up, our families were very important to both Julia and I. And both of us might admit that we didn't show it to our parents enough. But I also remember that I wished I had brought more pictures of my family with me to my dorm room. Before Carissa left for college, she wanted to make sure that she had some family photos. As she packs up to leave it is clear that she will be packing more than just her clothes and photos. She will take the love and support of her very caring family. Good Luck, Carissa.

Coming together

When Leigh contacted us about getting some family photos done for Dan's family, we were really excited. She wasn't sure though, if she would be a part of the photos. You see, she was due to have a baby that week. Sometimes, timing could not be better. The baby was born 4 days before the session, and we were able to sneak a trip to the park before everyone left for Florida and Texas. We were truly touched by the closeness of this family. It is wonderful to see everyone come together to celebrate a new family member.

Special thanks to the Chula Vista Fire Dept for letting us hang off the truck for a few shots. They needed to keep the truck running and it was a bit loud.

where did it go?

....the time? I know that people say that all the time. But seriously, how did this happen? Our little "angel" turned 4 yesterday. I swear that we just took these baby announcent photos of her. She was only about days old when we shot the photos....now look at her! I miss the baby in her, but the young lady that she is becoming is something that I am very proud of. I love you, Angel.


(By the way, for those of you who know her, you understand the irony in calling her an "angel". The halo is held up by the horns. Some day, she's gonna be old enough to get my humor in that...then I'll REALLY be in for it. )


This song really fits for today. "You're Gonna Miss This" (by Trace Atkins)........I think I already do.

precious peanut

We love newborns. Julia REALLY loves newborns. We have two children...and that is just the right number for us. But being around a sweet newborn does make you think twice. The smell and feel of a warm sleeping baby is hard for us not to love....especially this little 12 day old peanut. You may remember this beautiful couple from the maternity session we did back in June. In mid-july, they were blessed with this precious bundle of love. She was one of the most cooperative newborns we have ever seen...she slept for much of the session, but opened her eyes just when we hoped. It is clear that this little angel will be well loved.

A Star - Jasmine Star that is.

One of my New Year's resolutions this year is to photograph somebody famous. It could be a movie star, musician, or tabloid floozy. On Monday night, I attended the Free to Succeed Tour to receive some marketing “secrets” or at least some how to succeed advice – right? Actually Jason was supposed to go and convinced me an hour before that I should go and “meet new people”. Well now isn’t he jealous. The information was refreshing and innovative. I know we aren’t wedding photographers but the ideas that David Jay shares are universal. I was especially moved by Jasmine Star and her very personal and genuine presentation. At the break, I quickly stalked her with my camera and got a quick shot off. So I am going to half count this as my New Years' resolution. I didn’t exactly take the photograph but I am with a “Star”. Of course after this seminar, I won’t stop at just this Star, I am “ determined” to meet and photograph more in the years to come. Love ya - Julia

Wyoming Wedding - Jon and LaRae

I am the oldest sibling in my family and have changed the diapers for many of my younger siblings. On July 19th, I was able to be apart of my "little" brother Jon's wedding. Being under the big blue sky of Wyoming, where the local attire is Wranglers, boots, and cowboy hats brought back so many childhood memories. I can still remember picking Jon up from kindergarten in my beat up red Pontiac Ventura that rattled so loud you had to turn up the stereo to drown it out. Well, now Jon is all grown up and he has a family of his own. Something he has wanted for so long. I know this is the place and time that Jon belongs. You can see it in his eyes. LaRae is as an honest, genuine, and warm person. Together they look truly content. We should all be that lucky. Enjoy!! P.S. Don't get any ideas about weddings. We are not wedding photographers. He He. Love you guys. -Julia