10 Best Locations for Family Portraits in South Lake Tahoe

By |May 19th, 2025|Family Portrait, Portrait, Tips|

Looking for the best locations for family portraits in South Lake Tahoe? After 14 years photographing families across the South Shore, I’ve created a guide to my favorite spots with real insight on lighting, access, and variety. This isn’t a list of postcard views. It’s a practical breakdown of what actually works for real families. Whether you’re hoping for a forest trail, open meadow, or lakefront session without the crowds, this post will help you find the right fit for your people.

Local’s Guide to Lake Tahoe

By |April 7th, 2025|Commercial Photography, Food, Tahoe, Tips, Travel|

Planning a summer trip to Tahoe? This is a local’s guide to Lake Tahoe — packed with honest, tried-and-true recommendations from a South Lake local of nearly 20 years. From where to eat without the wait, to hidden hikes, wine cruises, distilleries, free concerts, and places the kids will actually love — it’s everything you need to plan your best Tahoe adventure without looking like a tourist. Come for the views, stay for the poke bowls and paddleboard yoga.

My SXSW 2025 Highlights: My Top 10

By |March 24th, 2025|Austin, Commercial Photography, Event Photos, Guest Post, New Orleans, SXSW, Tips|

As usual, SXSW 2025 was a whirlwind of incredible moments, and I had the privilege of capturing them firsthand. From watching Sir Jude work her magic at the Central Presbyterian Church, to witnessing Sam Ryder’s explosive debut at the BME, it was a week full of surprises. I got to photograph artists whose music and energy left a lasting impression, including Bruvvy’s chaotic messy set and the powerful discussions at panels like Defying Invisibility with the lead actors from Hulu's new show Deli Boys. SXSW is always a unique experience, but this year felt particularly special, and I can’t wait to see where these artists go next.

SXSW Survival Tips: How to Survive SXSW | Part 2

By |February 19th, 2025|Commercial Photography, Event Photos, SXSW, Tips|

SXSW, otherwise known as my absolute favorite 10 days of the year, every year, is an annual convergence of technology, film, and music in Austin, Texas.  It's 10 days of thriving on adrenaline and chaos.  It's a beacon of creativity and innovation.  Drawing attendees from diverse industries worldwide, it's unparalleled popularity can certainly be attributed to the dynamic blend of cutting-edge technology showcases, an extensive list of film premieres, and my favorite - the off-the-beaten-path version of its music festival which celebrates and heralds unsigned and new artists. As promised, I'm back with part II in my series on how to survive SXSW like a pro with more SXSW survival tips. 

How to Survive SXSW | Part 1

By |February 19th, 2025|Commercial Photography, Event Photos, SXSW, Tips|

75,000 people are about to descend upon Austin, TX for SXSW, one of the world's premier music, film and tech festivals.  While SXSW is mostly known for its music festival, what really brings the money to Austin (and $350 million plus of it at that), is the Interactive portion, which draws a young audience of inventors, investors and risk takers looking for networking opportunities and the next big thing.  At any given moment all over the city there are thousands of opportunities to learn, network, workshop and cultivate relationships.  For over 12 years now, I've been working for the Sales Department at the event, as a client event photographer responsible for documenting the return on investment for their sponsors. It's exhausting. It's exhilarating. It's incredibly fun. If you're attending for the first time and looking for some answers on how to survive SXSW, I got you boo.

What to Wear in your Senior Portraits

By |January 27th, 2025|Portrait, Seniors, Tips|

Choosing what to wear in your senior portraits is an important decision that can make all the difference in how your photos turn out. From picking the right colors to selecting outfits that reflect your personal style, I'll guide you through outfit recommendations, seasonal tips, and styling suggestions to help you look and feel your best in front of the camera. Whether you’re opting for a casual look, a formal ensemble, or something unique that represents your hobbies, I want you to be prepared for a session that truly reflects who you are.

Why Senior Pictures Matter and What to Know Before You Book

By |January 13th, 2025|Family Portrait, Photography, Portrait, Seniors, Tips|

Graduating from high school is a major milestone, and senior photos are the perfect way to capture this moment. Not only do they preserve your memories for years to come, but they also provide meaningful keepsakes for your family and friends. Whether it’s sending photos with your graduation invitations, sharing them with classmates, or creating a lasting memento of who you are at this moment in time, senior portraits celebrate your growth and accomplishments. In this post, we’ll explore the many reasons why senior photos are more than just pictures—they’re a way to honor your journey and share it with those who’ve supported you along the way.

Fall-Inspired Halloween Weddings

By |September 30th, 2024|Tips, wedding|

Fall has got it all: crisp air, colorful trees, and cozy atmospheres. For couples looking to add a bit of thrill and mystery, incorporating Halloween elements into your fall wedding can take your celebration to the next level. Think warm autumn tones blended with spooky accents—like pumpkins, Gothic decor, or even a costume party. From subtle Halloween touches to full-on haunted house vibes, you can create a magical and unique atmosphere that perfectly reflects the spirit of the season. Here are my recommendations on how to embrace fall’s charm and add a touch of mystery for an unforgettable day.

Planning a Lake Tahoe microwedding or elopement?

By |July 1st, 2024|Elopement, Tips, wedding, Wedding Planning|

Never-ever in my 12-year wedding career have I had a client regret holding a microwedding or elopement, but many regret not opting for a more intimate celebration. Planning a Lake Tahoe microwedding or elopement? Discover why these small, meaningful celebrations in one of the world's most beautiful locations are the perfect choice. Get tips on venues, guest lists, budgets, and more to create an unforgettable experience.

How to have a low stress family portrait session

By |June 17th, 2024|Family Portrait, Tips|

It’s summer in Tahoe, the perfect time for unforgettable family portraits against stunning backdrops. Whether you dream of capturing the lakeside at sunset or the some of that backlit forested goldenness that's my special sauce, every session promises to preserve your vacation memories- regardless of the moods and whims of your most or least participatory family members! Forget stressful coordination, embrace every mood and moment, and follow my tips, tricks and direction to have a perfectly stress free family portrait session.

South Lake Tahoe Pride Month events

By |June 10th, 2024|Event Photos, LGBT, Tahoe, Tips, Tips for Creatives, Volunteer|

June is my favorite month of the year – and not just because it’s my birthday month – but also because it’s PRIDE month! It’s a month of rainbows, parades, and celebration as communities worldwide come together to honor inclusivity, diversity, and the fabulous rainbow that is the LGBTQ community. I love it! A few years ago, I started participating in activities with Tahoe Pride. For one, to support my friends who are part of the community, and second, to make sure that our LGBTQ community understood that they have allies in our town. Our Tahoe Pride community is small but mighty, full of great people that I’ve come to call friends. They have a weekly mixer on Tuesdays (often with a game night theme) that I attend regularly, but in June they really kick the scheduling up a notch! If you want to help celebrate South Lake Tahoe Pride Events, there is something happening every week of June.

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