Behind the Scenes & Love Stories

Here you’ll find a closer look at some of the weddings, portraits, and celebrations I’ve photographed across Northern California and beyond. Each story includes a few favorite moments, small details that made the day unique, and scenes that might spark ideas for your own plans — locations, flowers, dresses, color palettes, timelines, or simply the feeling you want your day to carry.

I have always believed photography should feel natural and unhurried, and these behind-the-scenes glimpses reflect that approach. Take your time, explore, and enjoy the inspiration. Planning something beautiful should feel fun.

The Best Elopement Photography Catches The Real Moments When Nerves Stop

There is something that happens about ten minutes into an elopement. The timeline loosens its grip.

Why LGBTQ+ Weddings Always Feel a Little Braver

There are often extra nerves bundled into the LGBTQ+ wedding package.

What Makes a Dating Profile Photo Work

A dating profile photo is not meant to document your life necessarily, but rather to invite someone into it. Lighting also matters.

family posing on a fallen tree dressed in blues for their family portrait shoot

What To Wear & How to Prepare for a Family Portrait Shoot

Remember that time during your first family portrait shoot when your little one refused to smile and then burst into the most genuine giggle fit when the camera was put away? That's exactly what we are after!

A propsal captured by photographer jody holman

Wine Country Proposals- Where Dreams Meet Light & Style

When I help couples plan a wine-country proposal, I pay attention to the pieces that gently shape the experience:

child being silly in a natural light photography session

Why Natural Light Still Wins for Real-Life Portraits in the Bay Area

Natural light photography creates a pace where people can breathe.

A Family Portrait Over the Years- a Journey Through San Francisco

Some families arrive in your life for a season; others stay for decades. This one has been part of my San Francisco family photography journey for nearly twenty years,

two grooms celebrating their union in sonoma

A Wandering Sonoma Wedding: An Intimate Winery Elopement for Two Grooms

A relaxed Sonoma wedding at small wineries—two grooms, natural light, heartfelt vows, and an effortless Wine Country elopement captured with warmth and ease.

Playful Family Portraits at Cypress Lawn — A Creative Bay Area Family Photography Session

Playful family portraits at Cypress Lawn with multi-generation laughter, creativity, and candid moments. A joyful Bay Area family photography session.