Monday, May 11, 2009

Dawn's 40th Birthday Party

My contact with Dawn came briefly. Help! Photographer bailed on me and I'm having a party this weekend. I had photographed Dawn's friend, Heather, last winter at her marriage to Andrew, er Drew, the most adorable teacher in Oxnard! I was available as it turned out, due to the swine flu invading the area and local proms being postponed. And here was Dawn: Beaming smile, dressed like Madonna,er younger version of course, just "wanting to have fun and enjoy the moment." Marble Slab Ice Cream appeared as did amazing food and fun company! Thanks Dawn, for trusting me with you special day! I'm sure that your friends enjoyed your party as well as the wonderful, funny photographs that you provided them. You ROCK!

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Darrell and Kara's wedding at Mandalay Beach


Kara came into the studio. Out of breathe, she told me that her wedding was in a few weeks and she wasn't sure how to start. Her trust and instincts had kicked in, having been voted "Woman of the Year" in Camarillo, California last year our paths had crossed and she as she sat there, in front of me, booked me to shoot her small, intimate wedding to Darrell, not knowing anything about me, other than I shot for Visual. Fast forward to May 1st, when I found myself staring at this happy, beautiful woman, about to marry this lovable, gorgeous firefighter. She'd carefully planned the details, simple wedding at sunset. On the beach. Close friends. How could anything go wrong? Except the weather! It was insurmountable. The wind sang it's song as Darrell and Kara said their vows to one another, amoungst their closest of friends. I was one of the selected few that witnessed this joining of two lives. The two of them clung to each other, laughing and just enjoying the moment and realizing that some things are not to be controlled. Their lives together started on the beach, holding onto one another, staying still long enough to commit to their future, whatever the weather!

Kara and Darrell, I was so proud to be a part of your day, capturing the many memories as you started your lives together! Thank you again for your trust, kindness and humor! For allowing me to capture the beauty in your moments.

All the best, Ronnie


Special thanks to Claudia Craig for coming with me to second shoot!