This lovely bride Rebecca, got ready with her ‘maids and moms at The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Do remember, even if you’re not having your wedding there, it’s a fantastic location for getting ready. The decor furniture in the rooms is really terrific for backdrops, and the exteriors are — as I’ve said many times — fantastic.

How pretty is the tile and mirror moulding in the bathroom in their suite? The perfect details to add to this shot.

Gown by Essence of Australia Couture. So many beautiful layers of blush.

I’m always a fan of an all white bridal bouquet. The pop of color in the bridesmaids bouquets was a nice design touch. By Flour & Flower Designs in Laguna Beach.

When it’s time to put the gown on, it’s nice to have a maid of honor that’s ON IT! And however much time is allowed for it, it’s often never quite enough. Note to brides: allow a minimum of 20 minutes. It often seems that it won’t take that long but, trust me, it does.

There was a chill in the air as we got ready to leave The Ranch. Fortunately, there was a lovely color-coordinated throw in the girls’ suite.

I like to do at least two different looks for the bridal party. One a little more formal, and one more playful. This wedding day worked out great because we also had such different venues.

Location change to seven-degrees for ceremony and reception.

I think these two are gorgeous bridal portraits.

Such a beautiful and emotional time when the groom is waiting for his love to appear. Stephen is feeling it here, for sure.

The new Mr. & Mrs. Bray!!!

By the time the ceremony was over it was pitch dark outside. Not exactly the best situation for photos. Caught a shot inside, then went into the night. With extra lighting, of course 🙂

Grand entrance, then the first dances, which are always one of my favorite parts of a wedding.

It’s sunk in. “We’re married!”

Father + daughter.

Mother + son. So many feelings come to the surface.

Then … the hora! Always fun. (And a little scary.)

This was such a surprise! Rebecca’s mom and dad busted out some serious dance moves that delighted the guests.

The look of love.

The sparkler send off that was high on their list of “musts.” Congratulations to Mr.and Mrs. Stephen Bray! A great day indeed.

Summer brings many tourists to my little town of Laguna Beach and, yes, I often complain about the crowds and traffic for these few months. But, it also brings me the opportunity to meet so many wonderful families who’ve traveled to share our piece of paradise. I’ve been fortunate over a number of years to be referred by some of our finest coastal properties to guests who want to remember their time together with a family photo session. Sometimes it’s a family vacation, and others a reunion of family members coming together from different parts of the country.

Last week I had the pleasure to spend time with the Mange family from New Jersey. I gotta say, the East coast breeds a different type of boys from our surfer lads. These three were quite remarkable indeed. Loved it!

My family session includes unlimited shooting, editing, and my clients’ ownership of the high resolution digital negatives. Although the beach is often my clients first choice, I have a number of other locations I love!