AmbroseWeddings

Kids and Sequence Shots, The Sequence of Finn.

2011-09-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, I had one of the years best days shooting in Encinitas . My friends Lucas and Dorian have two kids, Finn(2.5y) and Charlie(18m). I drove down on a Wednesday and we started shooting in the park at around 4pm. Lucas then took us over to the Stone Steps and after a snack break we hit the beach. This location is absolutely perfect to photograph families at sunset or anytime of day. Thanks Lucas.

When Dorian said it was ok, Finn and Charlie headed for the sea. There was no stopping them. Finn was in rare form that day. He led me around proposing multiple location selections for his photo shoot and this is how we got the following sequence. My favorite sequence of the year. Enjoy. Many more photos to come of this incredible family but it could take me a few more weeks to narrow them down for portfolio.

After the shoot, Dorian and Lucas took me out to dinner at Fish 101 in Encinitas and it was delicious. They serve up local fish & oysters and pour wine in 'ball jars'. Mellow scene, cool staff and great food.

Enjoy the Sequence of Finn below.

AmbroseWeddings.com

Wedding Guest Book Design

2011-08-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

The couple I will be photographing this weekend at their Malibu wedding asked me to design a wedding guest book from the engagement photos we took in July. We actually worked as a team on the book. Julie and Pras gave me a rough design outline, first round of text and agreed with me on the black leather cover and cover photo. We believe the cover photo says it all - love is their secret that they wish to share with their friends and family during the wedding. Open the book and their love is revealed.

I worked over a weekend on the design and Julie and Pras edited the text on Sunday night. We finalized on a Monday and I sent it to the publisher. It arrived to my house today and I am relieved to say that I LOVE it. It feels heavy, leather back cover and spine, great black and white photo for the cover and the printer matched all my colors. I will give it to Julie and Pras on Friday night when I shoot their rehearsal dinner at Boccacio's in Agoura Hills.

This guest book will be placed on a table during the reception for the guests to sign. Check it out below.

AmbroseWeddings.com

Julie & Prasanth Engagement Pictures

2011-07-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

They had their first date at the El Capitan Theater and saw the movie, 'UP'. We began the photo shoot at the theater, moved to the Mann Chinese Theater, then to the Roosevelt pool and inside the Roosevelt Hotel.

I am not going to write much here and let the pictures speak for themselves. Thanks to Julie and Prasanth for being a great couple to work with and encouraging my creativity. We had a blast that day! I am really looking forward to photographing the wedding.

One Stylish Bride published these photos - take a look.

5 Weeks Old . Loves the Camera

2011-02-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

Thanks to this family for letting me share these pictures. I photographed this little guy and his parents last month. Who says that infants cannot focus? He was quite enamored with my camera and kept giving me the eyes. I fell in love once again. Enjoy the love.

The Limo Dropped us at the Bradbury Building

2010-11-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

To preface the Walt Disney Hall blog entry below, we first stopped at the Bradbury Building. Meredith and Oliver had seen my pictures from an engagement shoot at this location and asked if we could do one for the bridal party. Of course. Before we went to the Disney Hall, we stopped here. As I have recommended in the past, just walk in, don't tell anyone what you are doing and go for it. The guard at the desk always enjoys the company and sometimes will give you a smile. I am always surprised this location is not more popular. Enjoy the photos.

Walt Disney Hall & Bridal Party

2010-11-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

Meredith, Oliver and I pre-planned this photo shoot with the bridal party 6 months in advance. We took a stretch Limo to downtown a few hours prior to the ceremony and hit Walt Disney Hall. While we were snapping off these shots, it was intermission for the audience and we had hundreds of people watching our every move. Very energetic and crowded, we enjoyed the comments and yells from the crowd. This photo shoot location is perfect if you are fast. Located in the garden around the back end of the Hall, I didn't need a permit and it was free. I prefer the audience, but if you like privacy, shoot in the morning on weekends or any daytime Monday - Friday.

Wedding in Culver City - Jenni and Mike

2010-09-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Wedding Photography Portraits in Los Angeles

This wedding was held at Culver Events on Washington Boulevard in Culver City, Los Angeles this summer. Jenni and Mike did something special for family and bridal party portraits. After the ceremony at Culver Events, the entire bridal party and immediate family left the venue and drove 2 blocks away to a friends front yard. It was a setting that brought out the 1920's theme. We also had a great time and it only kept everyone away from the guests for about 25 minutes. Once finished we drove back to Culver Events and the party continued.

Thank you Jenni and Mike for hiring me and letting me be a part of this special ceremony.

For additional photos: click to a wedding website I created for Mike and Jenni. http://jennimike.ambroseweddings.com

Family Photos in Venice: Rockstars & The Mick Jagger Dance

2010-06-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

The following are friends of mine and their kids in excerpts from a recent family photo shoot at my home studio in Venice. Their oldest is doing his Mick Jagger Dance in the following sequence while mom looks on with her youngest. Dad is standing behind me laughing with love.

And, of course, Rockstar Dad with his mini Mick Jagger.

View additional photos of this family and more:
http://www.ambroseweddings.com/index.html#/family/

Los Angeles Wedding Photography - The Groovy Venue

2010-06-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Wedding Photography - Culver Events in Culver City

One of my couples is getting married at Culver Events Center in Culver City this summer and I thought they deserved a little plug on my blog. The picture above is not of the events location but I will be posting plenty of those after the wedding in July. The management at this venue are very sweet. Coming from the perspective of a Los Angeles Wedding Photographer, they treat their brides very well. Their website: http://www.culverevents.com/

The best thing about this venue is that you never have to leave. The chapel is right on the premises and the setting is very intimate. It is located next to the restaurant, Leaf on Washington Boulevard.

I love being a Los Angeles Wedding photographer because I get to meet cool people like the management at Culver Events Center.

www.AmbroseWeddings.com

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Is your fiancé dreading the engagement photo shoot in Los Angeles? If so, join the club.

2010-05-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Is your fiancé dreading the engagement photo shoot in Los Angeles? If so, join the club.

About half the brides who hire me for engagement shoots in Los Angeles have one thing in common; their fiancé is camera shy and not looking forward to the shoot. The brides are very sweet as they explain and ask my advice on how they can motivate their fiancé and produce photos of fun and love.

First off, we know that no matter what, you will look fabulous and can probably adjust to almost any location. What we need to work on is creating a comfortable atmosphere and vision to make this shoot appealing for your fiancé.

The following are my soulful ideas from a photographer’s perspective.

• Let’s make a plan. Pre-plan the shoot with the photographer. Chat with your photographer and let her/him know your fiancé’s concerns and see if you can work out a location that would be best for your fiancés’ comfort level. A good photographer will work around these challenges to make the shoot the best it can be for the wedding couple.
• One hour is enough time. The actual shooting time should be no longer than one hour. Pre-planning will take a few emails back and forth with the photographer and maybe one phone call but if all is planned correctly, actual shooting time should be no longer than one hour. Let your fiancé know this ahead of time and he will feel more comfortable about the shoot and throw you a big smile.
• The photo shoot is on a vacation day. Since the photo shoot will more than likely take place on a Saturday or Sunday, it should be planned like a vacation day. Pick a location that feels comfortable to your fiancé, as this will ease him into the day knowing it’s happening somewhere familiar. Pre-planning a lunch or dinner after the shoot with your friends at his favorite restaurant is also going to help him feel more at ease. He will then know that shortly after the shoot he will be completely in his comfort zone with you and friends.
• Brad Pitt or Bradley Cooper – does it really matter? Part of his shyness could be attributed to him feeling he needs to look like one of the Brads mentioned here. This is understandable since ultimately he wants to please the one he loves, you. I suggest that your fiancé wears his favorite and coolest outfit that compliments yours. Accessories are important if he normally wears them. If he is comfortable and normally wears hats, bring his favorite hat as well. It is vital that he does not wear clothing or shoes that are not his normal style because this will be noticeable in photos. For example, if he normally never wears a suit jacket, don’t bring one to the shoot, as he may feel uncomfortable. The suit jacket on wedding day is a completely different story but more of that later in another magazine issue.
• Beer, wine, vodka, and tequila always help. If your finance likes the occasional drink, this is the best time to have one. A glass of wine for each of you is not only romantic but it helps loosen you up for a relaxed photo shoot.
• Finally, I have some location ideas for you.
• Beaches. A ‘prior to sunset shoot’ or a ‘sunset shoot’ is best for lighting on the sand. Bright sunlight during the middle of the day for an engagement photo shoot in Los Angeles never produces a good shoot. If it must take place during the brightest hours of the day, find shade. Shade provides the diffusion you will need when the sun is at its brightest.
• Where you met, how romantic. Go back to the place where you first met and let the sparks fly. If it’s an establishment, you may want to call them ahead of time and explain the photo shoot and ask permission. More than likely they will say yes because of the romance factor but you may have to work around special times of the day. Another option is to walk in unannounced as explained below.
• Your fiancé’s favorite bar, restaurant and/or hotel. It’s fun to walk into a restaurant, choose an open area during the hours of 3pm – 5pm and do a shoot. Most of the time, the hostess will be happy you are in the establishment having fun. I would recommend that you don’t call ahead because catching the hostess off guard is better. If you ask permission ahead of time over the phone, they can’t see your lovely face and could say no. My couple’s and I usually walk in during the slow times and ask permission from the hostess. It is best to order a drink, soda and/or and appetizer after the shoot just to thank the establishment properly. The customer’s enjoy watching it all happen and usually create a happy atmosphere for you and your fiancé.
• That car is hot! If your fiancé is a car buff and you can swing it, have the photo shoot in front or in his favorite automobile. If he loves cars, he will know how to borrow one for the photo shoot.
• Pay homage to great architecture. Two people in love standing in front of a beautiful building can create a striking image. Take a look around town and choose your favorite building. Make sure that the buildings’ most intriguing parts are at the bottom of the building and not the top because the bottom is where you will be placed for the photograph.

If you have questions or want more ideas for a fun engagement photo shoot in Los Angeles please contact me at www.AmbroseWeddings.com or call me at 310-429-2184.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Family Photos - 2 teenagers & some creative ideas from Mom

2010-04-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

Mom said that her girls rocked the house in these photos. We had a great time at this hotel next to Walt DisneyLand. They had been to the park every day for the past 3 days and mom needed a break. She called me and asked for a photo shoot on their day off at and around their hotel. These girls were really high energy for most of the photos but we managed to get some more calm moments as well.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Bride Magazines - There's a New Kid in Town & She Rocks the House

2010-04-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Watch out Bride Magazine!
Tammy K. McGowan is bringing her decades of wedding planning experience to form an online digital bridal magazine called, 'Your Wedding Story'. The magazine will combine the expertise from a team of wedding planners lead by Tammy and a beautiful, slick digital bridal magazine.

Tammy provides a live chat with the magazine. Just 'click here' and talk to a wedding coordinator. How many times have you been looking through a bride magazine, see the perfect location, dress or cake and want to ask questions to a wedding professional who can give a subjective answer? 'Your Wedding Story' will give you these answers in a blink or better yet, a click. Tammy understands that brides need fast, professional and to the minute answers to many questions. Her wedding planning experience spans nationwide for more than a decade and she knows what brides need. She plans to launch the magazine in Arizona, San Diego and Hawaii by July.

Keep the following two links stored in your bookmarks and check back monthly.
http://www.yourweddingstoryezine.com/YourWeddingStory.html

As a sneak peak, take a look at the vendor media pack. Usually I would not give this information out to brides but Tammy used my photos for the front cover and back cover. Since we love Tammy we are going to let you see it now. Congratulations Tammy! We hope to work more with you in the future!
http://www.editionduo.com/publication/?i=35576

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Blade Runner Engagement Photos in Los Angeles

2010-03-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

Engagement Photos in Los Angeles

Engagement photos in Los Angeles.
Jenni Gary and Mike Gallagher
How they met.

Jenni watched the play "Three", seven years ago at the Electric Lodge in Venice, CA. The lead actor in the play was not only beautiful and talented he was "Hot". In Jenni's words, "It was as if the whole Universe was illuminating him up on stage for me, saying "This is the love of your life."

After the play Jenni made the first moves and introduced herself to Mike. They walked over to Hal's Restaurant with a large group of people where everyone sat at an extra long table for dinner. Jenni remembers thinking, "Why isn't Mike sitting with me and why is he at the other end of the table? Doesn't he know I am really cool?" Jenni played it mellow and kept to her friends at the other end of the table. She says that after dinner, their eyes met and Mike walked down to her end of the table, asked her if she would like a drink and sat next to her. She was thinking to herself, "Well, it is about time" but she never stated it. Little did she know that the whole time Mike was making her wait so that their time talking could be more private after the dinner cleared out.

Sparks flew and their first date was the Natural History Museum to view artifacts from Machu Picchu. As they say in the movies, the rest is history.

Thank you Jenni and Mike for great Engagement Photos in Los Angeles to add to my portfolio.

Much love and luck to Jenni and Mike as they share their vows on July 24th of this year.

www.AmbroseWeddings.com

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - These Two win the prize for an easy breazy Wedding Website

2010-03-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

Got engaged? You will need a website for your family & friends to follow! Just a little bit of time put into a website and this will save you time and money for the big day. Take a look at my friends Meredith & Oliver. Besides being very fancy, they are smart too. They used Weebly.com to create this website and it was free. Now all of the vendors, family and friends can keep up with details of the wedding including the colors, the proposal, the ceremony & reception locations and the registry.

http://msmerymac.weebly.com/

Congratulations my friends, I am looking forward to photographing your wedding day.

www.AmbroseWeddings.com

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Marry Me IN the Sea. Key word here is "IN"

2010-02-17T10:54:00.000-08:00

In Newport Beach, there is a tiny little cove that looks out onto The Wedge. It is very romantic, small, intimate and can hold over 100 people however I would not have over 50 guests because you cannot have a microphone. It is the perfect place for a ceremony if you do not mind getting your feet wet and maybe a little of your dress too. Don't bother to bring shoes because you will just have to take them off and sink your feet into the sand.

This is a sneaky location and the ceremony has to be done rather quickly because it is on the sly. I would say keep the actual ceremony under ten minutes without a grand entrance. Basically, show up with your closest family/friends and an officiant and say your vows.

You cannot get more romantic than sneaking into a beautiful beach to say your vows to the one you love. Makes for a great story for the kids.

AND it's free!

Much love and luck to Shawn and Shawna in their future.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Engagement Photos in Venice Beach . Graffiti is King

2010-01-27T10:20:00.000-08:00

Engagement Photos at Venice Beach

These two made great models for the engagement photos at Venice Beach

Rebecca, Thomas and I walked up to the take their engagement photos in Venice Beach on a Thursday afternoon and grabbed these shots. Since I live in Venice the beach is just a few blocks away and makes it super convenient for photos by the sea. It's always nice to use a lot of color in engagement photos and the graffiti walls are just one of the many very cool locations in Venice. Rebecca and Thomas were very happy with the result and so was I. I was so happy to obtain these creative images for engagement photos in Venice Beach. It was freezing by the way and the lovely bride put on some tough skin in that little skimpy dress. She was so cute and her fiance just loved it. After the shoot we ran into my house and turned the heater up really high. Thomas played his guitar for his girl while I was making tea and it was a perfect ending to a very cold engagement photo shoot.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Make Out Session

2010-01-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

In this photo you see the groom, bride and groomsmen. What you don't see are the 100 guests standing behind me cracking up and cheering on the bride and groom. This is one way to have a fun bridal party photo session.

We pre-planned this photo session to take place immediately after the ceremony. What we didn't realize was that all the guests were going to stick around to watch. This created a lot of energy for the session and the bride and groom worked it.

As I said - 1-2-3 to prepare everyone for their photo, the bride and groom started making out. It was so hilarious that not only were the guests cracking up but the groomsmen were laughing as well. Quickly I snapped the picture and the make out session was memorialized.

Making out during your wedding photos is cool.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Someone Hand Me a Tissue

2010-01-08T15:21:00.000-08:00

When meeting with clients, one of the questions they ask me is "Do YOU REALLY enjoy shooting weddings?" A big Yes pops out of my mouth immediately and one reason for this is the emotional heights hit in the course of one day.

I cry every time right before the bride gets ready to walk down the aisle with her Dad or Mom & Dad. Privileged as I am with a backstage pass, I am usually standing in the back with them as they enter the aisle to the ceremony. As they turn the corner and the music begins for the bride, it is a highly emotional moment and I am overwhelmed with the energy from the family. This is also a beautiful photo opportunity. Think about it - it's symbolic. The parents supporting their daughter in starting her own family and welcoming another new family into their lives. It's a big deal.

I am left behind them as they continue down the aisle and take their energy with them to both families. Tissue in one hand and camera in the other I get along with my work and enjoy the remainder of the ceremony with pictures.

So - yes - I love to photograph weddings. It's not only fun but highly creative for a photographer - Oh and of course - there's the cake.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Sisters . Yep, Family Pictures Can Be Fun

2010-01-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

Bride and Bridesmaid - these ladies made the most of their family photo shoot.
Not only do I enjoy the documentary side of wedding photography, I also like to have fun with the family and bridal party before the ceremony. It can range from highly creative photography all the way to Avedon/Kennedy Family formal photography. The more playtime the better.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Meet Sylvias Shoes

2010-01-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

Sylvia brought two pairs of shoes to her wedding. These beautiful heels and a pair of flat converse sneakers. How graceful she moved in both. Her husband commented on the ease to run around in the grass because she not only brought two pairs of shoes, she also took off her shoes and ran around bare foot. Smart girl I say.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Let Me Eat Cake

2009-12-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

In my Wedding Photography agreements, I include a piece of the wedding cake. Why not? The couple and family put research, extensive taste testing and did I mention a lot of money into this dessert. I believe it's a great opportunity to get to know the couple even better, through their cake. I remember each piece of wedding cake I have eaten over the years and the couples who had it baked. It is interesting to match cake to couple. The cake tells a story.

After the wedding couple & their guests are secured with cake, I can be found in the kitchen with the caterer, two cameras strapped to my neck and a piece of delicious wedding cake. The caterers have a laugh watching me eat this beautiful piece of cake fairly quickly, while holding two cameras. I say it's worth it. qu'ils mangent de la brioche

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - My Grandparents Wedding Portrait

2009-12-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

It's only proper to begin this blog at the beginning with my grandparents above.

They arrived to this country from Lithuania before my father was born. This photo was taken in Maryland in front of a backdrop on their wedding day. I love the white gloves on my grandfather and my grandmother's shoes. Actually, I love everything about this photo. It's telling of the times. Shot with film and no Photoshop ever applied, their faces look smooth and perfect. This photo hangs up in my kitchen and I look at it everyday. I never met them but think of them often as I am booking weddings.

I believe that the simplicity in this portrait brings out the seriousness & intimacy of the day. For him she placed her one hand through his arm. Holding on for support. For her he posed his strong arms with his hands in white gloves to give her the support.

This picture makes me wonder what he was thinking while he was putting on his gloves. Was it about having enough beer for the guests to drink at the reception? Was it about her? Maybe both.