jesse thomas photography

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: DIY Backyard Wedding!

2011-09-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

Remember my dear dear friends Christine & Luke? You know, the one who I've known for about 15 years, and who I'd recite Dumb & Dumber with from beginning to end? I showed you their engagement photos back here. Well, they got married this summer, hooray hooray! Their wedding was a very intimate backyard DIY affair, full of lots of quirk and color and love.

Here are my fav's::

Vibrant origami, made by some of Christine's students, I think.

Yup, fancy Almond mini cupcakes made by Mom! So pretty, right? I think I had 9. After everyone else had, of course.

Handmade centerpieces, perfect perfect.

Seriously, she is one of the reasons I love brown eyes.

First look! Eeeee!

I love that curl doing a lil dance in the wind.

Happy happy!

Thank you again Christine and Luke, for letting me be apart of such a beautiful day!

Orange County Photographer:: Brea, Portraits

2011-08-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

A last minute shoot with my sister's kiddos---Jack (Jaxon, Jacko, Bubby, Baby), Vivi (Verity, Didi, Didis, Deets, Doo-doos, Snuggle), & Dom (Dominic, Domo, Dom, Domi, Doo-doo, Boo-boo, Boy). I like nicknames. :)

Enjoy.

Ohmygoodness.

His pose, not mine. Love it.

Hi, I'm Jack, I'm a model. (Really though, his "poses" are perfect aren't they?)

Oh shoot. Their faces. Those looks.

I wish I remembered what they were laughing about in these shots. Some of my favorites. . .

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I laugh every time I see this shot!

Sweet sweet girl!

Oh look, Vivi models too, how convenient.

"Ummmm Jess? You daughter I mommy, ok?"

"Jess! You 'anna pay Bolt? You Bolt, I Penny, ok? Ok Jess?"

So so precious.

Can't get over Domo's lil smile!

!!!

Classic.

Proof: I am their Auntie and they do love me :>

Just another Tuesday. ;)

Orange County Photographer:: Laguna Beach Portraits

2011-08-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

I am running out of ways to start Blog posts. . . And not even interesting or clever ways, but just ways in general. How many ways can you say that "I had the absolute pleasure of taking these portraits a few weeks ago"? :)

So, that being said, these are my favorites of my shoot with Veronica. She wanted beachy, pretty images to document this fun and exciting time in her life, and to celebrate her upcoming 30th birthday. Happy Birthday Vero! Photographing you truly was a breeze. I guess being gorgeous helps? ;)

Orange County Photographer:: Downtown Fullerton

2011-07-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

Let's get right to it-----Maddie is adorable. Seriously, adorable. Going through her photographs, my eyes kept telling my brain the same words:: angelic, soft, quirky, JCrew Kids... She's got a lot going for her. ;)

My favorites from our Downtown Fully shoot::

Inspiration: Portraits of Diana Ross

2011-07-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

Soo.......

This is what happens when you're computer is being abnormally slow, and you're waiting for a large project to export, and you're going through a 2 month long Motown phase, and, and, you've got curly hair. Maybe.

Inspired by Diana Ross. Mostly, just these portraits. I love the power of their simplicity---in composition and lighting, and the strength in their styling and swag. :)

Happy Weekend!

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Ladera Ranch Vow Renewal

2011-07-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

It is not often that I get asked to photograph vow renewal ceremonies, but when I do, I find that they are truly special. Frank & Susie approached me a few months ago about shooting their ceremony, and I jumped at the opportunity to get involved. Frank and Susie have a pretty incredible story, and convey much much strength in their love for each other.

They hosted an intimate dinner and ceremony with some of their best friends. Susie did all the decor herself, and added her own unique touches to her look----like crocheted Toms, which I didn't even know existed until then! :>

Thank you Frank & Susie for including me in your day! Enjoy a few of my favorites. . .

Thank you again, Frank & Susie! Many many years of love to you!

New York and Toronto::Mini Portrait Sessions

2011-06-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and in the midst of getting some much needed time away in New York City and Toronto, I am offering mini portrait sessions! Time slots will be limited, so tell a friend, or, inquire directly at jessegirl_thomas@yahoo.com.

Los Angeles Wedding Photographer: Sometimes I 2nd Shoot.

2011-06-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I 2nd shoot! This means I get all the visual pleasures of photographing a lovely wedding for lovely people, minus the intense pressure. ;> I love second shooting.

Recently, I was a 2nd shooter for the always-awesome Mr Christian Cruz. Check out some of my favorites from this Pasadena wedding...

For my doggs...

2011-05-13T11:01:00.000-07:00

I went through a phase when I was in 1st-2nd grade where I wanted to be a veterinarian, I wrote and illustrated stories about dogs, I played dress up with my dog---even when I had 5 other siblings to play with. Today, I record episodes of Dog Whisperer and genuinely think my own dogs are beautiful. You could say I'm a dog lover.

I saw how striking the light was glowing through my dog's "cone of shame" and couldn't help but document.

I hope that wasn't weird,

Jesse

Orange County Photographer:: the Marshall Family

2011-03-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

This recent portrait shoot of the Marshall clan was very refreshing! Their "vibe" is just so full of life I couldn't help but have a great time photographing the four of them. Also, fun fact, I am a twin, and they have twin daughters, which instantly drew me in! Being a twin myself, I love to learn about other twins I meet, see their interactions, etc. These two girlies stole my heart & were so special to photograph.

Thank you, Marshall's for your laughter, your flexibility, and your adorable kiddies! :)

They weren't sure yet....Wait for it.....

....Hey girl, heeey!
(They knew I'm a twin too)

Precious.

I love that little jewel of a drool droplet. . . Nice work Hannah. :)

See guys, having your picture taken is easy, just be natural. ;)

Seriously! Seriously, they are so SO so scrumptious.

I love their little twinnie body language. I always wish I could remember being a baby with my twin sister. :) I really do.

Goodness!

!!!!

Again, Hey girl, heeeey. ;)

Ryan, Megan, Hannah, Emma: you are a delight! Thank you, again.

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Christine & Lucas, Engagement

2011-03-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

Every time I photograph close friends of mine, during such special times in their lives, it is always SO surreal. Christine & I have been friends since we were about 10 years old. . . 15 YEARS! I have countless memories, hilarious stories, and so much love for this woman. I remember one time we called each other and tried to start our Dumb & Dumber videos (as in VHS, as in VCR) at the exact same time so we could watch it and share our passion for it by memorizing it. Yes, yes we did. And I know we could both recite it to this day. -----> (Scene 1, music starts, camera pans to a sign reading Hope St...) :)

Christine & Luke----thank you for letting me photograph you! Your carefree easygoing-ness really made it uber easy for me. Grazi. :>

Enjoy.

Eat your heart out, ya'll.

Orange County Family Photographer: New Baby

2011-03-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago we had the enormous and beautiful privilege of welcoming baby number three for my sister and her husband.

Meet, Mr Dominic James::

Jaxon, the proudest (or is it most proud?) big brother. He kept telling me, "Ah, man, he's so cute. . . . . . Jess, he's so gorgeous. . . . . .He's even cuter than you Jess!" :D

Is your heart melting yet?

!!!!!

We love you, we love you, we love you, Dominic.

Orange County Photographer: Maternity

2011-03-03T16:21:00.000-08:00

I love it when photo shoots go as this one did----quickly, not according to plan, with different inspiration, and much freedom. I spent several hours daydreaming about how I wanted to photograph my sister's maternity images, I searched for inspiration images, I drew sequences of detailed sketches, from the location to the outfit she'd be wearing, but, when push came to shove, schedules got crazy, the rain fought against us, and soon enough we were left with 1 hour to get the photos done! I literally threw together the outfit in five minutes, we walked outside, and Jeanne let me do whatever I wanted! (One of the many perks of photographing my twin: she trusts me, she gets me, she goes with it. All. The. Time.)

I've come to realize that I actually get better results when I stray away from the plan, and just make it work, spontaneously.

Enjoy.

A huge, huge THANK YOU, to my stunning sister for her willingness & ease, for her permission to post the previous images, and also for getting pregnant. ;)

She had her baby a few days after this shoot (crazy, right?), so stay tuned for pics of baby boy!

Orange County Wedding Photographer: Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T14:23:00.000-08:00

To all the love birds out there, Happy Valentine's Day. . .

And let me know when you put a ring on it. ;)

(More happy couples here)

Orange County Wedding Photographer: BHLDN

2011-02-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

Yes, yes they did.

Today, the Urban Inc label, home to Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, Terrain, and Leifsdottir, has officially launched a wedding brand called BHLDN. Pronounced "beholden", and inspired by the Dutch word "to keep", this line is draws lots of inspiration particularly from the Anthropologie aesthetic, and is anything but traditional. They are selling some of the most special gowns, bridesmaids dresses, jewelry, shoes, lingerie, and accessories that truly do give "tradition a twist", as noted on their website.

Here are a few of my favorites, brace yourself. . .

Greenbow Lace Gown, $600. (YES)

Eyelet Medley Sheath, $1000 (YES, again).

Cascading Goddess Gown, $1600. Zinnia Gown, $1800.

Ribboned Silk Gown, $1600. Pinwheel Tea Dress, $1400.

Dotted Voile Veil, $160. Cherry Blossom Head Wrap, $350.

Pompom Rose Headband, $130. Languid Bow Headband, $220.

Be sure to visit the BHLDN website here, and see many more amazing pieces! Which are your favorites?

Orange County Wedding Photographer: Branding/Logo Goodness

2011-02-11T12:22:00.000-08:00

I thought it was appropriate to update all you lovelies on the latest with this exciting season of branding for Jesse Thomas Photography. I have been fortunate enough to have two, yes TWO, special artists working with me on a beautiful logo. First, Betsy Dunlap, incredible calligraphy artist, and second, Megan Gonzalez, design/color/type/paper champion of Mae Mae Paperie. I cannot, cannot, wait to see the finished product from these two, and I know you can't either, so until then I'm giving you some of their best to nibble on. . .Your eyes will thank you for this sweet, sweet eye candy.

the wonderful Betsy, who will be doing the main portion of the logo:

1. I was showing this image to a friend, and she said this: "It looks like a quirky old professor's handwriting, I love it". Agreed, definitely agreed.
2. Loving the curvy movements of the letters in this one.
3. Soft, sweet, and simple. Betsy does it all. (Photo by Jen Curtis)
4. This aesthetic is very free and whimsical to me, which of course, I love.
5. YES, the woman designs tatts! Both are stunning.

the lovely Megan, who's bringing a dash of color & type to the table:

1. Clean type, subtle color, Mmmm good.

2. Clean type, and some tangerine pop!

3. I love the strength of the font in this one, and how the color still allows it to be soft.

4. Pretty.

5. Yup, that's an initial stamp. Go get one.

6. The colors are great, the font is great. Yay for Mae Mae.

A huge THANK YOU in advance to Betsy and Megan for the beautiful new logo collection heading my way. Oh, PS, I fixed my settings so you can all now leave comments. Comment away. :)

Orange County Family Photographer:: The Rogers

2011-01-30T22:48:00.000-08:00

Who wants to see some adorable kiddos and a beautiful couple all happily lovin' each other along San Clemente shores? I knew you did, and you've come to the right place, friend. So stay a while and treat your eyes to the stunning Roger family. . . :>

Thank you, thank you, thank you, to the ever-lovely Roger family!

Orange County Maternity Photographer:: Airplane Baby Shower

2011-01-20T10:07:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had the pleasure of celebrating the upcoming arrival of my 3rd nephew! The theme for the shower imitated the theme of his soon-to-be nursery, all things airplanes! My sister preferred things to be cozy and simple, and here is what she and my mom came up with::

Enjoy!

Check out more maternity-inspired shoots here.

Inspiration:: Free People

2011-01-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

I came across the Free People January 2011 catalog today, and YUM. I have to admit, I usually have a hard time fully appreciating their aesthetic, but my oh my, the tables have turned. I am absolutely loving their effortless, bohemian-meets-glam feel at the moment. And the photography for this issue is so soft and wonderful. You can see it all, here.

What do you think?

1: Little spring dress, strolling the Eiffel Tower? Of course.

2: The perfect, untypical pleated maxi dress.

3, 4: Lace & polka dots, for life.

5: Red knotted strapless top, adorable.

Inspiration:: Workspaces

2011-01-11T11:39:00.000-08:00

I daydream of the kind of workspace I hope to acquire. Every time I imagine it, it is very minimal, very clean, with pops of eclectic magic. Here are the closest images I could find to tickle my fancy...

PS: Click on number beneath each for image credit.

All of them delicious, no? I think so. O Lord, haste the day. ;)

happy new year:: highlights & hopes

2011-01-04T15:54:00.000-08:00

Another year gone, a new one to come! Here's a little board of my 2010 highlights...
(Photographs taken with the Canon 5D Mark ii 28mm f/1.8; polaroid 400; & iPhone)

2010: HIGHLIGHTS
1. starting the year off with turning 25 in January. scary to do it w/o my twin sister with me, but excited for the adventure. celebrations in port angeles/seattle, wa with my little sister, and in big bear, ca with my beautiful besties.
2. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oy Oy Oy! february-june took me to the ever beautiful, always wild, land down under, Australia. a highlight of my life, let alone 2010. a time of growth and unreal scenery, new friendships, new perspective, and new dreams, all worth more than gold.
3. Jesse Thomas Photography! branding of my baby, my dream in the making! biggest risk I have taken, thus far! it's been a very quick, very challenging, and very life-giving process already. These early stages have allowed me a bit of space to paint my picture, to be inspired. I am so jazzed the possibilities next year brings.
4. cooking and baking! i did more in this year than i ever have, not really sure why, but I am so glad. it is always such a creative outlet for me.
5. family. this year welcomed loads of change to the Thomas crew. my twin sister & her fam continuing their journey in Australia, my younger sister & her husband getting stationed in Alaska this December, one of my brother's having his first son. . ! many sweet and precious memories were created this year, which i've tucked soo deeply in pocket so as to never lose them. the joys of a huge family. :)

2011: HOPES
1. take more photos! personally, professionally, film, polaroids, digital, YES. i need to shoot more. and more, and more.
2. dinner parties! i love hosting, i love decorating, i love cooking, dinner parties are the easiest fix for all of the above.
3. get published! anyone interested? ;>
4. take a trip! possibilities: alaska (!), australia (duh), singapore & cambodia (wow!), or the bahamas (purely R & R).
5. start & finish at least 1 creative photography project.
6. more sewing & calligraphy.
7. more dreaming. . .

HAPPY 2011, EVERYONE.

Orange County Family Photographer: Alan, Jennifer, & Jacob!

2010-12-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

Meet Alan, Jennifer, & Jacob! I had the joy of photographing this beautiful and special family recently. I felt so privileged when Jenn contacted me about doing portraits for them before their adventurous move to Qatar. Alan got an exciting job offer which will move them there in January. I kept thinking of all the wonderful new experiences they will have as a family in a new culture, and what a special season it will be for them. Our photographs together mark the beginning of something new!

Here are a few of my favorites, enjoy.

Look at those baby blues! This little guy was quite the charmer.

I love the shape of this tree! And I'm so glad everyone was up for trekking through the dirt to get to it. :>

Love love love this one.

Jacob and his stunning Mimi. Her (& Jenn's) laughter is contagious.

I love everyone's expression in this one.

Thank you again, Jenn & Alan! All the best as you prepare for your move!

Orange County Family Photographer:: Stephanie, Saxon, & Charlie the Pup

2010-11-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

Two things made this recent portrait shoot particularly enjoyable for me: one being that Stephanie & Saxon were really keen on including the newest member of their family, their pup Charlie. And two, the fact that Stephanie & Saxon were so flipping easy to photograph! Seriously, it's got to be a gift, or something. They both really exuded such a natural, easy confidence, even with a big camera pointed at their faces, all the time. We spent the afternoon shooting in Old Towne Tustin, which is a very cute and quaint Orange County community. See my favorites below!

Thank you Steph & Saxon for sharing your photogenic goodness with me. :)

such drama, such commitment. :)

the gust of wind is totally working for us in this shot, love Steph's hair..

baby Charlie!

see what I mean about being so effortlessly photogenic?

Thank you thank you, Steph, Saxon, & Charlie!

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: DIY Details

2010-11-15T13:14:00.000-08:00

I love weddings that accentuate lovely, do-it-yourself details. Not only do I find it more creative and inspiring, but 90% of the time it's more budget friendly, and earth friendly, as these couples tend to use local resources, second hand items, and even hand craft their own little lovelies.

Josh & Jessica did just that! (Part 1 post, here)Their wedding details included decor full of friends collected mason jars, Prego spaghetti sauce jars (brilliant idea!), thrift store vases, vine-like twigs, loose-leaf tea favors, & paper rosette name cards. YUM. Flowers were purchases locally & seasonally at the wonderful LA Flower Market, where they found the most beautiful array of succulents, curly willow, bells of ireland, green mist, eucalyptus, teddy bear sunflowers, and billy balls, to name a few. Another friend of the Bride made one-of-a-kind hair pieces for all the ladies, and, AND, fabric rosettes for the Bride's kicks! DIY to the fullest, right? Right.

Enjoy::

Thank you again, to the lovely Josh & Jessica & Friends, for all this DIY Detail goodness! Be inspired, everyone.

*Flowers & Centerpieces: Susie Aguilar

*Hair & Shoe accessories: Kate Pewthers (Etsy shop here)

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Josh & Jessica

2010-11-14T20:57:00.000-08:00

Where to begin! This wedding was such a joy to shoot! So charming, intimate, special, rustic, personal, beautiful, and full of such true love and happiness. Josh & Jessica got married in Huntington Beach, at the most amazing hidden gem of locations---the Newland Barn/Newland House Museum. It was PERFECT. Jessica and her team of incredible friends & family really did a phenomenal job at adding the perfect personal and special touches to making this venue their own. Kudos, ladies. :>

It was truly a privilege to be apart of such a beautiful couple's special day. I wish you all could have been there next to me, feeling the huge amounts of love and joy that these two conveyed for one another! Wow! Thank you, to Mr and Mrs Fowler for letting me take part in that!

Here are my favorites of their special, spectacular day! Enjoy.

Jessica had a friend add those adorable custom made mustard fabric rosettes to her flats! Very clever & cute.

The same friend made all these gorgeous hair pieces for the Bridesmaids.

Yet another custom-made hair accessory! Don't you love Jessica's choice of a black birdcage veil? Such a combination of bold & soft. Love it.

Josh & Jessica's did "first look" portraits before the ceremony. These were some of my favorite moments of the entire day. To all the future Brides out there, I highly recommend doing it this way. :>

I love all the love here. :>

Jess, you are RADIANT.

How GORGEOUS are the flowers? Did you notice the white feathers in the bouquet?

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

These ones just make me wanna play "Love and Happiness" by Al Green, on repeat. All day long. ;>

Thank you again to the always enchanting, Josh & Jessica.

Orange County Wedding Photographer: Josh & Jessica Teaser Shots!

2010-11-10T14:24:00.000-08:00

Some teaser images of Josh & Jessica's recent wedding! I will go on, and on, and ON, about what a beautiful celebration it was, along with the rest of my favorites, in the full post!

Enjoy these beauts, for now!

More to come, stay tuned!

Orange County Family Photographer:: Like Kids at Sea

2010-11-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

I could not resist posting these photos! Usually I prefer to keep "personal" images separate from my Blog, but these were just too pretty, and evoked nostalgic memories. They reminded me so much of days when I was 4 or 5, and my dad would return home from a few days out at sea fishing, and I'd race out to see all the fish, touch their scales and their eyes (weird, right?). I remember eating gummy bears and running around the boat, climbing over everything, pretending I was on the ocean too. My nephew and niece did the same thing at Nana & Papa's house the other day...Here's my documentation::

Los Angeles Portrait Photographer: Studio Style Shoot

2010-11-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

I shot indoors! Can you believe it? It's been a very long time since I have used professional, very expensive, studio lighting. I usually don't have any need for it, as 90% of my shoots take place outdoors (thank you, California). The last time was actually in 2008, in one of my last photography classes, during a lighting and film demo, using an 8x10 medium format camera (so fun/incredible). So, I jumped quickly last week at the opportunity to participate in a studio lighting workshop event with PUG Long Beach (Pictage User Group). A photographer friend (and amazing mentor!) of mine hosted the event, and provided our group with a few models to use. This was a great refresher, and additional learning experience because I realized that while I appreciate the convenience and possibility of studio lighting and equipment, I LOVE being outside, shooting outside, and working with natural elements, like the sun and clouds. ;) Big kudos to all the editoral/fashion photographers out there!

Next time I will have more of a story in mind, but for now, here are a few of my favorites.... :)

Meet Becca, one of the sweet & lovely models, who is also a makeup artist!

Wasn't sure if this pose would work, but its actually my favorite.

A very big thank you to PUG Long Beach, and to Becca, our beautiful model!

Orange Country Family Photographer: Lauren, Larry, & Gracie

2010-11-01T17:02:00.000-07:00

Another family photo shoot with the beautiful Estrada's! Not only are they incredibly easy to photograph, but they are such a fun family. Lauren is a dear friend of mine (see more of her here!), and requested that we please use my pretty avacado-green chair in this shoot, and of course, I was allllll over that! I also grabbed my favorite chunky-knit-Ikea blanket, and we headed for the dry, rolling hills!

Here are about 30 of my favorites. Go to town, folks. :)

Thank you thank you thank you, to the wonderful Estrada's. You complete me. ;)

Inspo Board: Maternity Shoot

2010-10-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking and looking and daydreaming a bit about this upcoming Inspo Shoot. I will be photographing my twin sister Jeanne for some maternity images I've been dying to get. Not only is she a stunner, but she is really, really easy for me to photograph, maybe it's a twin thing. :) I initially had the idea when I was driving through the Ortega Mountains one early morning, and I saw these beautiful, bare, open green fields with some empty trees in the distance. I thought it was a cool juxtaposition, and thought it was something I could definitely build from, and alas, here I am! I think this shoot will convey an interesting tension of life/lushness/beauty and dry/bare/empty. I can't imagine a more overt expression of the former than a pregnant woman!

Below are some inspiration images I've gathered in the process. Enjoy!

1. Though I am pretty sure this is an African tree, still doesn't hurt to dream. I love how it's so bare and dry but so lively at the same time.

2. How sweet would it be to recreate this shot! Not sure it will happen, given the water is a bit chilly in the coming months, but we'll see. :)

3. I love the aesthetic and feel of this image. And the light. Delight.

4. I WISH I TOOK THIS. Wow.

5. Just a one-of-a-kind Anthro necklace I'd like to pair with the dress, for some brighter color.

6. I envision a dress like this Free People one, or a top, with extra volume for movement and a slightly ethereal feel.

7. Love the angle and mood of this image.
8. The lighting and texture here is wonderful.

Orange County Family Photographer: Vivi & Her Gold Kicks

2010-10-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

My niece Verity was oh-so-kind enough to let me sass her up and take a couple photos of her before she took her nap today! Don't you love her outfit? Shimmery gold high top sneakers? She's got soul. Anyway, I think I enjoyed being outside with pink balloons and flowers more than she did, but that's okay, we made it work! Note to self: Bring candy every time when photographing people under age 25. ;)

Thank you, thank you, my Vivi doll! Auntie Jess loves you.

Showing of those kicks!

(Insert candy here) :)

You're a stunner, my Viv's!

Wanna see more of Vivi? Like when she was a tiny baby? Here. Or how about when she was in her mom's tum? Here.

Orange County Portrait Photographer:: Monochromatic Style

2010-10-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Clients always ask me what to wear in our portrait photo shoots, and my first answer is always, always, always, "no black, and no white". Then I usually proceed to tell them to wear bright colors, pieces with textures and easy prints, and fun accessories. I personally don't wear a ton of white, and almost zero black, and have a huge bias toward color, and texture, and lots of it! So, I decided to give myself a mini challenge of styling a monochromatic shoot. What would I do if a client insisted on wearing black/grey/white? How would the shoot appeal to me as the visionary behind it? My answer: MAKE IT WORK (a la Tim Gunn). If you are going to wear black/grey/white, make it interesting, and visually stimulating. Things like accessories, props, clothing with texture/volume, and overall composition, are even more important because they will keep the viewer involved without the entertainment of color to do so.

Here's what I came up with, enjoy::

See what I mean about texture? The lace in her top, an extra chunky necklace, the pleats & volume in the skirt. Perfect!

Who's this, you ask? Oh, just my twin sister Jeanne (sorry boys, she's very much married), who is 5 months pregnant, with her 3rd child. Didn't know Mom's could look that hot, did you? ;)

One of my favorite things I own: $5 zebra bracelet from Perth, Australia. Quirky, classy, & monochromatic :)

Lots of options for props & accessories. . . Have fun with it!

Best props of the day: Hurley Matthew-Turbo; Ezekiel Beige-Magic. They fit with the theme so smoothly, I just couldn't resist.

That's all, for now! Don't be afraid of monochromatic color palettes, they can be very good to you.

- Jesse

Orange County Family Photographer:: Maternity Underwater

2010-10-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

I cannot rave enough about how awesome this shoot was! Not only was it way FUN but it was life-giving, for lack of a better word. Shooting underwater just keeps getting more and more fascinating and beautiful to me. If you have a minute, throw on some goggles, jump in a pool with a friend, wearing pretty & colorful clothes, in the bright of day, and you'll totally understand! ;) Seriously, the light, the colors, the textures, its all incredible.

These photographs are of Jaclyn, my beautiful sister-in-law, and Neil, my brother. Baby Hudson is due this week, and we are all beyond excited for their first son. I'm extra thankful we were able to pull this shoot off before the due date! Thank you so much Jaclyn & Neil for your flexibility with wardrobe, slightly chilly water, posing, swimming, light, & angles...THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!

Enjoy, friends!

Neil's idea, all the way..."Hey Jess, can we do something cirque du soleil style?!"

Commitment, people, commitment on both sides. Check Jac's toes! And I'm pretty sure Neil is kneeling at a perfect 90 degree angle.

I love the reflection of Jac's dress in these...

Yup.

So much reflection/light goodness happening here! Like a watercolor of sorts!

This could be you:: Contact Jesse at jessegirl_thomas@yahoo.com for inquires.

Orange County Family Photographer:: Maternity Underwater

2010-10-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

A favorite image from my latest maternity shoot, underwater. . . I just can't get enough.

More to come, stay tuned!

Inspired By: Rodney Smith

2010-09-29T22:50:00.000-07:00

I have only recently come across Rodney Smith's work, though he has been around for quite some time. I find myself so struck by his perspective on modern portraiture, as seen in his unique images. He shows such a sense of quirk and whimsy that I absolutely love, and genuinely admire and aspire to. I appreciate his original and strong compositions, use of color, and understanding of light.

A few bits from his Bio that I thought were super interesting/impressive:
"Rodney studied photography under Walker Evans at Yale. . . Rodney was asked to lecture at Columbia University, University of Mexico, University of Madrid, Harvard University, and Goethe University. Adding to his mystery, Rodney declined all invitations, instead riding slow trains in India, bicycling through the Camarque, strolling the streets of Paris. Eventually he returns to Yale to earn a degree in Divinity, and become an adjunct professor. . . His work is represented in every important gallery across the globe; in some very exotic (and not so exotic) places. "

A few of my favorites:

Wow.

Cannot get enough of the color & fantasy in this image. Very daydream-like.

I'm pretty sure this shot has changed my life, somewhat.

Composition & angles, he gets it. . .

Hats off to Rodney Smith, for his inspiration to me (and many others, no doubt).

Orange County Family Photographer:: Nick & the Girls!

2010-09-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

I wanted to quickly post a couple of my favorites from a little family shoot I did over the weekend. The Saltas family are very dear friends of mine, which made this shoot all the more enjoyable! We decided to keep it effortless and low key by choosing their lovely, green backyard as our venue. A huge thank you Nick, Karin, Keona, Fallon, and Erin for your cooperation, despite the heat and itchy grass ;) Love you guys!

I love sisters! I have two myself. I wish I had a shot like this of us when we were that small.

Erin, look at those eyes!

Fallon, soft and sweet as ever.

Keona, modeling it up. ;)

Though there were many "normal" shots to choose from, this was my favorite. :) It kind of reminds me of my family growing up (plus 3 brothers)...slightly chaotic, a lil silly, but full of affection.

enough said :)

Thank you again to the Saltas'! But hey, doesn't this make YOU want to get going on your family portraits for holiday greeting cards and such? Doesn't it?! Contact jessegirl_thomas@yahoo.com for details.

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Style & Budget

2010-09-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to put together a very last minute mini-shoot for my Inspiration series. The focus is on wedding details, for Brides on a smaller budget. Details are honestly are one of my favorite parts of photographing weddings. I tend to notice everything when I am shooting, I'm always scanning the venue for those extra special little touches, and trying to find new ways of "posing" them. And I LOVE hearing of Brides who aren't afraid to purchase second-hand items and making them their own! Though today's details were staged, hopefully they will inspire more unique Brides to step outside the box a bit, and use the resources around them to add to their big day! Both of the chairs are mine, which I found at local thrift stores ($40 total!), the dress is mine, also from a thrift store ($7!), and both pairs of shoes are borrowed. Brides on a budget, I highly recommend checking out thrift stores in your area for funky one-of-a-kind feeling items!

A tiny floral print wedding dress? Um, yup!

Nude heels, make all legs look longer :)

This image was the "muse" for this mini shoot! I saw it in my head and made it happen! His and Hers furniture & footwear! Thankful for this tree, too. It's pretty magical.

I made the boquet using fake (yes, fake! cheaper and maybe "greener"?) flowers, wired the stems together, topped it with a piece of scotch tape, and flavored it up with some yarn! 12 minutes and you're done!

You wanted to see a slightly different angle, right?

I love extremely unproportionate bows. So much more fun than normal ones!

Borrow a cake stand from your Mom, Grandma, or friend, and find a cute saucer, to display your bling!

My dad gave me this, so special to me. Maybe you're a Bride with a hand-me-down too? Who says your man can't propose with it? No rules these days, ladies!

I know this one does not mesh with the aesthetic "feel" of the rest of the images, but it had to be included, it just had to. The shapes of the shadows are beautiful, warm light is always pretty, and those shoes look hot.

Thanks for stopping by, friends! Feel free to leave any money-saving tips/comments for unique Brides! Until next time, be inspired!

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Inspo Board, Funky Glam Bride

2010-09-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have done some visual research and some serious brainstorming for my next Inspiration/Style Bridal Shoot, "Rosie"! It is going to be themed for a Funky/Glam Bride, and will feature a subtle color palette, chunky accessories, and a pretty major twist on traditional bridal attire. I can't wait! I am actually going to make the Bride's skirt we will be using! And I somehow what to incorporate my dogs, and some quirky props. We'll see. :) Here is a lil inspiration board I put together to get the ball rollin'...

Enjoy, and please, let me know if you have any clever ideas for this shoot!

1. I love this updo choice for this shoot! It's fun, but still clean and elegant. Perfect.

2. An extra bit of borrowed inspiration board for this Bride--- romantic, quirky, and subtle. I love the polka dot plate!

3. This necklace is the perfect mix of hard & soft, edgy & pretty. Thank you, JCrew, thank you.

4. Um, hi, smoky eyes & soft pink lips? Another win for this shoot!

5. This skirt is the icing on the cake, for me. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it. I want it. I Love how it is styled with the plain white tee-shirt. Again, another example of edgy-pretty, and such a unique and refreshing modern take on Bridal attire!

6. Another inspiring tulle skirt a la Cary Bradshaw.

7. More necklaces, in keeping with our fabulous theme.

8. Hello pretty peach tulle skirt! Maybe for the bridesmaids? (In our make-believe wedding :)

9. This might be really odd, but this is my idea of who the Bride might be for this shoot. Her everyday style. Flirty, flowy dresses and masculine boots.

10. And, her Groom, why not.

11. Oh, and she would love this couch, and insist on it being in their city apartment.

Photo shoot to come! Still got a few details to work out, but trust me, you will know when she is up and ready! :)

Orange County Food Photographer:: Baking w Rosalind Marquez

2010-09-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

This is a very exciting post for me! Keeping with this month's theme of inspiration, I went to my artist friend, Rosalind Marquez, to share with you all what inspires her, but to also be inspired myself! Ro is embarking on a new journey of creativity, by pursuing her love for baking. I love food, food photography and food styling, and thought this was the perfect win-win situation. Here is what she made: Raisin Rosemary Cinnamon Focaccia; Honey Wheat Harvest Rolls; Vanilla Blackberry Cake w Lemon Buttercream; and Earl Grey Cupcakes w Lemon Buttercream. Yes, I tasted all of them, and they are even more incredible then they sound! I did an impromptu interview with Rosalind, so you could get to know her a little better, and we could all glean from her creativity! Enjoy, friends!

Raisin Rosemary Cinnamon Focaccia, THE best bread I've had in a long time.

Honey Wheat Harvest Rolls: Anyone craving soup?

Side note: I'm a little obsessed with this butter dish from my mom, she said to me, "It just looked like you". :)

the perfect Vanilla cake, in the making...

Vanilla Blackberry Cake w Lemon Buttercream Frosting: don't let your Sunday afternoon tea go without it.

The earl grey leaves doin' their thang...

Earl Grey Cupcakes w Lemon Buttercream Frosting: enough said.

Another side note: I LOVED using the orchid in these shots, looked like he was trying to tickle the cupcakes. :)

I could photograph these beauties all day long.

The enchanted baker behind it all: Mrs. Rosalind Marquez

Me: Rosie, what made you interested in baking?

Ro: In high school, all my friends used to bake, and they started a baking club, and I could not bake, I was horrible at it, but I really wanted to learn. So, I started baking every day after school for about a month, and I learned how, and loved it, and just started branching out from there.

Me: What are your favorite items to bake?

Ro: I like using herbs and flowers in my food. The Earl Grey cupcakes have become a favorite (recipe here), also anything with Rosemary or Thyme. I enjoy anything earthy or artisanal.

Me: Do you have any bakers or cookbooks that inspire you?

Ro: Yes, at the moment one from Sur la Table called "The Art and Soul of Baking". I'm actually baking through it right now, I'm still on breads.

Me: As an artist how does your fine art background play into baking?

Ro: I'd say that as an artist I am always looking for the authentic in life, and I think baking is a part of that. My art was never just paintings on a wall, but more so the way I live my life. That particularly comes through in my baking by my desire to share my food over conversation and friendships, and people being able to pass that on.

Me: We see a lot of natural ingredients in your food, what are your thoughts?

Ro: I think they are absolutely essential! I would consider my food bad quality if I used anything other than natural and organic ingredients.

Me: What do you want to do with baking in the future?

Ro: I picture a cafe with people overflowing, with good conversation, and a hunger for life. A place where people gather for community over a homemade healthy pastry, and an espresso.

Me: Can people buy your breads, cakes, cupcakes, pastries?

Ro: Absolutely! I love the idea of people enjoying a homemade bread with a personal holistic twist. Especially with the holidays approaching, I want to be able to provide unique rustic breads that can accompany all sorts of warm, hearty, fall and winter meals. Also, cupcakes, cakes, tarts, and a variety of pastries will still be the envy of every holiday party this year. I love the idea of people being able to throw a party without having to worry about the desserts, but still trusting that they're going to get high quality, homemade, beautifully delicious treats.

A big thank you again, to Rosie, for her beautiful and delicious creations!

For inquires you can contact Rosalind at rosily.m@hotmail.com

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Bridal Style Shoot, "Lauren"

2010-09-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

So, as promised, here is Part 2 of the "Lauren" inspiration/style series. Like I mentioned, the aim for this style shoot was based on arid and dry, rustic and rural, slightly vintage, and unexpected compositions, for the not-so-traditional Bride. I loved the casual warmth we were able to get this evening, thanks to wild sunflowers and golden fields at sunset. ((In case you missed Part 1, you can see it here))

Big kudos to my sister Jaclyn for doing Lauren's hair! And bigger kudos to my model Lauren for her flexibility and ease, with 4" heels in the dirt! You rock.

Enjoy, friends. And all you not-so-traditional brides out there, be inspired!

Love

Lens flare and lace, can't get any better..

Yes, please

Thank you again, Lauren and Jac, for making this shoot extra beautiful.

Orange County Wedding Photographer:: Bridal Style, "Lauren"

2010-09-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

As mentioned, something I really want to focus on this month is inspiration. For this shoot, I made all the calls, instead of working with a typical client. This means I do the styling, I choose the venue, the model, and I set the tone and feel for the entire shoot. It's a time of ideal expression!

I dreamt of two different scenarios for my "Lauren" photo shoots. One, being completely underwater, dreamy, and low maintenance (part one). And the other in a dry, arid, space, rustic, and warm (part two). I liked the idea of contrast, and the juxtaposition of both spaces, yet wanted to have continuity with using the exact same model, dress, props, etc.

The underwater shots were my FAVORITE, which is why I am posting them first. :) I am an absolute water girl---I love being in water, I love the colors water makes, I love listening to water, I love the feel of water. . .And with this shoot, I loved being able to see underwater. I remember coming home from school when I was small, jumping in the pool with goggles, and being so in awe of the way the sunlight created such beautiful effects on the pool walls. I just can't get enough. :)

Here's a bit of that magic in effect! Enjoy!

Yes, please. Seriously.