Silver Gecko Photography - Southern California Wedding Photography - BLOG

Accordion Mini - Baby Books

2011-12-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

I'm always adding new products and services and here's something new. These are accordion mini books. They can be used for anything, but I really like them for maternity and newborn photos.

They come in 3" x 3" (shown below) and 2.5" x 3.5" and have a number of paper options. The books below were created with a metallic cover and smooth paper with a UV coating on the inside. Everything is custom designed and these can be done with one photo per square panel or more of a collage style, like the design below. Though it's hard to see in these photos there is a pattern in the background as well (it's not just black). These were designed to match the announcements that I had previously created. (Baby Announcements)

These books come in sets of 3 and the design of each can be different. For this particular book I used newborn and family photos on one side, and maternity photos on the other.

Baby Time! - Maternity, Newborn, Infant

2011-12-14T15:21:00.000-08:00

My goal is to become your photographer for life. So after the knot is tied it's time to build the nest. Have a look at the next step...

Kristin & Darrell's Wedding Collage

2011-11-17T09:22:00.001-08:00

These collages were originally designed for use as a gallery wrap, but I'm now offering them as a gallery wrap, a print, a Fine Art Acrylic, a Fine Art Metal, and my newest product, a Standout. Questions on these? Contact me!

Patrick & Rosario - Vintage Wedding - Eagle Rock, Ca.

2011-11-10T18:09:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I photograph a couple who tells me they're not very "outwardly expressive" with each other. This is basically what Rosario & Patrick told me when we met for their engagement session. But after capturing some very romantic photos, I think they were wrong. And they continued to prove themselves wrong throughout their wedding day. (View their engagement session here Rosario & Patrick - Union Station)

The day started at Rosario's parent's house in Los Angeles, which was a vintage craftsman home (the style Julia and I love, and hope to own one day). Rosario is a big fan of all things vintage, specifically the 1940s, and her wedding dress, veils, and various elements throughout the day spoke to this

There was a nice family feel in the house, as everyone was busy getting ready. There's a photo I posted here of Rosario and her father in front of the house that I absolutely love. I had already gotten into my car to head to the church, but got out to try and capture a few more shots. This is what I call a "run and gun" shot, one where I basically walk past quickly, take a shot, and be on my way. There's something very masculine and fatherly about this photo.

Once we finally got to the church, after making our way through USC football game/downtown LA traffic, I set up, and on we went. It was a beautiful church ceremony at St. Ignatius in Highland Park, followed by a night of dancing at the Women's 20th Century Club of Eagle Rock (another early 1900s craftsman building).

Congratulations Patrick & Rosario!

I love this photo of Patrick & Rosario's son Achilles. This was taken just before the couple exited the church. Bubbles were already flying everywhere.

It looks like Patrick's mom may have stuck him with a pin during their money dance.

Another "run and gun" shot.

During the reception Rosario told me that one of the most important things for her wedding day was dancing. I love when wedding parties break into seemingly choreographed dance, especially to Achy Break Heart in Spanish. That was a lot of fun to capture!

Rosario and Patrick had 4x6 post card movie posters made up of some of their favorite vintage films to help their guests find their seats.

Hair, Make-Up, & Veils - Union Wedding Services

DJ/MC - DJ Ivan Lopez

Venue - Women's 20th Century Club of Eagle Rock

Baby Announcements

2011-10-27T16:47:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple baby announcement samples I recently put together, completely custom designed. The first is for a 5x7 card (other sizes available) and comes in variety of finishes (smooth, glossy, linen, pearl). The second is from the Lux card line, and is cut to shape (other shapes and sizes available). The Lux cards also come in a variety of finishes.

Danielle & George Daniel's Video

2011-10-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

I just met with Danielle & George Daniel the other day. They are the first clients I've had over to my new home, where I'll now be doing image presentations. It was great seeing them again and they loved their photos!

Kristin & Darrell's Wedding Video

2011-10-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

I just met with Kristin & Darrell last night to present their photos. Videos like this are how I these presentations I used a new template when creating this one and I'm very pleased with the results, so were Kristin & Darrell. Congratulations again to both of you, can't wait to get started on your album!

Rosario & Patrick's Engagement Session - Union Station, Downtown Los Angeles

2011-10-13T00:18:00.000-07:00

Rosario is a big fan of the 1940s and when we first discussed her wedding she was hoping we could take some time and photograph at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles and capture that vintage feel. However, as the wedding approaches the likelihood of that happening is starting to dwindle (though I'm hoping we can change that). Either way, we decided to photograph her and Patrick at Union Station for the engagement photos.

I've been to Union Station many times, and have photographed their many times, but I've only photographed the building (and some food for a shop that is no longer there). I have always wanted to photograph with a couple at this little piece of Los Angeles history. We kept the session somewhat simple, only one location, only one set of clothing, but I'm very pleased with the results.

Rosario and Patrick were a little reserved at first, but relaxed more as the session progressed. This is normal for most people in front of the camera. One thing I love about engagement sessions is that we all get to know each other, which means, come wedding day, they'll be more relaxed with me and the camera around.

Now, there is one part of Union Station that is not open to the public, it's the area with the old ticket counters. There's probably more than one spot not open to the public, but this one taunts you as you walk in from the street. I've seen some amazing photographs taken here, so I knew there was some way to photograph there. I talked to one of the security guards who first told me we wouldn't be able to. However, about 2 minutes after I left the security office he came out and told me the film crew that was supposed to be using the area cancelled and he would give me a few minutes in the space. I think I shot some of the session’s best photos within this 5-10 minute slot. Have a look for yourself!

For my best friend, his wife, and my "niece"

2011-09-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

I know I took the pictures and put the video together, and maybe it's because this is my oldest friend, but this video brings a huge smile to my face.

Baby Palmer

2011-09-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

You may remember my post from Matt & Mariah's maternity session Matt, Mariah, & Our Flower Girl Well, Palmer has arrived! She was born August 6 at a Naval Medical Center in San Diego. Julia and I were fortunate enough to drive down and see her on her second day in the world. Some of the photos below are from that trip, others are from a quick newborn session we did a couple weeks ago while Matt & Mariah were in town.

Before heading down to San Diego, Julia and I stopped to pick up a few things for Palmer. We found a pink baseball mitt and ball (Matt's sort of big on baseball. The mitt is currently too big of course, but I couldn't resist.), a Winnie the Pooh robe and slippers, and a yellow Labrador stuffed animal (if you're not aware, I have a real one at home named Duncan. I figure everyone should have a Duncan in some form or another).

To Matt, Mariah, and Palmer, Julia and I couldn't be happier for the three of you! Congratulations again!

I know this one's in the triptic above, but I love the expression.

Kristin & Darrell's Wedding - Arcadia, Pasadena

2011-08-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

I loved photographing for Kristin & Darrell! It's always great when I'm able to photograph a wedding from start to finish, and I mean from the moment the bride begins to get ready to the moment they leave to go home.

I started the day photographing with Kristin and her bridesmaids at "Snips" in Arcadia where they were having their hair and make-up done. We then proceeded to Kristin's parent's house where I was able to photograph a bunch of details including her dress being laced up. I was even more fortunate to set up a first look for Kristin and Darrell, followed by a first look for Kristin and her dad. If you don't know what a "first look is" is the first time a couple see each other on their wedding day, if the decide to see each other before the ceremony. I had Kristin's back turned to Darrell as he walked into the backyard. He was already amazed by his bride, as made obvious by the loud "wow" he said, as he walked toward her.

The day continued with photographing family and the wedding party (a total of 25 not including family) at Arcadia County Park. Then off to the ceremony at beautiful Holy Angel's Church, just down the road. The party then really started once we all arrive at Brookside Country Club in Pasadena.

It was a great day filled with family, friends, and a lot of love. I wish Kristin and Darrell the best!

George Daniel & Danielle's Wedding

2011-08-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

I'm still catching up on all my blog posts, so rather than little teasers I'm posting a bit more.

As I mentioned in my post for their engagement session, Danielle & George are a fantastic couple and I loved working with them! Their entire family and their guests where a lot of fun. They were also both very appreciative of everything everyone did for them. I think this was the first time I was thanked during the groom's speech and I caught Danielle in the kitchen hanging out with and thanking the staff at Calamigos Equestrian, she even had me take a photo with them.

I was fortunate enough to photograph with Danielle as she got ready. You'll see a few shots here of her Dad, Daniel, putting a necklace on his daughter. He was very nervous and his hands were shaking, but he got the job done. Of course he wasn't the only one that was nervous. I ended up asking the staff for a shot of tequila for the groom, George Daniel, at the request of the Pastor (of course).

The entire night was filled with love and when it was all said and done, the new Mr. & Mrs. George Daniel Vergara hopped into a limo and headed off to Vegas (the same place he proposed). Congratulations again to both of you!

Matt & Mariah & Our Flower Girl!

2011-07-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

This maternity session is very special to me since I've know Matt since the second grade. He are Mariah are family to me and he will be the best man at my wedding. And the little one inside Mariah will be our flower girl.

Matt & Mariah have always been some of my biggest supporters and I was very excited to photograph for them. Julia and I were even more excited when they first told us they were having a baby! For their session we headed to Balboa Park in San Diego, the same place they did their engagement photos. We ended with a few shots back at their place with a bow around Mariah's new present.

We wish them all the best and all the love in the world!

Heather & Steven + 1 - Part 2

2011-07-29T21:41:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit behind on my blog posts, but doing what I can to catch up. Which, considering that I won't have internet access for the next 2 weeks, make it's something remarkable. Anyway, here's another newborn session!

You may remember the maternity session I posted of Heather & Steven a few months back
Heather & Steven + 1 - Part 1 In early April Heather gave birth to this little guy and I was again honored to photograph for them.

There's a series of 3 photos I posted below, where I just love the expressions on his face! Congatulations again Heather & Steven!

Side Note: Take a look at one of the photos with the blue knit blanket (my mother actually made it), notice the heart shape?

Baby Joseph

2011-07-27T21:54:00.001-07:00

One of my main goals is to become a lifetime photographer. That is to say, I not only want to be the one to photograph your wedding, I want you to call me for any of your photography needs throughout your life. With Matt & Nicole I've started to do just that. I photographed their wedding last year and was very excited when I heard Nicole was pregnant with their first child and wanted me to photograph for them. I present to you, Baby Joseph Peter Marshall, born just one day before their 1 year wedding anniversary!

Matt & Nicole are big sports fans, so we made sure to incorporated a bit of that into these photos. One photo not shown here is Joseph surrounded by clothing and items from 5 sports teams and a shirt from Matt's alma mater, UCLA. My fiance, Julia, even found a marbled, "Dodger Blue" fabric that we photographed with.

I just order a couple of new products for Matt & Nicole, a 4x6 Baby Book and a set of Accordion Mini Books. I'll post some photos once I receive them. While designing the books, Nicole requested I use the photo of the teddy bear below on one of the covers. It turns out she was given this bear when she was 4-years-old! (Glad I photographed a few things around the nursery.)

We've already talked about photographing Joseph at one-year-old. I can't wait!

Danielle & George

2011-06-23T13:18:00.001-07:00

Danielle & George are a fantastic couple! Very fun loving and very much in love with each other. When I first met with them, less than 2 months ago, I knew I would enjoy working for them. I remember driving to our first meeting hoping they would be the type of couple I love working with and was very to happy to discover they are!

I'm a bit of a romantic (I think it's a prerequisite for being a wedding photographer) and love the fact that not only are they getting married on the same day they met (look closely at the billiard balls for the date), but we were able to photograph their engagement session at the very spot they first met many years ago, "Jillian's" at Universal City Walk in Universal City.

"Jillian's" is essentially an arcade/billiard hall/bowling alley/bar. Although the place has been remodeled since Danielle tried to pick up George that fateful night, it still brought back many memories for the couple. The staff at Jillian's was very accommodating and even allowed us to photograph with Danielle & George inside a giant claw game (the game where you attempted to grab a stuffed animal with a metal claw - insert Toy Story reference here).

I can't wait to photograph their wedding in a couple weeks!

Ray & Maritza's Album & Collage

2011-06-17T17:49:00.001-07:00

I recently delivered Ray & Maritza's album and they loved it! There's always a big difference when you see the final, physical album versus the digital version. Ray & Maritza couldn't believe how beautiful it was, not to mention heavy (in a good way). These albums have a true presence all their own. I thought I would share a few of my favorite pages from their album. These are 2 page spreads for a 12x12 album (12x24 when open). I've also posted their 20x20 collage below. Congratulations again Ray & Maritza, it was a pleasure photographing for you!

Happy Anniversary Matt & Nicole and Congrats on Baby Joseph!

2011-04-09T20:03:00.000-07:00

I've now known Matt & Nicole for almost 2 years now. We booked their wedding about 9 months out, and they were married a year ago tomorrow (Sunday). Not only did they just celebrate Nicole's birthday, and have their anniversary to enjoy, they just had their first child today!

I can't wait to photograph their new baby and I'm honored that I get to continue working with this fantastic couple, make that family. Congratulations to the THREE of you!

Kristin & Darrell's Engagement Session - Pasadena

2011-04-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Photographing for Kristin and Darrell was exactly what I thought it would be, a lot of fun! I knew Kristin from college and was really excited when she called about photographing her wedding. About 2 minutes after we met (at Starbucks #2 since the first one had no tables available) I received a text message from Kristin saying "I think we found our wedding photographer". I apparently really impressed them and I will continue to do so.

We had originally planned on photographing on a Sunday, but changed to a Friday due to weather, this was last Friday, April 1. That morning Darrell calls me and says "Kristin can't find anything to wear, we're going to have to reschedule again..." Of course my mind starts to race and I respond with, "Okay, when should we reschedule..." to which Darrell replies, "April fools!" Needless to say I knew we were going to have a good time.

We photographed in Pasadena. (I just recently moved to the Pasadena area with my fiance/assistant/"photo approver" Julia and love it!) We started at City Hall, then moved to Old Town, and finally the Colorado Street Bridge. If you've never wandered through Pasadena, call me, we'll take a tour. This session was fantastic! I can't wait to photograph here again and can't wait to photograph Kristin and Darrell's wedding later this year.

Last note, prior to this session Kristin e-mailed me an told me how much she and cameras hate each other. I told her, "Other cameras may have hated you, but mine won’t, I’m sure you’ll be great friends after Friday." I think I was right...

Special thanks to Natalie who filled in as my assistant on this shoot and to Wes who did some behind the scenes video!

I absolutely love this photo!

Martiza & Ray's Video

2011-04-07T15:09:00.001-07:00

I met with Martiza and Ray last night to review their wedding photos. I start off with this video...

Heather & Steven + 1

2011-03-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed a maternity session for Heather & Steven. Heather is an old family friend and her and Steven were married about 2 years ago. They already have one "child", who we were sure to include in some of the photos. I was honored to photograph for them and can't wait for their newborn session next month! Congratulations to Heather, Steven, Dexter (the furry one), and the newest addition!

Wedding Website Listings

2011-03-11T21:39:00.000-08:00

I'll be posting some new photos soon, including a recent maternity session. In the meantime, I've been updating the listing on various websites including momentville.com Be sure to search for me on MomentVille and other sites like Weddingwire.com Silver Gecko on Wedding Wire

Martiza & Ray

2011-02-25T14:57:00.001-08:00

I had the pleasure of photographing for Maritza & Ray this last weekend. They held a small, intimate wedding in the backyard of their new home. Usually I find it more difficult to photograph a couple whom I haven’t done an engagement session with, but not in this case. Both of them and their families were easy to get along with and photograph. Though the close quarters during the ceremony made my job a bit tricky I captured some great moments. Following the ceremony we drove up to O’Melveny Park in Granada Hills to give the newly married couple a moment to themselves and get a few more shots. If you’ve never been there, go, you’d be amazed that it’s in the valley.

Here’s a taste of their photos, more to come! Congratulations Maritza and Ray!

Don’t forget to check out the NEW www.capturedromance.com I’ve added one of Maritza and Ray’s photos to the home page.

Marek & Jennifer's Collage

2010-12-23T14:29:00.001-08:00

Designed for a 20x20 Canvas Wrap

Marek & Jennifer

2010-10-25T21:08:00.001-07:00

I'd had the pleasure of photographing Marek and Jennifer's wedding last Saturday in Pasadena. Their location (The Maxwell House, part of the Western Justice Center) was beautiful! In addition to the Maxwell House we were able to shoot at Pasadena City Hall (very busy place for wedding photography on weekends) and at the Colorado Street Bridge. Marek and Jennifer blended their cultural traditions and did both a Vodka Toast and a Chinese Tea Ceremony (after a quick clothing change). The entire evening was filled with fun, laughter, and some vodka...

Marek and Jennifer, I wish you both the best and can't wait to show you all your beautiful photos. In the meantime enjoy what's below!

Flush Mount Album

2010-10-20T16:01:00.001-07:00

I wanted to post some products shots of the Flush Mount Albums I offer. I custom design all my books and albums. This type of album construction has become an industry standard and looks better and lasts longer than traditional albums with drop-in photos. Each page is a true photographic print that can contain multiple photos. The standard flush mount album is leather wrapped and stamped on the lower front right corner. Various color options and upgrades are available.

I provide two 5x5 mini albums as my gift, one for each set of parents.

PPA Shootout Competition Entries

2010-09-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

Professional Photographers of America is holding their 2010 Shootout Competition. Below are the photos I entered. Most were entered into the "Wedding and Event" category, but I did enter two into the "Portrait" category. This is the first year I've entered this competition. I'll also be entering at least one photo into the
International Aperture Awards Competition

Yangki and Jerry's Collage

2010-09-03T20:02:00.001-07:00

Designed for a 20x20 Gallery Wrap (canvas).

Tim & Kristi's Collage

2010-08-31T15:47:00.001-07:00

These are designed for a 20x20 Gallery Wrap (canvas).

Yangki and Jerry's Album

2010-08-27T23:11:00.000-07:00

I recently finished Yangki and Jerry's wedding album and wanted to share some of my favorite pages. Yangki is out of town and has yet to see it, but here's what Jerry had to say:

"Adam,
I just downloaded it and went through it. You’re a very talented guy—the album looks fantastic. I expect that Yangki will be thrilled. It’s truly a work of art.
Actually, I like it so much I wonder if we should add some more pages.
Thanks much,
Jerry"

I can't wait for them to see the final printed version which will be a 12x12 flush mount album.

Sabrina and Adam

2010-08-24T20:38:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed an elaborate engagement party in Beverly Hills for Sabrina and Adam. It was a bit more than I expected it, but was fantastic and I was glad I was there to capture it. I wish Sabrina, Adam, and their families the best!

More of Tim & Kristi's Reception

2010-08-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love the photos I captured for Tim & Kristi. I'm working on a new way to organize the photos on my website so I can get more of their photos in the main section and so I can incorporate some of the best photos from various weddings without needed galleries for each individual wedding.

Citrus Classic Balloon Festival

2010-08-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

I got out of town for the weekend and did a little non-work related shooting. Here are some photos from the Citrus Classic Balloon Festival in Santa Paula, Ca. Don't worry, more wedding photos are on their way.

Tim & Kristi's Reception

2010-07-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

Tim & Kristi's reception was wonderful! They are a great, fun loving couple (if you couldn't tell from the last photo), and I truly enjoyed photographing for them. Here are just a few photos from last night. I'll be posted more later, including some great dance floor photos! Tim & Kristi, I wish you the best!

Flower arrangements and coordination provided by Anna Lopez of Eden Events
http://www.edeneventplanning.com

DJ Services provided by Cody Weireter of Time of your Life Event Entertainment
http://www.toyl.net

Venue - The Castaway (Burbank)
http://www.castawayresturant.com

Tim and Kristi's Web Card

2010-07-18T17:05:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Tim & Kristi who were just married in a small ceremony in Hawaii! I'll be photographing their reception back on the mainland this Saturday.

Here is a sample of their web card (with the website blurred out). Web card are something I include at no cost, utilize a couple's engagement photos, and are placed on tables toward to end of the reception. These cards direct guests to the couple's website where they can view photos and order prints and other items.

Wedding Collage

2010-07-05T19:53:00.000-07:00

I got the idea for this from photographer Kevin Jairaj.

Ideally this would be a gallery wrap, but it would make a great print as well. Overall it is 20x20, all the small photos are 2x2 and the center photo is just under 9 inches.

Yangki & Jerry's Wedding

2010-06-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

I previously posted a photo for Yangki and Jerry's wedding. Here are a few more.

Tim & Kristi's Engagement

2010-06-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

Tim & Kristi were great to work with. They humored me a bit as I took them hiking to get a few shots. Of course the trail had changed and the plants had grown quite a bit since the last time I was there, but it all worked out.

Yangki & Jerry's Wedding

2010-05-18T15:01:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I photographed the wedding of Yangki & Jerry Ackerman. It was something of a last minute wedding, but it all came together beautifully. Here's just a teaser. I'll be posting more soon.

Matt & Nicole's Wedding

2010-04-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

Saturday I photographed the wedding of a wonderful couple, Matt & Nicole Marshall. I truly enjoyed photographing for them. They're a fun, goofy, easy going couple, which made my job really easy. Here's just a taste of some of the images I was able to capture for them. Matt & Nicole, I wish you both the best!

Wedding Blog

2010-04-11T23:51:00.000-07:00

I thought it was time for a new blog soley for capturedromance.com Enjoy!