Christopher Seid Photography's Blog

Sammi Cheng @ The Mirage

2011-12-07T21:02:00.001-08:00

Its been a long time since I have seen a Sammi Cheng Concert! One of my favorite artist! She was awesome! Her outfits are usually really cool and this concert was no exception! Her opening act outfit below... totally rocks!!

Ami @ Maison des Oliviers

2011-11-02T00:41:00.000-07:00

I love shooting ethnic weddings! Indian weddings probably have the most interesting dresses and jewelry! Here are a few photos from bride to be Ami!

Angel & Jacky @ Langham Pasadena

2011-09-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

I'm like 15 weddings behind in my posting! But here is a great fun wedding from 2 weeks ago at the Langham Pasadena! Angel and Jacky can really party!! I don't think they made it out of there alive! (Sober!)

I love this room!

What a beautiful dress! I love it when brides change into a few different dresses!

Wedding Co-ordination and Florals by: Aquafuzion (Beautiful as usual!)

Pearl & Alvin - Engagement Session LA Downtown

2011-06-30T21:48:00.000-07:00

What a fun couple!! Pearl & Alvin love to travel and it was hard for them to think of a place for their engagement photos! In the end, I suggested the Art District in downtown Los Angeles which they haven't visited before! We also headed to the Disney Concert Hall to do some more romantic photos. We did 2 outfits, one casual and one formal! The best thing about shooting a fun couple like Pearl and Alvin is that they make things so much more enjoyable for us photographers!

Matching Converses! How cool! I have one of these too (back in the days...heheh)

Ah...our first stop...the Gangster Mona Lisa!

Alvin!! Get your hands out of Mona Lisa's nose!!

"Oh Yeah! Who's your Homeboy!?!" Hahahah

You know I'm Bad..I'm Bad...no...wait...you Bad!

Gee...I'm tired of all this walking! Carry me Alvin!!

Alright, next stop, Walt Disney Concert Hall! One of my favorite places to shoot! I love the architecture! Always a new angle or corner to take some different photos!!

Hello! Is it me your looking for?

Hey you two! I told you to come around the corner! Not hide behind the corner!! Totally cute though!

Pearl & Alvin, I can't wait till your wedding day! I'm ready to rock your boat!! (I mean yacht!) Fun couples make the best bride and grooms!

Josh & Melissa @ Castle Green

2011-06-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

One of the best thing about being a Los Angeles wedding photographer is that you get to visit all these places that you wouldn't usually get to visit! Here's a nice little wedding at Castle Green in Pasadena! This is such a lovely little place! It was built in the 1898!! It used to be a resort, but was converted to an apartment complex later in its life. It is also a registered Historical place! These days it is home to many artists and entertainers! The castle is decorated in Moorish, Turkish and Victorian Style...definitely a place worth visiting and photographing! The thing is, it is not open to the public for photography! Thank goodness Melissa & Josh are getting married there! Or else I would never had the chance to visit!!

What a beautiful lobby! Definitely swank!

Old painting of the original building...only half of it remains :-(

Josh finally making an apperance!

Melissa looking gorgeous!

Our "First Look" encounter was set up on these marble staircase. We often recommend doing a "First Look" because it allows us to capture the raw emotions of the bride and groom seeing each other for the first time! Some brides and grooms might want to save seeing each other until the ceremony, but there are 3 reasons why I always recommend doing the "First Look" before the ceremony! 1) The lighting is often better, because the photographer scouts out the "first look" location for best light, whereas at the ceremony, the lighting or angles are never ideal. 2) The first look is often done right after your make-up is done...so your make-up is fresh! 3) You get 2 types of photos! More often the photos from the "first look" shows the emotions of love, whereas at the ceremony, when the bride walks down the aisle, the emotions are more about excitement and happiness. So brides, trust me, do a "First Look!"

The Ceremony Room is just about set up!

Final touches to the cake! I love see people working hard at their art! Yes, decorating the cake is an art form! Too many times, i have seen some florist just casually arranging their cakes...come on!!

A few outdoor photos since we have some time!

Alright...its almost time to sign the Katubah!

Wait...Josh & Melissa Look back!!

Wow, this one is pretty fancy!

Signing this paper is sometimes more emotional to the bride than the actually ceremony! Melissa tears up.

Ladies and Gentlemen, its time for the ceremony!

Back at the reception hall...everything is ready..

I really like the Castle Green! I can't wait to come back again!

Love this old fashion microphone!

3 childhood friends all giving heartfelt speeches...very touching!

Thank goodness I am not Jewish...or married a Jewish girl! I would freak out if my friends and family lifted me into the air on chairs!! Looks like here, Josh is freaking out a bit while Melissa is having much fun! hahahahah!

Bottoms up!!!! Cheers!!

What a sweet couple! Josh & Melissa, thank your for letting me be part of your beautiful wedding! Being a wedding photographer has got to be the best job in the world! haha! :-)

Julia & Elaine @ Nestldown, Los Gatos

2011-06-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

A few photos from my good friend's wedding in Nestldown in Los Gatos! I can't believe I have known Julia for almost 30 years already!! What?! 30 years?! I'm not that old!! Well, that's because we went to primary school together!! I was like 8 years old when I knew her! It was POURING with rain when we arrived, but a little rain won't dampen our spirits!!

We finally arrived, after driving 6 hours from LA!! Its raining like hell and the sign says to park and walk down the hill! Yikes! It was wet and muddy!

Whew! Thank goodness they have a London Taxi that ferries us from the parking lot!

What a beautiful place...the view of the trees are magnificent!

Yeap....its still raining!!

We finally arrive at the reception hall! I'm glad they had umbrellas for us!!

Inside! Nice and warm!

This has got to be the cutest wedding cake I have ever seen! A motorcycle with 2 riders!! Elaine is supposed to be a very good racing biker!!

Hahaha! I guess that means Julia can sit in the side-car! Hahahah

In the back of the reception hall, they have amazing garden...and there is this miniature house...its like a scene out of Alice and Wonderland!! Seriously!!

Julia and Elaine come back from a walk in the woods after their ceremony! I love this scenery! The umbrella actually adds to it...don't you think? :-)

Sweet!!!

What a good-looking couple! I'm soo happy for you both!!

Betsy, friends with Julia since kindergarden, prepares for her speech.

Touching and FUNNY!

Hey! Who is this paparazzi!!

What a great night! You can definitely feel love in the air tonight!!

Lynda & Rick @ Marina Del Rey Marriott

2011-05-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Lynda & Rick contacted me while they were working in the east coast! They couldn't make it out to meet me, so they sent 2 of Lynda's LA girlfriends to meet me! They had lots and lots of questions and I felt I was at a job interview!! All turned out well and I was hired! Whew! Hahahah! Lynda & Rick had their wedding at the beautiful Marina Del Rey Marriott.

Lynda's girlfriends were showing her all the photos they had taken in the past...they couldn't stop laughing!

Beautiful Shoes...I like!!

The ladies even brought some funny costumes! Its gonna be a fun day, I know it!!

Hey! What's going on here?! Some girl on girl action?? ....humm..this is getting too kinky for the wedding photographer!

Wow! I'm glad Rick arrives and we can do some romantics!!

Myolie Wu & Kevin Cheng Concert @ Pechanga 胡杏兒鄭嘉穎

2011-02-26T13:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year!! Okay, I'm about 2 weeks late! But here are some photos from Myolie and Kevin's Concert at Pechanga Resort & Casino! If you are into Hong Kong Soap Operas, you definitely know these 2 big drama actors! I never knew they could sing too! AndI was so impressed when they did!! They came to celebrate chinese new years and it was fun as hell because they also came down the stage to collect red envelopes from the audience!! I was almost crushed to death by the fans when Kevin came down the stairs! Scary!!

Over here!! Throw me a flower!!

Why is Kevin wearing a hat?!? Ta-da!! Because his head is bald!! I guess he is filming another Tradition Chinese Drama!! Yeah, put the hat back on Kevin!!

LA's 1430AM Vivian Lee gets to emcee for the event! She did great!

Hmm...what should we sing next?!

Love the red dress! Really makes you pop!

The crowd goes wild when Kevin steps down the stage!

Stampede!!

My friend Zoe, was on stage too! She is a dancer, and a great one too!! Way to go Zoe!

What a great show! I got a chance to take a photo with the stars....but i looked like shit compared to them...so i guess i'm not gonna post it....haha

Clara & Emeral @ Walt Disney Concert Hall Engagement Session

2011-02-18T10:43:00.000-08:00

It was a gloomy day, but Clara and Emeral weren't gonna let the weather get them down!! Our location: the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles! I've been here a few times for engagement shoots, but the Concert Hall is such a magnificent place that I find new backdrops to photograph everytime I visit! In fact, I love doing photography here! :-) Maybe because I am a fan of Frank Gehry Anyhow! Some of my favorite engagement shots from our little shoot at the Walt Disney Concert Hall below!

Clara and Emeral came dressed up and I am loving it! Make sure you consult with your photographer about what to wear for your shoot! Casual is always good for the beach or park, but some locations just call out for you to be a little more dressy!

Lets have a little fun!! Ok! Ok! Too much fun Clara!!!

That umbrella just adds to the touch! Love it! Good to bring some props if you have them!

Lets go that way!!

I'm a little into these sequence shots these days...looks cool in the album! Hehe

Sometimes you just catch some great candid moments!

Ah....can't believe its 2 hours already...time to go! But before you leave, turn and give me one of your beautiful smiles!! See you in a 5 months Clara!

Felicia & Max @ Playa Del Rey

2011-01-14T21:24:00.000-08:00

My fellow photographer, Felicia, was about 7 months pregnant when she asked if I could take some Pregnancy Photos of her and Max! Of course! It was my honor! I had not done that many pregnancy photoshoots, so I asked Felicia for some pointers! "Stand back and let them just interact" she said. Awesome advice! I used to be afraid of posing big belly woman, now I'm not! hahaha!

We started the session in Playa Del Rey near the marshland that Howard Huges used to own. We had about 1 hour before sunset and the sun was giving this warm tone...lovely!

I love this next photo!

Next stop, where to?! The beach!

Max & Felicia didn't have a name yet, so they call her TINY right now! :-)

Look at that sunset!! This kinda feels like a romantic engagement shoot! Who says pregnancy photoshoots can't be romantic?! :-)

Natalie & Adi - Sangeet @ Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok Thailand

2011-01-12T02:27:00.000-08:00

My new year resolution is to blog a little more often and frequently!! I'm gonna post some photos from previous weddings I was too busy too post! :-0 Start off with a few photos from my sister's Sangeet in Bangkok last year! Yes! Bangkok! My brother-in-law, Adi, is Indian and was raised in Bangkok, so it was a really colorful event! Basically a Sangeet is like a big dancing party. I wasn't working this event, (c'mon, its my sister's wedding!! I'm a guest!!) But knowing me, I still brought my camera for a few shots...my wife wasn't too happy, since I was supposed to be enjoying the wedding!! Haha

The thing about Indian weddings is that the ladies dresses are so beautiful! The accessories are absolutely charming also!!

Theres my sister! All dressed up!!

This is Adi's sister...beautiful also!! She's commenting on how pretty the eye makeup is on Nat!

Checking herself out before heading down the to banquet room...hahaha. You look beautiful BRATalie!

The Dance begins! I can't believe my sister actually dances so well! Indian Style too!!! Just like in the Bollywood movies!! With storyline and all! hahahaah

My sister's good friend Fateh giving a speech. She looks amazing!

My sister hired some Thai Wedding Photographers...they are pretty amazing! I even learned a few new tricks from them!! Ask me about the Thai-style wedding photo techniques next time!! hahaha Can you count how many photogs here? 1, 2, and 3rd one behind #1 on left!

More dancing...the lighting here is amazing...I love shooting weddings in Thailand! Everyone hires lighting and it makes a big difference to your photos! If you are thinking about it...do it!

The lights even included lasers...wicked!!

My wife all Indi-glamourized! is that even word?

its near the end of the night and these girls are still going!

... a few quiet moments...

The Dj was awesome too. He is a local celebrity DJ and he really got the party going. DJ plays Thriller by MJ and these zombies go wild!!

By the way, the Indian Food we had at the Sangeet was awesome!! No wonder, the Rembrandt Hotel has one of the best Indian Restaurants in Bangkok!

Jay Chou 2011 Concert @ Los Angeles Sport Arena 周杰倫

2011-01-09T21:20:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to be given a backstage pass to cover Jay Chou's Los Angeles Concert. If you are Asian, you definitely know who Jay is! This was my first time to the Los Angeles Sports Arena and the place is huge! The stage was huge too! Next time I need a even longer and big ass lens!! Thank you G!!!

Glenda & Jorge @ Sofitel Los Angeles / Beverly Hills

2011-01-07T01:58:00.000-08:00

Alright! A Kabbalah Wedding!! This is my second time shooting a Kabbalah wedding and it was just like my first Kabbalah wedding...High Energy!! Glenda and Jorge decided to get married at the beautiful Sofitel Los Angeles / Beverly Hills.

When I got there the Food and Beverage guys had just delivered the desserts to the room! Yum Yum Yum!! I was gonna take a piece, but then i would have had to rearrange it somehow!! I'll eat them with my eyes then!! Hahaha

Look! These are so cute! Even have Glenda and Jorge's initials on them! Awhhh!!

uh! I love the carpet here!

The centerpieces are quite cool!

Glenda! You're not supposed to be seen here!!!

A few final touches by mom before Glenda's scripture readings..

Glenda's cute little daughter, Mia, taking a photo of mommy!! You have a natural talent! Would you like to be my assistant? Sure you don't want to be a wedding photographer ? :-)

The ceremony will be held outside when sunsets. It is empty now, but when it starts, it will be jammed packed! The spiritual Rav will preside over the ceremony. And if i remember correctly, the ceremony will be so crowded that I can hardly move once everyone is here. Pick your spot and hope that you get a good angle.

Whew! Thank goodness i pushed my way thru! I felt like I was in New York Time Square during new years!

No flash is allowed...so the whole thing is being let by the videographer's video light!!

Glenda is under the veil, but i think i see a small smile under there!!!

Awhhh..the breaking of the glass! During my last Kabballah wedding I missed it because I just couldn't get it thru the crowd. This time, I was well prepared even if I couldn't see the glass!! I stuck my camera between the all the legs and fired 4 shots! Nice Sneakers by the way Rabbi!

MAZAL TOV!!! Let the celebrations begin!!

If you've been to a Jewish wedding, you know what comes next for the evening...dancing, dancing and more dancing!! Of course, there are breaks for food, lots of food and more food too!!

By tradition, the men and women dance separately...

...its nice to be completely surrounded by beautiful women sometimes! :-P

Glenda is from Panama, so she added some Latin Carnival fun to the mix!! The band started playing some South American Latin music and the host started passing all these silly hats and musical instruments! The band was really awesome and got me kinda shaking my legs too!!

Get down! Get up! Get Down! I can't keep up!!

The crowd goes wild!!

The leader of the train! I think he is one of the Rabbi's son? hahaha

What a wild fun party! I don't want it to end!! These Latin Jewish ladies sure know how to party!

Christmas Card / Thank you note!

2010-12-24T00:32:00.000-08:00

I received in the mail today a Christmas / Thank you card from Julia and Jonathan, who's wedding I photographed at newport beach 7 months ago! They went to Bora Bora for their Honeymoon! Wow!! Overwater bungalows! Once again, thank you for letting me be a part of your special day! Nothing means more to me than knowing that my clients love our photos and enjoyed our company on their big day! I love my job! Big Kisses to all you brides (and grooms!)

Darrel & Daisy @ Mission Inn Riverside - Engagement Photos

2010-12-07T01:35:00.000-08:00

I've been slacking big time!! I am way backlogged on blogging!! :-P Lets start off with an engagement photoshoot I did with Darrel and Daisy at the absolutely beautiful Mission Inn in Riverside. I had photographed here once before for a wedding, but doing engagement photos is much more fun! Why?! One, because the couple is usually less stress than than on a wedding day. Two, we usually have more time to take creative photos! And three, Daisy and Darrel are such fun people! (Yes, if you are grouchy person, I don't want to photograph you!!) Enough talking, lets roll!

There it is! The Beautiful Mission Inn!

This place is a photographer's dream...every corner is another beautiful background!

Love these small corridors!! Did small people live here before?

The beautiful doors to the Chapel. Too bad it wasn't open today.

How can this not be the most romantic place to do an engagement?! Ah! But not everyone can take photos here. The Mission Inn is very strict about photography. We had to get special permits and also pay a very hefty photography fee. But worth every penny don't you think?

I thought the following series was kinda cute...hehe

Lets hope they make up soon!

I'll forgive you Darrel, but you have to get down on your knees!!

Awhh!!

Don't you just love these angels on the walls? So cute you wanna pinch their nose!

Lets go back upstairs where there is a little more sun!

Time for a few shots of Darrel by himself!

Hey, wait a sec, who is that out there?

It's you again!

Do the robot!

I love this bench and background! The colors are amazing!

Its time to go....change that is!! Yes, do bring an extra set of cloths! You don't just want one look for your engagement photos, do you?! Besides, we are at the Mission Inn!! Time for something a little more fancy!

Wow!! I love this dress! You look fabulous Daisy!

Next stop...the Rotunda! This is probably one of the coolest place at the Mission Inn Riverside! Well, maybe not...there is one cooler place at the Mission Inn...the catatombs!! Yeah, I don't think we wanna shoot there though!!

Caren & Jack @ Kyoto Grand

2010-08-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

It's my first time to the Kyoto Grand in downtown Los Angeles! Well, not exactly the first time because I come here for the Teppanyaki Restaurant sometimes! It is excellent!! Wagyu Beef anyone? Melts in your mouth baby!!! But enough about beef! Where the bride and groom?!

We literally had only 5 minutes before the ceremony for some photos!! I saw this red wall in the lobby and decided to use it!

Of course, they also have these nice fancy booths in the lobby with some interesting ceiling lamps!

Alright almost time for the ceremony....one bridesmaid forgots her bouquet, this groomsmen picked it up and pretended to be a bridesmaid...hahaha...its good to have goofy groomsmen!

The cutest ring-bearer I have seen this year by far!!!

The Japanese Garden on the 4th floor is just Beautiful!

the new Mr. & Mrs!

It was almost 90 degrees...I'm glad I'm not in a tux having to carry a bride!! Caren is not that heavy though right? Heee

Caren...you look stunning!

The red wall in the Lobby is so vibrant, I decided to use it again for the wedding party photo...

...okay! We got a formal shot...now i want you guys to loosen up!! Tell me! Who is the best Photographer in Los Angeles!? What!?!? Who is hell is GEORGE?!! hahah

During Reception, the guests used their forks and knives to hit their glasses hoping Caren & Jack would do a kiss!! But Jack is like "What? What was that? I can't hear anything!!?" Hahaha. This is probably my favorite shot of the day!

Caren & Jack, thank you for letting us be a part of your big day! Make sure you treat us to the Kyoto Grand Teppanyaki Restaurant when you get back! :-)

Chelsea & Thomas @ Langham Pasadena

2010-08-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

A few photos from Chelsea and Thomas's wedding photoshoot at the Langham Pasadena. I love this place!!

Aren't these crystal wall-scones beautiful? I love the classy feel at the Langham!

Thomas, waiting for the Chelsea...where is she?

On the other side!

here she is..

is that you....i can feel the love!

I love the color of this painting...feels like we are in the country side....if we could just walk into it! I'm sure it would be a nice place for photos too! :-)

Was trying out my new nikon 24mm 1.4 lens here....for you into cameras...the depth of field is amazing...see how Chelsea and Thomas kind pop out from the background! The only downside is the focusing is kinda slow! Fortunately, this wasn't an action shot! :-)

I love this red bridge at the Pasadena Langham!

Love the backdrop with the Langham! The sky was blue with some clouds, which always makes the sky more interesting!

Chelsea and Thomas is such a sweet couple! Thanks for letting me be your photographer!

Alyssa & Anthony - Engagement Shoot San Pedro

2010-08-10T17:31:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy lately, i forgot to post some stuff!! Here is an engagement photoshoot I shot with Alyssa and Anthony near San Pedro a little while ago!! Alyssa and Anthony met at a Starbucks!! Yes, I'm serious!! They are both coffee people and they both frequent this coffee shop. One day, after seeing Alyssa quite a few times, Anthony finally had the courage to ask Alyssa out! So its only natural we started our day at Starbucks!!

Heart coffee cups...ain't that sweet? heeheh

Anthony told me this is how they meet! Hahahah

Of we go to the cliffs near San Pedro!

I told Alyssa to whisper something into Anthony's ear...but looks like Alyssa has a plan of her own!! No! You're not going to bite Anthony are you!?! Hahaha

I saw this beautiful wall mural at the park...gotta get a shot here!!

I love this big tree!! Alyssa and Anthony choose this photo as their cover for their engagement album! Looks like they are walking off into the sunset, no?

May their love grow stronger and bigger like the trunk of this tree!

Next stop...the beach!

Hahah...Alyssa and Anthony are a fun couple! Here Anthony is trying to throw Alyssa into the water!! You better run fast Alyssa!!

Awhhh!! That is so sweet!

we'll head back to the cliffs for the sunset...whaddaya say?

Hey you two!

It sure was windy!!

Laura & Mike @ Regency Club, Westwood

2010-06-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

Laura and Mike meet at a club! But they hit it off and rest as they say, is history! I started my day arriving at the most beautiful house in a gated community in West Los Angeles! One day when I make it big and charge $30,000 per wedding, i'll move here! :-) I always wanted a white main door with roman columns!

Ah, where is Laura? Oh, she is getting ready upstairs!! Let me go up...ah...but before that, i see the bouquet, invitation and rings, so maybe stop to get a photo or two of these first? :-)

What an beautiful invitation, none of the over the top stuff, just simple and elegant. I love it!

The addresses were all handwritten in beautiful calligraphy...these are quite expensive...some companies charge $8-15 per address! I once tried calligraphy...bought the fountain pen and all the nibs...it was fun...but, er... I think I should stick to photography!

The gorgeous pillow to hold the wedding rings...hand made with Laura and Mike's initials!! It's all these small details that make a wedding beautiful, don't you agree?! Oh, I'm gonna cry!! Hahaha...am I turning gay? Hahha!

Alright, I finally make it upstairs! Ah, and Laura is just starting to get her make-up. Oh look! There is the little doggy!

She is so cute with the pearl necklace!! What a fine touch! That is so pretty! Well....Laura is after all a Jeweler!

Laura's childhood friends then arrive and they decide to hang around a bit! It's nice to have friends you've known since you were 5! I think I'll leave them to catch up a bit!

I go check out the dress in Laura's room! The dress is beautiful! Laura does have immaculate taste!

And guess what i find, a photo of Laura and her sister when they were young!! Haha..so cute!!

Make-up done, time to finally put the dress on...."Hey You! Help me zip this up"...its good to have your childhood friend to order around! Hehehehe

I was gonna take a few portraits of Laura by herself. Of course, our little friend comes wandering in and says "Hey! How about me mommy!!"

Alright, you get to be in the photo too! "You happy now?" says Laura!

Just lovely!

Mike arrives and so I head down. Usually, some bride have this thing about not see the groom until the ceremony....thank goodness Laura isn't like that! Coz Mike needs some help with his tux! hahaa

The Flower girl is so cute today!!

Okay, we are all dressed! I can get a few romantic portraits! Its always a good idea to allocate some time for romantic portraits/family photos BEFORE the ceremony, because after the ceremony, it is hectic and it is hard to get romantics photos of the bride and groom when everyone wants to come congratulate them. Besides, I don't like to take the bride & groom away from their guests/family right after their happiest moment. Consider that a big tip for you out there planning a wedding! Try to do a "First Look" before the ceremony or earlier in the day. There are several advantages to this: 1) More photos to choose from, 2) Better photos in a controlled environment, since the photographer will pick a nice place with good light and background 3) you get to spend more time with your friends and guests afterwards. They won't have to be sitting around, asking "where is the bride/groom?"! Remember to always consult with your wedding photographer about your schedule!!! :-P

Anyhow i'm getting sidetracked! Haha

We're gonna move you two outside, where its beautiful!

yes, since you are out here together...lets practice your "first dance"!

Of course, we gotta get one with the "whole" family!

And its off we go to the Regency Club in Westwood. I have been here once but never for a wedding. This place has old school charm with great views!! It's located at the top of an office building on Wilshire looking over UCLA and Westwood. Below is the reception area.

Ah, the cake and room is almost ready!

Hmm! I wonder what the wedding favors are!! (Schucks...i forgot to open one to see! $&%*!)

We got 20 minutes, lets get a few more romantic shots on the roof!

It just rained, but the sun is coming out again!

What a good-looking couple!

I love it when there are fluffy clouds in the sky....sometimes having a clear blue sky gets a little boring for photos!

Final touch up before we hit the ceremony!

Wait, not before we have a champagne toast with all the girlfriends!!

off we go! Daddy's little girl getting married!

Let the party begin!! This band was awesome.

And a few words from the father of the bride, Mr. Trope. If you're a lawyer in LA, you WILL know who is! Mr. Trope handles the highest profile divorce cases! (Britney, Cary Grant, Frank McCourt of the Dodgers, and recently, Mrs. Tiger Woods!)

Yes, I think Mike is listening carefully, hahahaha!

Ah, the cake....I just love the decor tonight...elegant, elegant stuff!

It was past my scheduled time, but I decided to stick around a just a tad longer. The party was wrapping up and Laura and Mike had decided early on that they didn't want to play any games. But will your childhood and college friends might not let you get away so easily?! Hahaha! Usually the the real fun begins only after the regular guests leave and your closest friends start acting like they were back in High-school! And right on the dot, as the other older guests leaves, her best friends make Laura do a the bouquet toss! And then her friends grab the bouquet and rip it to pieces and throw all the pedals in the air!! Yeehaw!!! Haha! This is followed by her friends doing a train and the party goes wild!! What a night!

I really enjoyed covering this event and thought it was such elegant wedding!! Thank you!

Joann & Casey @ Odyssey - Granada Hills

2010-06-19T02:23:00.000-07:00

I meet Joann & Casey at Aimee & Steve's wedding last year! She was one of Aimee's beautiful bridesmaids! She called me 2 week after Aimee's event and booked me immediately!! Just as expected, this wedding was high energy and a blast all the way!! Joanne is beautiful and Casey was way cool! I could see the love in their eyes and they weren't shy about showing their affection to each other, which always makes great photos!! Haha! :-)

It was my first time to the Odyssey in Granada Hills. The place is a big banquet/restaurant and there was like 5 different weddings going on in each of the banquet halls! We had a buffet dinner and I must say, the food is really good here! I really don't mind coming back again! Overall, it was an excellent wedding and the DJ and photo-booth added those extra touches. Thank you Joann and Casey for letting me be part of your big day!!

Nerferteri - Beauty Photoshoot

2010-06-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

Gee! I've been so busy that I haven't had a chance to do much posting! Here's a few photo from a beauty shoot I did with Nerferteri last month. Nef is a actress and TV hostess. She is also a natural beauty with a very nice figure! However, we concentrated on her face only since she needed some beauty shots!

Marlina @ San Diego HardRock

2010-05-14T03:34:00.000-07:00

Marlina is a San Diego Chargers Cheerleader! We did our photoshoot at the HardRock Hotel in San Diego! Yes, its a bit of a drive from Los Angeles, but when you are offered a gig to photograph a Charger's girl, you don't say "no!" The hotel is pretty cool, though we didn't really have permission to take photos there! It was like playing a game of hide and seek with the hotel security! Anyhow, Marlina was a real fun model to shoot...don't let these cool looks deceive you...she is actually pretty friendly!

Our wardrobe was by Chea Keo. She handmade all the dresses! Maybe you should go on Project Runway Chea! haha! And Hair and Make-up was done by San Diego local, Beth from HB Salon. She did a great job!

Model: Marlina Moreno

Wardrobe: Chea Keo

Make-up & Hair: Beth Whitfield

And finally, the photographer gets a photo with the model...geek!!

GO CHARGERS!

Annie & Tommy @ Summit House

2010-05-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

It was a cloudy day, but this wedding was sunshine all the way for me! Annie and Tom are a great couple that really knew how to throw a party! It was a short wedding day for me, but I really enjoyed documenting their day!

This ring is huge!! Especially when i shoot it close up!! 3 karats?!

Okay, we arrive at The Country in Diamond Bar where Annie was getting ready. Ah, the dress is already prepared!

Where's Annie!?

Ah! Here she is!! Ready for hair and make-up!

Lets move on...the groom supposedly just arrived! Hmm...what is this "B" with wings?

Tom has arrived in style! I guess the B stands for Batmobile? Hahha...just kidding..

Annie is almost ready..

Where's is Tom? Isn't he supposed to pick me up!? We are running late...hurry!!

"Running Late? Let me give you a ride!" Yes, sir, that is a Lamborghini! This is the first time I have seen a groom with a Lambo!

of course, we need to get a few shots with this baby...

Wait, there is more...maybe yellow isn't the color for a wedding. You know, its a chinese wedding...we need something RED! Lambo #2!! Hahah...just kidding...

Annie sure has beautiful hands! Especially when there is a very shinny ring on it!

Next stop...Summit House...the prime ribs here are just sooo good!! I wonder if Tom and Annie ordered us the steak too....being such a nice couple, of course they did!! (Yeah, no cold sandwiches!! )

The beautiful flower gal was waiting for us!

We have some time...quick! some romantic portraits!

A good thing about the Summit House is that you can throw all the rose pedals you want and no one will complain (you know, some churches/venues won't let you do it!!)

Where is Tom?

Ah...there you are my love!!

These 2 kids love Tom!

Still no sun, but that's okay...because the atmosphere inside is just colorful! My tip to future brides and grooms, spend a little money on lighting...it makes a big difference! Most good DJs can also provide lighting...just ask. This set up was done by my friend Jack at www.tmmpro.com.

Tom was giving a speech with Annie looking on...probably my favorite candid photo of the day.

Now, this is a game I haven't seen before. The Groom has to carry the Bride around the room with a bucket to collect Good Luck Money....and they are making him run all over the place. If he lets her down, no more good luck money! hahahaha....It was hilarious! Thank goodness Annie is quite skinny!!

Okay, people usually use $1 bills when they play pass-it-around-the-table...we are using $100 bills tonight folks!!

The 2 sister of the bride...they were so funny....here they are giving me a private dancing show, especially after few of those drinks!! Hahahahaha

It was a great wedding. Even though the weather wasn't great, Annie and Tommy brought all the sunshine with them to the party! :-)

Jessica @ Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

2010-04-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

It was a nice sunny Wednesday afternoon, perfect for a photoshoot at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego. We expected the suite to be larger, but it was tiny! But that didn't stop us from getting some nice shots!

Jessica is originally from Hawaii and is now in the music industry in LA. So for some of the shots, we added an electric guitar as a prop...wait..no...not a prop...cause Jess does play guitar!!

Jess is 1/4 Asian...can you tell? :-P

We started off with something elegant...

...to something more sexy! I really liked this hot pink dress!

Time to get changed...into a little more Rock "n" Roll!

Play something for me Jess!

Here comes the 70's diva...

Models gotta eat too...yo kna! :-P

Hmmm...these pringles look so sexy! hahaha

Alma & Jacob @ The Ranchos Las Lomas

2010-04-04T01:18:00.000-07:00

Ah! The Ranchos Las Lomas! I have heard of this place before but had never been.... Finally! I get a chance to go and its for a job!

There are a few really cool things about this place....1) it is a private estate that is used for many beautiful weddings! 2) It is a also a private zoo....with some exotic animals! I was on my way driving down the path to the reception area when i spotted this big cat!! Okay...that's not just one big cat either. Its a white tiger! I wanted to go get some close up shots, but the tigers are double-caged and there is a moat around the cage!

If you look closely, you can see that the tiger's eyes are blue!! No...i didn't Photoshop that! They really are blue!! What beautiful eyes!!

Alright, enough about cats, i'm here for a wedding!

The Ranch has this old charm to it.....everything from the door knobs..

...to the rooms...

...to the tiles paintings...

...they even have an old English telephone booth...that actually works!!!

Get back to work....here comes Jacob...delivering some boutonnieres...

Meanwhile, at the bridal's room...Alma is getting ready...

SHE IS JUST ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!

I just love capturing photos of beautiful brides getting ready! Its one of my favorite parts of wedding photography! :-) Isn't her dress pretty! Simple yet elegant, my style! Love the little bow!

The best thing about younger brothers is that they can make fun of you and your dress on your wedding day (and you won't get mad!!)...they also help me catch some wild brother-sister laughters. "Alma! Can you fit in this dress?!!? Let me help you!" Hahaha

Of course, some Korbels while everyone is getting ready helps everyone to be merry!

The ring bearer is here to deliver the bride's bouquet! This is probably one of my favorite shots of the day! He was sooo cute!

"Are we there yet?"....er....i mean...."is it time to start yet?"

Alright...3 minutes to go...gonna run to the ceremony area..where Jacob is waiting anxiously! I'ven't seen Jacobs seem so serious before! Hahaha

These days i see more and more instances where both parents walking down the aisle with their daughters!

Alma has the most contagious smile!

There's a reason why this place is so popular. Its a beautiful place! Palm trees, gardens, fountains and bridges!!

What's written inside the ring? "Love You Alway Babylicious!" Hahah

How sweet! Jacob wipes away the tears from Alma's face...

The new Mr. & Mrs!

Alma was smart enough to allocate some time for romantic portraits!

Now that the ceremony is over, Jacob can be himself and loosen up a little!

Muah!!!! Muahh!! The bride blew me a kiss!

Wow! Cool! There's actually an orange grove here! Well! Duh! There's a reason they call it Orange County!

What a good looking couple! Pretty brides make the day so much more fun! hahah

"Hello? Yes, please deliver 3 extra large pepperoni pizza to the Ranchos Las Lomas!!"

The Black Eye Peas really gets the crowd going!! "I have my Money, lets spend it all!" It's a family thing to raise and pump the fist while dancing!!

Alright, the bouquet toss! Pictures showing relatives fighting over it have been deleted to protect the innocent! hahaha...J/K!

Alright, I told Alma and Jacob to wait for me while i set up the light for a formal photo...but these two just couldn't wait to kiss! Hahaha..

Alma and Jacob, it was a beautiful wedding! Thank you for letting me be part of it! I really loved ever single moment of it!!

The Bachelor

2010-03-28T22:04:00.001-07:00

Alright! I was away on a 3 weeks-holiday when the seasonal finale of "The Bachelor" was shown. I know, I know, "What? Chris? You watch the Bachelor!" Hahahaha....well, I usually don't watch that much TV, but i do sometimes! So, if you're a fan, you will know who "Tenley" is. She was the runner-up. I was rooting for her! Why?

Because I photographed her wedding 3 years ago!! I was starting out, so I was the 2nd photographer! They were both very nice. Yep, unfortunately, things didn't work out for them. Fortunately, i think she is onto a brighter future! Anyhow, here is a link to the blog i posted 3 years ago. What a blast from the past! She was beautiful then, and still is today!

Here's a few more photos:

Thank You!

2010-03-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

Nothing says it better than a handwritten note from a client! I am touched by the kind words that Kim and Tony wrote! Thank you! :-)

Kim & Tony @ Pasadena Hilton

2010-03-23T07:32:00.001-07:00

Alright! I've been behind in my weddings!! Here's a wedding from Jan this year that I had a blast at!! It was a big wedding, we started early, but my goodness, it was a FUN wedding to shoot! Kim and Tony live in the SF, but Kim's family is from LA, so naturally we started our day here...actually in Pasadena, cause that's where Tony was getting ready!!

Yes, we start our day early, 7am at the Hilton Pasadena!! Tony's cell phone...how sweet, he has a photo of Kim!

Looking good Tony!

Off they go...i'm going to head over to Kim's house, while the guys go get a pig...what? a pig? yeah, you'll see it later!

Ah, what beautiful flowers....Kim had these ready for her bridesmaid...its beautiful!! What type of flowers are these?

Kim looks absolutely beautiful!! No wonder! Her mom works in the beauty industry! Kim's wearing a traditional Vietnamese dress. I love the colors!

Are they here yet? The groom needs to come pick the bridal party up!!

Here comes the groom's side! Its a large entourage!!

Kim's family may be Catholic, but we still need to have a Vietnamese tea ceremony!! Present the tea to your mother-in-law Tony! Hahaha

After the tea ceremony we will have a Feast!! Hmmm! That roasted suckling pig sure does look good!! That's the pig that Tony and his groomsmen carried into the house! The best thing about Vietnamese weddings, they feed you very well!! Chow Time!

Off we go to the Church! St Bernadine in Woodland Hills.

Lets get a group shot before we go in.

Ah..the dress is beautiful Kim! The train is really long...need all the bridesmaid to help out!

Look at the bouquet, its huge! It's gorgeous! I haven't seen such a nice one in a while!

Catholic ceremonies are pretty long...so you can bet i can find some kids falling asleep! hahaha

wakey-wakey!

Okay, this one is wide awake....busy coloring her color book! Hahahaha

The new Mr. & Mrs. Wong!

We got about 15 minutes for some portraits outside! Whoppee!

You look stunning Kim!

Off in the Stretch Limo!

Gotta get a shot with the B&G!

We are traveling from Woodland Hills to Pasadena...of course, we need a pit stop! These groomsmen really know how to get the party started!! And it ain't even dark yet!!

This is what happens when you have lots of Red Bull and Whisky in the Limo!! GUYS GONE WILD! The girls were more civilized! hhahaaa

And this is what happens when the groomsmen want to play with your camera...they take shoots of each others you-know-what!!

So, we have some spare time before the reception, and so we head out to Pasadena City Hall to get some more photos. I have never had such a large wedding party before! 7 groomsmen, 7 bridesmaids! This is the record for me!

A few quiet moments alone..

My attempt of recreating the Beatles album cover on the cross roads!! Unfortunately, there was a generation gap and most of my bridesmaid and groomsmen didn't know what I was talking about. Beatles? who? Hahhahahaha Come On! I'm not that old!! Hahaha

The light has faded and we played a little with flash photography!

City Hall looks so nice in the background.

And off we go to the reception hall at Pasadena Hilton. I have shoot a few weddings at the Pasadena Westin, but this is actually my first time at the Pasadena Hilton! It's nice too!

Kim and Tony hired a lighting guy....great job! Their favorite place is the Aquarium so they turned the Hilton's ballroom blue!

Big smooch for the new Mrs. Wong!

Now, how come this groomsmen gets the VIP treatment?! Not Fair!!

These girls were hilarious! They were being interviewed by the video guys!

What a beautiful couple!

It was 11pm when i left, but the party was still going strong!!

Thanks Kim and Tony for letting me be part of your big day! My team and I really had a blast!! :-)

Miji & Alan @ Downtown LA

2010-03-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

Sunny Day, blue skys. Perfect day to get some bridal shoot in Downtown LA!

Thought i would mix it up a bit...usually the bride gets all the pampering. This time we let the Groom relax a little!! Haha

Thailand!

2010-03-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

Okay! I'm sorry I've been behind in my blogs lately...that's because I have been on holiday in Thailand! Come on! You can't expect me to be blogging when there is so much fun stuff here right?! Haha

Here's a photo I took on my way to the spa. They don't allow photography inside the spa, and when i did take one, my spa guide went postal on me! oh well!!

The Barai, Hua Hin, Thailand

www.thebarai.com

Patty & Jason @ Church of the Cross / San Gabriel Hilton

2010-02-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

Ah!! Valentine's Day! And how are you spending this lovely day? Well, I'm working!! Here's a date that the groom will never forget! It also happens to be Chinese New Years today! So that is pretty cool actually!! Anyhow, it's my first time here to this church, the Church of the Cross in Arcadia! The trees are beautiful outside!! Gotta incorporate them in my exterior shot! This wide angle lens should do it, if i get down way low that is!!

Even God is telling me to "go in!" haha

Patty is putting on some finishing touches.

I think i will stake out here above the balcony for the entrance shot! Where's my little prop while I wait a few moments? Ah...a bouquet on the way up the stairs....let me just "borrow" a rose from it! Oh no, I have stolen something inside the house of God! I'm going straight to hell!!!!

Here they come!!

Since it will be a long ceremony, I have some time to roam in and out....i'm gonna go down to look for a different angle....hmmm, how about a shot outside the doors...whaddaya think?

Hey, who is this guy sing?! It's Thomas!! I photographed his wedding 3 years ago!!!

The new Mr. & Mrs. Lin!

Off we go to the Hilton!

Ah, the sign in book....look, some hersey kisses!! Do i have time to eat one? Heck, don't want to break up this cute couple!

I've seen some funny cake-top figures, but these bobby-heads are a first for me!!

Wow, the reception hall is kinda dark! Turn on the lights guys!! Oh, wait, its supposed to be that way!! Hahaha! Anyhow, I was trying the photograph the Light projection of Patty and Jason's name on the wall. As i approached the writing, i lifted my camera to photograph it....it starting moving!! And i had to chase it with my camera!! Hey!! Someone is making a fool out of me!! Turns out the lighting technician were playing a trick on me since he saw me trying to photograph the writing. You meanies!

A full view of the cake....very nice...

The bride and maid of honor....caught them outside the reception hall taking a break!! There was glass right behind them, fortunately, i had a good bounce flash to save the day..You can still barely see me on the right hand side of the glass though...Now you know why wedding photographers wear BLACK!! I know, Chinese New Year, I should be wearing a red suit instead! hahaha

You want a kiss where, Patty?! Heeehee

I had to get a shot of the dress from behind...thank you Mr. Videographer for lighting Patty's behind!

Alright, next comes some games where a couple of guests have to kiss and Patty and Jason have to copy their moves. This old couple went all out!!! Look at that!! You Monster you!

Jason was ready to comply, Patty was a little less enthusiastic!! hahha

Alright! Cake Time! For 300 guests, this cake should do!

I take a few shots of Patty and Jason cutting the cake and decide to turn around! Amazing!! I see like 15 cameras!! Wow!! Talk about Paparazzi!! Who ARE these people?!? hahaha

The slideshow was really sweet....Patty and Jason both look so cute in their casual clothes.

...and after that, they danced the night away!

It was an intense wedding, but i sure did have fun guys!!

Ceil & Travis @ Westminster Presbyterian Church

2010-02-11T16:25:00.000-08:00

Ceil and Travis are a beautiful couple and what would be a better place to have a wedding? Yes, the beautiful Westminster Presbyterian Church in Pasadena! Its a huge church! You better have a huge wedding to fill up all the seats!!

I love this church, except for the crazy fluorescent lights in the Bride's changing room! It makes everyone turn green! Fortunately, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to overcome that!

Ah, the bride is here...how do i know? haha

Ceil, you look stunning!

Alright, photographers out! Time to change!

Lace is back big time. What a beautiful dress. Absolutely stunning!!

The veil is just classic! I haven't seen such a beautiful veil in a long time!!

Mom helping out on the final touches...

A bit nervous with only 2 minutes to go!!

Off we go!!

Travis can't wipe that smile on his face!! hahaha. Travis opted for a "best-woman" instead of a "best-man". Now, that's original!

The church is very dark, but Travis was well prepared, renting 2 large spotlights! Yeah Baby!!

A blue diamond wedding ring!

Ceremony is over! We have 10 minutes before they kick us out!! They are pretty tight on schedule at this church!

Alright! We are kicked out! Lets go outside!!

Alright, we have 5 more minutes till the reception! Lets get 2 more photos of Ceil!

Travis and Ceil! It was great fun photographing your wedding!

Ambi - Rock "N" Roll

2010-02-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

Finally got a chance to post some photos from a photoshoot last month with Ambi! Ambi is a musician and also a great model! A graduate from Berklee College of Music, she is now a member of a band playing in the LA circuit. (Crap, i forgot your band's name Ambi! :-P) Anyhow, since her band plays a little rock, punk and alternative music, we thought we would add a little punk stuff to her wardrobe....just a little! Ambi is from Japan, so she does have a little Harajuku girl style too...no? Hahaha

Gorgeous face!

Love her poses.

Rock on!

Hmm...what to do next?

yeah, show me those highlights!

Uh! I love the leather jacket!

Lets break out some props! Just so happened to have this metal chain around. Yes, its heavy!

Kenby & Jimmy @ Newport Beach/ Electra Cruises -Athena

2010-01-26T18:30:00.000-08:00

Ah! A Cruise Wedding! My first actually! I hope I don't get seasick! That would certainly be no fun! Thank goodness the cruise just goes around the harbor in Newport, not out into the Pacific! Whew! Kenby and Jimmy were referred to me by Roger and Jean, whose wedding I photographed 3 years ago! Kenby was Jean's bridesmaid! Small world!

I always like to capture a shot of the invitation to set the scene. If you are getting married and I am photographing your wedding, remember to send me an invitation! And even if I'm not photographing your wedding, send my an invitation, i would like to come eat! hahaahah

Anyhow, I always bring the invitation to the wedding, so i can add some props to create a better photo! Here, being on a cruise, Kenby and Jimmy decorated the cruiseboat with seashells and starfishes! Naturally, these objects became my invitation card decorations too!

All aboard!! The Captain welcomes us to the Titanic...er...i mean the Athena! Haha!

The cruise boat is very strict on the number of passengers, I guess its because of the load capacity...or is it because of they might run out of food?! Haha

Kenby looking thru the 2nd floor windows at the guest arriving...she looks sooo happy!

Wow! Now THAT is a ring!!

Alright Jimmy finally appears!

Lets get some romantic portraits then!

I saw this piano and thought it would be fun for them to play along! In fact, Jimmy is a world-class pianist! Not! Jimmy is actually a doctor....but doesn't he look like he knows what he is doing? Play it one more time Jimmy!

The great/worst thing about cruise boat photography is there is usually sunlight coming in from everywhere! What do you expect when there is 3 walls of glass! This is where the photographer really needs to pay attention to their exposure!! Most cameras will underexpose, so shooting in manual mode is essential.

Kenby changed into this beautiful dress after the lunch. It was absolutely gorgeous, so i dragged her outside for a few more shots!

All in all, a short but beautiful wedding! (Well of course! Kenby's sister is a wedding co-ordinator!! You did a great job Jessica!) Thank you for letting me be part of your special day!!