This is my first feature in Spoonful Magazine.
I traveled to the shore to meet Shereen Pavlides who is the host of Cook This! and spent the afternoon in her lovely beach house as she prepped a wonderful meal! As we giggled and talked- she cooked. It was such a joy. She is such a Joy. And her food is even better!
Here are some images of her prepping and cooking for the Summer issue : Salt of Spoonful Mag 2017.
“Travel and photography go together like bread and butter, Bonnie and Clyde, salt and pepper. You get it. But traveling with gear isn’t always easy. How do you pack it? How do you keep it safe? What equipment do you need? ”
To see complete feature, head over to the blog today to read my tips on those exact questions...http://www.mozi-mag.com/12995-2
Photo gear while traveling:
There are many articles and opinions on how to prep your gear or plan for a photoshoot when traveling. Whether it is packing gear to fly, to hike with, or for a long road trip, I have experience in all of these scenarios. I continue to learn each trip I take on how to be more efficient and prepared.
1. Flying with gear
There are so many variables to consider when you plan to fly for a shoot. My nerves are always going as I worry I will leave something behind. But there are ways to help calm those nerves and feel prepared. I would first recommend that you make a list of essentials – camera body, two or three lenses, two batteries, back up charger for batteries, and at least two memory cards. These are just the essentials! Depending on what kind of trip/job/traveling you are doing, there may be some additional items you wish to bring. But, these are a MUST for me!
I like to use a solid camera backpack that carries all of those things, so they are on my back and with me at all times. You do not want to check-in your camera gear.
If traveling overseas, check to see the weight limit of carry on bags. It is a terrible feeling when they are asking you to gate check your most valuable items. Also, some places like to see proof of ownership/purchase of the gear you have. I was coming back from Mexico and they wanted to tax me for what was in my bag because they questioned if I purchased any of it while visiting Mexico. From that experience, I learned its better to be safe and prepared for anything like that. You are not always aware of laws in different countries. I keep a little pouch in my camera bag with proof of purchase or warranties so I can prove that it is in fact my gear, not a new purchase!
When traveling, the big question of what gear to bring is very hard. To me, my first question is, “how much am I gonna be on foot?” You have to think of weight on your back, as well as what lenses will provide the most coverage and help you in the majority of situations. With those two questions in mind, I love to bring my 24-70mm lens and my wide 28mm lens. If i plan to photograph a lot of food while visiting somewhere I also bring my 50m lens. This also acts as a wonderful portrait lens. With those three lenses, I feel pretty solid.
If you have a place thats safe to leave gear, once you arrive to where you are going, an extra camera bag with more lenses and an extra body is always recommended. An example of that is shooting a destination wedding. You need external flashes, more memory cards, 70-200mm lens. Again, you can usually have two cary-on bags. So, you still can keep gear on you. Split up the weight so you feel comfortable while traveling via airport.
2. Hiking
I am in love with my photo sport 200 AW backpack from Lowepro. You can surprisingly fit a good amount of gear in there, and its so comfortable on your back. When traveling on hikes and venturing in nature, It is not necessary to bring all the extra gear. I leave my chargers behind, and make sure I charge my batteries prior, and have one in my body and one extra. I know most people love tripods when shooting nature photos, but, if i am hiking, it does not come with me! I get creative and use ledges, rocks and whatever I can find to rest my camera on if I want to shoot a long exposure. My favorite lens for hiking is my Canon 11mm-24mm lens!
3. Road Trip
I am a proud owner of a camper van. Her name is Parker and she has been all over the US. I have driven her across country a handful of times and it is by far my favorite way to travel as well as photograph. In my car, I have designated areas where I keep my camera bag(s). I usually have a smaller bag that just holds my Canon 5D IV and 27mm-70mm lens on it, ready to use at any given time! Then, behind the passenger seat I have my larger main camera bag with my Canon 6d body and my wide lens on it. Also in that bag you will find a good 3 more lenses. That is mainly my ‘storage’ bag. In the main zipper compartment is my chargers, external flash, laptop, etc. I also have my tripod attached to the side of that bag. Then I have my Lowepro sport bag with two other lenses in it. That is the bag I grab along with my main camera rig that I have in the front seat when I stop to explore a rest area, or hike on the side of the road. When I travel long distances, and know my gear is safe, and on me, I can bring more with me. It allows for you to not be as picky with your gear, and have more readily available to use. This is why this type of travel has its perks. Though- there are some downsides as well. Too much gear on you, makes for more choices to make while in any given situation. Sometimes, thats helpful. You don’t feel as limited. Though, worrying about more than a handful of lenses can be stressful if your still learning what lenses you feel most comfortable with or how to implicate them in different situations, subject matter, and lighting.
For further info or questions, please feel free to write me bellow!
Words are not my strong suit but I will do my best to share this amazing experience with imagery and a few words mixed in here & there.
First We Meet
Day 1 :
After arriving in Reykjavik, I was patiently awaiting to start the First We Eat Workshop!
Soon I would be meeting Eva Kosmas Flores and Carey Nershi, the hosts of FWE and joining the rest of the group.
This was my second trip to Iceland, and I hope not my last. The magic of this place has not changed, but this journey was quite different than from my first.
I have to take a minute to share how brilliant this workshop truly was. FWE was hosted by two of the most talented young ladies along with the talented Linda Lomeli, Maggie Pate, and Ingrid Hofstra. All in which had a huge part in my experience. Together they made a wonderful team- busted their asses, showed us iceland, and fed us well!
To be photographing along side of these ladies; learning, observing, and exploring is a real gift. I thank each and every one of them!
After a full nights rest, I woke up in Mosfellsdalur with a wonderful homemade breakfast and a day full of surprise and education ahead of me. I was well rested and ready for anything!
Waterfalls are so powerful and moving. They have such a huge presence, and the ones in Iceland are no exception. Eva & Cary took the whole group to visit Seljalandsfoss along with a secret hidden waterfall ( my favorite ).
I found myself escaping the crowds and running around like a kid, exploring the hills and views behind the falls. I can just stand and watch a waterfall for hours...so captivating.
Laxnes Horse Ranch : This was one of my favorite activities during this visit to Iceland. I do not have much experience riding horses, and my little guy, kinda scared me here and there, but he kept me safe and it was an incredible ride. The area in which we rode was full of rolling hills, green mossy mounds, and lava rocks! We were not allowed to bring our cameras, but I managed to sneak a few with my phone.
What a day... Following horse back riding, picture taking, and food (of course) we headed to the Secret Lagoon! Had a little picnic outside, with light drizzle and then enjoyed the geothermal pools.
fine group of ladies
Linda Lomeli seriously makes some of the best looking, and tasting baked goods.
This bundt cake had us all over the table - shooting at all angles!
After a little lesson on how to style your own images, we were given some time, props, and a slice of cake to play around with.
Seljalandsfoss
After chasing waterfalls, we went to on dirt roads to reach Keldur (grass houses that are thousands of years old on ancient farm land).
Upon our return to our sweet little cottage (Airbnb) in Mosfellsdalur was this incredible full rainbow! It was such a nice little treat to come home to. We quickly recollected ourselves and prepped for a wonderful dinner and mini photoshoot.
breakfast hash
I loved waking up, walking outside, being surrounded with beautiful views and a table full of stunning desserts to photograph, No better way to start the day.
Then walk inside to enjoy homemade soup and a perfectly set table.
On the last full day of the FWE workshop we had some extra time to choose which activity we wished to partake in. Some ventured downtown to shop in Reykjavik, others went to geothermal pools, some needed to rest, and a few went on a hike.
Which activity do you think I choose?
Perfect rainbow over Laxnes Horse Ranch
Erla Gretarsdottir
After everyone came back together to the house, we got ready for our last meal! The weather had cleared up so we were able to eat outside, with beautiful rolling hills and mountains in the near distance.
And of course, one last pictuesque dessert.
We followed this wonderful meal with a little lesson by Maggie Pate on textiles and how to weave a loom.
As the Workshop was coming to an end, the goodbyes started going around. Though, I was saying goodbye to the group I was not saying goodbye to Iceland. Not yet!
I had planned to rent a car and drive around for two more days before flying home. Erla, a local to Iceland, helped me map out my next two days in Iceland.
I was ready for lots of driving and some solo time.
After getting my car, I stopped at Reykjavik Coffee Roasters, got a Swiss Mocha and went onward with my journey into the beautiful landscapes of Iceland.
After driving up and around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula , stopping in Hellnar for a nights sleep, and exploring Arnarstapi, I headed to Reykjanesbaer.
My last night in Iceland was spent at OkHotel in Reykjavik.
After a full day of driving around it was nice to be on foot and walk around the city. Jen, one of the gals that I met during the worshop was still in Iceland, so we met up at Kaffi Vinyl for some vegan food. Afterwards we wondered around some stores before I went back to my hotel...I had to get up at 4am.
I thank Erla for my detour to the Southern Peninsula of Iceland.
Reykjanesviti was stunning! Just a short drive from the city you can find yourself in geothermal fields, views of the oldest lighthouse in Iceland, and cliffs with crashing waves against black beaches.
On my last trip to Iceland, I visited Vik. I was so bummed to not be revisiting those beaches this time around, but Reykjanes Peninsula totally made up for it!
Grindavikurbaer
On the drive to the airport, in the wee hours of the morning, I enjoyed the full moon over the mountains and sun rising on the water. It was so emotionally beautiful.
Till we meet again... Iceland you will be missed!
I don't photograph weddings too often anymore unless they are for/of loved ones or destination weddings. This wedding happen to fit both of these requirements :)
Meet Mr. & Mrs. Hammond
first look
It is hard for me to find the words to describe how remarkable it was to photograph this wedding. These two individuals are so special to me! The fact that, out of all the wonderful people they know, they choose me to document their special day leaves me filled with Joy. It truly was an honor. Plus, it was in Big Sur!
Tristan and Lauren wanted the exchange of vows to be personal and private. Special and something sacred. And I think they achieved that and so much more. On Pfeiffer Beach they stood hand in hand making a promise to one another that they will hold for the rest of their lives.
To be a part of someone's wedding should not be taken for granted. Especially in this case when you and your husband are the only two witnesses. It left us both feeling remarkably thankful and blessed.
And the big day all started here: Lover's Point
Lover's Point
These two have been in my life for several years. They have seen some of my best days and worst days. And in return I have witnessed some of their highs and lows. And through it all, here I am. But more importantly, here they are! On their wedding day. Looking at one another, with the knowledge of their struggles, and the ones they may endure in the future. Still, choosing each other to tackle this complicated world together, side by side. And that is truly beautiful to me.
I am excited to share a recap of this beautiful couple's wedding day! They make a wonderful couple and share such a sweet love- filled with laughter and dedication.
CONGRATS you two! I Love you dearly.
And with that, I give you their Wedding Day :
This was one of the most adorable First Look's I have done. The reaction on Tristan's face said it all...followed by the sweetest smile by Lauren.
Then there was straight laughter and joy for the next hour.
From lover's Point we headed to Big Sur for the ceremony. As the day continued the weather was warming up and the sun started showing itself. It was perfect timing for our late afternoon wedding :-)
exchange of vows
After all the joy, love, giggles, kicking of sand, and marriage... we hopped in the car and headed back to Monterey. All in all, I would say it was a wonderful joyous day, full of sunshine and love!
September issue of Seattle Magazine is all about Burgers, Beer, & Fries. I personally only enjoy one of those three things, but nonetheless, Seattle knows how to do a burger!
I have included a summary of some of my favorite images from each restaurant. Though my focus was to photograph the best burgers, and the list is quite long, they are all unique and different in their own way. They are quite beautiful creations. And that is coming from a vegetarian.
The following images are from:
Two Bells Tavern Loulay John Howie Steak Le Petit Cochon Great State Burger
...don't forget the fries.
Loretta's Northwesterner
8oz Burger
Brawling Cross Double Ranch
Tat's
Loulay
