Dear Vogue, you can take your list and shove it | San Clemente Wedding Photographer

As a San Clemente Wedding Photographer, I am fully aware of the importance of having your wedding go the way you dreamed it would. However, the latest buzz in my news feed, in wedding photography Facebook groups, and in my own mind, is this article written by someone at Vogue magazine about all the Rules to Break for your wedding, you can read it HERE. Normally... something like this isn't a bad thing, because it's filled with helpful tips and things to avoid to make your wedding day easier. However, this one was filled with crushing a lot of bride's dreams for the wedding they've been dreaming about since they were a little girl. As a San Clemente Wedding Photographer, I've had a few weddings of my own, and I've second shot a lot as well. I just have to say, Vogue, your list disappoints me. I'm only going to touch on a few of the points from your list, but I think they are all ridiculous! 

Here's what I don't understand... why do you care if a bride wants to keep some traditions? If her dream is to have her dad walk her down the aisle, and there's nothing that is actually getting in the way of that, why tell her to skip it? Now, I have seen and read stories about brides walking themselves down, or being walked down by their mother, grandmother, brother, whomever they please and there's typically a reason for them doing that. I've even heard of the groom walking the bride down the aisle. I think if that's what YOU want to do, then do it. It's your wedding, and it's your day. However, to just tell a bride not to do it because it's cliche' is upsetting. You're taking that moment away from the bride-to-be AND her father! These are precious moments, and precious traditions and a stressed out bride doesn't need to read that her wedding will basically be boring if she lets her dad walk her down the aisle. I personally had my father and my step father walk me down, and I wouldn't have changed it for anything. 

(These are moments caught of the bride being walked down the aisle by her father and also of the groom "taking over" for dad... you're right, you should totally just skip it (insert eye roll).)

You also told them to skip the rings.... now, rings aren't for everyone, and if you don't want rings, don't buy rings. But, lets be honest, most girls want the ring. They want their husband to wear a ring. They want that visible symbol that says "I'm taken". Not because they are insecure in the relationship, but because they just want that to be known. For some, ring shopping is 1/2 the fun. Let them have it rather then telling them to skip it.

(psh... rings... hideous, just get rid of them) 

Next point... Skip the photographer! Are you FREAKING kidding me?! Now, as an San Clemente Wedding Photographer, I completely understand that hiring a photographer is pricey. But you know what... it's worth it. When everything is said and done, the dress is put away, the cake has been eaten, the DJ goes home... all you have left to remember the day is the photographs that were taken. Now, while I think having disposables on the tables for your guests is a great idea, I strongly believe it should be used as an EXTRA, not as your only form of wedding photography. Have you ever used a disposable camera? Have you ever had 1/2 a roll not turn out because of lighting, or blur/motion, or you get 1/2 faces from a drunk attempted selfie?! Not to mention, how many images of the actual bride and groom will you get? Most of them will be of the people at the tables, the guests. Which is great... but when you've paid a few thousand dollars to look as beautiful as you do on your wedding day... don't you want some photographs to look back on... preferably without that awkward face the guest happened to catch you making?! On top of that, I've heard of people not even using the camera, or taking them home with them. Bye-bye wedding pictures.

I'm sorry, I'm not even going to crack a sarcastic joke about this. NONE of these images could have been captured by a random guest and their disposable camera, at the very least, none of them would have turned out this way... sorry, try again!

I had a wedding photographer gifted to me for my wedding. And while I do love my photos, he was only hired to do so much. So when it came time to the finished product, all I received was a CD with the images on it. I would have to order my own album or wall portraits, which 8 years later, I still haven't done. I also didn't hire a videographer, and it's one of my biggest regrets. I had asked my uncle to sing our wedding song for our first dance. He sang and played his guitar. And while I have a FEW photographs of it, I would have loved to be able to re-watch that video. He won't be around forever, and that's a moment I can never get back. These things are important, and I can't stress that enough. I think this is an asinine thing to tell a bride to skip out on it. And considering Vogue is a MAGAZINE that uses PICTURES to sell products or tell a story, you'd think you'd know better and understand the importance and impact of a photograph. Shame on you Vogue.

The big reveal... let them do whatever reveal they please. It's the first time the groom is seeing his bride-to-be in her wedding dress, all dolled up. I have caught, and have seen others catch moments of the grooms face when he sees her for the first time. If you've never watched for it, you should. They cry, they smile from ear to ear, this is a beautiful moment and you shouldn't take it away from either of them. 

The big reveal... doesn't have to be at the end of the aisle, but wherever it takes place, it will be wonderful, and it will be a moment you'll both remember forever...BECAUSE YOU'LL HAVE PICTURES OF IT!!

Yep... totally skip that first dance.. HOW DULL!

You should probably just skip the father-daughter dance as well... who needs that anyway?

And you're totally right Vogue... those bridesmaids dresses are just God awful! I don't know how they were able to withstand being in them all day.

Unfortunately, the woman that wrote this blog for Vogue comes across like a bitter spinster that is mad her boyfriend of 10 years didn't pop the question on Christmas, or New Years Eve. She also sounds like someone who hasn't experienced a lot of the joy wedding traditions bring. And honestly, it makes me sad to even think that about this woman, because I don't know her. This is only my impression of her. I'm sure she's wonderful. However... maybe try to be a little bit more uplifting, or positive in your next wedding blog? With the impact that Vogue has on newly engaged women, I just find it really sad that they would write something telling women to skip out on tradition. While I believe women are FULLY capable of reading that list and saying "F you, I'm doing what I want anyway", there are some that may start to second guess their decisions. Or wonder "will my wedding be boring if I follow the traditions I've always dreamed of having?!" I just think it would have been better to offer ideas for alternatives, which you did a little bit... but let's be honest, some of them suck... like ditching your photographer. *Shaking my head*

In the end, it's YOUR wedding! Do what makes YOU happy! When it's all said and done, the memories will be yours and your new husbands. Out of all the weddings I've photographed, not a single one has been the exact same as another! Your wedding will be unique to you, because it is YOURS!

If you or someone you know is eloping or having a small intimate wedding, I would love to be considered for your photography needs. Please Contact Me today!

Elise, Kaleb, & Boe | San Clemente Family Photographer

I love my job. Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is honestly one of the best jobs there are. Getting to meet new families and capture their unique dynamic is always fun and exciting for me. Each family is different. They have their own vibe, their own personality. On top of that, each individual is unique as well.

Elise, Kaleb & Boe are no different. You may remember seeing Elise & Kaleb on the blog before (You can check it out here). Not all of my families consist of human children. Some, such as this one, have fur children. As a fur mom, myself, I love when families want to incorporate their little four-legged family members.

Boe is the sweetest boy. He loves going on his walks, which is Elise is so good about taking him on. He also loved going to Deer Park, a park on Camp Pendleton. For this reason alone, we chose this as our location. Since Boe is a bit of an older pup, it's not always so easy for him to get around, and usually not for very long. But he LOVES going to Deer Park. It was such a special time getting to capture the three of them together, interacting and just being the happy little family that they are.

Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is one of the best things I've ever had the pleasure of being apart of. If you're looking to get your own family photos done, I would love to chat with you! Contact Me today to set up your photography session!

Project 52 : Month 1 | San Clemente Photographer

As a San Clemente Photographer, I'm always looking for a way to help myself grow in my art. So towards the end of the year, last year, I decided I wanted to do a Project 52.

If you're not a photographer, there's a good chance you're looking at your screen like I'm a crazy person thinking "what the heck is a Project 52?!" Basically, it's this: There are 52 weeks in the year. So I've made it a goal to make sure I take a photo, just for me (not client work), at least once a week. I'm not limited to only one photo a week. If I wanted to be an overachiever, I could be. But the goal is to go out and take some photos at least once a week. So, in order to hold myself accountable, I created a group for anyone who wanted to join in on the fun and participate. I then created 52 different "themes" for everyone to shoot for.

Since our first month is down, I thought it would be great to show you what I've been up to for that project. Everyone has been doing great in the group so far and I've been loving everyone's different interpretations of each theme. So, here are my interpretations for the first 4 weeks.

Our first theme was : Sparkle
I chose this little gingerbread crystal that was gifted to me a couple of Christmases ago. He's a cute little guy and he sure does sparkle something pretty in the sunlight.

Our second theme was: Gold
I chose to photograph my Golden Retriever, Capone. He's such a good boy. He doesn't love having his photo taken as much as his sister, but the fact that he's getting up there in age is going to make him my prime subject for as much as I can.

Our third theme was: New
It just so happened that earlier that week I had completed my new tattoo. So I sat myself down in front of my camera and captured it. I'm very much in love with my new tattoo and if you're in the Fallbrook area, and in the mood for a new tattoo, you should definitely check out Robia of Two Faced Tattoo.

Our fourth theme was: Excitement
I had a friend come to visit me from Chicago that week. So I made her get in front of the camera with me and just show our happiness and excitement for getting to hang out that weekend. It's always good and refreshing to have a friend come and visit you. I hadn't laughed that hard in a very long time. Her visit was very much needed! I think my favorite part of this image, though, is my dog, Cali, sitting and staring (and smiling) at the camera.

I hope you've enjoyed this little peek into what I've been up to. I know I enjoy sharing it with you.

If you're in the San Clemente or Orange County area and looking for a photographer, I would love for you to Contact Me! Also, to be the first to know what's going on over at Laura Lynn Photography, sign up below to be a VIP!

Spectrum Inspired | Family Photographer San Clemente

Last year, being a Family Photographer in San Clemente, I was lucky enough to become a contributor at an amazing company called Spectrum Inspired. This company is a community of photographers, working together to provide free photography sessions to children who are on the autism spectrum.

I believe that all children are a true blessing from God. So it was pretty easy for me to get behind this cause. If you aren't exactly sure what Spectrum Inspired is all about, you really should check out their site: SPECTRUM INSPIRED

Their mission is this: SPECTRUM INSPIRED is a global community that connects, supports and uplifts individuals and families touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders. In order to educate the general public, our team uses Lifestyle Photography to document a diverse group of children on the spectrum and their families across the globe in effort to normalize and destigmatize ASD. It is our mission to give families a platform to voice their struggles, celebrate their victories and share their story; all the while, removing the stigma and stereotypes of what is thought to be representative of Autism and show the world just how broad and beautiful the spectrum is. 

So... are you, or do you know, a deserving family with a child on the spectrum who should benefit from this amazing gift? If so, I urge you to reach out to them. Send them an application by going HERE.

If you're a family in the San Clemente/Orange County area, I would LOVE to capture the true spirit of your child as well as your unique family dynamic. If you fill out the application, all you have to do is request me as your photographer, and I'll be the one blessed with capturing lifelong memories for your family!

3 Day Juice Cleanse | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, I feel it's important for me to share with you more than just a blog about the sessions I do. I make it a point to try and become actual friends with my clients because I value that aspect of our relationship. Part of that includes me sharing bits of my life with you.

So... at the beginning of the year, I decided to try a 3 Day Juice Cleanse. My dad and stepmom bought my husband and I a really nice juicer for Christmas. I've already put it to really good use in a short amount of time.

I've never done any kind of cleanse before, so I knew I was in for a bit of a challenge. But I also knew I really wanted to try it. I was hoping for a bit of a reset to my system. See... while my husband is deployed, I don't always feel like cooking for myself. This usually results in me eating out more than I would really like.

I didn't want to do a cleanse that completely eliminated food. So I found one that allowed me to still have a decent dinner at night. The only restriction was that it was lean meat/protein and veggies. So no starches (I cried a little about that), and no carbs (at least not the kind I'm used to eating like breads and pastas).

I found THIS ONE on Pinterest. I didn't take any photos of the juice to show you and be all fancy because... well.. juice often looks a lot yuckier in person than it does in the photos you see online.

So here's what I thought of it and my results.

1. Day 1 and 2 juices did NOT yield 64 ounces of fluid. This left me feeling pretty hungry throughout the day even though I was making sure to drink plenty of water as well.
2. I had some HUGE cravings for salt on days 1 and 2. I mean... I wanted to rip open a bag of potato chips and just go to town kind of craving.
3. I realized just how much I eat not because I'm hungry, but just because I feel like putting food in my mouth. I found myself constantly wanting to graze just because. But I would have probably killed for some popcorn.
4. The juice was YUMMY! I was actually a little surprised about day 3 being as good as it was. I like juicing. I like most juices. However, beet juice has always been too earthy for me. BUT, this particular mix was pretty tasty. So much so, that I would make it again.
5. I lost 5lbs in 3 days. Granted it was all water weight, I did notice I was less bloated. I mean... what woman doesn't want that?

All in all, I think the 3 Day Juice Cleanse went pretty alright. Seeing a 5lb weight loss, even knowing it was water weight, had me tempted to go a couple more days, haha. But ultimately, I knew I just needed to take the next step in altering the way I consume food and the types of food I'm consuming.

Have you tried a cleanse that you love? If so, drop some details about it in the comments below! I'd love to hear about it!

Valentine's Day Session | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, one thing I make sure I capture during a family session is a couple images of just parents! Too often, parents forget that they were once just a couple. And even though you may have children now, you still need a little reminder now and again about what drew you to one another.

That's why, this year, I'm offering a Valentine's Day Session. This session will be just for the couple. It's important to spend a little time with it just being the two of you. When is the last time you took 20 minutes to just express your love to one another? Well... I'm going to give you that opportunity!

For a limited time, from now until February 14, 2017 I am going to be offering Valentine's Day Sessions.

These sessions will be 20 Minute Sessions and will include:
- 10 High Res, fully edited images for download
-A beautiful Glass Box with 10 5x5 prints (same images that you download)
Sessions will be held within 20 miles of San Clemente (92672) and can be scheduled any day, Monday-Sunday. Please see the link below for location options.
Investment is $300 + 8% OC sales tax (total is $324)
This collection is valued at over $700!!

In order to book your session, session fee must be paid in full and is non-refundable. You may choose which date/time/location works best for you. You'll then receive an email with the contract and model release, as well as a short questionnaire about your relationship.

Choose Your Session

So what are you waiting for? Book a Valentine's Day Session for you and your love. Treat yourselves to a romantic session for just the two of you! Let me capture your love through my eyes.

Click here to see more of my Couple's Photography

Have questions? Contact me!

Elise & Kaleb | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, sometimes, my families are made up just a husband and a wife. I love capturing the bond between family members. Whether that be a family of four, or a family of two.

I've known Elise for a few years now. She's an amazing photographer in the Wisconsin area. You can look her up if you'd like by visiting her site: Wild Mulberry Photography. Elise and I became fast friends during the time she lived on Camp Pendleton. We found that we had a mutual love for photography, animals and Jimmy Johns. This mutual love connected us instantly.

When I found out that she and Kaleb would be moving back to Wisconsin, I was incredibly happy for her while being incredibly sad for myself (haha, how sad does that sound). I was honored when she asked me if I would take photos of her, Kaleb, and Boe before they left our little town.

We did two different sessions (the second session will be shared next week). The first one being a more urban session out in the town of San Clemente. If you've never been, you should really put it on your list of places to visit. With a small town feel, right by the beach, you'll feel right at home when you walk into the unique small businesses and mom & pop restaurants that are lined up and down Del Mar street. It really is beautiful.

In this session, they let their goofy and fun sides show, and I just adored capturing it. We stopped at Rocket Fizz so they could get some of their favorite drinks (Elise is a HUGE Rootbeer fan). We also stopped at Baskin Robbins so they could enjoy some ice cream (another one of their favorites). Here are some shots from that session.

It was such a pleasure getting to capture the goofy, loving dynamic between these two! Stay tuned for session #2!

If you are looking for a San Clemente Family Photographer, I would love for you to Contact Me today to set up your own session!

Laguna Beach Family Session | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, I often times get to meet some pretty amazing families. This family is no different! I met Nicole a little over a year ago just by happenstance. She is another photographer and we both decided to take a course at the same time. So... we were students together. My husband had just deployed and she stopped over to introduce herself in person with a card and my favorite candy (Haribo gummy bears). It was the sweetest gesture and a prelude to the type of friend Nicole would quickly become.

It didn't take long for us to start building our friendship and before I knew it, she was pregnant with miss E, and we were talking and going for walks on the regular. Getting to know Nicole and her family over the last year + has been a blessing for me. I cherish the times we've spent and the connection we have.

Recently, they found out that they'll be moving. This is typical with the Marine Corps, it's part of the job, but it doesn't make it any less sad. Before they leave, Nicole wanted to make sure they captured some family photos here in California before taking off on their new adventure. To say I was excited would be an understatement.

We went to Laguna Beach and just played in the sand. Mr. P, as per usual, was just off doing his own thing. Getting wet, sandy, digging and having a ball as boys tend to do. I'm so thankful I was able to capture these memories for Nicole and her family. I'm going to miss her terribly, but I know in my heart, we'll always be connected.

Love you Nicole!

I also love to make sure that I pull the parents away for a few moments during the family session. It's good to have a moment and some photos just of the two of you.

If you're looking for a San Clemente Family Photography, I would love for you to Contact Me! Let me capture your families memories so that you will always have them to treasure!

Birth Bucket List | San Clemente Birth Photographer

As a San Clemente Birth Photographer, one of the best parts of my job is welcoming new life into the world. Being able to capture a baby being born is one of the most magical moments life has to offer.

I believe, SO MUCH, that birth photography is a necessity. This little life coming into the world will only happen once. Once this moment is gone, you can never get it back. There are no re-dos.

I also know that birth photography isn't easily affordable to everyone. So for this reason, I have created a Birth Bucket List.

What is a Birth Bucket List, you may be asking? Well, it's simply a list of births I consider "unique" that I would love to be able to photograph. Births that I have not yet been able to be apart of, such as a twin birth, or a home birth.

If you are looking for a San Clemente Birth Photographer, I would love for you to check out my Birth Bucket List and see if your birth might qualify for the BBL discount! If you don't see something that fits your birth on my list, but you feel there is something "unique" about your birth, I would love for you to Contact Me and let me know. It never hurts to ask, and who knows, you may have something really amazing going on with your birth that I would just LOVE to be there to capture!

If you're interested in booking a Birth Photography Session with me, you can find out more details by going to my Birth Page or by emailing me!

San Clemente Family Photographer | Year in Review

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, it's important that I take time to reflect on the past year as well as plan for the year ahead.

2016 was a great year. I had a lot of firsts that I'm really happy with, and proud of. I created a course for new photographers that takes them from learning their camera and all about photography, and then teaches them how to start their own photography business the legitimate and legal way. I also created my very first set of Lightroom and Adobe Camera RAW presets. I put myself out there more by doing live Facebook videos. And I connected with some really amazing clients this year, as I think I do every year. I also took the time to do more personal sessions this year. I tried new things, I believed in myself, and I pushed myself. 

Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is honestly one of the best things in life. I love being able to connect with families, to capture their moments. Being able to bring them lifelong memories that they can cherish forever is priceless to me.

Having such a wonderful 2016 only means that I need to push myself even harder for 2017. I have new goals. One of these goals is to reach more families in the San Clemente/Orange County area. Will you be one of them? I sure hope so!

Here are a few of my favorite images from throughout 2016

I would love to be able to capture your family memories this year. If you're interested in having your San Clemente Family Photography done, I would love for you to Contact Me!