rizzarizphotography

It's rare that I get asked to do family portraits these days. But when I do, I'm most ALWAYS up for a challenge. A challenge you say? No way, no how. Think again....kids are pretty fast and if you're not paying close enough attention you'll miss some pretty awesome moments.

Meet Brendan & Tricia, two of the most polite and laid-back kids I've ever met. When I think of what a happy and carefree childhood looks like, I think of these two. Considering the times and how kids grow faster than Chia pets these days, I find it refreshing to know that Brendan and Tricia are occupied being just kids - as they should be. As an added bonus mum and dad are pretty kick-ass - both very talented artists and good friends.

Tricia & Brendan: thank you both for being SUCH good sports and so much fun! One day I will own a big trampoline, too. If I did school again, I'd definitely want to hang out with you! You two are amazing and are going to do some big things in this world! I look forward to it! Riz.



Tricia is adorb! Her eyes are striking AND she has the cutest freckles to boot!
Brendan is such a HAM! Mum will have to ward the girls off with bug spray.

I wish I owned a trampoline this big when I was a kid.  Actually, I just wish I owned a trampoline.

Labels: Alameda Photographer, san francisco photographer, san francisco portrait photographer

My fabulously fabulous good friend Cindy and I make it a point to do something fun each month, and in a perfect world - my schedule permitting - I'd probably opt for a delightful excursion every other week at the very least. But the truth is, shooting for other photographers, myself included, working the 8-5 and staying up through all-nighter edits, it gets a little impossible and hard to manage my own personal life. So when I do go out (nothing that would blow wind up your skirt, assuming that you're wearing one), I try to make it the very best.  This month we trekked down Highway 1 to a blissfully warm Santa Cruz. We tried making it to the Mystery Spot which was the sole purpose for why I brought my gear with me in the first place (not to snap shots as I cruise through some lame carwash), but the line and wait alone would have cut into a huge portion of our day.  But, we'll be heading back out there again, and I can't wait to post whatever interesting images come of it.  

Labels: mystery spot, san francisco photographer, san francisco portrait photographer, san francisco wedding photographer

You may remember Kristi + Eric from their engagement session I posted a few months back. Now the couple is newly wed with an exciting future ahead of them. It was also refreshing to see these two let loose and have a wonderful time with their friends and family.

A sneak peak of my favorites...

Labels: Brentwood Golf course, san francisco photographer, san francisco wedding photographer

They are the quintessential urbanites living the city life, in a cozy abode amidst a busy city of cement blocks, crammed car trains and treacherous hills...yet through the hustle and bustle of city life in San Francisco, they are still themselves: a woman reformed from her rebellious punk years and a good old wholesome boy next door from the Midwest. They are Mike and Rhea, whom I consider both to be good people and good friends. I knew Rhea when I worked at the Art Institute. She was my handy and trusty assistant, and let's face it, she really did run the place...quite efficiently too!

Our shoot Saturday was a long wait in the making, and the wait was quite worth it. Here you'll find two people in love with a very promising future together.































Hip, hip hooray!!!!


Mike+Rhea, thank you so much for your friendship and for being patient and open to my ideas for this shoot!! I wish you BOTH well in your future together.

Labels: san francisco photographer

And...once again I join the wonderful Jennifer Hosler of Candid Moments Weddings this weekend to take part of the celebration of a whirlwind tale between two high school sweethearts, Lauren + John. You couldn't have asked for a more good looking pair, an officer in the Marine Corps. and a former Raiderette. The wedding took place at Ruby Hill Golf Club, which exists in a gorgeous community hidden between the most beautiful country canyons and romantic vineyards of Pleasanton, CA. I was fourth shooter, as there were not one, not two, not three, but FOUR photographers (including myself) at Lauren + John's big day. Jennifer and the other gals spent their time between the bride and groom, while I snapped away from the sidelines. I decided to approach the wedding from a storyteller's perspective, rather than focus on the obvious portraits. Besides, I could afford to as there was more than enough coverage from all angles. I had the luxury of taking my time to capture the candid moments and details in between, which I absolutely love. These photos are a part 1 series of Lauren + John's big day, leading up to the cocktail party. Check for more as I will be posting images from the reception.

A few of my faves:
Starting with the bride....my favorite...a closeup....


Lauren touches up before entering her dress...




the small details that really do matter...


The brides maids entertain Lauren from the sidelines....is it me or is she glowing?


Simply stunning. Can you believe those eyes?


the reception area was riddled with icy detail


The bridesmaids strike a pose...




meanwhile, the groom anxiously awaits while entertaining the guests...


the flower girls are darling...one day they will make beautiful brides, too!

minutes before the ceremony: a family member explains what a "toast" is to the flower girls; the bridesmaids make a toast to celebrate a friend's last hour as a single woman....

the ceremony was quite short....left to right: the bridesmaids gossip amongst themselves; Lauren is smitten by her handsome groom; the groom's men stand at attention.

the handsome new couple get their portrait taken with the father of the bride...

and so the reception begins....

the newlywed couple backlit against the gorgeous valleys and yummy, golden sun!



Remember to stay tuned! I've got more coming from the reception!!!!

Labels: california photographer, ruby hill, san francisco photographer, wedding