The key to success is learning to listen to the right voice.  What exactly that one voice is is dependent on faith, circumstances, or even the moment.  All my life I've been plagued with indecision, listening to so many voices that sometimes I end up not making a choice at all, and merely play it safe.

I was hiking with a friend on Friday, and she told me that she was lucky having people around her who take risks.  I asked her who those people were, and was surprised to learn that one of the people she included on that list was me.  Starting something new in the face of troubled economic times is not the wisest decision in anyone's book, even if it is to do something you love.  I find that really ironic that since starting my photography business, I have never been more beset by doubts.

But what I was thinking about is that fifty years from now, when you look back on your life, it won't be about wishing you had played it safer.  It'll be about the moments that made it all worth it.  And that means having a little more idealism, and learning to listen to the right voice.  It means working hard towards all your goals, but enjoying the moment and not letting fear and worry overtake your life.

Here's to hoping that everyone had a wonderful fourth of July, which earmarks a slightly unbelievable event driven by ideals.  Here's to hoping that despite tough economic times we are still worrying less and living more. And also a little thank you to everyone who has ever encouraged me, and helped me find that right voice at the right time.  Hope you had a great meal with friends and family. :)

** The shot below was taken at a friend's house, lying on the grass watching fireworks light up the sky.  I loved watching a flag she had mounted on the side of her house rippling beside the impressive pyrotechnic display.

Pros of a new blog:  Bigger pictures! :D

Cons of a new blog:  Goodbye old comments...

And because no post is complete without some pictures, this past Saturday I went to Forth Mag's carnival  at the Santa Monica Pier.  Forth Magazine is a new arts magazine that's hit the west LA scene.    Two of my pictures were published in the very first issue, which was really exciting. :)

A couple days ago I met with lovely bride-to-be Yeri, to do a bridal photoshoot at her old stomping grounds.  She was adventurous and sweet throughout our entire shoot, so not only did we get some lovely photos but we also had a lot of fun.  I must say, I have been really lucky with the people I work with!

We also got to chatting, and it turns out she had been to some places that I am keen to see (like Angkor Wat and several other places in asia).  Apparently her job is not only rewarding and altruistic, but it also allows her to travel occasionally!  Can we say dream job? :)

Her sister Sarah was also along for the ride, for which I was really thankful.  She was absolutely vital in helping preserve Yeri's gorgeous dress for her wedding day and also for posing tips.  Plus she made Yeri laugh, which is always a plus.






How many brides are willing to sit here with their wedding dress before their wedding?  I'd say very few.  But she sat and smiled (almost) the whole way through.



Sarah did an amazing job with Yeri's hair and makeup.
















I love the splash of color from Yeri's red shoes.




That shoot was a lot of fun.  If this portrait session is any indicator, Yeri is going to make a gorgeous bride.  :)

** no wedding dress was harmed during the course of this session

A very strange sight awaits visitors to the beach in Marina del Rey. A gray whale has temporarily called the Marina del Rey channel home. This shot was actually taken from the walkway right next to the beach.

Exactly one year ago today...




Crazy.