April Wise Photography

Jess & Ben [San Luis Obispo Wedding Photography]

2011-09-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ben is a family friend of my good friend Alyse. She and I moved from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco coincidentally at the same time last year. She introduced me to Ben's mom over the winter and we immediately started discussing the plans for Ben and Jess's wedding in Paso Robles. I gave them a huge list of great vendors in the San Luis Obispo area. Of course, after hearing about how Ben is into medieval reenactments and their wedding would be at Eagle Castle Winery, I knew Bob Stock at Phase1 Mobile DJ was the right fit for them. We had a great time at this wedding. They were such a fun couple from the pre-wedding moments to the last dance of the night.

Wedding Photography: Wedding dress hanging outside

Wedding Photography: Black and White Wedding Cake

Wedding Photography: Bride getting dressed

Wedding Photography: Bride in courtyard of Castle

Wedding Photography: Close up of Bride

Wedding Photography: The wedding rings

Wedding Photography: Groom at wedding ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride and father walking down the aisle

Wedding Photography: Groom looking at bride during ceremony

Wedding Photography: Wide shot of ceremony in front of castle

Wedding Photography: Bride putting on Groom's ring

Wedding Photography: The first kiss

Wedding Photography: The couple walking down the aisle

Wedding Photography: Groom and groomsmen

Wedding Photography: Bride with bridesmaids

Wedding Photography: The wedding party

Wedding Photography: The wedding party being silly

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom kissing by the moat

Wedding Photography: Bride and groom with flag

Wedding Photography: Portrait during sunset

Wedding Photography: The dinner reception hall

Wedding Photography: Cutting the cake, with a sword!

Wedding Photography: Feeding each other cake

Wedding Photography: Cake on the Groom's face

Wedding Photography: Bride singing during the first dance

Wedding Photography: Bouquet toss

Wedding Photography: Retrieving the garter

Wedding Photography: Fisheye of dancing area

Megan & Nick [Monterey Wedding Photography]

2011-08-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

Megan and Nick had a fantastic wedding at the Monterey Museum of Art. The ceremony was in the rose garden behind the museum. After the ceremony we walked down to the pond for portraits with the bridal party. They had dinner in the front garden and then moved back out to the back garden for dancing and cake. DNA provided tunes for the event.

Wedding Photography: Wedding Dress

Wedding Photography: Bride getting hair done

Wedding Photography: Brides Bouquet

Wedding Photography: Flower Girl Basket on Doorknob

Wedding Photography: Pinning the veil

Wedding Photography: Bride Portrait

Wedding Photography: Bride with Bridesmaids in Mirror Reflection

Wedding Photography: Groom waiting for Bride

Wedding Photography: Bride with Father

Wedding Photography: The Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride putting on Groom's ring

Wedding Photography: The First Kiss

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom after ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom inside the museum

Wedding Photography: Wedding Party on Stairs

Wedding Photography: Wedding Party by Pond

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom by Pond

Wedding Photography: Reception Tables

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Bride's Parent Kissing

Wedding Photography: Wedding Cake

Wedding Photography: Cake Cutting

Wedding Photography: Guests Dancing

Wedding Photography: Guest Signing Table

2nd Photographer Again [Templeton Wedding Photography]

2011-07-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Last month I was hired to work with John Patrick Images on a beautiful wedding on a ranch in Templeton. I haven't worked as a 2nd photographer in, I'd say, about 8 years. It was a lot of fun to shoot with the stress and pressure of being the primary photographer. I got to take a lot of candids and experiment. There were a lot of great vendors, Sarah Angelique, Sean Dasmann from AMS, and Josh & Katherine Morris from Rain Studios on Video.

Wedding Photography: The Hay-ride up to the ceremony

Wedding Photography: PJ shooting Bride portraits

Wedding Photography: Table Center Pieces

Wedding Photography: Groomsmen walking down to ceremony

Wedding Photography: Groomsmen walking to ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride and father walking down the aisle

Wedding Photography: Bride laughing at Groom

Wedding Photography: The First Kiss

Wedding Photography: Ringbearer during portraits

Wedding Photography: Candid of Bride being held by Groomsmen

Wedding Photography: Sarah helping the Bride with comfortable shoes

Wedding Photography: Bride Bouquet

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Rain Studios shooting Bride

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Cake and Cupcakes

Wedding Photography: Night Scene of Wedding Tent

Victoria & Tim [San Luis Obispo Wedding Photography]

2011-07-01T23:41:00.000-07:00

Victoria and Tim had their very special wedding day at their home in Arroyo Grande. There was a lot of originality going on in the wedding, a black wedding dress being most obvious. In addition to that their was a long-horn bull, rock-n-roll processional and a best friend skyped in from England. Also it was probably the sweetest wedding I've ever shot...no I mean literally! They had a chocolate fountain, cotton candy, smoores, italian ice, and a wedding cake. One of my favorite parts was the garter toss. Because they met on eHarmony they attached $30 onto the garter as a "pay-it-forward" so that whoever caught the garter could join the site. It was a very fun idea. Sarah Angelique did a great job keep everything organized and on-track. I also got to work with DJ Mike from AMS and Jack Hutchinson on video, both for the first time. They both did an excellent job!

Wedding Photography: The black wedding dress

Wedding Photography: Makeup

Wedding Photography: The garter with eHarmony fee attached

Wedding Photography: Lacing up the black wedding dress

Wedding Photography: The bride giving her bridesmaids jewelry

Wedding Photography: Hiding the bride

Wedding Photography: Groom watching the bride walk down the aisle

Wedding Photography: Bride and father

Wedding Photography: Wide shot of the ceremony

Wedding Photography: Groom putting on Bride's ring

Wedding Photography: Family combining sand

Wedding Photography: The first kiss

Wedding Photography: Walking out after the ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride skyping with her best friend

Wedding Photography: Kissing between portraits

Wedding Photography: Daughter/Maid of Honer with her boyfriend flipping his hair

Wedding Photography: Just Married with Bull in background

Wedding Photography: Walking along the driveway

Wedding Photography: Sitting on a swing

Wedding Photography: Strawberries, Marshmellows and Cookies for the chocolate fountain

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Dip at the end of First Dance

Wedding Photography: Bride giving Matron of Honer a special carrot cake

Wedding Photography: Cutting the cake

Wedding Photography: The Cake

Domine & Chris [San Francisco Engagement Photography]

2011-06-16T23:20:00.000-07:00

I met up with Domine and Chris in the Glen Park neighborhood of San Francisco. A few days before the engagement session Domine got herself very nervous and worked up about the shoot. We worked through it after I explained that the engagement session is all about practice and with 2 hours we will have plenty of time to get several really great shoots. I love engagement photography. It is a great chance to get to know my couple and for them to practice being in front of the camera. It takes so much pressure off the wedding day portraits. Everything goes a little faster and smoother on the day. That's why every couple I book for wedding photography gets a free engagement shoot. It is completely optional but I totally recommend it. Besides its free and if they opt not to do the wedding still costs the same amount. So there really isn't any reason to skip it.

Engagement Photography: Close up of the couple on a bridge

Engagement Photography: The couple with the bridge railing

Engagement Photography: Laughing behind a gate

Engagement Photography: I said "Act Natural" and this is what I got

Engagement Photography: Smiling at each other

Engagement Photography: In front of a green wooden fence

Engagement Photography: On a log with flowers behind

Engagement Photography: Carrying her through flowers

Engagement Photography: In the Glen Park Canyon

Engagement Photography: Kissing in Glen Park Canyon

Engagement Photography: Close up

Engagement Photography: Lying in the grass

Engagement Photography: Leaning on a fence with Cowboy hats

Engagement Photography: Hiding a kiss with a Cowboy hat

Engagement Photography: Showing off the engagement ring

Ben & Jess [San Luis Obispo Engagement Photography]

2011-06-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

Ben and Jess were referred to me by my friend Alyse. I met Ben's mom first in San Francisco. She asked me for a list of florist, hairstylist and DJs from the San Luis Obispo area. I was happy to help them and I'm super excited for this wedding because I get to work with some of my favorite vendors all in one event! Ben and Jess were in Morro Bay the same weekend I had finals at Cuesta so we met up at the dunes just North of the Morro Rock. They brought their dog and a good friend to help wrangle her. Jess and Ben is very photogenic and Ben has a great grasp on how to act in a pose so that the photo is natural but still has a portrait feel. I can't wait to work with them in July at Eagle Castle.

Engagement Photography: Sitting in Ice Plant

Engagement Photography: Natural Portrait of Couple

Engagement Photography: Kissing with their Dog on the Beach

Engagement Photography: Walking the Dog with Morro Rock behind

Engagement Photography: Stick Fighting

Engagement Photography: In the light of Sunset

Engagement Photography: Initials in the Sand

Engagement Photography: Sunset on Morro Bay Beach

Engagement Photography: One Silly Shot

Mistee's Baby Shower [San Luis Obispo Family Photography]

2011-05-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Dawn hired me to shoot Mistee's baby shower was at her home in San Miguel. Well actually it was across the street in the open field. Although it was really windy in San Miguel that day, it was still a fantastic baby shower. Mistee looked amazing! I hope if I ever get pregnant I look that good. My friends and family are probably rolling on the ground laughing at that statement :)

Family Photography: Baby Shower Favors

Family Photography: Setting up the Cupcakes

Family Photography: The Buffet

Family Photography: Overflowing Gift Table

Family Photography: Mother to be having fun with melon

Family Photography: The Candy Bar in the Diaper Game

Family Photography: Hugs

Family Photography: Mother to Be Sash

Family Photography: Mommy and Daddy Opening Gifts

Family Photography: Portrait of Parents to Be

Dale & Rich [Berkeley Wedding Photography]

2011-05-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

Dale and Rich had their intimate Jewish ceremony and reception at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley. It was a foggy and rainy day in the Bay Area but we still had a lot of great opportunities for portraits. Dale's daughter Quinn recommended me. She works at the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum and helped me set up the Art After Dark show last year.

Wedding Photography: Candid Portrait

Wedding Photography: Bride getting dressed

Wedding Photography: Bride with Daughters

Wedding Photography: Bride in hotel room at Claremont

Wedding Photography: Bride in Garden

Wedding Photography: Groom waiting for Bride

Wedding Photography: Bride with Father

Wedding Photography: The Ceremony Huppah

Wedding Photography: Breaking the glass

Wedding Photography: The first kiss

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom Portrait

Wedding Photography: Reception Table

Wedding Photography: Wedding cake

Wedding Photography: First dance

Wedding Photography: Dancing dip and kiss

Wedding Photography: Cutting the cake

Explode La Mode [San Francisco Fashion Photography]

2011-05-06T23:00:00.000-07:00

Francisco Castro participated in the Explode La Mode fashion show at Som Bar in San Francisco. He asked me to attend and photograph his clothing.

Fashion Photography: Yulya Mango in Francisco Castro

Fashion Photography: Franciso Castro design

Fashion Photography: The overcrowded press area

Fashion Photography: Franciso Castro

Victoria & Tim Engagement Part 2 [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2011-04-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

I met up with Victoria and Tim for the 2nd half of their engagement session at the beach behind The Shelter Cove Inn in Shell Beach. They brought their rottie and we hiked down to the beach from the hotel parking lot. It was still windy but we were able to wait out the wind and get some great shots.

Engagement Photography: The couple with their dog

Engagement Photography: Couple kissing on a rock with their dog

Engagement Photography: Couple with ocean in background

Engagement Photography: Walking on the beach with the dog

Engagement Photography: Leaning on a rail

Engagement Photography: Kissing with a rock formation in the background

Dale & Rich [Berkeley Engagement Photography]

2011-03-31T08:08:00.000-07:00

Dale's daughter Quinn recommended me from my work with the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Dale and Rich are Oakland residents and will be having their wedding at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley, CA. They decided to meeting me at the hotel for their engagement session and to go over some details for their wedding. Here are some highlights from the session.

Engagement Photography: The couple with ivy and tree in the background

Engagement Photography: The couple of the deck of
The Claremont Hotel with white hand rail.

Engagement Photography: Couple sitting on a park bench

Engagement Photography: Couple with the Claremont
Hotel in the Background

Engagement Photography: The couple in the hotel bar

Engagement Photography: The couple sitting in a chair.

Urban Cowboy [Glendale, CA Photography]

2011-03-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just started a full time position at Bank of America Home Loans. They sent me to a training in Glendale, CA. On Wednesday night I was out with some friends who drove up from Redlands and this is what we saw. I didn't actually take this picture but I definitely pointed it out to my friend. It made me laugh so I thought I should share it on my blog.

Photography by Richard Parker

Victoria & Tim Engagement Part 1 [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2011-03-20T22:01:00.000-07:00

Victoria and Tim are getting married in May at the Arroyo Grande home. We met in downtown San Luis Obispo for an engagement session. It has been so windy that we decided to only do half of the session this time then meet again in a few weeks to go to the beach for a 2nd session.

Engagement Photography: The couple under a tree

Engagement Photography: At San Luis Obispo creek

Engagement Photography: Doorway of the San Luis Obispo Mission

Engagement Photography: Frog and Peach

Engagement Photography: Fanny Wrappers

Francisco Castro at Ruby Sky [San Francisco Fashion Photography]

2011-02-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Francisco Castro had a show at Ruby Sky in San Francisco. I was invited to do photography along with Robin Chilton of Peregrine Media who was shooting video. We had a great time shooting together again for the first time since last years Central Coast Fashion Week in SLO.

Fashion Photography: A model getting hair done.

Fashion Photography: Detail of makeup kit.

Fashion Photography: The wonderful Robin Chilton

Fashion Photography: Close up of a model getting makeup

Fashion Photography: A models life - hair, makeup, photography

Fashion Photography: Francisco Castro Designs

Fashion Photography: Makeup artist working on a model

Fashion Photography: Gabrielle Valedon wearing Francisco Castro

Fashion Photography: Francisco Castro at Ruby Sky in San Francisco

Fashion Photography: Yulya Mango wearing Francisco Castro

Fashion Photography: Francisco Castro at Ruby Sky in San Francisco

Fashion Photography: Gabrielle Valedon wearing Francisco Castro

Fashion Photography: The one and only Francisco Castro at Ruby Sky in San Francisco

Megan & Nick Engagement Session [Monterey Photography]

2011-02-01T20:23:00.000-08:00

Megan and Nick met me at the Pacific Grove Golf Course and Asilomar Beach for their engagement session. After we went to the Monterey Museum of Art - La Mirada for a few more engagement photos and to discuss their event plans. They are a fun couple and I'm looking forward to their beautiful July wedding.

Engagement Photography: On the Green

Engagement Photography: The Couple Under Oaks

Engagement Photography: Leaning on a Tree

Engagement Photography: At Asilomar Beach

Engagement Photography: Close Up of the Couple

Engagement Photography: On the Sofa at La Mirada

Chris Denny [San Francisco Music Photography]

2011-01-21T15:27:00.000-08:00

My brother has been in town for a few weeks so I had a couple of opportunities to photograph him playing. His friend David Kluger at Wolfgang's Vault shot 4 really great videos and I took some behind the scenes shots. Two days later Chris played at the Revolution Cafe in San Francisco and I got some great shots from that show. The Revolution Cafe is pretty tiny and probably the darkest place I've ever shot without a flash.

Chris Denny at Wolfgang's Vault in San Francisco

David Kluger recording Chris Denny at Wolfgang's Vault in San Francisco

Chris Denny at Revolution Cafe in San Francisco

Photography School [Dallas Art Photography]

2011-01-18T16:05:00.000-08:00

I finally had the opportunity to pull a few images from my photography classes in Dallas back in 2001 and 2002. This are all black and white film images scanned from the negative, so forgive the quality. I guess my love for contrast started pretty early. There are a mix of abstract images with natural light and studio images with controlled lighting.

Abstract Photography: Stairs with shadow

Abstract Photography: This was actually a tucked away corner
of a church down the street from my house.

Abstract Photography: I drove past this image everyday
for a few weeks before I jumped out with my camera and grabbed it.

Abstract Photography: This image and the next image are part of a diptic.

Abstract Photography: This image goes next to the one above creating a pattern.
They are shot from underneath a metal staircase.

Fashion Photography: This was one of my first attempts at studio lighting.

Studio Lighting: We had to create a studio on a shoestring
budget. This was shot in my kitchen using a posterboard backdrop and
hot lights. I didn't do a great job with the reflections but hey that's
my hand so I was shooting one handed. No fish were harmed.

Human Abstract: An experiment with multiple exposures in studio.

Human Abstract: I noticed this awesome light in my living room
one morning so I set up my tripod and jumped in front of
the camera for a quick self portrait. This turned out to be
one of my favorite shots from my entire school portfolio.

Figure Study: This was from my very first semester.

Art Photography: My boyfriend at the time worked in
a building that housed old movie sets. This was discovered
while exploring late one night. Shhhh! We weren't supposed to be there.

Art Photography: I took this image on one of my last days in
Dallas. There was a polling place down the street from my house
and the sight of all these political signs was insane.
There were even more signs than you can see.

Babes in Toyland Ballet [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-12-20T13:50:00.000-08:00

Coastal Dance and Music Academy invited me to photograph their ballet production of Babes in Toyland at the Clark Center. I attended two nights. On the first night I shot the ballet from about halfway back and center stage. After I shot the ballet I took some group portraits. On the second night I snagged a empty front row seat and got a lot of great close up shots of the dancers. When I edited the event I mixed the two nights together to make it into a two camera shoot.

Coastal Dance and Music Academy: Dancer Portrait

Coastal Dance and Music Academy: Stage Crew Portrait

Coastal Dance and Music Academy: Dancer Portrait

Babes in Toyland: Coastal Dance and Music Academy

Lizzy & Matt [Santa Cruz Wedding Photography]

2010-12-12T10:04:00.001-08:00

Lizzy and Matt have the kind of loving relationship that everyone wants. Over the past year they have become more than clients to me, I consider them friends. Their wedding was at Mount Madonna Park in Watsonville, CA. They had a rainbow and fall theme with converse shoes. Their cake was by Buttery. It was delicious and also really fun. The coordinator decorated it with sugar leaves, bugs, sticks and a banana slug topper. It was probably my favorite all year.

Wedding Photography: The Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: The Dress

Wedding Photography: Bridal Bouquet

Wedding Photography: Lacing up the Dress

Wedding Photography: The First Look

Wedding Photography: First Moments Seeing Each Other

Wedding Photography: Portrait of the Couple

Wedding Photography: The Wedding Party

Wedding Photography: Best Man with Groom

Wedding Photography: Portrait with The Fall Leaves

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Converse Shoes

Wedding Photography: Ceremony Decorations

Wedding Photography: Groom as the Processional Starts

Wedding Photography: Bridal Laughing while Walking Down the Aisle

Wedding Photography: Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Exchanging Rings

Wedding Photography: Not the First Kiss of the Day
but Definitely the First as Husband and Wife

Wedding Photography: Groom smelling the Bouquet

Wedding Photography: Practicing the Dance Routine

Wedding Photography: Table Center Pieces

Wedding Photography: The Cake

Wedding Photography: Popcorn Favors

Wedding Photography: Dinner Spread

Wedding Photography: Candy Banana Slugs

Wedding Photography: Bride Dancing

Wedding Photography: The DJ had actual records!

Wedding Photography: The Dogs

Wedding Photography: Cookies

Wedding Photography: Groom Cuddling a Dog

Great American Music Hall - 11-28-10 [Music Photography]

2010-12-03T20:20:00.001-08:00

I recently had the chance to shoot one of my favorite bands again. This San Francisco show at Great American Music Hall broke off from their cross country tour with Social Distortion. Instead, Lucero headlined with Drag the River. Lucero has been around for over 13 years and tour constantly. Their fans are all "diehards". Every fan I've ever chatted with has a story about how they relate to the music or a time they spoke with or met the band. It's really refreshing to see a band that connects with their fans on that level. I'm no different, I guess I qualify as a Lucero Diehard.

Music Photography: Lucero on Stage at Great American Music Hall

Music Photography: Jon Snodgrass of Drag the River

Music Photography: Chad Price of Drag the River

Music Photography: Drag the River Fisheye

Music Photography: Ben Nichols of Lucero with Drag the River

Music Photography: Nahshon Benford of Lucero on Trumpet

Music Photography: Guitarist, Brian Venable of Lucero

Music Photography: Drummer, Roy Berry of Lucero

Music Photography: Bassist, John C. Stubblefield of Lucero

Music Photography: Front Man, Ben Nichols of Lucero

Music Photography: Note the crazy Lucero Fan hanging off the Balcony

Music Photography: It got to crazy for me up front so I went upstairs for a few

Music Photography: Todd Beene of Lucero on Pedal Steel

Music Photography: Rick Steff broke out the accordion for one song

Music Photography: Enjoying the show from the Sound Engineers Perspective

Music Photography: Rick Steff on Keyboard

Music Photography: Great American Music Hall

Music Photography: The Encore included the Bands Touring Tattoo Artist, Oliver

Family Portraits with Holly, Steve and Lance [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-12-02T02:56:00.000-08:00

Holly called me for a children/family portrait session for Holiday Greeting Cards. I met them at their beautiful house in Santa Margarita Ranch. Over the years of shooting kids sometimes it's easier and more fun if you just let them be themselves, shot a lot and wait for the right moments. This is why all my portrait session involving younger kids are at least 2 hours. Lance was in a particularly opinionated mood about his wardrobe and which shots he wanted to do. He wanted to play football and needed to wear his "football shirt" and helmet. Eventually we got the helmet off and took a few cute portraits but the helmet shots are really hilarious! Side note: Holly and Steve are the couple that got me started as a wedding photographer 7+ years ago.

The Santa Margarita Ranch Landscape

Childrens Photography: Posing in his Football Gear

Childrens Photography: A Cute Candid

Childrens Photography: Two Thumbs Up

Childrens Photography: With a Barrel of Leaves

Childrens Photography: Black and White

Family Portraits: The Parents

Christa's Graduation Session [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-12-02T02:45:00.000-08:00

Christa is a Senior at Cal Poly in the Animal Sciences Dept. She wanted a simple headshot session and a couple of portraits with a neighborhood cow for her Graduation announcements. It was really fun working with her. Christa is totally laid back and fun. Bessie the cow ended up getting a little too frisky with me and my camera but it all worked out. Famous last words "They're more afraid of you than you are them."

Senior Portraits: Christa with the Pug

Senior Portraits: With the Neighbor Cow

Senior Portraits: Christa by a Tree

Senior Portraits: Head and Shoulders

Senior Portraits: Inside the Cow Pin

Senior Portraits: Candid Shot

Senior Portraits: The Curious Cow

Erin & Erick [Monterey Wedding Photography]

2010-12-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

Erick and Erin were such a sweet couple. I loved hearing the story of how their relationship grew during the toast. Their "thing" is to pinkie swear, so during the vows they held their pinkies interlocked as a special promise. They had their ceremony at Calvary Chapel with the reception at Memory Gardens. Again we worked with DNA...this time with Evan.

Wedding Photography: The Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Flower and Dress

Wedding Photography: Last Minute Touch Ups

Wedding Photography: The Boys, by Alex Geller

Wedding Photography: Getting Dressed

Wedding Photography: Lacing Up

Wedding Photography: The Groom

Wedding Photography: Bride with Parents

Wedding Photography: Couple during the Ceremony

Wedding Photography: The Vows

Wedding Photography: Bubbles

Wedding Photography: The Wedding Party

Wedding Photography: Pinky Swear

Wedding Photography: At the Wharf

Wedding Photography: Full Length Portrait

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Cake Cutting

Wedding Photography: Portrait by the Fountain

Wedding Photography: White Pickett Fence

Wedding Photography: Dancing Guests

Wedding Photography: A Secret Moment

Ashley & Jimmy [Monterey Wedding Photography]

2010-11-27T18:14:00.000-08:00

Ashley's mom Joanne hired me and we scheduled a meeting at the Spring 09 Central Coast Bride Fair in Monterey. Ashley and Jimmy got married at the Intercontinental Clement on Cannery Row in Monterey. It was a great setting and a perfect day. I also got to work with another DNA, Connie Moore for flowers and Cakes by Victoria.

Wedding Photography: Portrait of Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: The Tables

Wedding Photography: A Message from the Groom

Wedding Photography: The Dress

Wedding Photography: Somewhere a tourist has a picture
of me laying on the ground getting this shot.

Wedding Photography: Flowers by Connie Moore

Wedding Photography: Getting Dressed

Wedding Photography: The Bride

Wedding Photography: Groom during Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride during Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Intercontinental Clement

Wedding Photography: Ceremony with Sailboat

Wedding Photography: Bridal Party on Cannery Row

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom on the Street

Wedding Photography: Inside the Intercontinental Clement

Wedding Photography: Jellyfish Chandelier

Wedding Photography: This Girl Introduced the Couple

Wedding Photography: First Dance, Natural Lighting

Wedding Photography: DNA Colored Lighting System

Wedding Photography: Cake by Victoria

Wedding Photography: They really enjoyed stopping traffic

Sara & Derek [Santa Barbara Wedding Photography]

2010-11-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

With so many of my favorite things in one wedding I don't know where to start. I met Derek a couple of years back through one of my best friends, John. Derek and I quickly became friends so when he and Sara started planning their wedding they asked me to meet them. With a shoe/truck themed wedding, a dog, succulents, cupcakes, The Canary Hotel Rooftop, Bob Stock DJing, Skylae at Queen Bees providing gorgeousness and several of my very dear friends I was in total wedding photographer heaven! Plus Josh was even available to work with me :)

Wedding Photography: Bride, Groom, Shoes, Truck!

Wedding Photography: THE Shoes

Wedding Photography: Lovely Bridal Bouquet

Wedding Photography: The Rings and Handkercheif

Wedding Photography: The Beautiful Bride

Wedding Photography: Girls

Wedding Photography: Abby the Dog

Wedding Photography: Shoe Shaped Place Cards for Girls

Wedding Photography: Truck Shaped Place Cards for Boys

Wedding Photography: The Truck and The Guys

Wedding Photography: The Groom

Wedding Photography: Ceremony of the Canary Rooftop
overlooking the Santa Barbara Mission

Wedding Photography: Immediately After the Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Eric and Katy

Wedding Photography: Skylae from Queen Bees

Wedding Photography: Reno and Christina

Wedding Photography: The Most Delicious Chocolate Cupcakes

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: A Kiss While Dancing

Wedding Photography: Laughing at the DJ

Wedding Photography: DJ Bob Stock

Wedding Photography: Dear Friend John

Amanda & Tomas [San Luis Obispo Wedding Photography]

2010-11-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

Amanda found me through a friend, Melinda Perez. Melinda has been to a few of the kid's birthday parties I've shot over the past couple of years. Amanda and Tomas had a casual, family-style wedding at the Loading Shoot in Creston. It was super laid back and lots of fun.

Wedding Photography: The Ceremony

Wedding Photography: The Groom

Wedding Photography: The Bride

Wedding Photography: Decoration Detail with Ceremony in Background

Wedding Photography: The Kiss

Wedding Photography: Enjoying a Little Alone Time

Wedding Photography: Wedding Party

Wedding Photography: Portrait of Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Full Length Portrait of Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: Grand Entrance

Wedding Photography: Carnitas...This was very interesting to a vegetarian.

Wedding Photography: The Wedding Cake

Wedding Photography: Mingling with the Guests

Wedding Photography: Maid of Honor Toast

Wedding Photography: Groom's Mother Toasting the Couple

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Guests by the Barn

Wedding Photography: Dancing

Wedding Photography: The DJ

Wedding Photography: This Little Guy Dancing

Mud Mash Race [San Luis Obispo Sports Photography]

2010-11-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

This Halloween I invited myself to shoot a very fun event in San Luis Obispo. The Mud Mash is a 5 or 10K race around Laguna Lake Park. The race takes it participants wading, tromping, splashing and climbing. The event was produced by All Out Events, a local sports event planning company. A portion of the proceeds went to SLO County's Special Olympics. All Out Events plans races, triathlons, adventure races and rock climbing events around the Central Coast. This was the first Mud Mash and hopefully it will be an annual event. Images are available or purchase as prints or digital downloads here.

These are going to be great later when they hit the mud pit.

MC Chris Stehula getting everyone ready to start the race.

There were a lot of costumes but I still think
Josh from Foothill Cyclery had the best one.

The First Heat taking off.

Wading through the lake.

Tromping through the reeds.

Running to get to the next obstacle.

Climbing the net.

Rope Climb

Coming back down the hill.

The Giant Mud Pit

Splashing in the mud.

10K individual winner John Donovan

And this happened too.

The Final Challenge...Vikings!

Noelle & Sean [Monterey Wedding Photography]

2010-10-29T21:44:00.000-07:00

Noelle and Sean had an amazing wedding at Hollman Ranch. Jen Rodger's worked with me as a 2nd photographer and she was great! It's always fun to get a chance to see another pro work in person. Todd Fisher Catering, Exhibit Floral, Chic Event Design and DNA Entertainment all did a great job.

Wedding Photography: The Bride and Groom

Wedding Photography: The Dress

Wedding Photography: I Love Shoes!

Wedding Photography: Rings on a Saddle

Wedding Photography: Flower by Exhibit Floral

Wedding Photography: Zipping Up

Wedding Photography: The Bride

Wedding Photography: Bride and Bridemaids

Wedding Photography: Arbor with Hanging Flowers by Exhibit Floral

Wedding Photography: The Groom after seeing the Bride

Wedding Photography: Down the Aisle

Wedding Photography: Father Giving Away the Bride

Wedding Photography: The Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Husband and Wife

Wedding Photography: Walking Down to the Vineyard

Wedding Photography: Alone Time

Wedding Photography: Groom and Groomsmen

Wedding Photography: This Happened

Wedding Photography: The Wedding Party

Wedding Photography: Wedding Party Goofing Off

Wedding Photography: Portrait of the Couple

Wedding Photography: The Cake

Wedding Photography: Salad by Todd Fisher

Wedding Photography: Maid of Honor Toast

Wedding Photography: Best Man's Toast

Wedding Photography: Groom during his Roast, I mean Toast

Wedding Photography: Dinner by Todd Fisher

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Lighting by Chic Event Design

Wedding Photography: Garden Portrait

Wedding Photography: Fun Cowboy Statue

Wedding Photography: Party Time

Wedding Photography: Bridesmaids Dancing

Kids Photography Project Update [San Francisco, Monterey, San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-10-22T17:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy year for me but I've finally had a chance to select my favorites from the kid's photography project at the San Luis Obispo Childrens Museum. We had a lot of fun and I'm definitely looking forward to doing this project again at libraries, museum and schools in Northern CA. These images will be featured at the SLO Children's Museum for Art After Dark on November 5th. Come by for cookies and milk from 6pm-9pm. The exhibit will be available for viewing in the museum lobby until New Years.

Photograph by Aiden of the Mouth of the Alligator, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Allison of the Shadow Projector Wall, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Annalise of the Sponsored Tiles, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Austin of the Water Wheel, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Benjamin of the Elevator Crank, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Grace of the Sprouts on Screen, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Jack of the Sunflower Mural, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Kaylee of the Cave Crystals, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Kegan of the Clock Tower, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Levi of the Tower Steps, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Natalie of the Kaleidoscope, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Owen of the Fireman Hats, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Riley of the Cave Light, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Shawn of the Gears, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Photograph by Zane of a Magnified Fly, Child's Headshot by April Wise

Stacie & Joe [San Luis Obispo Wedding Photography]

2010-10-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

Stacie and Joe were referred to me by two of my favorite people in SLO, Amanda Clements who was also the Wedding Coordinator and Johnny Kenny, brother of the Groom. This wedding came to me a bit at the last minute, around 3 weeks before the wedding. I was very happy to have the date available because I love this couple. There wedding and reception was at the Kenny's Family property The See Canyon Fruit Ranch. I have loved this property ever since I did the Central Coast Fashion Week shoot there in June.

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom with Wedding Sign

Wedding Photography: Wedding Coordinator Hanging Table Place Cards

Wedding Photography: The Dress Hanging in Barn

Wedding Photography: Bride's Shoes in Window

Wedding Photography: Bride Getting Dressed

Wedding Photography: Bride Praying with Officiant before Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride in Dressing Room

Wedding Photography: Groom with Best Man

Wedding Photography: Groom Watching Bride Come Down the Aisle

Wedding Photography: Bride and Father Walking

Wedding Photography: Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride During Ceremony Vows

Wedding Photography: Groom During Wedding Ceremony

Wedding Photography: Bride with Bridesmaids

Wedding Photography: Groom and Groomsmen

Wedding Photography: Bridal Party in Front of Barn House

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom on Barn Wall

Wedding Photography: Bride Getting Hair Touch-up by Skylae at Queens Bees

Wedding Photography: Reception Buffet

Wedding Photography: First Dance

Wedding Photography: Bride and Groom Outside Front Gate of See Canyon Fruit Ranch

Kudos! [San Francisco, Monterey, San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-10-15T17:54:00.000-07:00

This is just a sample of the thank you's and reviews I've gotten over the years. I plan to add to it as I have time to find them in my totally out of control email account.

"April captured the true essence of our day from the tenderness of our wedding vows to the boogie on the dance floor. April and Josh were very unobtrusive. We didn't want the traditional posed session, but had to have some for the family and she made it run smoothly. She was great at orchestrating the shots and communicating with the DJ to keep the party rolling. April is a very friendly, likable person to begin with so her very nature puts you at ease. We had several meetings ahead of time so that everything was laid out and we both knew what to expect. She has good communication and is prepared so that makes the day just right. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a great photographer that is easy to work with."
- Serena and Darren

"April was amazing! She even helped me get ready for my ceremony when I asked her to! Our wedding chapel was EXTREMELY small and her staff made a specific plan on how they would get the best photos of me walking down the aisle without them actually being in the way. I was so impressed with the shots they set up and I couldn't have asked for anyone better! April really wanted to please us and still provide artistic shots that we were looking for. She made sure to get the specific photos we asked for, but she also went for the more "journalistic" style that I was looking for. She offers numerous varieties of photography styles so everyone can enjoy the great quality of work she does. I loved the photos of the wedding ceremony and the moments following our ceremony. Her staff captured all of the moments you are too distracted to take note of during your wedding so you can look back and really reflect on how lovely your wedding day truly was."
-Beckie and Kevin

"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I am so grateful that you could celebrate our wedding day with us. The photos are absolutely stunning and there is no way I can appropriately express my thanks, April, for your dedication to making that happen."
- Holly and Steve

"Thank you so much for being our photographer at our wedding! I don’t think I can thank you enough for all the wonderful pictures that you took for us on our special day. It is just so hard to pick out a good one when they are all just so MAGNIFICENT!"
-Jaimie and Jeff

"April thank you so much for doing such an awesome job at our wedding. We appreciate your hard work. The pictures are awesome! I love them all. Thank you!"
-The Bollmans

“We are sooo happy we hired you as our photographer! Your work is fantastic!”
-Katie and Ravi

“Wow, the pictures are AMAZING!!!! I'm so happy with them, I absolutely love them! Thank you so much April -- they came out so great. You truly captured every moment - I'm thrilled!”

-Kathy and Matt

“The pictures are awesome April!! We are really pleased with them.”

-Bianca and James

“The pictures are amazing! You did such a great job of capturing the day.”

-Jackie (Mother of Bride)

“I don't think I ever officially thanked you for our photo session on Friday. I was nervous almost the entire time, yes, but looking back it was a good experience. While we were driving home we totally agreed how happy we were to have picked you as our photographer. We liked how down-to-earth you are and are looking forward to hanging out with you at the wedding, both as a photographer and as a friend.”

-Lizzy and Matt

“Thanks April! The pictures are beautiful!”

-Carissa

“Thank you so much for the beautiful pictures! You did a great job and I really appreciate having you as our wedding photographer!”

-Deena

“Dear April and Josh,

WOW!!! You did an incredible job! We can not thank you enough for the beautiful work you did and how you managed to not only capture US, but all the incredible people who are SO important to us and so much a part of our lives and our marriage. Thank you both so very much. I can't stop smiling when I look at these photos and we can't wait to share them with the many people who were there with us on our wedding day.

Thank you both again and again!”

-Hillary and Billy

“Wow!! The album looks awesome I love it! Everything looks perfect.”

-Jennifer and Trevor

“The photos are wonderful!! You took some very beautiful pictures.”

-Janice and Ish

“Mike and I want to thank you for doing such a great job at our wedding. Our guests really felt comfortable with you, and a number of them even told us how they wished they would have had a photographer like you shooting their own wedding. Thanks for making everyone (especially Mike and I!) feel at ease.”

-Christine and Mike

“Thank you so much. It was so great re-living our wedding through all of your pictures. We couldn’t have asked for a better person to keepsake our memories.”

-Brandi and Mike

“We absolutely LOVE our photographs and so do my parents. You and Josh did excellent work, we just couldn't be more pleased!! As a friend of mine said after viewing them, ‘..What a wonderful photographer you had. She relived the entire event. I could just follow it all the way thru.’ So, that says it all.”

-Terri and David

“Thanks for all of your hard work on game day! You guys were perfect.”

-Vida

“Thank you, thank you, thank you for the wonderful memories of our special day. Katie and I are both very happy with the shots.”

-Jacque (Mother of Bride)

“The pictures....
are amazing...”

-Sophia

“I saw that my wedding pictures are online. Yay! I have looked at them all at least ten times already. I love them! Thank You!”

-Cassie

“April, Thank you again for everything. We really appreciate it, everything went better than we ever could have imagined. I just wanted to let you know that Sky and I loved you guys, and we were very happy with everything. It seemed as though you really listened to us and accomplished what we wanted. We couldn't have been happier. We definitely have have the best to say about you and what you do.”

-Amanda and Sky

“Thank you so much for all of the work you put into those pictures. You and Josh did a fantastic job!”

-Amy

“Hi April! I got the pictures and the cds last night! They are even better than I ever imagined. That you and Josh so much for the beautiful work you did! I am so fortunate to have found you. My only regret is that I don't know anyone getting married to refer them to you...but when I do, you'll be the first! You guys are really great!!”

-Susannah

"The pictures are AMAZING!!!! Thank you so much!!!"
-Derek and Sara

"The pictures are beautiful!!!"
-Stacie and Joe

"Thank you so much for shooting Ash and Jimmy's wedding. You were wonderful and very patient with our family :)."

-Joanne (Mother of Bride)

"Thank you April -
My wedding went by so fast I only remember it as a blur, I am so thankful for your talented services to capture such beautiful moments. I loved your genuine willingness to help! We loved you! We recommend you to everyone! Love, The Schulers"
-Lucrezia and Brent

"We're so thrilled with the pictures! From the pictures of me/Rich to the pictures of the families to the pictures of the night sky and more and more, we're especially pleased!
I want you to know that I totally love the photos! Thanks for doing a great job!"
-Dale and Rich

Thank you, I love them!!!! -Jessica and Ben

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival [San Francisco Music Photography]

2010-10-08T23:10:00.000-07:00

Since I've moved to San Francisco I've been so busy working out of town in Monterey and San Luis Obispo plus working with my new Internet Marketing clients in the city during the week. I've barely had a chance to explore the city or get back into the music scene. So when Hardly Strictly landed on my first weekend off in a month and a half I practically ran there. Two of my favorite bands played and I hadn't seen either of them live...so it was quite an exciting experience for me. Friday I couldn't make it because I had to rearrange my work schedule for a mid-week SLO trip. Saturday I headed up after lunch to see Gillian Welch. Since we were a little early for her show we hit the Rooster Stage to see the Songwriter Circle with Steve Earle, Robert Earl Keen, John Doe and David Olney. We were on the hill pretty far away but I did manage a decent telephoto shot.

Photograph of John Doe on Stage during Songwriter's Circle at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

The Banjo Stage was so crowded for Gillian Welch we had to go around and climb down the hill to see the show from the bushes. I didn't really try to get any photos because Gillian Welch and David Rawlings were basically ants. Sunday I woke up with a new found purpose, I would get there early enough to get a decent upstage spot for Lucero. And I did, I ended up 4 people back from the stage so with my 70-300mm I was able to snap off a ton of great shots.

Photograph of Lead Singer Ben Nichols of Lucero

Photograph of Rick Steff of Lucero

Photograph of John C. Stubblefield Bassist for Lucero

Brian Venable, Guitarist, Roy Berry, Drummer, Ben Nichols and John C. Stubblefield

I loved seeing Lucero live. Even at such an early 11am show they put forth a great effort. They didn't put together a play list. Instead they just winged it and took request from the crowd, which was perfect for this group of fans. I recently found out they are going on tour with Frank Turner and Social Distortion and since I've been plotting a road trip to Tempe, AZ for the last show. Hopefully I will make it, we will see. They are also playing in San Francisco on November 28th...yes I have a ticket so there will be another photo post.

After Lucero I took a break from the festival crowds and went to the Impressionist exhibit at the DeYoung Museum in the park. Then walked back to the park and hung out for Keller & The Keels and Yonder Mountain String Band at the way back of the Arrow Stage...sorry no photos :/

I made my way up to the standing area for Avett Brothers. This was the point where I realized I'm totally spoiled. I have a hard time being at a concert unless I can be up front with my elbows on the stage shooting. The crowd was super inconsiderate. First of all, do you really need to take a nap on a blanket in the prime real estate of the show? If your tired go home! Don't sprawl out on the ground and take up the space that 10 standing people could use to enjoy a great show. If you spread your blanket out on the ground closer than 50 feet from the stage I will walk on it. I'm not even going to pretend to try not to. Second, take off your backpack. Don't wear it while dancing and swing it back in forth into my shoulders and chest over and over for 45 minutes. Yep I'm totally spoiled! So anyways the Avett Brothers were still awesome and I got two good shots then I put my camera away and just watched since I wasn't close enough to get anything better.

Avett Brothers at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival Photograph

Fisheye Photography of Avett Brothers Crowd and Stage at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

All in all it was totally worth the bus/train ride plus multiple miles of walking and backpack abuse to see these awesome bands. Next year I'll have to try for a press pass :)

Marissa & Rui [Monterey Wedding Photography]

2010-10-07T18:41:00.000-07:00

This was the first traditional Mormon wedding I've ever photographed, or not photographed I should say. Marissa and Rui actually had their wedding ceremony at 6am in Oakland then met me at Lover's Point for portraits. After the portraits we went over to the Mormon Chapel and Community Center in Monterey. There they had a ring ceremony (which we also didn't photograph) then the reception. I was a very different experience for me to not be able to take photos during certain parts of the wedding but the wedding photos we did take turned out great.

Wedding Portrait of Bride and Groom After Ring Ceremony

Photograph of Bride at Lover's Point

Portrait of Groom at Lover's Point

Group Wedding Portrait at Lover's Point

Wedding Photography of Bride and Groom under Portrait of Mormon Chapel in Oakland

Photograph of Bride going into Chapel for Ring Ceremony

Photograph of Wedding Reception Tables

Detail Photograph of Table Center Piece

Photograph of Table Bird Detail

Photograph of Bride and Groom leave Wedding Chapel after Ring Ceremony

Portrait of Bridal Party

Portrait of Bride and Groom with Parents

Photograph of Dinner Buffet Table

Photograph of Ice Cream Wedding Cake

Wedding Photography of First Dance

Photograph of Wedding Cake Cutting

Photograph of Bouquet Toss

Photograph of Garter Toss

Paulsen Family Portraits [San Luis Obispo Photography]

2010-10-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Ok so I'm willing to admit it, I'm a little tired of the all white shirts on the beach look for portraits. It's cute but when you shoot it all the time it gets boring. These guys really mixed it up. They decided that each family would were a different colored shirt. They came to Pismo from Orange County. Originally I thought I wouldn't be able to do their session because I had already moved to San Francisco but since the Central Coast Fashion Week documentary premiere was the night before I was happy to be able to shoot this session. They had 4 small children, so it was a little more work than usual to get everyone to look at the camera and not cry. In the end we got a lot of great shots.

Family Portrait: Grandparents and Grandchildren

Family Portrait: Mommy and Baby Candid

Family Portrait: The Whole Family

Family Portrait: Everyone looking at the Ocean

Family Portrait: Smiling Baby

Central Coast Fashion Week Documentary Premiere [San Luis Obispo Fashion Photography]

2010-09-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

Over the Summer I shot a series of Fashion Show at Native featuring several designers and local retail stores. Robin Chilton of Peregrine Media was also shooting the series for a documentary. Tonight was the premiere of his documentary at the Palm Theater in downtown San Luis Obispo. I drove down for the showing and it was amazing! Several of my images were featured in a Tribune article to promote the documentary. Biz Buzz: Is SLO becoming the Sundance of fashion? Next up, the film will be screening at the Paso Digital Film Festival on November 19th.

Photograph by April Wise of Bianca Mettler in the Tribune

More Detailed Photograph of a Photograph by April Wise

A screen shot from The Tribune website of my photograph in the article

Screen shot from the additional slide show

Here is a link to the trailer:

Haute Couture: A Fashion Documentary -- Film Trailer from Robin Chilton, Peregrine Media on Vimeo.