Our First Christmas: Valles Family

December 18, 2011December 24, 2011Leave a comment

I had the pleasure of shooting quite a few family shoots this holiday season and first up were the Valles Family. Jonah (my godson, woot woot!) was born just this past summer and already he’s such a character! It’s always hit or miss when you’re taking photos of babies and kids, because there’s no telling what exactly will get them to smile or laugh. But before we left the house, there was one thing we couldn’t forget to bring – Jonah’s elephant rattle.

“Just rattle this when it’s time to take the picture,” Ate Tin said. “He loves it!”

With the camera on the tripod, I had a free hand to shake that rattle before every shot and wow, it did wonders because Jonah was smiling practically all morning. What a cutie, and what a heartbreaker this little godson of mine will be when he grows up!

Can’t wait for Jonah’s 6-month shoot, Ate and Jeff!

Meeska Mooska: Maisy’s 1st Birthday

December 17, 2011April 25, 2012Leave a comment

Minnie and Mickey were everywhere – on the centerpieces, on the cake, on the goody bags. Even Minnie’s polka dot dress and bow were reflected on the balloons and, of course, on the celebrant. Little Adelyn Mae aka Maisy, is the cutie pie little daughter of my good friends, Edwin and Stacy. She’s a little shy when you first meet her, like her mom, but after awhile, Maisy found her way around her party. She ran around with her fellow toddlers (and not-so-toddlers), stared curiously at the candle on her cake before she put it out and after it was all over, she was all partied out, part of that exclusive One-Year Old Club.

Happy Birthday, Maisy!

Apple of Their Eyes: Elisabeth’s 1st Birthday

December 16, 2011December 24, 2011Leave a comment

Dressed in her bright beautiful hanbok, little Elisabeth sat her in front of a table filled with a myriad of objects – a microphone, a paint brush, a whisk, a book and a golf club. It’s a Korean tradition, and whichever item Elisabeth picked up first would be an indication of who/what she would become when she grows up. A musician, an artist, a chef, a scholar or an athlete. It really didn’t take long for the celebrant to choose. As soon as she sat down at the table, she picked up…the microphone!

A day already filled with so much joy was magnified more so when, surrounded by her parents and both sets of grandparents, Elisabeth held that microphone in the air as those who loved her applauded her choice.

This special celebration was held at Catal Restaurant in Downtown Disney, the celebrant was cheered on from every corner of the room by her family and friends. Elisabeth is a friendly little girl and she LOVES other kids. It was the most adorable thing to watch her running after her cousins when they left, or hugging other babies when they arrived. Regardless of what career she decides to pursue 20 years from now, one thing I’m guessing for sure – she’ll probably still be a little sweetie.