Silver Gecko Photography & Design

Flush Mount Album - Acrylic Cover

2012-03-02T16:10:00.002-08:00

The acrylic cover option is a great way to add a photo to the cover of your album. This is the first one I've done and it is absolutly beautiful! This particular album was for a Bar Mitzvah and rather than using one of the event photos we used a photograph from Daniel's portrait session. This turned about to be a great way to tie the portrait session (which we used to create the sign-in book for the day) back in with the entire event.

The acrylic covers are offered as an upgrade from the standard leather and come in the clear acrylic, shown here, as well as two textured versions.

Hannah's Bat Mitzvah Photo Video

2011-12-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

Jake & Jenna's B'nai Mitzvah Collage

2011-11-17T09:17:00.001-08:00

These collages were originally designed for use as a gallery wrap, but I'm now offering them as a gallery wrap, a print, a Fine Art Acrylic, a Fine Art Metal, and my newest product, a Standout. Questions on these? Contact me!

Max's Bar Mitzvah Portrait Session

2011-11-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

Max's Bar Mitzvah is coming up in February and in keeping with the theme of the day, we had a Rock 'n Roll portrait session. Thanks to some of his relatives we were able to build a wall of amps and he got his hands on everything from guitars, to mics, to drums, even a mandolin.

Photos from this session will be used for invitations, banners, a sign-in book, and more!

Jared's Bar Mitzvah

2011-11-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed photographing Jared's Bar Mitzvah for a number of reasons. First, his family is great! I actually taught martial arts to the entire family while working as an instructor at Cutting Edge Karate in West Hills. This was one of the reasons Karen & Dave (Jared's parents) called me, we already had a prior relationship and they knew we'd work well together. I love building solid relationships with all my clients, but it's great when we already have a good foundation.

The second reason I really enjoyed photographing this event, is that it took place at the same temple where I was Bar Mitzvahed many years ago, Temple Judea in Tarzana. Karen was Bat Mitzvahed there too! The temple was recently renovated and is completely different from when I was there, but I could still see some remnants of what it used to be.

Not only was it Jared's Bar Mitzvah that day, but it was also his 13th birthday. Of course Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are typically around a child's 13 birthday, but they don't always fall on the same day. In keeping with Jared's travel theme, he was presented with a birthday cake shaped like a suit case, with passport and flag stickers included.

Congratulations to Jared, Karen, David, & Colin!

Hannah's Bat Mitzvah - Westlake Village Inn

2011-09-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

It was an absolute pleasure photographing for Hannah and her family at Temple Aliyah in West Lake and the Westlake Village Inn, in Westlake, Ca. They're all very genuine and obviously a very loving family. The event itself was great! Every table was named after a candy and there was a big candy bar so everyone could take some home at the end of the night. There were also mini donuts, a green screen service, and a game of "Hannah Jeopardy" provided by the DJ. And with everything going on, Hannah's sister Kayla made sure I got pictures of the donuts. When I showed her what I captured she yelled, "I love donuts!", and ran back to the dance floor.

Congratulations Hannah, Kayla, Andy, & Paula! And thank you for letting me capture this special day in your lives.

Event Vendors

Venue: West Lake Village Inn
Coordination: La Soiree Chic - Jennifer Currier
DJ: Rock Star Entertainment - Rocky Whatule

Hannah's Portrait Session - Rocket Fizz Candy Shop - Woodland Hills

2011-09-11T15:49:00.000-07:00

In a few minutes I'll be posting a sneak preview of photos from Hannah's Bat Mitzvah, but I first wanted to share some of the photos from her Portrait Session.

Remember, the portrait sessions I shoot for Bar & Bat Mitzvah are designed to match the theme of the event and/or to show the personality of Bar/Bat Mitzvah boy or girl. Hannah had a candy theme and we were fortunate enough to photograph in the Rocket Fizz Candy Store in Woodland Hills. Hannah is a very sweet, fun loving girl, and we definitely captured that. I think the most fun we had with this shoot was when I had Hannah throw taffy into the air over and over again. Enjoy!

Jake & Jenna's B'nai Mitzvah

2011-08-31T14:43:00.000-07:00

A lot of work went into Jake & Jenna's B'nai Mitzvah. You should have seen the binder in which, Jill, their mom, was keeping everything. What's great is that I was able to help with everything from invitations, to candy bars, to banners and more. Their portrait session for their sign-in books resulted in some amazing photos (I'll post some soon). And since there was a music theme for the B'nai Mitzvah, we kept true to that with everything we put together and mixed in Jake's interest in Basketball and Jenna's interest in dance.

I was very honored to photograph for their family as I've known them for years. The entire day was fill with a lot of love. Here's just a sampling of what I captured. Congratulations Jake, Jenna, Jill, and Dan!

Baby Joseph

2011-07-28T17:04:00.001-07:00

One of my main goals is to become a lifetime photographer. That is to say, I not only want to be the one to photograph your wedding, I want you to call me for any of your photography needs throughout your life. With Matt & Nicole I've started to do just that. I photographed their wedding last year and was very excited when I heard Nicole was pregnant with their first child and wanted me to photograph for them. I present to you, Baby Joseph Peter Marshall, born just one day before their 1 year wedding anniversary!

Matt & Nicole are big sports fans, so we made sure to incorporated a bit of that into these photos. One photo not shown here is Joseph surrounded by clothing and items from 5 sports teams and a shirt from Matt's alma mater, UCLA. My fiance, Julia, even found a marbled, "Dodger Blue" fabric that we photographed with.

I just order a couple of new products for Matt & Nicole, a 4x6 Baby Book and a set of Accordion Mini Books. I'll post some photos once I receive them. While designing the books, Nicole requested I use the photo of the teddy bear below on one of the covers. It turns out she was given this bear when she was 4-years-old! (Glad I photographed a few things around the nursery.)

We've already talked about photographing Joseph at one-year-old. I can't wait!

GE - Ride & Drive - Los Angeles

2011-03-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

I received a call a couple weeks ago about photographing an event for GE, needless to say I jumped at the chance. The next day I was at USC photographing their Ride & Drive event which promoted their new Watt Power Station for electric vehicles. Check it out here.

The event started with seminars on their product and the advantages of EVs. It then concluded with lunch and the chance to drive an EV like the new Chevy Volt. As you may imagine photographing a seminar is not an easy thing, there's only so much to photograph. A couple weeks prior I had attended a photograph seminar where I was told to "think differently" and "crop differently", so I did. I turned the camera to the audience at times, sometime even shooting over someone's shoulder. I'm quite pleased with the results.

I love this photo. I shot it through the space made when a seminar attendant leaned his head against his hand.

This shot was for me. Can you spot me?

Heather & Steven + 1

2011-03-24T00:38:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed a maternity session for Heather & Steven. Heather is an old family friend and her and Steven were married about 2 years ago. They already have one "child", who we were sure to include in some of the photos. I was honored to photograph for them and can't wait for their newborn session next month! Congratulations to Heather, Steven, Dexter (the furry one), and the newest addition!

Daniel's Bar Mitzvah Collage

2011-01-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

Noah's Bar Mitzvah Collage

2011-01-13T14:17:00.000-08:00

I photographed Noah's Bar Mitzvah ceremony a few months ago. Here is the 20x20 collage from his ceremony.

Daniel's Bar Mitzvah!

2010-11-29T18:35:00.001-08:00

I had a fantastic time photographing Daniel's Bar Mitzvah on Saturday. I've known Daniel and his family for many years and it was truly a privilege to share in and captured this day. There are so many great images, it was difficult to chose just a few to post here. Enjoy and Mozel Tov Daniel!

Other Event Vendors:
Venue - American Jewish University - Brandeis-Bardin Campus
www.ajula.edu

Videography - Video Services Unlimited, LLC
www.videoyou.com

DJ, MC, and Dancers - Bino's Entertainment Group, Inc.
818-591-8239

Photo Booth/Portrait Booth - Red Carpet Photo Shoot
www.redcarpetphotoshoot.com

Cantor Ron Li Paz
www.cantorli-paz.com

Party Planning and Decor - Sharon
sharons@mrbsflowers.com

Hannah's Bat Mitzvah Collage

2010-11-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

I've been designed these gallery wrap collages for weddings and I figured why not make them for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs too! These are designed for a 20x20 gallery wrap.

Daniel's Portrait Session

2010-11-23T16:19:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago I photographed a Bar Mitzvah portrait session for Daniel. Now what I do is not your typical portrait session. These sessions are designed to show the personality and interests of the one being Bar or Bat Mitzvahed. They are also meant to have a more stylized look.

I was fortunate to photograph Daniel with a vintage war plane, owed by a family friend. (By the way, thank you Michael! There's a photo for you here too!) The session resulted in some great photos! And Daniel even got take a sunset ride in the plane. Daniel's Bar Mitzvah is just a few days away, so be sure to check back for those photos!

Hannah's Bat Mitzvah

2010-10-18T15:31:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday I photographed the Bat Mitzvah of Hannah Rodnunsky at The Vineyards in Simi Valley. It was great photographing for her and her family! Hannah's mother Janice contacted me after being referred by her sister-in-law Lisa, who's son Daniel I used to train with in martial arts. I'll be photographing Daniel's Bar Mitzvah in November, so I'll get to see the family all over again, which is great because everyone was a pleasure to work with. Here are a handful of Hannah's photos. Thank you and congratulations Janice, Pierre, Emily, Paige, and Hannah!

Some of the other vendors:
The Vineyards in Simi
www.thevineyardsimi.com

The Traveling Photo Booth
www.thetravelingphotobooth.com

Cantor Ron Li Paz
www.cantorli-paz.com

Actress Ashley Laub

2010-09-30T21:49:00.000-07:00

I recently shot some headshots for aspiring actress Ashley Laub. Here's just one sample.

PPA Shootout Competition Entries

2010-09-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Professional Photographers of America is holding their 2010 Shootout Competition. Below are the photos I entered. Most were entered into the "Wedding and Event" category, but I did enter two into the "Portrait" category. This is the first year I've entered this competition. I'll also be entering at least one photo into the
International Aperture Awards Competition

Cutting Edge Karate

2010-09-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

I recently photographed for Cutting Edge Karate in West Hills, Ca. www.karateedge.com I've photographed their yearly portraits for three years now and I used to teach at their studio. I wanted to share at least one of their photos. This little white belt can do a pretty good front kick for her age.

Baby Jaden

2010-08-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed for an old elementary school friend, Tiffany. Her 6-month-old Jayden is very cute and was all smiles.

Citrus Classic Balloon Festival

2010-08-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

I got out of town for the weekend and did a little non-work related shooting. Here are some photos from the Citrus Classic Balloon Festival in Santa Paula, Ca. I may make some of the images available for purchase.

New General Business Card

2010-07-23T16:09:00.000-07:00

Here is my new general business card. Design elements on the front now match my weddings business card and my website.

Client Business Cards

2010-07-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent business card designs I've done for a couple of my clients.

Wedding Collage

2010-07-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

I got the idea for this from photographer Kevin Jairaj.

Ideally this would be a gallery wrap, but it would make a great print as well. Overall it is 20x20, all the small photos are 2x2 and the center photo is just under 9 inches.

Baby Austin.

2010-06-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

I recently tried my hand at some newborn photography. It went really well, except for the fact that out of 3 hours of attempting to photograph, my subject only slept for about 5 minutes. Still got some great shots, but wasn't able to pose him as I'd hoped. Either way, enjoy and congratulations to Ruben, Lindsey, an big brother Aiden!

More to come!

Selina MacDonald

2010-05-06T21:44:00.000-07:00

I just finished a headshot session with actress Selina MacDonald. I suppose it's a good thing when a photographer can't decide which photo he likes best. Here is one of the many great images of Selina. Be sure to view some other recent headshots already in the main gallery.

Animoto

2010-04-05T22:33:00.000-07:00

I came across a service called Animoto. I'm still looking into it, but basiclly it can take photos and make a video for you. I used photos from Matthew and Nicole's engagement session.

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Headshots

2010-04-03T21:59:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed some new headshots for actor Matthew Keirn and 7-year-old actress Sasha Matthews. Here are a couple samples. More will be added the main gallery very soon. I photographed Sasha's at UCLA and Matthew's under the Santa Monica Pier. The pier is a great location and I'm dying to do an engagement session there! Any takers?

Questions for Your Wedding Photographer

2010-03-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

I came across a wedding photographer check list through Project Wedding. You can view it here http://www.projectwedding.com/wedding-ideas/meeting-with-photographer-checklist I thought I'd go ahead and answer the questions they propose.

Packages & Cost

Q: What do your packages cost?
A: Packages range from $1,000 to $3,500. However all packages are customizable and I'll work within your budget.

Q: What is included in each package?
A: Each package varies, please visit www.capturedromance.com for this information.

Q: Can you work with us to make a package that fits within our budget?
A: All packages are customizable and I'm always willing to work with a client's budget.

Q: How much of a deposit do you require?
A: A 25% depost is required upfront, with payments at various stages.

Q: Is the deposit refundable?
A: The deposit is applied to the total contract and is refundable if the contract is cancelled within 30 days of the event. Any cost for work started will be taken from the deposit, unless otherwise specified.

Q: Will you take payments towards the deposit, or do you require it all up front?
A: If necessary I'd be happy to take payments toward the deposit. I also accept credit cards, which often times makes payment easier.

Q: When would the balance be due?
A: For a typical contract, 25% is due upon signing the contract, 50% of the balance is due the day of the wedding, with the remainder due when final items have been delivered. Large contracts will have additional payments to help break things up.

Q: Do you do engagement, boudoir, anniversary, bridal, or trash the dress shoots?
A: Yes I do!

Q: How much extra would something like that add to our current package?
A: Each of these sessions cost between $200-$300, some of these are included in my packages.

Q: How soon do you usually book weddings before the date?
A: If I'm available, I'll book the same week as the wedding. However the sooner you contact me the more likely it is that I am available.

Q: Can/will you hold our requested date while we consider our options?
A: I will hold a date even before the contract is signed, however, if someone else contacts me for that date I will inform you that you may lose that day. However, the first person to contact me always has priority and once a contract is signed that day is yours.

Contracts and Obligations

Q: Once the contract is signed, what happens if we break it for any reason?
A: If the contract is broken 30 days before the event the deposit will be refunded in full, minus any cost for work started or expenses incurred. If the contract is broken less that 30 days before the event, deductions are made from the deposit for any work started or expenses incurred and include at least 10% of the deposit.

Q: What happens if you break the contract for any reason?
A: It's highly unliked I would break the contract and it does allow for substitution of another qualified photographer in the event I can not photograph for you. However, if the contract had to be broken and another photographer was unavailable I would refund your deposit minus the cost of any work started. (Work started typically includes engagement session and sign-in books. Often these are listed as seperate items on your payment schedule.)

Q: If you are unable to attend our event, how is that situation handled?
A: If I am unable to attend your event I will find another qualified photographer for you.

Q: Are you part of a network of photographers that can jump in and take over your obligation if something unexpected were to happen?
A: No, but I do work with a number of other photographers and do have those can substitute for me and that work as second shooters.

Q: What happens in the case of an equipment or accessory failure?
A: I typically carry secondary equipment with me so that I can continue to cover your day.

Q: What if that equipment failure also causes a significant loss of the images from our wedding day?
A: I photograph with a number of memory cards, so any loss would be minimal. Any large loss would depend on the individual situation and the images lost, if they effect overall coverage I would refund a portion of your contract.

Photography and Equipment

Q: Do you do film and/or digital photography?
A: I photograph with all digital equipment.

Q: Please tell us about your equipment.
A: I photograph mainly with Canon equipment with the exception of some lenses and secondary equipment. All equipment is professional level and quality is of the utmost importance.

Q: How often is your equipment serviced?
A: My equipment is serviced as need, but equipment is used and checked on a regular basis.

Q: How, when, and where do you back up your digital images?
A: Images are backed up immediately after the event, sometimes during. All images are backed up on external harddrives that are safely stored at my office. Unlike many photographers, I never delete images from backup. Your photos are kept forever.

Q: Are you comfortable with flash photography?
A: Yes. As much as I like using natural light, flash photography is a necessity and I'm skilled in a number of ways to use it.

Q: Do you have and use a variety of lenses to achieve different composition and artistic aspects in your photography, and can you show us some examples?
A: Yes, I typically shoot with a 70-200mm and 24-700mm (which also functions as a macro lens, for those detail close ups). I also use other wide angle and fish eye lenses as well. There are samples of this on my website at www.capturedromance.com

Q: Do you use flash? Can you show us some examples?
A: Yes. As much as I like using natural light, flash photography is a necessity and I'm skilled in a number of ways to use it. There are samples of this on my website at www.capturedromance.com

Experience

Q: Is your primary focus on wedding photography or is it simply part of your overall work as a photographer?
A: I'm skilled in a variety of types of photography, but wedding and engagement photography is my specialty.

Q: How many weddings do you shoot per year?
A: This varies year to year and the number continues to grow.

Q: How long have you been a photographer?
A: I've been a photographer my entire life.

Q: How long have you considered yourself a professional?
A: I've been operating my business since 2007, but have been a journalistic photographer for many years before that.

Q: Did/do you take classes for photography and participate in conventions and forums for new techniques?
A: I hold a bachelor's degree in journalism with an emphasis on print and photography. I'm a memeber of the Professional Photographers of America and I study photography and new techniques on a regular basis. I also do the same for the business aspects in order to provide better products and services.

Q: Can you show us examples of your work?
A: My website, www.capturedromance.com , contains a number of samples and I'd be happy to show you further samples when we meet.

Q: Can you show us one entire weddings worth of photography, instead of just the 'best of' so that we may evaluate what we would be getting?
A: I'd be happy to. I provide each of my clients with an on-line gallery of their photos and can give you access to one from a previous wedding.

Q: Can you show us examples of your engagement, boudoir, anniversary, bridal, or trash the dress shots?
A: Yes.

Q: Can you show us examples of your work when the lighting situation was tough (indoors, churches that don't allow flash, candlelit dinners, bright sunlight, dusk, etc.)
A: I've encountered all of these situations and can show you ways I have worked around each and still created amazing images.

Q: How long have you been working with digital photography (if recently switched from film)
A: I switched from film to digital in 2003.

Q: Do you do your own editing?
A: I do all my own editing. Including various special effects.

Style and Form

Q: What would you say your photographic emphasis and strong points are? (Journalistic, posed, artistic, landscapes, details, etc.)
A: Since my background is journalism I shoot with a photojournalistic style, but I incorporate and use all styles. The photojournalistic style allows me to capture true moments and true emotion. I'm also big on details shots that show what really went into making your day special.

Q: When shooting at a wedding, do you direct people into poses or work in a stealthy, quiet manner?
A: I typically work in a stealthy, quite manner, but will pose people when necessary. For the most part I don't want anyone to realize I'm there, so that all moments are natural.

Q: What do you typically wear to shoot a wedding?
A: I come wearing a 3 piece suit, minus the jacket, though I do have it with me. Many photographers forego the professional look for something more comfortable. But I'm quite comfortable in a suit and believe in professionalism throughout (while still having fun while shooting for you).

Q: Are you open to inspiration photos from other weddings that we like, or do you prefer to draw inspiration from our day without outside influence?
A: It's your day and I'm open to whatever you want. I'm there for you.

Rights and Inclusions

Q: Will our engagement, boudoir, anniversary, bridal, or trash the dress photos include rights to the images in digital form, or will we need to purchase them separately from our package?
A: Often the digital photos are included with the package, for those that do not include it, it is available as an option.

Q: Will our wedding day photos include rights to the images in digital form, or will we need to purchase them separately from our package??
A: See above.

Q: What digital media do you use to distribute photos that we will receive the rights too? (CD, thumb drive, etc.)
A: Photographs are provided on a CD/DVD

Q: Will that media contain RAW or JPEG files?
A: Image are taken in RAW format and delivered to you in JPEG format. RAW photos require special programs to view them. JPEGs are a standard photo format that can easily be viewed, the file size is also smaller, but the quality remains.

Q: Will the images be culled and edited, or will we receive every photo taken in it's original form?
A: I go through all images and remove anything that "didn't work", those that remain receive a basic edit and select photos receive special effects. I'm always will to apply special effects to any other photos you would like.

Q: How long can we expect to wait for the images?
A: Images are typically ready within 3 weeks and I always try for sooner.

Q: Will the images on the digital media contain watermarks?
A: Images in the on-line gallery will have watermarks, those provide via CD/DVD will not.

Q: Will the images be in high or low resolution, and what can we expect as far as printing capabilities?
A: Images are high resolution and can be printed quite large and clearly.

Q: If no rights are included, can we purchase the printing rights to individual images?

A: N/A

Q: Will there be an online gallery for friends and family to see?
A: Yes. Each couple receives an on-line gallery with their own address that they can share. Photos can be view and purchased. Password protection is also available.

Q: Will friends and family be able to purchase prints of images from the online gallery?
A: Prints and gift items are available for purchase through the on-line gallery.

Q: What website do you use for your online galleries?
A: My website is used for on-line galleries. The address of your gallery will be similar to the following www.capturedromance.com/steveandsarah

Q: How long can we expect to wait for teasers?
A: I typically try to post a couple photos on my blog or on Facebook within a couple of days.

Q: How many images total can we expect from our wedding day?
A: I have no minimum or maximum for photos taken. Numbers can range from 600-2,000, depending on the length of the event. I prefer to pick and choose my shots rather than simply hold down the shutter because I have the file space to do so. This results in higher quality images.

Q: How many images total can we expect from our engagement, boudoir, anniversary, bridal, or trash the dress shoot?
A: Typically 100-300 photos depending on the type of shoot.

Logistics

Q: Will you be the one behind the camera, or will an assistant, intern, or other hired help be shooting?
A: I will be the one photographing, but a second shooter can be provided.

Q: Do you bring an assistant?
A: Many times I do, but not always. My assistant approaches everything in the same professional manner I do.

Q: Does the assistant also shoot or do they just provide lighting & technical support?
A: My assistant typically provides support, but will shoot when necessary.

Q: Do you shoot destination weddings?
A: Yes! Where are we going?

Q: In foreign countries, do you have all the paperwork to work legally?
A: Any necessary paperwork will be acquired as necessary.

Q: Are you willing to check out our venue/location before the event to get ideas?
A: I prefer to. I love working on the spot, but any information I can have before the wedding day helps me plan my shots and helps things run smoother. I will also be present at your rehearsal so I have an idea of how everything is going to work.

Q: Do you shoot more than one event in a day?
A: Unless you only need my services for a couple of hours, my day and my focus is dedicated to you.

Q: Will you and/or your assistant require a meal on our wedding day?
A: That's up to you. It's always appreciated, but often times I'm so wrapped up in covering your day, I don't even think about eating.

Q: Do you require a timeline of our wedding day?
A: A timeline is helpful if available. I prefer to meet with you a few weeks before the wedding to discuss a timeline and any shots you know you want.

Q: What happens in the case of inclement weather?
A: We get some interesting shots. I adapt easily.

Q: Are there specific situations where you will not take photos?
A: None that I can think of, within reason. If you're planning on a bungie jump while saying I do, I may not jump with you, although most likely I would.

Albums and Printing

Q: Will an album be included in our package?
A: Depends on the package you choose. If you choose a package without an album, it can always be added to it. Everything is customizable.

Q: Will prints be included in our package?
A: With digital media becoming more and more prevelant I have found that prints are not always necessary and therefore don't included them in packages. They are however available and if you'd like some included I'd be happy to discuss that.

Q: What kind of albums do you make (flush mount, magazine, etc.)
A: All my albums are flush mount albums and use true photograph prints to create the pages. Every album is custom designed by me, with no templates. Your album will appear different that any album I've done before. Sign-In books are also custom designed, but are press printed lay-flat books.

Q: Where do you get your albums and prints made?
A: I use a couple of fantastic print shops. Quality is extremely important to me.

Q: Do you design every album by hand, or do you use album templates?
A: Every album is custom designed by me, with no templates. Your album will appear different that any album I've done before.

Q: Can you show us some examples of albums you have created in the past?
A: I'd be happy to.

Q: Can you show us some examples of large prints you have created in the past?
A: Yes.

Q: If our package does not include prints or an album, how much can we expect to pay for them out of pocket?
A: Since you've already paid for my services, print costs are fairly minimal. However, items such as gallery wraps and metal prints cost more since they have a high production cost.

And the winner is.....!

2010-03-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

One of the headshots done for Brandi Ford has just won the Accuphoto Newsletter Contest!

Before and after photos were submitted. The before photo being one the client was already using and the after photo being the one I took.

Accuphoto will connect photographers with dating site members in order to improve their profile photo and increase their chance of finding that special someone. Contact me if interested!

Baby & Child Portrait Contest - 2010

2010-03-06T16:42:00.000-08:00

Let me help document your child's ever-changing stages with priceless portraits that will last you a lifetime! Schedule an appointment now until June 21st, and your child's portrait will be entered into the Miller's Professional Imaging Baby and Child Contest. A range of prizes will be awarded from $500 – $5,000 in cash!

Time is limited so please call today to reserve your child's appointment.

Children, infant to age twelve, are eligible.
Images must be taken between January 1st and June 21st, 2010.

All photographs will be taken on location (in home or outdoors) with as much natural light as possible. This gives the photos a very warm, real feeling, other options are available.

Photography as art, as income, as work, as love, as business, as ?

2010-02-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

It's interesting the more and more I build my business the greater my love of photography and of being a photographer gets. However, I am finding that the more I work, the less I shoot for myself. That is to say, the less I shoot in my own free time and to satisfy my own needs, whether artistic, journalistic, or other. I would also love to simply take a photo while out with my girlfriend, or at my best friend's bachelor party. (I swear I'm going to buy a little point and shoot soon.) It's quite sad really. It may simply be due to the fact that I devote most of my free time to being anything but free. If I have a free moment, I'm usually using it trying to complete work or bring in more work.

I do work under the assumption that the more work I do now, in order to bring in more work, will allow me more free time later. (I know that sentance is confounded but i like it.) I suppose we all work under such an assumption when we work or move into our careers. However, I believe my greatest fear is working for the work and not for art or the pure joy of it. Admittly, I fell into photography as a business because I wanted to make money with it, but I never wanted to lose my love for it, and I haven't. I'm not at any point where I feel my photography suffers from my lack of love or drive. I'm more concerned about it ever getting there, but I suppose it's up to me to prevent that from happening. I've always felt you can control many things with just the right mind set.

I've also always felt that life is about balance, so perhaps I need to make sure I balance my work photography with my personal photography. Trouble is, I always make my work photography a personal thing, something I believe makes me a great photography. (I was recently reading that every photographer has to have a bit of an ego, but not too much. Again, balance comes into play.) Who I am is in my photography and my photography is in me. A tip for hiring a photographer, if their work doesn't express who they are, you won't know what you're going to get in the end. One more tip, just hire me. (That's my humor talking, not my ego). ::Insert laugh here::

In sumation, (my journalism professors would hate me for that) as much as I put myself into my photography for work purposes I need to be sure I take time to put myself into my photography for personal purposes, whether it be a photo of my girlfriend and I at Disneyland or one of my best friend doing something I probably shouldn't type here(ahh, what a great weekend).

Back to business, my artwork gallery (the personal stuff) will have photos added very soon and on a semi-regular basis. Enjoy!

Eden Events

2010-01-25T13:24:00.001-08:00

I'm currently working on a new logo and business cards for Eden Events, an event coordination and floral company. Below is the preliminary design of their logo.

Brandi Ford

2010-01-18T19:49:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of new headshots for actress Brandi Ford.

Headshots

2010-01-09T22:58:00.001-08:00

I just photographed some headshots for my friend Jackie. This are to the the first of many headshots as I expand into that area. There are a couple more on the Facebook page Silver Gecko Photography & Design on Facebook Enjoy!

The wonder that is Photoshop

2009-12-23T16:36:00.000-08:00

I'm currently working on creating geckoweddings.com which will be my new wedding photography website. In creating my new galleries I've been going through past weddings and editing images. Below is one of those images from the McBride wedding. The original image was a bit washed out due to the angle of the sun and I just started playing with it and I'm quite pleased with the end result. Later on I may end up posting the various steps it went through, but there are quite a few. It took over an hour to finish this image. Enjoy!

Michael & Alma

2009-12-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

I photographed Michael & Alma's wedding a couple of weeks ago. They are an absolutely wonderful couple and I truly enjoyed photographing their day. Here's just a teaser of some of the shots I got, more will be posted later.

The Way Institute of Martial Arts

2009-10-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed some martial arts portraits at The Way Institute of Martial Arts in Agoura, Ca. I've known the owners Master Conrad Ercolono and Master Julie Ercolono for a few years now, great people, great martial artists. During the photo shoot Master Julie Ercolono comes out with a staff that can be lit on both ends. That is lit as in fire, flamage, hot! I was concerned about my paper backdrop catching fire, but everything was fine and we created some amazing images. Here's one below, this and another are posted in the Martial Arts gallery and there will be more to come, including some of her spinning it, which allowed me to capture a complete ring of fire. Enjoy!

Matt & Nicole - Engagement Session

2009-08-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

Last week I did an engagement session with Matt & Nicole. They were great! Very funny and playful, which worked well for me. We photographed first at UCLA, Matt's alma mater, then over at the Getty Center. I even managed to get them into a fountain on campus. The session may have ran a bit long... my fault, I was really enjoying shooting the two of them. Sorry guys. I can't wait to photograph their wedding next April. Here are a couple photos from the session. I will upload more within the next week or so and do some different treatments. Enjoy!

Updates

2009-08-10T01:42:00.001-07:00

I just made an update to the site. There are new photos in the "Products" section and a new "Martial Arts" section. I've also added another logo, business card, and a martial arts trading card to the "Design" section. I'll be doing another update shortly, as well as seperating the wedding photos on to their own website.

Here are some of the new items to look out for:
- Additional martial arts photos
- Martial arts composite
- Bat Mitzvah photos
- Portraits
- Additional engagement photos (moved into their own gallery on the new wedding website)
- Wedding rehearsal photos (on the new wedding website)
- Additional Event Photos

I also have a few other surprises in store, so keep checking back. Enjoy!

Family Portrait

2009-06-16T23:34:00.000-07:00

I recently photographed a number of portraits at my karate studio (I'll post some within the next couple of weeks) and since I had everything set up and since my mom has been dying for a new family portait, I photographed the family as a Mother's Days gift. Here's one of the photos:

The Silver Geckos are Multiplying!

2009-06-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

Once thought to be an endangered species... I found this interesting light fixture on a project I was photographing for Southern California Landscape.

Bat Mitzvah Photos - 3 Treatments

2009-06-03T14:28:00.000-07:00

I was getting some photos ready for a meeting with a potential client and ended up doing 3 treatments on a photo from the Romick Bat Mitzvah. The first is the original photo with some basic editing.

Romick Bat Mitzvah

2009-05-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I photographed the Bat Mitzvah of Jordan Romick in Studio City. The entire day went well and resulted in some amazing photographs. Below is just one sample, I'll be adding a new category on my website with additional photos soon. Congratulations Jordan and family!

Jewelry Clients

2009-02-25T11:37:00.001-08:00

I've recently being working with a couple of jewelers, both photographing their products and designing their ads. Here are a couple of samples. The ad design shown here was actually not used, the final version was much simpler.

Wedding Album

2009-02-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post a page from my sample album. Enjoy!

The Knot.com

2009-02-24T12:46:00.000-08:00

I'm now advertising on theknot.com, partyspot.com, and weddingchannel.com Feel free to take a look at my listings, they're under photographers for Los Angeles/Southern California. And don't forget to tell your friends!

New Web Site!

2008-12-03T20:44:00.000-08:00

The new site is up!!! However, there is still more I will be adding. So keep checking back. Enjoy!

DJ Shark

2008-08-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Here are three treatments of a photo taken of DJ Shark at the McBride wedding. The first is the photo as it was shot, with minor color adjustments, the second is a sepia tone. The blur was done in camera, not other adjustments were made. The final one was just for fun and utilizes a Photoshop filter.

McBride Wedding

2008-08-12T14:15:00.001-07:00

I recently photographed a wedding along with another photographer. Just wanted to post a couple samples for everyone to view. I'll be putting more samples from this wedding along with those from an earlier wedding on my new website.

Web Site Redesign

2008-07-28T15:31:00.001-07:00

Mark your calendars!!! The website will undergo a massive redesign which I hope for get up by August 29th. (By the way, that's my birthday. Please make checks out to Adam N. Parth, cash accepted too. Please e-mail for mailing address.)

New Equipment

2008-07-21T01:02:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I put anything up here, but this is big news! I recently upgraded some of my equipment and I will now be shooting with a brand-spankin' new Canon 40D. So far it seems like a great camera. I've only been testing it out at home, but I'm looking forward to really using it.

New Business Cards!!!

2008-01-31T13:04:00.001-08:00

Our new business cards and event post cards have arrived! And they look great! We tried a new print company (www.illbuzz.com) for these cards and are very pleased with the results.

SGPD Shirts Now Available!

2008-01-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

The first run of the SGPD screen-print shirts have come in! If you ordered one I'll be in contact with you shortly. If you're interested in getting one of our awesome shirts please contact us!

Agility Photos

2008-01-21T19:45:00.000-08:00

Photos from The Simi Valley Kennel Club - AKC All Breed Agility Trial - January 20, 2008 are now available at the store. Thank you to everyone who has already bought prints and to those who are going to!

Exposure Manager

2008-01-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know about Exposure Manager. Presently I use their service to host my store. They provide the set up for on-line photo sales and can handle the printing and shipping. If you're interested in using Exposure Manager check out their website at http://www.exposuremanager.com/ , but before you sign up come back here and click this link in order to recieve a discount on their services http://www.exposuremanager.com/aff/geckophotodesign

The Store is Complete!

2008-01-14T17:39:00.000-08:00

The store at http://www.geckophotodesign.com/ is now complete! Feel free to have a look. Looking is free, prints and gifts are not. The store currently has 1 event, the La Jolla Motor Car Classic, with photos and gifts for sale. Even if you're not interested in buying something, I'm always interested in feed back on the photos or the site itself. Have a look and enjoy!