Isabel Gonzalez Videotique

I'VE MOVED!!!!

2011-11-18T18:52:00.000-08:00

If you've come this far maybe you'd be willing to go one step further!

My blogsite has moved to www.isabelcinema.com. My company name has changed as well. It's now Isabel Cinematheque ... new name, same cool wedding films. :)

Please come visit me there. I'll leave the porch light on for ya!

Cheers,
Isabel

cathy + william | trailer

2011-10-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

More often than not I’ll give you a back story as to my bride and groom’s wedding and the happenings of the day. In this case … hmmm, maybe not. Don’t get me wrong, there was a lot going on – beautiful flowers, serene location, glowing bride. But as I edited this piece, I was drawn to what Anthony Yuro, the officiant, said during the ceremony. And what he said went beyond the “I Do’s” and the beauty and details of the day. It was about the couple’s future and the possibilities. As I painted this picture that is Cathy & William’s trailer, I’d like to think that I could see glimpses of their future … and let me tell you, it looks sweet.

I hope you see it too.

Lest me not forget about the stellar cast of characters …

Flowers & Planning: Stephanie Grace Designs
Venue: The Langham Hotel
Photography: Roberto Valenzuela
Officiant: Anthony V. Yuro
DJ: DJ Denkym
Cake: The Langham Hotel
Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Strings by Reiko
Hair: Shelby Pence shelbypence@gmail.com
Make-up: Lisa Le Lelisa1111@gmail.com
Linens & Chairs: Elegant Designs

summer + julian | trailer

2011-10-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

Summer and Julian wanted to transport their guests to a different time and place … and that they did!

With the help of their event planner and designer, the ever-fab Amber Gustafson, we were off to the swingin’ land of cigar girls and pin up dolls. And the perfect backdrop for the festivities … well, Cicada off course. Everything turned out beautifully. From the bride’s gift to the groom – a necktie with an image of herself in pin-up attire to the vintage photo booth to Summer’s surprise performance with the singer/dancers of Satin Dollz. And you can’t go back in time without a little Super 8 film for that dreamy nostalgic feel, right?

It was oh so fun but don’t take my word for it. Check it out.

Cast of characters:

Planning and Design: Amber Gustafson - Amber Events
Venue: Cicada
Photography: Natalie Moser
Band: Dave Damiani & the No Vacancy Orchestra
Floral: Holly Flora
Cake & dessert buffet: Fantasy Frosting
Entertainment: Satin Dollz
Photobooth: Paper Moon Vintage
Lighting: Aspect Lighting
Cigar Girls: Ron Rubin Events

And a special thanks to guest filmmaker Kat Small.

sarah + gino | highlights

2011-09-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

Sarah is cool.
Gino is warm.
Together they’re friggin’ awesome …
…. and darn cute!

Here’s a little sumpin’ sumpin’ I put together for them.

Some details about the shoot: The majority of the footage was shot with a Canon 7d. You’ll also see little snippets of lo-fi footage. Sarah and Gino wanted an ethereal, yet organic feel to their wedding film. Enter the Harinezumi toy camera! It’s not Super 8 film (nor is it supposed to be) but it was a cool way to weave in some fun, lo-fi footage.

What was also fun about using the Harinezumi was the reactions I’d get by shooting with this camera. It’s only about 3-1/2 inches wide and about 1-1/2 inches tall. Here I am shooting with a beautiful DSLR camera then I switch it out for a toy camera. I’m sure it had a few people wonderin’. ;)

But wonder no more. Sit back and enjoy.

Cast of characters:

Coordination: Amber Gustafson - Amber Events
Venue: Cicada
Photography: Callaway Gable
DJ: THC Electra, Mike Bocek
Floral & Lighting: Designs by David
Hair & Makeup: Fiore Makeup
Cake: Vanilla Bake Shop

khali + potsch

2011-06-07T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hey izzy!!

Khali and I just watched our wedding video. I think the whole thing was out of focus. ... Oh wait that was me CRYING through every minute of it!! We loved it!! Thank you SO MUCH for capturing our most important day (to date) so beautifully and with such honesty and dignity.

Loved it loved it loved it.

-P

That's the email I received from the groom. Nice, right?

So what can I tell you about their wedding day? It was fun, sweet, full of laughter and full of tears. Khali and Potsch? Well, I love them. I straight out love them. They're creative, loving and incredibly open. Their day was full of whimsy and a down-to-earth-no-putting-on-airs vibe here.

There were lots of special moments ...

Such as the guests passing the wedding rings on a rope made out of fabric remnants all the way up to the altar creating a chain of friends or the processional song that includes lyrics like "she thinks all my jokes are corny, convict movies make her horny" or the sausage station for dinner ... it was all downright good stuff.

That's enough words. Enjoy the some moving pictures. (Super 8 film was the cherry on top.)

Don't forget to let the video load completely before watching for smoother viewing. Coolio?

Cast of characters ...

Bride: Khali
Groom: Potsch
Event Planner: Angel Swanson of Events of Love and Splendor
Photographer: Kelty of Steep Street
DJ: Ian of Red Shoe
Oh yeah .. and me! Isabel, Event Filmmaker. :)

Did I forget to mention that Khali and Potsch create and sell some really cool stuff online? Check it out ... HERE.

**************

alice + dennis | highlights

2011-03-22T00:31:00.000-07:00

It's a big responsibility to document a couple's nuptials.

It's exciting to piece all the footage together and create a wedding film.

And when you've shot the older sister's wedding a year earlier and now you're shooting little sis' wedding and you know that she and her new husband will be moving to Shanghai only two weeks later ... well, gosh darn it, you just feel all mushy inside.

Alice and Dennis got married on March 5, 2011 at Cravens Estate in Pasadena. I shot Alice's older sister's wedding - Janice and James - in 2010. So when it came time to shoot and edit Alice and Dennis' highlight reel, I felt like I was watching a friend get married. I'm lucky the Meng sisters found me. Too bad there aren't any more. Sigh.

I'm so excited for them. What a wonderful adventure they're embarking on. And thank goodness for Facebook.

P.S. Did I mention Lawry's The Prime Rib catered the event? I was in carnivore heaven.

alice + dennis | highlights from Isabel Gonzalez on Vimeo.

Cast of characters ...

Coordination: Priscilla Valere

Photography: Sara Allen - onelove photography

Catering: Lawry's The Prime Rib

Venue: Cravens Estate

lauren + nick | highlights

2011-03-04T18:42:00.000-08:00

Lauren was just the cutest, silliest thing. There was no hiding her enthusiasm during her vows. And why should she? She's in love! Yay! Shout out to the L-O-V-E.

She and Nick had plenty to be happy about on their wedding day. Hmmm, where do I start? The location was stellar - The Grand del Mar in San Diego. She didn't have to worry about coordinating anything because Gianna SanFilippo of Chic Celebrations had everything moving smoothly ... like buttah. Photographer Jonas Peterson flew in from Australia to shoot the event. If you haven't seen his work, I highly suggest it. The flowers? Tres tres chic and designed by JL Designs. Musical prowess by Blue Skies Entertainment. The party - bangin' thanks to Martin Felipe & Victor Guiseppe of Invisible Touch Events. The pièce de résistance was a performance by the Jersey Boys ... yup, aha ... as in Broadway's Jersey Boys.

With all these talented folk milling about, I had to remind myself to close my mouth as my jaw was in constant drop mode. :)

lauren + nick | a grand del mar highlights from Isabel Gonzalez on Vimeo.

Cotton Club Party

2011-02-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

Around Christmas time as a child, I’d sit near the brightly lit tree and squint my eyes slightly as to make it all a little out of focus so the lights would glimmer just a little bit more. I’d imagine I was swimming amongst these twinkling lights.

Recently, I shot a birthday party with a fun theme … imagine Harlem’s Cotton Club of the 1920’s and 30’s. In piecing the opening sequence to this video together I was trying to come up with a way to help squint your eyes so you can imagine being elsewhere. Although, I don’t typically grunge up footage the way I did with this video, I thought I’d have a little fun and help transport you to a different time.

Also, I’d love to take you into the party a little bit more but once you see who threw the party maybe you’ll understand why I have to keep it on the DL … fo shizzle. ;)

Coordination: Andrinique Events
Sweets: Candee by Sandee
Location: The Kress Hotel
Invitations: Richie Letterpress & Design
Dessert: Christopher Garren's Let Them Eat Cake

J + A | Trailer

2011-02-10T08:43:00.000-08:00

Texans J + A chose Southern California for their destination wedding and they nailed it. They must have called ahead for perfect weather because the day couldn’t have been any nicer. From their ceremony site at Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes you could clearly see Catalina Island. From the reception site at La Venta, you could see all the way up to Malibu on the west and downtown L.A. to the east. It served as quite a backdrop for their first dance … and the surprise flash mob.

Of course you say flash mob and you don’t exactly think shy and reserved. Quite the contrary … this wedding had fun written all over it … and I hope this trailer reflects that.

J + A: Congratulations. If your first day as a married couple is just a fraction of what you’ll have in the future, I say you’re gonna have a good ol’ time.

Cast of characters:

Coordination - Resha Zazueta, Something To Celebrate

Ceremony Location - Wayfarers Chapel

Reception Location - La Venta

Photography - Craig Davis, Studio 563

DJ - Tribe DJ

Hair/Makeup - Design Visage

Clark's Dad & Tons of Smiling

2011-02-08T01:34:00.000-08:00

I recently edited a wedding video. There is nothing unique in that since I edit often and for many hours …

but there was something that struck me on this edit. It was a moment that under most circumstances may have gone unnoticed.

Attention was on the action - the bride and groom being hoisted up into the air during their hora. They clumsily reached out for each other's hand as one chair was being going up and the other was going down. Lovely, lovely moment. Off to the side, however, there was another camera rolling. What it captured, in my eyes, was beautiful and sweet. The father of the groom … a man not strong enough to dance around the dance floor is in the foreground, slowly waving his arm at his son who was a good 20-25 feet away on the dance floor. Whether it was to get his son's attention or simply to celebrate and join in his son's joy, it doesn't matter. It was a sweet, simple moment.

And the rest of this party sequence is an exercise in smiling. Everyone is smiling and, I don’t know about you, but I can’t help but smile myself. It’s like a virus. That’s the kinda virus I can get behind.

l + michael | trailer

2010-12-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

Oh the tears! The spectacle! The drama! … and that was just me! Ok, no drama ... but I teared up before the ceremony even started.

When L (yes, L) and Michael had their first look, I could feel the love. I got all mushy and teary-eyed. I’ve really got to learn to control that … can’t focus the camera if I have tears in my eyes. And the spectacle came by way of a beautiful day with the loveliest of sunsets.

Enjoy a tease of one of the most intimate ceremonies I’ve shot this year … only 8 guests.

CAST OF CHARACTERS ...
Bride: The Lovely L (for Laura)

Groom: The Dapper Michael

Ringbearer: Adonis the Dog

Photographer: Vanessa Preziose

Officiant: Archbishop David Cooper

Floral Design: Jenny Barker of Magical Blooms

Couture Bridal: Julie Jones of Encore Bridal

Hair: Ahn Tran

Makeup: Melissa Walsh

Cello: Hope Easton

Wedding Hostess: Alicia Kling

Yummy Eats: Personal Touch Gourmet

and me ... le video chick.

srivitta + steve | highlights

2010-08-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

So, I’ve decided I want a Thai water blessing for my wedding. I’d also like a Hora and I’d like my Irish uncle to give us a nice blessing. Oh yeah, while I’m at I think the groom and groomsmen should wear kilts. Hot.

Seriously … does it really matter that I’m not Thai … or Jewish or Scottish or have an Irish uncle? Ok, fine … I’m not getting married either but come on! I’ve seen so many wonderful traditions over the course my career that I’d love to incorporate them all.

Srivitta and Steve didn’t quite do all that I listed above but they did have a Thai water blessing. Lovely.

Congratulations Srivitta & Steve! And thank you … every time I watch you feeding each other cake, I can’t help but smile. Srivitta, you are the loveliest of goofballs.

Coordination: Ida Gardner Events

DJ: Vox DJ's

Location: Shutters on the Beach

Flowers: Lily Pad Floral Design

Photography: Yoshi Ohara

Make-Up: Joyce Luck Style

The OC Fair | Lo-Fi Style

2010-08-11T23:24:00.000-07:00

August. Event Filmmaking. Weddings.

Put all three together and that doesn't leave time for much. Shooting and editing is what I do in the summer (and spring, autumn and winter) months but that is my life and I love it. But sometimes, to keep those creative juices flowing, you just have to CTRL+ALT+DEL ... and that's what I did earlier this month. I packed up my retro-footage producing Harinezumi camera and headed off to the Orange County Fair. Of course, I wanted to see how my toy camera would fare at the ... uhm, err ... fair. And, I don't know about you, but when I think of a carnival or fair my mind switches to lo-fi mode. So what a perfect place to play with my toy camera.

The OC Fair | Lo-Fi Style from Isabel Gonzalez on Vimeo.

Maybe I'll head off to the OC Fair one last time before it ends this weekend. I hear deep-fried Oreos calling my name.

AVIA | A Rooftop Soiree

2010-08-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

When I wasn't nibbling at the candy table at a fab little soiree on the rooftop of Long Beach's AVIA Hotel, you could find me shooting. Now, I was trying to be sneaky about dipping into the the candy jars. Of course, I'm sure I could have been sneakier ... Note to self: When eating a blueberry candy stick, your tongue and lips will turn blue. Well, so much for sneaky.

By the way ... the AVIA is a sexy little hotel. If you're ever in the area, check it out. For the time being, check out the video.

Congrats to Andrinique and Melissa Selmanson for a beautifully executed event.

Coordination | Andrinique Special Events and Melissa Selmanson from AVIA

Photography | Llanes Weddings (check out their beautiful images of the event)

Candy | Candee by Sandee

Cake | Let Them Eat Cake

stacy + clark | trailer

2010-06-11T15:57:00.000-07:00

Voilà!

If this trailer doesn’t make you want to learn French, then I don’t know what will.

Stacy and Clark’s wedding was beautiful … absolutely and unequivocally. Every element was impeccable.

Thank you Stacy and Clark for sharing your love with the world because, whether you know it or not, I believe your energy, your love, make this world just a little brighter.

Photographer: Meg Perotti

Venue: The Jonathan Club

Coordinator: Kimery Events

DJ: RedShoeLA

MY ADVENTURE – Le Update

2010-06-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t read my last post, please do. I’ll give you a couple minutes. I’ll be waiting right here ….. (hip lounge music playing in the background) … Cool! You’re back. Please proceed.

Last month, I announced a 50-mile walk (give or take a blister or two) that I’d be doing soon. It would be a combination of adventure, mini-vacation and fundraiser … of course with camera in tow.

When I first looked at my calendar to determine the best dates, late June called out to me. Maybe it was the fact that my birthday was at the end of that week and I love to go to Disneyland on my birthday. Yes, it’s true, I am 12 at heart. And what better way to end a 50-mile walkabout then to be asked, “What are you going to do now?” then to respond “I’m going to Disneyland!”

I’ve since rethought, rethunk and revised. The end of June is right in the middle of my busy season. As much as I’d love to walk at the end of June, my priority at this time of year must be my clients. And so, I’ve changed the walk from late-June to late-October … October 24^th thru the 28^th to be exact.

And not only will that give me more time to get into tip-top shape, I also have time to harass you for donations! Oh joy, joy! All donations will go to the Lynne Cohen Foundation for Ovarian Cancer Research. And if you don’t have a few bucks to donate, no problem … I’ll be keeping the Facebook and Twitter world abreast as to my location. So if you want to support by handing me a caffeinated beverage of some sort as I walk, you’ll be forever in my Y. Yes, I’m easy. Sue me.

To paraphrase the Taoist philosopher Lao Tzu, the journey of fifty miles begins with a single blog post.

Cheers!

MY ADVENTURE – Slightly Redux Le Deux

2010-06-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

(a repost of Posh guest blog with a few minor changes)

I’m writing this blog on a pad of paper because typing at my computer seems too much like work …. and this isn’t work, this is an adventure. Adventures are written on paper … like a treasure map. Sometimes you can’t decipher the symbols, some parts of the map may be torn off, and sometimes it’s worn so thin because of the number of times you’ve examined it trying to figure out where the treasure is.

I recently guest blogged on the Posh blogsite, a site created to connect, educate and inspire women visual artists. How flattered was I to be asked to contribute? Well … very! Duh. But what on earth to write about? As the perpetual student (but I guess, aren’t we all?), I didn’t feel an educational piece would be for me. Something fun was a suggestion. Fun? Hmm, ok. What’s more fun than an adventure?

So here’s a story … my story … my little adventure.

A couple months ago I picked up a magazine. The cover story – an L.A. woman that decided to walk 38 miles along the ocean over the course of a few days. She stopped along the way, check out the sights and then moved steadily on. Hmmm. Interesting. What a cool mini-vacation without leaving town. Now, I’m not big walker but the thought of experiencing the city at a 3-mile per hour pace intrigued me. Granted, given L.A.’s infamous traffic sometimes a 3-mile per hour pace is exactly what you get on most freeways.

I Googled maps of Southern California and mapped out a walk. I like to call it a walkabout. Maybe it’s my love the show ‘Lost’ or maybe it’s because I plan to walk about 50 miles but a walkabout sounded pretty to me …. that, and I also didn’t know what else to call it. Now on ‘Lost’, John Locke took his set of knives for his walkabout. What I’ll be carrying is my backpack is a camera, a couple t-shirts, a toothbrush and a few pair of unmentionables.

Now, a walkabout refers to a rite of passage during which male Australian Aborigines undergo a journey during adolescence and live in the wilderness for an extended period of time. So I’m pretty much off the mark on a lot of different levels here. Aborigine? Nope, nah ah. Adolescent? Well, I act like one most of the time. Does that count? Live in the wilderness for an extended period of time? Come on, I’m walking thru L.A. I’d say it’s a wilderness of sorts. Rite of passage? I’m going to guess it’s not.

I did have a rite of passage at one time however ... an unconventional, non-traditional event that could constitute a rite of passage … at least in my book … and definitely for this sake of this story.

As a junior in college, I was diagnosed and treated for ovarian cancer. It’s pretty rare for someone of that age to get that type of cancer but I got it. Long story short, it kicked my butt for a couple years with two major surgeries, a year of chemotherapy and the wonderful side effects that go along with. The prognosis wasn’t great but my reaction was (prep for another ‘Lost/John Locke’ reference), “ Don’t tell me what I can’t do”.

I’m now cancer free and have been for many years. It’s not something I think about very often but it dawned on me as I was mapping out this walk how many charity run/walks there are out there … many of them breast cancer related. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all about the boobies. Go team boobie! But if I’m going to walk why not raise money? And why not make this a walk about the ovarian, the female gonads … the she-nads! … the mental and physiological ones. The mental ones that tackle obstacles and the physical ones that help create life.

So on the last week in June*, I’ll be walking from San Pedro to Malibu. Making many stops along the way, enjoying a good meal … or two … or a lot, sleeping a good sleep and documenting as I go. Much of my time recently has been about capturing the lives of others. And for that I feel incredibly lucky. But on this trip I’ll be turning the camera around and documenting my adventure … and for a good cause. And for that, I feel incredibly blessed.

I’ll have a map with me but I’m not out to look for a treasure, I’m in it for the adventure … and for an amazing foot massage at the end! Woohoo!

I’ll be walking for myself.

I’ll be raising money for The Lynne Cohen Foundation for Ovarian Cancer Research.

Anyone wishing to donate may go to www.firstgiving.com/isabelgonzalez. NO amount is too small. Just know I will find you, unabashedly ask for a donation and if that doesn’t work I’ll bludgeon you with silly tweet after tweet until you give. :)

Go team she-nad!

*Since the original posting of this blog on the Posh site, I’ve solidified the dates of my walk. Read my next posting for more info.

A Styled Shoot with Heather Kincaid

2010-05-03T15:56:00.000-07:00

Recently, photographer Heather Kincaid invited me to shoot Something Old into Something New: A Styled Shoot. Well, stylish it was. She did an awesome job at capturing the images. She's got talent. No doubt. Check out the photos on her blog .... but before you do, watch the video I put together for this cool shoot.

Cheers!

cassie + robert | trailer

2010-04-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

Before I begin the editing process, I like to get a little input from my clients as to the overall style and vibe they’re looking for in their video. Cassie and Robert’s instructions were, and I quote, “We want the video to capture the excitement and joy of our day, so that when our hair is white and our faces are wrinkled (more than they are now) we can watch the video and feel warm and fuzzy.”

Well, number one … what wrinkles now?

Number two, the wedding was so full of joy and laughter, it made my job way easy. So, to Cassie and Robert … thank you. And fifty years from now, as you’re watching your video, take a self-shot/facebook-style photo and send it to me. It would bring a smile to my wrinkly face to see your wrinkly faces and know there’s some warm and fuzzy stuff going on there. :)

Photography: Jason Q Tran Photography

Venue: The Ebell Club, Long Beach

Officiant: Alan Katz

DJ: Station Identification

Kick Ass Cake Bash

2010-03-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you combine Fantasy Frostings' cake and some Broke-Ass Bride? Broke-Ass Cake Collection but of course!

And what do you do when you have a launch such as this? Have a Kick Ass Cake Bash … duh!

Catch Dana (The Broke-Ass Bride herself), Hunter (The Fresh Hubb y), Leslie Maynor (Fantasy Frostings queen) and Earl Anderson (Mr. Frostings) BRING. IT.

Enjoy!

For those amazing vendors that didn’t make my subliminal messaging in the video, here’s a list of those involved.

(in alpha order)

Alfred Angelo

Beth Helmstetter Events

Bride & Bloom

Cakes & Kisses Wedding Photography

Family Industries Los Angeles

Wedding Wisdom

2010-03-01T15:17:00.000-08:00

So, you’ve got your wedding planners and then you’ve got your uber wedding planners. Mary Dann-McNamee is most certainly one of the latter. If you don’t know who she is, take a minute to google her … but wait until after you’ve watched my video below, of course! ;-) After a quick search you’ll find her list of credits to be substantial.

The woman is busy … so how Mary found time to write a book, I have no idea … but she did. With the help of the bright and savvy Leila Khalil of Inspired PR, Mary collected her years of wedding and family planning experience and authored Wedding Wisdom.

Last week, Mary and Leila had their first L.A. book signing. And who was lucky enough to capture and create a mini picture show of the event … ? Me, me, me!

With the creative efforts of the following vendors, I can safely say, the book signing was a success. I love hanging with these industry creatives … I’d like to think I’ll pick up on some of their talents thru osmosis of some sort. ;)

Wedding Planner/Author – Mary Dann-McNamee
PR/Author - Leila Khalil, Be Inspired
Event coordination – Bella Weddings and Events
Photography – Trista Lerit
Yummy edibles – The Butter End Cakery
Floral design – JL Designs

erin + adam | trailer

2010-02-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

Yes, I’ll readily admit it ... I get writers block … and I get it often. Many times it has to do with the fact that I don’t know what to write, that I don’t have enough material. ‘Tis not the case here …

Erin and Adam’s wedding: sweetest couple … smiles that lit up the room … the love they shared – tangible … the day – beautiful … lovely family (I’ll begin my adoption proceedings soon) … the photographers and vendors – so talented … clear skies when rain was expected … and lest we forget – sexy shoes. =)

What an amazing day it was. Take a gander.

Photography: Next Exit Photography
Coordination/Flower Design: Trisha Haner, The Hidden Garden
Location: Sheraton Delfina
Lighting: The Lighter Side
Linens: Tabella Design
Makeup Artist: Monique Powers

On Vacation?

2009-12-27T14:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it appears that email addresses and domains take a holiday vacation as well ... and that's exactly what my email address (isabel@isabelgonzalez.com) is doing. I suppose I'm a bit of a slave driver because I expect my email to be up at all times - no vacations! Unfortunately, technical snafus appear to be the exception here.

As of today, my email address and website will be down for 4-9 days. I'm hoping it'll be on the shorter end.

I apologize for any inconvenience. If you wish to get a hold of me, please feel free to call me at 310.490.7221 or email me at my personal email address - izebel@aol.com.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-24T11:41:00.000-08:00

I'd like to take a couple moments to wish you all a Merry Christmas ... or happy holidays or whatever it is that you believe or look to at this time of year. I don't like to get hung up on titles or labels, I like to get hung up on feelings and memories. Whatever your beliefs, faith, background, I hope that this year has been incredibly kind to you. My wish for all is great joy and peace.

From A Father's Perspective

2009-11-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

Last night I wrapped up my last official wedding of the ’09 wedding season at Pasadena’s Rococo Room (congratulations Caryn & Mike!). This fact didn’t really dawn on me until I was putting my equipment away, crossing my T’s and dotting my I’s. So, I decided to take a walk down memory lane and I pulled out my list of clients for the season … to remind myself of where I’d been and who I’d shot. I suddenly felt like a post-nuptial bride. How did it go by so quickly? It’s all just a blur.

Amongst my list of clients, there was Bridget and Bjorn married back in May. Just the sweetest, cutest couple … beautiful wedding all around. They also had very memorable toasters – the bride’s father being one of them. When it came time to put a recap together of their day, Bridget’s father’s words stuck in my head. Because those words were so incredibly touching I decided to let the father tell the story for the recap video.

So here’s a wedding story told from a father’s perspective.

Photographer: Scott A. Nelson

A Very Vintage Halloween

2009-10-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

It was a windy Tuesday night as I was driving thru the hills of Hollywood. The further up the mountain I went, the more desolate it became. I wasn’t used to bumpy, single lane roads. What kind of event had I been invited to participate in? No signs, no lights. “Am I here?”, I thought as I drove into a dirt lot. No way. Keep going. And I did … only to arrive right back to where I started. Fate? Who knows? But these are no times to be questioning such things …. after all, gasoline prices are way too high. Are those twinkling lights I see up ahead? Yes indeed! Joy! I wasn’t lost after all. I meet up with some kind folk – Carissa of JL Designs – couture floral and event stylist! Civilization is not lost! In fact, this is where it takes on new meaning.

I sign in at the registration table at the bottom of the hill … and then I’m directed up the path – the dark, predominately unlit path. Is this the part of the movie where I call out for the proverbial Steve? In a high-pitched manner … “Steve? Steve? Where are you Steve? ….This isn’t funny!”

I ventured forth with camera in tow. There’s no such things as ghosts, goblins, Jasons or Freddies. Up the hill I trekked. More lights up ahead … oh joy, joy, joy! Fun and merriment and strange and beautiful costumes abound! I was safe and happy.

Enjoy the light at the end of my scary (albeit very short) tunnel.

Beautiful still photography below by Meg Perotti

Leila Khalil – Be Inspired PR

Kellee Khalil – Who What Weddings

Sweet & Saucy Shop

IS Vodka – Shay Scott

Calligraphy Katrina

Mint Photo Lounge

DJ Crash

Halloween Re:Vamped '09

2009-10-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

What's dark, sexy, slithers, flies, quenches and has some awesome beats? Well, to be honest I don't really know .... but all those elements were present at the recent Halloween Re-Vamped '09 party presented by ISES - Orange County and Invisible Touch Events. I get invited to some of the sweetest parties around. I'm not going to lie, this party had it going on. From the great food to the sweet libations to the belly dancers to the fire eaters, it was great. And that's before the real partying got started. Don't take my word for it. Check it out.

And if you're wondering what a videographer wears to a costume party, check out the pic below. I'm not sure if it's my love of Tim Burton movies, my mad crush on Johnny Depp ... or maybe it's just that I wanted a costume with a no-fuss hairdo ... here she is - Sweeney Todd's Mrs. Lovett. Meat pie, anyone?

[The FABULOUS] Ms. Amber!

2009-10-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have taken a quick peek-see at my blog, you’ve found that I’m a relative newbie … an infant in the art of blogulism … err, blogocity … blogging! (See what I mean?) Because I’m new at this skill, I have to ask – what are the rules on blogging what someone else blogged if it’s a blog about you? Got that?

Recently, [The FABULOUS] Ms. Amber of Amber Events asked me a few questions about myself and my views on the biz o’ weddings. So, to reblog or not or reblog? I throw caution to the wind people … here is A Videographer’s Perspective.

P.S. Why do I describe Amber as FABULOUS?

Because ...

A) She is.

B) That’s what she creates – fabulosity.

C) That’s how you’ll end up feeling once you’ve worked with her.

D) All of the above.

Well, D) All of the above, of course.

IN THE NOW!!!

2009-09-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

How do you live life properly? In The Now baby, In The Now. That’s the name of coordinator Amanda Auer’s stellar company – In The Now Weddings & Events, and she recently had the grand opening of her studio located in the cool Santa Ana arts district. Even cooler? The studio design, the lighting, the atmosphere, the signature drinks, the delicious desserts, the music, the photo booth … ya get the idea? Amanda knows how to throw a good party.

Thanks to Amanda for the invite … and for not kicking me out when I brought my camera. :P

Girl Photogs Luncheon!

2009-09-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

Recently I was surrounded by some serious talent. Cat Benner of Next Exit Photography hosted a little afternoon soiree. The guests? About 15 of the awesomest female photographers around. Had I been a bride in search of a photographer, I would either have been in wedding heaven or confused out of my gourd … so many choices. Instead I had a plethora of yummy food to choose from. To avoid any frustration in deciding what to eat, I went the easy route – one of everything!

In between my munching, I shot the footage below.

Special guest appearance by Fat the Cat (minute 2:00).

Cecile + Julian

2009-09-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, so normally I’m not a fan of hot weather unless it involves a cabana, a fruity umbrella-christened drink and a pair of flip-flops but on this one particular day heat didn’t phase (or daze) me.

Cecile and Julian broke up their wedding into two parts – the I Do’s on Saturday and the reception on Sunday. Made sense especially since the ceremony took place in Lancaster – a desert town about 75 miles from downtown L.A. – and the reception at the Hyatt Regency in Huntington Beach, 110 miles away. As I aptly put it on Facebook, it was love California-style - from the desert to the sea.

Because the ceremony was a more intimate affair and was a little restrictive for guests due to distance, Cecile and Julian wanted to make sure that those that weren’t able to go to the ceremony could relive the day on Sunday. That’s where I come in.

I got to capture them getting ready early Saturday morn, the emotion-filled ceremony and the way cool photo shoot afterwards. What made the photo shoot so cool, you ask? (Ok, maybe you didn’t ask but let’s just pretend.) The post-ceremony photos were shot on a movie set out in the middle of nowhere. Well, it felt like nowhere.

Imagine the Bates Motel Kill-Bill style …. saaa-weeet. The visuals were awesome. I can’t wait to see what images Candice from Mark Brooke Photography got. And the heat gave it that extra umph. You don’t see the temperature in the video but you can feel the heat …. hmmm, or was that the chemistry Cecile and Julian had going on? Oh my!

After the shoot, I made the trek back down to Long Beach and to my edit desk to marry some of C&J’s favorite songs with the video shot just hours earlier. Below is an example of a happy marriage. :-) The next-day edit was shown prior to Cecile & Julian’s grand entrance into a style-filled reception room – kudos to Amanda Auer of In The Now Events and Weddings.

Cecile and Julian – thanks for allowing me to be a major part of your day. It was an honor.

And I didn't even flinch ...

2009-07-23T00:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, I realize I'm cheating when I do this. Isabel's blog written by Isabel, right? Can we make an exception? Please, oh please! I received a thank you card from one of my lovelies the other day and I have to share. It gave me the warm fuzzies with a splash of giggle. Here goes (clearing throat) and I quote ...

Dear Isabel,

On behalf of the new husband and myself, thank you so much for being such an amazing wedding videographer! Amir and I absolutely adore your work and easygoing personality, and we've received so much positive feedback from our guests too. I remember at one point during the reception, a bunch of us were holding hands and dancing in a circle, while periodically rushing towards the center as a group ... during one of these charges, I glanced over and saw you in the center videotaping and thought, "Oh my gosh, I hope she gets out of the way so no one tackles her!" But you didn't even flinch and looked as cool as ever! I was so amazed and it just made me realize even more how lucky we were to have such a devoted and talented videographer. Our wedding was the best day of our lives but Amir and I still can't believe how fast it all happened - haha, so we are definitely very thankful and fortunate to have had you there, and we look forward to seeing all the memories captured on (video). Thank you, for everything!

Pretty nice, right? I think so.

So I'm thinking maybe starting out their video with a disclaimer, "No videographers were harmed in the making of this wedding video." ;)

Thank you Nasim for the warm fuzzy/giggle moment(s).

I Heart Super 8!

2009-07-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you combine old-school Super 8 film, some sweet digital footage, a kickin' location with an even more kickin' bride and groom? The trailer below, that's what. Enjoy Lindsay and Steven's blast of modern nostalgia.

Coordination: Shannon Berg @ Mary Dann Wedding & Party Coordinators

Photography: Victor Sizemore

Location: Shutters on the Beach

Why a videographer?

2009-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

I remember my mom showing me old Super 8 films on a clunky old projector off of our living room wall as a child. I remember staring at the little figures that were being projected on the wall. I could make out my mother as a young person … my grandfather – with hair! Wow. How special to see what they were like back in the day. How I wanted to jump into the picture to experience even more of what it might have been like for them, what they must have felt.

I also remember that the projector had to be handled just right otherwise the film might melt due to a too-hot bulb or snap in half due to a weakness or small tear in the film. I knew then how important that film was. It was my glimpse into my family’s life. I glimpse I could have seen no other way.

Fast-forward several years.

I stand in a church as a bride and groom say their vows as I watch them thru the viewfinder of my camera. This time I’m the one creating the images that will be experienced by this couple’s family, future children, grandchildren, etc. Maybe no longer projected on a wall, maybe now on a 42-inch flatscreen. Old switches now replaced by remotes.

What draws us in has less to do with the technology used but everything to do with the story. The medium has changed, the emotions haven’t.

Not everyone considers video a necessity for his or her wedding. Whether it is because they remember cheesy star-wiped videos from the 80’s or because the budget just doesn’t allow for it. All valid. People may have a dozen reasons why they shouldn’t have a video but sometimes they fail to remember why they should…

... to hear the emotion in your spouse’s voice as he or she utters their vows to you

... a grandparent smiling at you and your new spouse as you begin your new life together

... your parents’ heartfelt toast telling you how they've never been prouder

All these moments plus many, many others come together to create a story that is uniquely, sublimely yours. Your story is not a solitary point in time but many weaved together to include the sights, sounds and emotions of the day.

An experienced videographer knows how to capture these moments, knows how to piece them all together to evoke an emotion. Aside from the obvious benefits of hiring an expert – professional equipment, experienced eye, dedicated shooter, editing skills – a wedding video has the magical ability to make those ethereal moments tangible all over again and what was once tangible is now ethereal.

As I watched those old Super 8’s, I poked fun at my mom’s high-teased hair, all the time thinking how beautiful she was. I don’t know if your children will tease you about anything but I can guarantee they will see their parent’s beauty and the love they share in the video that captured it all.

Today’s videographer goes by many titles … filmmaker, storyteller, visual artist. Whatever you want to call them, they all have their own unique way of telling a story. Matching the talents of the artist with the vision and story of the bride and groom will be covered in an upcoming blog on finding the right videographer.

oxox,

Happy Anniversary Larisa + Chris!

2009-07-07T23:45:00.000-07:00

07.07.07 – Probably the busiest day in the wedding industry … ever! The luckiest day of the century? Maybe. It was for Larisa and Chris anyway – my beautiful, joy-filled bride and groom. It was for me as well because I was given the opportunity to shoot their gorgeous event.

The triple sevens were on their side the entire day, no doubt about that. One special moment that comes to mind when I think of their wedding occurred during the reception. Chris surprised Larisa by having some musician friends perform John Lennon’s ‘Love’. It was quite beautiful.

So, here it is … a scene from one of the luckiest days of the century.

Happy Anniversary Larisa & Chris!

oxoxo,

P.S. Another favorite – the Carolyn Bessette and John F. Kennedy Jr. kiss on the hand moment. (sigh)

Leave It To Me Meet 'n Greet

2009-07-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

The Date: June 23, 2009.

The Setting: Sexy outdoor patio of X Bar at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, Century City, California.

The Occasion: Mixer for Beverly Harris’ Leave It To Me Events.

Another opportunity to hobnob with wedding industry professionals. Although I didn’t do too much hobnobbing myself since my skills were required behind the camera.

When viewing the world through a small viewfinder, life can become a little more concentrated ... beauty is much more obvious … talents more apparent. This was the case with Beverly. You can tell by the reactions of the attendees that this event planner has a fan club in the making.

Enjoy the video of this fun little soiree.

(Grab a mic everybody!) ... It was a good night (woohoo) … let’s do it, let’s do it again.

Wedding Happy Hour

2009-07-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

I recently had the chance to participate in a great little event - Wedding Happy Hour (WHH) at the oh-so-cool Foundry on Melrose. WHH is a chill get-together for brides and grooms that still have a few things to check off of their wedding to-do list.

What better way to end a Monday evening than to unwind with a cocktail (or two), yummy food and the opportunity to pick the brains of some the wedding industry's best. I was shooting for most of it so I didn’t get to try all the delectables being passed around, but I did get to try these little tater tot thingies … kinda like the tater tots you used to have as a child except way tastier. It definitely appealed to the kid in me … ok, ok granted, a big portion of me is all kid but gosh, is there any other way? ;)

So here’s a quick snapshot of the evening’s happenings. if you have a chance, try to make it to the next Wedding Happy Hour …. it’s gonna be good. Here’s hinting at the fabulousness of the event – it’s going to involve martinis and a pool … ‘nuff said! Check in later for more details on the August 12^th Wedding Happy Hour.

Many thanks to the stellar coordination of Marcia Vidal of Crystal Clear Weddings.

Here’s a fun challenge: There was a TV celebrity in the crowd. Can you pick that person out? (Contact me for the answer.)

Trailer: Pearl + Yousef

2009-07-03T12:07:00.000-07:00

Grand, touching, joyous … these are just a few words that describe the wedding of Pearl and Yousef. What a love story. Don’t take my word for it, catch a glimpse of their trailer. Each shot tells a story all its own, each shot - its own emotion.

There was no place to turn where you couldn’t find beauty, thanks to Design Coordinator Shideh Shahraies … from the Sofreh Aghd (an elaborately decorated spread set out for the wedding ceremony) to the grand location – The Langham in Pasadena … to the abundant amount of eye-popping colored flowers … but most importantly, in the eyes of the Pearl and Yousef when they would look at each other. Now there was the true beauty.

Channeling Gaga

2009-06-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

“A naked woman with blond, frizzy hair stands covered in clear, plastic bubbles with soapsuds at her feet and curtains surrounding her. She has got her lips pursed coquettishly. Her legs bent and her wrists locked in large clear cuffs. She is my most recent fixation.”

That’s how Ryan’s valedictorian speech began at last week’s commencement ceremony for Campbell Hall’s 2009 graduating class. You see, while about 90% of my shooting is weddings, on occasion, other celebratory events sneak their way onto my roster. In this case a high school graduation. But it’s not like any graduation most of us are used to. Forget the cramped gym or auditorium. This graduation took place at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. (If you’ve never been, I highly suggest it.) And the students who spoke … so articulate, so funny. Hey, I don’t remember anyone like that when I was in high school. What ever happened to geeky and awkward?

You’d think that the beginning of Ryan’s speech had started off on the wrong foot and there’d be no place to go but, well, down the fast-track to S&M-ville. Eek and delish - all at the same time!

“And those who know me, well, know that I’ve traveled twice across the country in attempts to see her live and in person. Born Stephani Germanotta – better known as Lady Gaga. She is a true success story.” Who’d a thunk that a 17-year old man with a GPA of over 4.5 would think of Lady Gaga as a success story … hmmm … ok, never mind.

After all the laughter in the concert hall died down, he proceeded to quote the pop queen, which he affectionately referred to only as Gaga. “I operate from a place of delusion … I used to walk down the street like I was a star. I want people to walk around delusional about how great they can be – and then to fight for it so hard every day that the lie becomes the truth.” Ok, so maybe I’ve got Lady Gaga all wrong. Maybe it’s not just about a poker face p-p-poker face.

Ryan ended his speech by saying “Gaga’s words, on the one hand, seem ludicrous but, on the other, are all altogether fantastic. It’s about finding the confidence within yourself to embrace and project whoever it is you want yourself to be… I am handsome. I am intelligent and I am compassionate and I am successful and as I stand here looking into all of your eyes, I see in you all the same qualities … you are beautiful, you are intelligent, you are compassionate and you are successful. Thank you.”

Wow, I felt uplifted after that. Not only am I a sucker for a good wedding, I guess I’m also a sucker for a good commencement ceremony.

As I watched this coy, genuine young man thru my camera’s viewfinder conclude his valedictorian speech, I felt a little buzz.* And to think he was channeling the wisdom of the one and only Lady Gaga, excuse me - Gaga. I guess I’ll never listen to her music the same way again.

*No adult beverages involved. ;)

Desiree + Jeff's Trailer - 05.20.2009

2009-05-31T19:01:00.001-07:00

It couldn’t have been a more beautiful Wednesday at La Venta. You can see all the way to Santa Monica from the hills at Palos Verdes Estates. Should we feel a pang of guilt? While most people are stuck inside, we’re about to experience a wedding. Ok, sure, I’m there to work myself, but come on! My job is to find the story and the beauty in everything. The surroundings made this so easy for me, how could I possibly call this work?

It’s kind of like sneaking into a movie theatre in the middle of the day. You feel like you’ve got the theatre all to yourself. Instead of popcorn, you’ve got the yummy little delectables from the New York Food Company.

The celebrity couple was Desiree and Jeff. Just like Brad and Angelina, our bride and groom also came with their own paparazzi, Alex Morgan of Scott A. Nelson Photography. I’ve worked with him before, and it’s always fun to share the red carpet with him. We keep our pushing and shoving to a minimum. :)

Desiree and Jeff were definitely the stars of the show. The bridal party, our supporting cast, not in the spotlight, though shining no less bright, completed the supporting ensemble. Before the ceremony, Lee, the best man, promised an award-worthy performance complete with hilarious pelvic gyrations and a brilliant rendition of The Worm, and he didn’t disappoint.

So after an afternoon of feeling like I was playing hooky, here’s a preview of the day. Desiree and Jeff provided the soundtrack, which was apropos, considering their bubbly, nose-crinkling personalities.

Desiree + Jeff's Trailer - 05.20.2009

2009-05-31T18:59:00.001-07:00

Almost there!

2009-05-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings and salutations all! I'm excited to get this blog up and running so I can share some super cool stories and clever anecdotes. LOL!

My first blog post will be coming up very soon. No, wait! Isn't this my first blog post? Wow, I'm confused now, are you?

Chat soon everyone! Cheers!