Wedding | Los Angeles Arboretum Wedding

So I’ve been thinking about this business, this business being photography. And, I’ve been comparing it to my other business, that being TV/commercial production. To say that each is without fault would be impossible. To say that each is with reward is true. Both are creative. Both are difficult. Both are rewarding. Both create a network of not only talented, diligent coworkers, but the added bonus of friends.  All the while you also have friends that become clients and clients that become friends.

With photography, however, I have discovered one surprising irony of the so called “competitor”. Human Nature often lends itself to survival of the fittest and fending for oneself. Even though there is this underlying protection of one’s livelihood, there is something more powerful lurking on the sideline that often supersedes fierce unruly rivalry.  There is camaraderie. A connection. A nurturing that I have discovered through the majority of my interactions with the “enemy”. It is odd. This “rival” actually supports you.  They really want you to do well. They are encouraging and nurturing. They post nice blog comments. They inspire with their work. They share their “secrets” (at least a few). The even care about you personally.

You may ask why is she rambling about this. Well, I have to say Heidi Ryder is one of those people that I am honored to call the “enemy” (although I only wish I was her equal competition).  Throughout Steve’s battle with cancer she has checked in, sending good vibes and offers of meet ups for a glimpse of normalcy (one of these days I won’t be so flakey). Just a simple tweet or email to say “hey we are thinking of you”.  She is kind. She is fun. She is a real human being. She even did a relay for cancer (including us as a dedication among many others she knows).  Steve asked me, “who is this awesome girl”.  I replied, “she is the enemy, but ‘we’ like her still”.  So, when she asked me to second shoot, I wasn’t sure I could commit so far in advance (like I said, one word, flakey). But the stars aligned (and my day job didn’t get in the way) and I was able to join Ala Cortez, with Heidi for a fun filled day.

It’s fitting that Heidi would have clients of a mirror image. Throughout the day, yes there’s lots of proof below, much fun was to be had.  Without a doubt Annie and Robin were as Heidi had promised; fun, loving, full of laughter and kind. There were so many events to be had and so little time.  Consequently, I kept my eye open for potential stress. But to my surprise there were constant laughs, lots of love and much kindness. One eventful glorious day…Where the temperament of the three people (Heidi, Annie & Robin rock!) with a potential for stress, was only of peace, joy and happiness.

The Photographer: Heidi Ryder

Caterer: Grace Catering

Florals: Cat Tuong Flowers

Lighting: Mobile Illumination

Venue:  Los Angeles Arboretum

DJ: Ernee Felix

Cake: Amor Bakery

2^nd Photographers: The Modern Type & me

The day could not begin until the boys paid up. And Stacey (one of the funniest bridesmaids EVER), wasn’t discriminating between forms of payment; and there were lots of them!!

This may have been the ONLY time I caught Annie in deep though (at least without a smile). She is stunning

The Father of the Groom

We traveled to both Annie & Roger’s Homes were the families shared tea & exchanged gifts.

Then we got ready for main event.

See what I mean. Smile.

All of the bridesmaids were caring, nurturing, but of utmost importance FUN!!!!

The Rose Garden at the Los Angeles Arboretum is whimsical and romantic.

Heidi said that Annie & Roger loved color. She wasn’t kidding.

I’d say someone’s done this before, professional.

Don’t worry, she is laughing. I promise.

The flowers were so vibrant. Cat Tuong Flowers may have a future in this. Ya think!

See what I mean. Happiness attracts Happiness.

I mixed up my processing here a bit. I couldn’t stop the romantic in me.

Heidi had so many great ideas. I tagged along and stole some intimate moments.

Stacey. She smiles ALL the time as well.

Almost time.

Did I mention that she is ALWAYS smiling!!!!

I had never seen a ceremony with a Japanese Sensei. It was beautiful.

Can you tell they love color…

Happiness attracts Happiness. (yes, I’m like a parrot)