Amy Williams Photography

Gorgeous Wedding at Malibu Rancho del Cielo

2012-01-31T16:08:00.001-08:00

I pulled some images from a wedding I shot a few years ago at the Malibu Rancho del Cielo to give you an idea of some places you might want to consider when planning your wedding day. Overlooking the Malibu coastline, this property with a residence for getting ready and seemingly endless open space is an ideal option.

Venice Canals Family Portrait Session

2012-01-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

Harper wasn't feeling the best when we met at the Venice Canals. But, she perked up once the puppet show started. How cute is she? Thanks Mara and Scott. What a pleasure. I love these pictures.

2012-01-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a gloomy one. But, it was perfect for playing with my new Lensbaby. I might've looked a little crazy by anyone watching. I was chasing the birds with the camera against my face. Ah, but who cares? I felt like a kid and I got my share of exercise, for sure.

Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012!

2012-01-03T14:36:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! 2011 was a great year with many beautiful moments. I look forward to double in 2012. Wishing everyone joy, health, peace and prosperity, I hope to see you all again soon!

Below are a few of the ornament gifts I sent out over the holidays with some of my most favorite images of 2011.

Holiday Session at the Santa Monica Pier

2011-12-21T16:06:00.001-08:00

I didn't want to share these too soon and ruin any holiday card surprises. But, I figure they've arrived by now (fingers crossed).

As you can see the wind was blowing. But it was still sunny and gorgeous. Thankfully, after a series of wet weekends, a number of families were ready for their holiday sessions and have some fun for their photo session. Thanks McDonoughs.

I hope these make you smile. I did.

These next two crack me up every time I see them. Lauren is chasing the bird while little Kellen looks on. There's a five year difference between big sister and little man. I'm told these two images could summarize it all.

Look at those blue eyes.

Lauren was such a treat. I loved hanging with her.

Big sister's support shows through in this one.

Fun fun fun!

Ventura City Hall Wedding

2011-11-29T11:05:00.001-08:00

I met Livia and Kamran upon arrival at the courthouse. Livia is Brazilian and Kamran is Persian. A beautiful match both inside and out as you can see. Their happiness, easy going nature and sense of humor are contagious and I feel so fortunate to have captured the special day with two new friends. Cheers to Livia and Kamran!

Halloweeeeeeeeeeeen!!!

2011-11-01T13:31:00.001-07:00

Halloween day brought out hoards of families with children to Santa Monica's Montana Avenue. The stores had a trick-or-treat event that was great for the little ones. And with that, OMG, the costumes and personalities within were almost overwhelming as I tried to capture some with my camera. I had a ball as the kids were so happy and agreeable in letting a stranger take a picture of the costume they were so proud of. Very few were shy and some even gave me a pose fit for their character. I think you're gonna like these. Happy Halloween my friends! Do you have a favorite??? I'd love to hear.

Fine Art Album!

2011-10-31T12:57:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to show you the fine art album I just finished for a gorgeous summer wedding I shot this year. These are available for portrait sessions too or just about anything. This one is 10"x10". But there are many sizes to chose from. The albums lay flat and are printed on a matte paper. Check it out! The bride and groom loved it!

Halloween Dinosaur

2011-10-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

Brooks started the Halloween costuming early to humor me. I wanted to see him as this dinosaur so bad. Isn't he the cutest thing?!

Amy and James' Wedding | Redondo Beach Historic Library

2011-10-04T17:18:00.000-07:00

The bride was glowing, the rain earlier in the day cleared the skies, the sunset was breathtaking and the most beautiful wedding took place on the bluffs at the Redondo Beach Historic Library. Amy and James, congratulations and cheers to a wonderful future together! Here's a sampling of the highlights. Enjoy!

Introducing Baby Noa-Manhattan Beach|California

2011-09-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

Photographing newborns is best before they are two weeks old because you can move them while they sleep soundly and as long as they are feed to the max they mostly stay asleep. I photographed Noa yesterday right at the tail end of that window. It was a little challenging because we pushed that timeline. But we got some precious photos of the beauty, anyway. She is the lucky baby girl born into a brood that includes two older adoring brothers. Making her the little angel of the family. And she's extra special to me because her mom is my cousin. Lucky me, yesterday, it was just me, Tanya and the little munchkin. Thanks cuz, I love you tons and am so happy for you, Liam and the boys. She's just perfect. xoxo

Santa Monica Summer

2011-09-14T20:08:00.000-07:00

These were taken during the first part of Caroline's birthday bash (see my previous blog entry) which was a few weeks back. I think this was the best summer day at the beach this year. I remember thinking, wow, I'm so lucky to be working right here, right now. The waves weren't too big and the water temperature was perfect for the day's heat. I was struck by these pictures because they look like they could've been taken with my Holga, which I love to shoot with these days. But, actually, these were taken with a wide lense on my Canon 5D Mark II.

A Momentus 8th Birthday for Caroline!

2011-09-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

Transporting 20+ kids from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, my dear, patient friends Angela and Brian were courageous enough to host a two day 8th birthday bash for their daughter, Caroline, with the climactic event being the Taylor Swift concert at the Staples Center.

I have to post a few highlights of the girls all primped for the big night! T-shirts and curls were the common link. But, from there, they let their individual styles take over. Boots, feathers, blue eye shadow, vests...

Angela, it was so much fun to be a part of the big weekend! Happy Birthday Caroline!

SneakPeek: Paula+Milan=Married

2011-06-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

Paula is family and we're also the closest of friends which made this particular day so special for me. I feel so honored to have been able to photograph her wedding and spend the day surrounded by family, friends and so many familiar faces. I hope it shows in this short sampling. It was one of the greatest working experiences yet.

Milan, you are a lucky man and I know you need no reminder. I could see all the love overflowing throughout the day. Thank you both. I loved every minute with you. Especially our multiple car rides. Love and congratulations. I look forward to celebrating more when you get back from your honeymoon.

P.S. Check back later in the week for more party pics...

I love this photo of the three of you.

A precious moment.

The great reveal...They couldn't keep their hands off one another after this :)

Beautiful people.

Dr. and Mr. Thorrington! Just kidding, Mr. and Mrs. Cronovich. Loved it.

The ominous clouds hanging over Palos Verdes Estates added an amazing backdrop to this fashion spread shot on the bluffs.

The bird was planned(not). This might be my favorite shot. But, I've got a lot to get through still.

More to come...keep checking back.

Why does it have to be so gloomy?

2011-06-13T19:42:00.001-07:00

Gotta make the best of it, I guess.

San Francisco

2011-06-06T16:56:00.000-07:00

Holga Holga Holga. I'm having more fun with it every time I pick it up.

Dream Cabo

2011-05-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

Again with my Holga...and with expired film this time...These are from a resort about 20 minutes outside of Cabo San Lucas.

Palm Springs

2011-05-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

I broke out my Holga recently because I really needed to play again and also have that element of surprise that you can only get from shooting film. So, here are a few images I took in Palm Springs some weeks back. I'm addicted. Next I'll be posting some from Cabo :)

Cowboy in training

2011-05-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

These are from a short shoot for little Brooks' 1st Birthday invitation...Poor guy wasn't feeling well. But, he pulled through and we got these great shots out quick.

No newborns or toddlers this time

2011-04-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

I have worked with Orange Lutheran for almost five years now. I started out shooting their Annual Gala events and moved into shooting campus lifestyle images soon thereafter. We've definitely grown together in many ways and the image library as well. Here's a recent example of our work together. I take credit for only the photos :) But, I love what they do with the images I'm able to provide for them. They're putting out fun modern campaigns for their school and I'm just so happy and proud to be working with such a great team.

Yesterday, I finished another great shoot over there that reminded me that I've been meaning to post something for a long while. Surprisingly this is the first. Can't wait to see what they do next. Though, the first step is on me. I've got some editing to do.

Welcome Avery!

2011-03-20T17:02:00.001-07:00

Right on time, Charlie's little sister arrived. With lollipops, stickers and Freddie the Frog, we got some great shots. Thank you Tom and Glenda. I'm excited to capture these precious moments and watch your beautiful family grow. ;)

Katelyn and Kevin's Wedding Day (Update)

2011-03-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

I hope you enjoy this video of Katelyn and Kevin's wedding back in October. I know, late. But, it makes it feel fresh. Almost like it was yesterday. :)

Katelyn and Kevin's Wedding Day

Never too late

2011-02-27T16:26:00.000-08:00

I meant to post these a while ago. The Gilbert family had just added a new addition to their brood and wanted to capture the special time near their home in Long Beach. Another gorgeous family, gorgeous day, gorgeous fun. I'm so lucky! Thanks Kyra and Fred. It was so great to see you all.

Winter Days at the Pier...shhh, don't tell everyone.

2011-02-13T17:16:00.001-08:00

An amazing winter day and beautiful people. Can you ask for more? We are so lucky here in Southern California.
Welcome to the new addition, due days ago. Can't wait to meet you little one. All the best to you, Tom, Glenda and Charlie.

A Favorite of 2010

2011-01-03T19:52:00.000-08:00

I just love these moments. Marigold is one of my favorite people on the planet. Our visits aren't frequent. But they are always quality. And this trip to the north shore of Oahu I got to meet little man Ozley. I'm sad I probably won't see him until he's at least 3. But, I have these pictures to make me smile. Love you Marigold.

I could look at this picture all day. Love love love.

The.Aguilars.Santa.Monica.Pier.Beach

2010-12-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

Girls love pink. So, pink it was...And, Rene didn't mind. Look at his pride. Thank you Aguilar family.

Katelyn and Kevin : Malibu : California

2010-11-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

Just a little hint of the perfect October wedding day of Katelyn and Kevin. Have a wonderful honeymoon you two. More to come soon.

Mariya and Derek's Malibu wedding

2010-10-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

September 25th, I had the pleasure of capturing Mariya and Derek's wedding at Mariya's mother's home in the hills above Malibu. Here's a small sampling of the happy couple and the special day. More to come! Congratulations, you two.

Vittoria Lynn...

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

Love love love. Sweet Vita got her baby announcement photos taken last week. Michelle, she's gorgeous! Can't wait to see you all together for family photos with Bear and Seymour in tow. Love that Charthouse happy hour!

Roxy and Mr. Fin

2010-08-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite munchkins. You can see them all over my website too. With this headshot, Roxy has been cast in a couple of Target commercials. Nice work Roxy. Remember your humble beginnings at the Chateau. Love you Ong Family.

Baker Beach San Francisco

2010-08-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I did a shoot with this sweet family of four at Baker Beach in San Francisco. I really wanted to have the Golden Gate backdrop and I think the fog made it work out even better than I imagined. Here's a tiny tease of a sample from the morning. More to follow.

look at that...is there any better definition of happiness?

Thanks for playing Christa and Yariv. It was exhausting, but worth it. Look at those beauties. I'm so excited to get the rest of the edits up for you to see. I'll try to be quick. Hugs to the little tykes.

Santa Monica Sustainable Gardens~~

2010-07-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

It's an exciting day! The City of Santa Monica just launched the section on their SustainableSM.org website that showcases all the residential sustainable landscape gardens I finished shooting a few months ago. There are over 75 homeowners that have participated in the program so far. I love this City! Check it out when you get a chance.

Michelle's Preggers!

2010-07-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

If you look back, not too far, you'll see pictures from her wedding...and now little Vittoria is almost here! Can't wait to take her picture in the months to come. Love you Michelle! Congratulations.

We have too much fun!!

Katelyn and Kevin

2010-07-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

What started out as a gloomy Malibu morning on the pier, turned into a perfect day for pictures. Katelyn and Kevin were game for everything...and got a little wet because of it. Thanks guys. What a blast! I can't wait until your wedding day.

I've been gardening...

2010-06-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, spending a lot of time in gardens, I mean. I've disappeared to shoot a large series of sustainable landscape gardens. So, I'm going to start by showing you this big succulent cacti plant. I feel really bad that I don't have a name for you. But, check out this amazing living thing... Tell me it's not as interesting as I thought it was. Nature is awesome!

Jamie and Josie

2010-04-15T22:57:00.000-07:00

My girlfriend Mary's new munchkin and her big brother, James, who got in on the action. I was so excited to meet the new addition. She looks so much like her brother. Congratulation Mary and Eric! They're gorgeous.

Wedding Album

2010-03-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

I finished Michelle and Doug's wedding album. The photos are all I have now to show for it.

I Heart SM

2010-03-02T13:50:00.001-08:00

Another photo for my Santa Monica series...

Color Color Color

2010-02-25T13:38:00.001-08:00

This is my second year photographing the FreshstART fundraising event at the Santa Monica Airport and I had such a great time. I've gotten familiar with the artists and a number of regulars from Tinlark Gallery where I shoot often and which is the connector for me to this great event. Let me explain how it works. There are about 200 carefully selected artists who donate one or two pieces of their work. Within the short two hour event, people have a chance to eat, drink, view and buy. But, if you blink, you may lose your 1st choice piece. You have to go in and pick FAST! The crowd rushes in, things FLY off the wall to be wrapped, new owners carry them home, never to be seen again. It actually works well. It's brilliant! I didn't donate this year. But, I do plan to put something in next year. If you're looking for some art to buy...this is the event. I'd be happy to keep you in the loop for next year. Just let me know. Here are some mover and shaker highlights. Maybe some of them look familiar?

Tommy!!

2010-02-16T17:30:00.001-08:00

I had the pleasure of photographing this little man a few weeks ago. Daddy, Tom, and I go way back to my Cable days. We used to share war stories with offices down the hall from each other. I remember when he had just met his wife Erica and was soooo excited! So, it was great to spend some time with them in their new home. Thanks for having me, Erica and Tom! You have such a beautiful family and now Tom has his mini-me! So cute. I can't wait to do it again when Tommy's a little older and can, at least, hold his head up. :)

Eric's Engaged!!!

2010-01-05T12:34:00.001-08:00

My brother and Leah are engaged! I've been wanting to post these for a while. But, I didn't want to spoil any surprises. So now that pictures have been ordered, it's time to show the happy couple. Aren't they cute!
I shot these images near our childhood home in one of the smaller Malibu canyons. As I'm posting them, I realize how attached I am to the scenery and the locations. Makes me all nostalgic. Hopefully you see the beauty as I do.

Since we only had an hour before their engagement party, we decided to stay close to home instead of going down to the beach. And I'm so glad we did.

I had them dancing up a storm. I think they had fun. Can you see it?

So cute!

I don't think the day could've been more gorgeous. Winters in Malibu. Amazing!

The weeds in the foreground softened this image quite a bit. I'm loving the look.

Sorry I've been MIA

2009-12-13T22:26:00.000-08:00

How about a sneak peek of a work in progress of my Santa Monica series.

Another Tinlark Show

2009-11-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

But this time art was being made LIVE. Check out these crafty kids with big personalities.

Tiger Lily wouldn't give up the juice. Such a Tiger.

Stella the Ringleader!

Eli, the powerful one!

Belen, so peaceful.

The brothers, Roan and Luke. Artist and Muse.

Boo!

2009-11-03T18:37:00.000-08:00

Here are a few...I was inspired to do portraits.

oh, and while trick-or-treating I caught this one.

Wanna drive an efficient car? Alt Car Expo 2009

2009-10-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

For the past four years I've photographed the AltCar Expo in Santa Monica. Always fun to see progress. But, this year, the Cali Governator was in attendance. Well, sort of. After the venue was closed to the public he got a private tour with some international delegates. It was exhilarating to be in with the secret service and his personal photographer-- great guys who were very helpful. Thanks Trevor and Justin. Hope to cross paths with you and Arnold again. :)

Maybe he'll end up driving a Smartcar?

Promote me, would ya?

2009-10-11T20:01:00.001-07:00

I'm very happy with my new family portrait postcard! Finally the colors look good and it's not too dark. Yay!

Go Dennis!

2009-10-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

I photographed the Consumer Watchdog event a few weeks ago. Such an inspiring company. Thank god for their existence. For one, Dennis Quaid was recognized for his efforts to improve patient safety in American Hospitals. If you aren't familiar, Dennis' twins nearly died in 2007 after receiving doses of a blood thinner that was 1,000 times stronger than prescribed. It became a huge focus due to his celebrity. And now, things are changing with bar-coding on medication packaging and electronic patient records. He and his wife have taken on the cause with The Quaid Foundation.

Anyway, the event was an eye-opener of all the great things that Consumer Watchdog does for American consumers and taxpayers. You can find more information at consumerwatchdog.org .

Great Artists at Tinlark

2009-09-23T15:49:00.001-07:00

I shot another opening at Tinlark Gallery in Hollywood on Saturday night. I'd post some of the images on here. But, you should check out their website...they put up a lot of good ones.

http://www.tinlark.com/blog/09/09/opening_night_photos_maggy_hiltner_and_jen_khoshbin_shows

The Holidays are Coming!

2009-09-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

Please take a look at my June 22nd entry. I have joined up with the boutique card company Tag & Co for this season's card options! They do beautiful work. And, because it's that time, I want to give you all 20% off your card order over 40 cards. So, let's get that shoot on the calendar!

I want to be a princess too!

2009-09-17T18:34:00.001-07:00

If you look at my website, you'll recognize Kyra's big blue eyes and the ease of her smiley nature. It's one of my favorite children's shots so far and when we shared that moment she didn't even speak English. She was fluent in Spanish only. But not anymore. Now, she's bilingual and here she is again! Back in force! Approximately one year later...but this time with her little sister Mika who also seems like a happy little person in the making. I did a family photo session with the two girls and their parents Christian and Alexia not too long ago. It's experiences like these that make me think about how much I love my job. Look at those faces.

Per the entry title. I love the sheer joy here.

She had to get up on that tree.

Look at those eyes!

Sisterly love. I can't get enough of this one.

And, of course, mommy and daddy. Now you can see where the genes came from...beautiful!

Valerie and Sophia

2009-08-30T10:59:00.001-07:00

The scraped knee didn't stop Sophia from having a blast on our mini-shoot. What a great start to a Sunday. They were my first session at Village Green and boy did they set an example. Thanks Valerie and Sophia. You two are beautiful!

Michelle and Doug McCarron Wedding

2009-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Michelle and Doug got married at the California Yacht Club in Marina del Rey on a beautiful July day. I'm so glad I was able to capture the memories for them. Michelle is one of my favorite people. We've known each other for a long time and I know how much thought and effort she put into the day to make it perfect! Congratulations you two. Can't wait to take the family photos too. ;)

Micah, Micah, Micah

2009-08-10T11:13:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing the handsome and oh so natural model Micah recently. I had met him prior to the shoot and he was quite shy. And I thought I was going to have my work cut out for me. But, he got in front of the camera with such ease, it was as if he does it everyday. Can't ask for much better. I had to share his smile with the world.

Just chillin'

Lovin' the camera

Having a good laugh with mommy

My first shot of him...

Somewhere in Yoyogi

2009-07-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

You wouldn't know it, but Tokyo isn't known for it's green spaces. Or at least, that's what I read. There are very few large green spaces within Tokyo. And one day, while trying to find a grassy area to hang out and just observe, it took two trains and a long walk on a gravel path with much foot traffic and no benches to get to this open field in Yoyogi park between Shinjuku and Shibuya. But, isn't it interesting looking? It's not even grassy. It's more like a wild field. Everywhere else was groomed to the hilt. But, Yoyogi? Wildish. Hmmm. What's that all about?

I didn't know what we were going to find beyond those trees. But, I liked being surrounded by the tall, beautiful green creatures.

Take away the large buildings of Shinjuku in the background and it made me feel like I was somewhere near little house on the prairie, Tokyo style, of course.

See, a Japanese Laura Ingalls and her mom.

Looking back toward the field. This shot is more "Tokyo" or "Japan", because of that bridge and lake. I think it's beautiful, don't you?

Tokyo Subways

2009-06-24T22:38:00.001-07:00

A little time spent on the Tokyo subways. Well, actually a lot. Everyday during my visit, in fact. So, while it might not seem exciting to many, for me, it was a unique experience having spent so many years in Los Angeles and never even taking the Metro for the novelty yet. I think I could really delve into Tokyo subway shooting... They are so clean!

The Japanese are very polite and serious when it comes to escalators. DO NOT stand on the left--passing only.

Hustle bustle.

Need to Announce Something?

2009-06-22T20:08:00.000-07:00

I've partnered up with this boutique card company and I hope you'll love their designs as much as I do. Moving forward you can order your baby announcements, save-the-dates, holiday cards and any other photo card when we conclude our shoots! I have an album of options for you to choose from...so when I see you next for our photo shoot, I'll be sure to show you. It's very exciting. Here's a peek at what you'll see in the book. *I must note, photos are not mine.

Other Chickies...

2009-06-21T15:58:00.001-07:00

In Bali, while touring around, I had to stop to see these adorable little creatures. They're sold to the school kids when they're let out in the afternoon. So, as far as I could tell, they bring them out around noon and then you don't see them after about two or three. I'd hoped to take more pictures of them. But, we never saw them again.

In an ideal world, which I really want to believe in, these chickies swim in pools of colored waters in a beautiful oasis of happy chick livelihood. It must be a site to see. Then, once they're all colored up, they get to play with their other colored friends and it's a skittles looking rainbow of a healthy, cruelty free experience. Am I wrong for hoping?

I think the cage is sitting on the back of a bicycle...

Who's your favorite?

I may work on this image a little bit. He deserves to be famous...maybe only on my website. But, we'll see.

Tokyo's Girlie Shoppers

2009-06-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

I'm back. Wow, long lag.
Anyway, I've decided to group my shots from my Tokyo trip to make the showing of them more fun. So, second installment...Tokyo's girlies shopping in Shibuya. I found out later I wasn't supposed to take pictures in the nine story department store/mini boutique showcase called 109 because the designers are very sensitive about their wares. Makes sense. I saw some really unique pieces at reasonable prices that I wouldn't find here. But since no one stopped me I just went with it and had a great time. All these girls seemed ready and excited to be photographed. I'd say, behind the fish market, this was my favorite shooting time.

I got a lot of peace signs. Not sure what that was about. Does it really mean peace to them?

She might be my favorite. I just thought she looked sweet. I wish I didn't cut off her feet.

Wow! Bold, huh? And, yet, totally normal there.

The wig shop was right in the middle of all the clothing stores. Makes sense, I guess.

After seeing this style of shoe everywhere, I ended up bringing home a pair and I love them. Can't wait to wear them over and over.

I threw this one in because I didn't know where else to put it. I won't be doing a section on these peeps. But, this was taken in Harajuku where, on Sundays, Tokyo youth dress up in their most outrageous costumes and stand outside of Yoyogi park to get attention and pose for tourists.

This was a billboard on one of the many pedestrian streets in town. You can kind of get a sense of the marketed style to these ladies. No one seems to wear flip flops. I felt like a slouch in my Rainbows. But, I was going for comfort. I think they might be struggling for that...I saw all the inserts for their feet.

I just loved these shoes....look at the multicolored ones. Damn! I should've just bought them. Urgh!

2009-05-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tsukiji Fish Auction, Tokyo, Japan

I'm in the middle of my two week visit to Tokyo and we finally got up at 5a to see fish being slung around and fought over during the morning tuna auction. Well, not literally. But, that's what I expected. In reality, it was a very civilized boys club-esque seeming experience. In a twenty minute visit I was able to observe the interactions of friends picking the best fishies, or monstrous creatures, for their needs--mostly for restaurants and grocery stores, I assume. I may have to go back before I head home to LA. So far, it's been the most exhilarating thing to photograph journalistically.

2009 Alt Build Expo

2009-05-12T14:12:00.000-07:00

Did you make it to the Alt Build Expo at the Santa Monica Civic this weekend?

Not only were there cutting edge, environmentally smart and responsible products on display, but the people were all so friendly. I made a lot of new friends and found a lot of things I want to apply to my home as soon as possible. I think I'll start with a tomato plant on my balcony. :))) Thanks City of Santa Monica and Platia productions for hiring me as the official event photographer.

Here are some highlights...

These are doors and tables made out of salvaged wood.

Tons of green home building products at Discover Green in Hollywood. They were a very popular booth...and so colorful too.

Now this was just cool...EcoSmart Fire, burns clean and is maintenance free. It's fueled by ethanol and there are no hard connections so you can put it anywhere. And, the kicker is that there's a $1500 tax credit when you purchase one.

Want an alternative to real grass? Synthetic grass. Gotta love it.

Okay...I was so excited about this one...a recyclable mattress. It was very popular. And, I tried it. It stacks up to the competition, for sure. Unfortunate I don't have the company name off hand. But I know that they are carried at Venare Design in West Hollywood.

Alli's new -do

2009-04-20T20:22:00.000-07:00

This one's a sneak peak of the fun test shoot I did with Alli and Essly last Friday...Another form of art. Alli was a trooper for being so open to creativity in the hairstylin' department and that Essly is quite the artist. Good times girls.

Oh, we girls were having fun. :)

I love this shot. The shape and light are cool.

bye bye bangs! well, sort of...not really.

and the finished product! Go Alli.

2009-04-19T13:07:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to announce the launch of my new website! It's been in the works for too long. So, please check it out. www.amywilliamsphoto.com. Oh, and I'm also excited that I've moved up the Google rankings. While I'm not quite at the top of the "amy williams photography" search (a Texan Amy Williams beat me to the address), I'm now on the first page. Yay! Now that's making strides, don't you think? Happy Sunday. More pictures to come early this week from the lifestyle shoot I did on Friday.

Langevin Family Shoot

2009-04-10T14:29:00.001-07:00

Kathy and I were roommates at UC Berkeley and reconnected, finally, after a few years of drifting through life and I'm SO glad we did. I love that photography is such a social activity. We caught up a ton while we were getting the cutest photos of little Sophie. I realized how much I miss Kath. She's awesome! In fact, if by chance, you need a dermatologist or neurosurgeon in Tucson, AZ, look her or her husband, JP, up. They're moving soon. Love you Kathy! Thanks for letting me take these special photos of you three. I'm looking forward to Sophie's birthday party next weekend. :)

Oh mommy, you're silly.

I'm having a ball!

Sophie really wanted to eat the flower...it was pretty funny.

Okay. I just love this...

Sweetest happy girl.

Huh?

Weeeee!

Tinlark Gallery Opening

2009-04-06T23:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday night I had the pleasure of photographing the opening of Clean Up Your Gravity Index with works by Scott David Johnson + Kirsten Tradowsky which shows until May 9th. You should check it out if you have a chance. www.tinlarkgallery.com is the gallery website. I photograph all the openings and I've seen so many great works and learned of so many great emerging artists over the past year. That Cris McCall is very talented and the openings are always a lot of fun. And there's even an art station for the kids. So, EVERYONE is welcome.

Okay, this one's going on my website. I just love the streaming sunlight.

Can you start them too early?

This one sold before I got there...and I arrive early.

Look at all that color.

My girl, Liz, and her friends Nicole and Chip came by to get their art on...I have a feeling they'll be regulars. :)

Stark Family Shoot

2009-04-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

Look at this beautiful family. The Starks were so much fun. Thank you Chris, Jamie and Kylie. I've been meaning to put these up for a while. And, luckily, navigating this blog format is starting to make some sense. I'm excited to share these and others with you. Check back again soon.

While we got some great shots of the family, this shoot was really about little Kylie, one of the most energetic and animated two year olds I've photographed yet. I had loads of fun capturing her many sides. And, with Jamie and Chris' help, we got so many great shots. Here are some samples.

Such focus here. I love it.

Shy or Coy. Either way, perfect.

Sweet.

A little bored, maybe?

Surfer girl

Rrrr!

I love Mommy and Daddy

Stacchi Family Shoot.

2009-03-12T23:28:00.000-07:00

Before they move to Portland, the Stacchi family and I got a chance to do a mini (meaning "short") photo shoot in Holmby Hills last weekend. As you can see there were lots of smiles and much exploration. Even Ebi, the terrier, got involved. We had a great time.

All the best to the Stacchi's in their adventures to the north.

2009-03-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

I'm finally joining the world of blogging. I'm excited to share my adventures in photography with everyone and hope you'll check back frequently.