We Are Hyena

I recently shot some lifestyle images for RAEN optics, based here in Encinitas, highlighting the talents of Hyena, an up-and-coming band here in San Diego. This indie-electro band is comprised of two good looking and talented men, Mike Cooper and Bryan Stratman. The session, shot at "the saloon" in Encinitas, was a good mix of fashion and fun, the perfect way to kick off a Friday night. Hyena was kind enough to share their new album "We See You" with me. I loved it right away, my favorite track being the album opener "Anyone's Guess." These guys play all over San Diego and I can't wait to catch one of their live shows. Check out the interview they did with RAEN here.

Mike Cooper, Hyena

Bryan Stratman, Hyena

Sage & Stratton

I had so much fun on this session. Although the boys might have been a little tired (they were on a multi-state trip from Alaska with their brave & strong mom and had probably not settled into California yet), I thought they were great sports.

It's always fun to see the dynamics within families and syblings, but I haven't had to many opportunities to photography twins, especially awake ones! It would be great to see these guys again a year or two down the line and watch as they blossom and grow. They were physically and emotionally different, but very much connected to each other and their mommy!

Coming from Alaska Natalie wanted to shoot somewhere open and natural. I love the tones of the grasses with their skin, the gold was perfect, and the green was a bonus. These should look amazing in her home.

Getting my Wildflower fix

I've been taking serious advantage of all the beautiful colors here in Encinitas. And thanks to the lucky family that won my "favorite location" contest we got to play in a sweet little, secret spot of wildflowers, right near their home. The wildflowers are amazingly vibrant, but also create a really beautiful graphic-like background when blurred out correctly. I found I love these images in my b&w special recipe! We also had so much fun playing with a kid sized fedora hat from Magical Child. Amazing what expressions and playing can come from one little prop. Note how sweet little Chloe loved to do everything her big brother did...and,so cute doing it.

Baby Celia