Why I Became a Photographer
Pre digital age, when film was the only photography format available, my dad was always that one person who had a camera around his neck and took photos. With 2 other siblings in the house, it perhaps became his responsibility rather than his passion, but nevertheless I attribute my joy in photography to my Papa. And a majority of what I do is to continue his memory and to make him proud.
He was the quiet type, which allowed him to use the camera as a shield at family gatherings, but also use it as a way to break the ice when needed. Around high school age, my brother initially took it up when my dad gave him a camera to play with. Since he had several cameras laying around, he introduced it to me as well and I said, “Sure, why not give it a shot?” I really believe that if my brother didn’t first take an interest in it I would not have cared for it. 2 years his junior, I was just as an impressionable teenager as any, but also a very competitive sibling as well 🙂
Our family summer trips eventually became my yearly responsibility, taking over for my dad as the family photographer, since my brother quickly lost interest in it.
But as most starting photographers begin, I did not really enjoy taking photos of people, so my early days of photography started in a very different field.
Growing up by Golden Gate Park, I had an endless array of subjects and would take photos as often as I could.
Couple that with me being a quiet teenager, photographing nature became my main interest and way for me to practice photography.
My interest in nature photography led me to photography almost daily at the Park, shooting whatever caught my eye. Flowers, sunsets, and wildlife all became the subjects of my overexposed photos. Eventually, I grew to appreciate and study birds, which became my main subject of choice for a while, because I started noticing them a little more after all my walks in the park. Befriending other birders / bird photographers at the park, I was introduced to long lenses that I never knew existed, and made the whole world of photography even more addicting! The world of zoomed in photos even opened up an entirely new (and temporary) fascination in my life – birding. And because of this, I am probably one of the few wedding photographers in the world that can name two dozen birds as well 🙂
After a few years of taking a lot of bad photos and a few decent ones, I thought I would try my hand at sports photography, since it seemed the most related subject to wildlife photography than anything else.
Whether it was my lack of business skills, my lack of photo skills, or all of the above… Sports photography did not pan out back in my early days. Of course, as a enthusiastic hobbyist photographer, I happily tried to shoot any and everything, including Night club event photography – my first real consistent gig.
As a mid 20s single guy, night club photography was awesome! I got to go to all the clubs, get free entrance for myself and friends, and flirt with girls! I mean…network! 🙂
In an era without smart phones, virtually all of the most popular clubs wanted a club photographer to show how awesome their venue is and how much fun people had the night before! The pay was garbage, but it allowed me to practice my flash photography, and allowed me to get out of my comfort zone of shooting in only natural light and having to talk to my subjects.
Though this specific genre for me was short lived (how many 26 year olds nowadays do you know go to the clubs three nights a week?), night club photography taught me one of the most important lessons that I use today – how to talk to strangers And become a pseudo-Richard Simmons type behind a camera
When shooting, I like to think I’m one of the more approachable and talkative photographers because I genuinely enjoy what I do. The camera in my hands allows me to be what Sasha fierce is to Beyoncé. Other people who have seen me work have told me I smile and dance a lot, but of course , I never notice myself doing them. I suppose I am so happy when taking photos and I just move my body uncontrollably 🙂
Eventually that exposure with taking photos of people lead me to focusing on people. One day I sort of said that I have taken enough photos, learned enough technique, and I should just toss myself out there. Within my first week of posting a random ad on craigslist, I booked my first gig to photograph a school teachers session where the kids were creating artwork for a book she was going to publish. Fast forward a year later, and my first published photos were created! 🙂
I still have those children’s books and they are arguably one of my more valued possessions because it relates to my very first gig and how far I have come.
I have since developed as a photographer from those early days, (taking several workshops from photographers I deeply admire for starters), but I definitely plan on continuing my education as the years carry on. And through it all, I still hope I carry the same enthusiasm for taking photos as I did my very first gig, because I have no reservations in saying that photography is my true calling. I am so blessed to have found the one thing I absolutely adore. If my Clients see the result of my passion in their photographs, I’d like to think I made the right decision and can make Papa proud. I may not be able to physically hug him, but at least I can utilize photography as a way of keeping in touch with him and keeping his memory alive.
How to Plan a Kohl Mansion Wedding
How to Plan a Kohl Mansion WeddingUltimate Guide for Planning a Kohl Mansion Wedding(complete with pricing and photos)If you are planning a Kohl Mansion wedding this guide will help lead you in the right direction, offering all the relevant information you might need. Located in Burlingame, California, this mansion built in 1914 offers beautiful gardens, breathtaking lawns, and gorgeous backdrops for wedding photos, all a short drive from San Francisco and perfect for out of town guestsWhy a Kohl Mansion WeddingThis wedding venue provides its historic charm in its Beaux-Arts architectural style that has been meticulously restored. Its beautiful settings is surrounded by lush gardens and lawns that sets the scenes for a beautiful and serene wedding ceremonies and its receptions. Coupled with versatile event spaces, a wedding at Kohl Mansion offers event spaces that includes the great hall, grand staircase, and the garden courtyard. Overall, this wedding venue mixes a historical location with elegance, versatility, and the perfect scenery for couples to tie the knot. How to Book Kohl Mansion WeddingsWebsite: https://kohlmansion.com/weddings/Address: 2750 Adeline Drive • Burlingame, CA 94010Email: kohlmansion@mercyhsb.comPhone: (650) 762-1160Kohl Mansion Wedding CostRental Fee: $10,500–$13,500+ (varies by season and date)Deposit Fee: 50% of rental fee + $500 security deposit requiredCapacity: Up to 300 guestsThe cost of hosting Kohl Mansion weddings varies with few factors. These factors include the day of the week, time of day, and the number of guests. To give you a general idea, a Kohl mansion wedding price for 100 guests starts at $33,000 and includes the venue rental, setup and cleanup time, use of the bridal suite, and the services of an on-site event manager. Catering and beverage service are also available, and they offer a selection of caterers to choose from. Typically, the costs start at $125 per person and go up depending on the menu, bar package, and other factors.What’s IncludedThe Kohl Mansion wedding venue includes a 5-hour event, setup and cleanup time, use of the bridal suite, and the services of an on-site event manager. Kohl Mansion Wedding Locations The event spaces available to rent include the Great Hall, the Grand Staircase, and the Garden Courtyard. These spaces are versatile enough to bring their own unique charm and character to the different celebrations happening at the venue. These Kohl Mansion weddings locations offer the most convenient spots for couples to host their guests while still having the perfect setting for their event. Lawn Rose Garden Great Hall Best Times for a Wedding at Kohl Mansion RestrictionsNoise ordinances: The venue may have noise restrictions in place to comply with local ordinances. This means that the wedding may need to end at a certain time to avoid disturbing the neighbors.Alcohol policy: The venue may have restrictions on the consumption of alcohol, such as requiring a licensed bartender and limiting the amount of alcohol that can be served.Catering policy: The venue may require couples to use a specific catering company or choose from a preferred list of vendors. This can affect the couple’s budget and options for food and beverage.Decorations policy: Kohl Mansion weddings may have restrictions on decorations, such as prohibiting open flames or confetti, to protect the historic building and property.Capacity limits: The venue may have a maximum capacity limit for events to ensure the safety of guests and comply with local regulations.Music policy: The venue may have restrictions on the type of music that can be played or the volume level to avoid disturbing the neighbors.ConclusionI hope this blog helped you in imagining what a wedding at Kohl Mansion can look like! With its location in the heart of the Peninsula area you can be sure to have stunning backdrops for your celebration. Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.comRelated Posts on the Blog
How to Plan Nestldown Weddings
How to Plan Nestldown Weddings Ultimate Guide for Planning Nestldown Weddings(complete with pricing info ) Are you dreaming of a magical and enchanting wedding that feels like it is straight out of a fairy tale? Nestldown weddings, nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains, might just be the perfect venue for you. With its lush gardens, serene ponds, and stunning redwood trees, Nestldown offers a truly unique and unforgettable setting for your special day. But planning a Nestldown wedding can seem overwhelming at first. From choosing the right vendors to navigating the venue’s many nooks and crannies, there is a lot to consider. That is why in this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know to plan a Nestldown wedding that is as magical and stress-free as the venue itself. So, grab a cup of tea and get ready to take some notes – your Nestldown wedding planning journey starts here! Why Nestldown Weddings One of the most remarkable features of Nestldown Weddings is the stunning natural scenery. The venue is located on 180 acres of pristine forest and meadowland, with a beautiful lake and waterfall that create the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. The grounds are meticulously maintained, and you will find plenty of picturesque spots for your ceremony and reception. The venue is also known for its charming and eclectic decor. The ceremony site features a whimsical bridge that leads to a rustic barn, while the reception area boasts an elegant ballroom with crystal chandeliers and antique furnishings. Everywhere you look, there are little touches that add to the ambiance and make your wedding feel like a fairy tale come true. Nestldown Weddings Cost Rental Fee: $14,950–$39,500 (varies by season/day)Capacity: 150 guests included (up to 200+ maximum)Deposit Fee: Refundable security deposit requiredRental Length: 9-hour wedding rentalIncludes: Exclusive use of gardens, Chapel, Barn, Main Lawn, Apple Knoll, tables/chairs, event staff, wedding manager, train ride, vintage London taxi, sound system, and setup assistanceSeason: March–DecemberVendors: Required preferred vendor list for catering, bar, DJ/band, planning, lighting, rentals, and transportationEnd Time: Guest departure by 10 PM Nestldown offers customizable wedding packages designed to fit different budgets, guest counts, and wedding styles. Pricing varies depending on the season, day of the week, and number of guests. A peak-season weekend wedding with 150–200 guests will have a higher investment compared to a weekday wedding during the off-season with a smaller guest count. The venue offers all-inclusive wedding packages that can include catering, beverages, rentals, event coordination, entertainment, and other wedding essentials, creating a more streamlined planning experience. Packages typically range from $14,950 for smaller weekday weddings during the off-season to approximately $39,500+ for larger peak-season weekend weddings with higher guest counts. Exact pricing depends on the selected date, guest count, and package details. How to Book a Nestldown Wedding Phone: 408.353.5311Website: https://www.waterfallsantacruz.com/weddingsVenue Tours: https://nestldown.youcanbook.me/ Nestldown Wedding Locations The Chapel Main Lawn & Koi Pond The Barn The Atrium Fantasy and Medieval Gardens Foxglove Meadow What’s Included in the Rental Small Wedding “Minimonies” Venue Details Natural Beauty – Nestldown is in the heart of the Santa Cruz mountains, surrounded by 180 acres of pristine forest and meadowland. The stunning natural scenery provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos and creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere that is hard to find at other wedding venues. Personalized Service – The staff at Nestldown go above and beyond to ensure that your wedding day is everything you’ve ever dreamed of. From customized packages to personalized attention, the Nestldown team will work with you every step of the way to bring your vision to life. Unique Decor – Nestldown’s decor is a charming mix of rustic and elegance throughout. The ceremony site features a picturesque bridge leading to a rustic barn, while the reception area boasts an elegant ballroom with crystal chandeliers and antique furnishings. Everywhere you look, there are little touches that add to the ambiance and make your wedding feel truly special. Sustainability – Nestldown is committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness. They use solar power, recycle and compost, and source local and organic ingredients for their catering. They even have a farm on-site where they grow their own produce and raise animals, so you can feel good knowing that your wedding is not only beautiful, but also environmentally responsible. All-Inclusive Packages – Nestldown offers all-inclusive wedding packages that take the stress out of wedding planning. From catering to florals to entertainment, everything is taken care of by the Nestldown team. This allows you to sit back and enjoy your special day without having to worry about the details. Nestldown maintains a list of required vendors that you must select from. These includes Caterers, Wedding & Event Planners, Lighting experts, Shuttles, Furniture Rentals, and Bands/DJs. Best Time for Nestldown Weddings Conclusion Planning a wedding at Nestldown can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. Planning carefully and paying attention to the details allows you to create a memorable celebration that you and your guests will remember. If you’d like to discuss your wedding, please CONTACT ME and I’d love to chat! Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com Related Posts on the Blog
How to Plan a Nella Terra Cellars Weddings
How to Plan Nella Terra Cellars Weddings Ultimate Guide for Planning Nella Terra Cellars Weddings(complete with pricing and photos) Nella Terra Cellars weddings offer a charming venue with a unique backdrop normally found in the Napa Valley area. Situated in the lush hills of Sunol, this venue offers a panoramic backdrop for your special day and offers beautiful wedding locations for both smaller events up to 40 guests, and larger events up to 300. Why Nella Terra Cellars Weddings Nestled among picturesque vineyards and olive groves, Nella Terra weddings is the perfect setting for couples dreaming of a romantic and unforgettable wedding. With its lake view and aisle surrounded by vineyards, this unique venue promises an elegant experience that you and your guests will treasure forever. Nella Terra Cellars Wedding Cost Pricing: $3,500–$7,900 venue rental; $12,000–$28,000 event minimumCapacity: Up to 300 guests How to Rent Nella Terra Cellars Email: events@nellaterra.comPhone: 408-893-9463Inquiry Form: https://www.nellaterra.com/events What’s Included in the Packages Nella Terra Cellars weddings offers a comprehensive pricing and package system for their wedding venue. The Facility Fee includes an 8-hour rental, with 2 hours for setup, 5 hours for the ceremony and reception, and 1 hour for cleanup. The package also includes the following: a one-hour rehearsal hosted by the hired coordinator two wedding party areas ceremony set up and take down a metal pergola overlooking the pond water features wine barrel décorand bocce ball courts with tables and umbrellas. In addition, a choice of Nella Terra Metallic Venue and Beverage Package is mandatory with Facility Rental. The 2024 packages are as follows The Gold package at $9,800 The Silver package at $5,800 The Copper package at $2,800 (not available on Saturdays). The facility fee and packages are subject to a 23% Operations Fee and applicable sales tax. Nella Terra weddings also provides tables, chairs, and a dance floor for the event. Furthermore, note that holidays and weekends are subject to higher facility rental fees and beverage minimums. Nella Terra offers a morning-only option for $5,000 with a four-hour maximum for those only interested in a ceremony. Wedding Tips Choose the right vendors Work with Nella Terra weddings preferred vendors or carefully select your own experienced vendors working at outdoor wedding venues. Consider the weather Nella Terra weddings is an outdoor venue, so it’s important to have a plan in case of unexpected weather conditions. One thing to consider is that it can get windy at this venue Plan for transportation It is located in a secluded area, so make sure to arrange for transportation for your guests if needed. Consider hiring a shuttle or providing a ride-sharing service for your guests. Best Time for a Nella Terra Cellars Wedding The venue is only open for events April – October FAQ Can we bring in our own caterer? Nella Terra Cellars partners with On the Vine catering and have an outside catering policy. Is there a limit on the number of guests we can invite? The venue can accommodate up to 300 seated and standing guests. Can we have amplified music during the ceremony and reception? Yes, amplified music is allowed both indoors and outdoors. Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible. However some locations are not wheelchair accessible. Can we use rice, confetti or sparklers? Confetti and Sparklers are not allowed. Rice is allowed for ceremony purposes What is the alcohol policy? A licensed bartender must serve all alcohol; no outside alcohol is allowed on the property. Conclusion Planning a wedding at Nella Terra Cellars can be a wonderful experience, and with careful consideration and attention to detail, couples can create a truly unforgettable celebration. From the stunning vineyard views to the exceptional service and amenities, Nella Terra Cellars offers everything you need to make your special day truly magical. With the tips and guidance provided in this guide, you can be confident in planning the wedding of your dreams at this beautiful venue. If you’re flexible with location, check out these other Sunol wedding venues Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com Related