Informational

stern grove wedding redwood trees and a green bench

How to Plan a Stern Grove Wedding

Informational, Venues

How to Plan a Stern Grove Wedding The Ultimate Guide for Planning a Stern Grove Wedding(complete with pricing, photos, and video) Are you interested in a Stern Grove wedding and wondering how to have your wedding there? Mostly visited by locals, Stern Grove is mostly known for their outdoor concerts during the summertime, but it can also serve as a small wedding venue year round. Let’s learn more about this location and how to plan your very own Stern Grove wedding. TLDR – Stern Grove wedding provides an outdoor environment along with the Trocadreo Clubhouse as an indoor option; seats 140 stand-up/ 120 sit down. – Trocadero Clubhouse equipped with a full caterer’s kitchen, minus the stove/oven – Stern Grove reservation fee begins at $50 plus an hourly rate starting at $153 (6 hour minimum); one of the most affordable venues in SF, considering the scenery. – Coordinator recommended; responsible for cleanup and toilet paper stock   What makes the Stern Grove wedding venue special? Stern Grove provides budget friendly indoor and outdoor options for a wedding while also providing a classic natural backdrop. The centerpiece of the site of your Stern Grove wedding will be the Trocadero Clubhouse adjacent to the outdoor ceremony location. Surrounding the Trocadero Clubhouse, you will find groves of redwoods and eucalyptus trees and a small pond. Most couples opt to have the ceremony outdoors with a background of redwood trees while moving indoors for the reception. The Trocadero House has a capacity of 140 for a stand-up setting and 120 for sit down. There is limited parking on site but plenty of street parking that does require a steep walk. How much does a Stern Grove wedding cost? Reservation Fee : $50- $150Hourly Rate (6 hour min) : $153 – $178 Outside Area Fee : $200Refundable Deposit : $750 How do I reserve a wedding at Stern Grove? Reservations take place through the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department’s online form. Stern Grove is one of the most affordable venues in the city, particularly when considering the beautiful setting you get for the price. Availability at Stern Grove in the summer specifically varies because of the Stern Grove Music Festival. For all available dates, reservations can be made a year in advance. If multiple applications are received, a lottery determines who receives the use of the facility for their event. Best Times for a Stern Grove Wedding The temperature around Stern Grove stays fairly consistent with the temperatures in SF throughout the year, but with a bit more fog compared to more inland areas of the City. There are periods where its sunny downtown and foggy around here. The hot period (high 70s low 80s) doesn’t last too long, but September and October are the warmest months and are very comfortable. See the graph below for a more accurate outline of the yearly temperatures.  Considerations for a Stern Grove clubhouse wedding Stern Grove, in addition to the trees and pond outside for the wedding ceremony, also offers a clubhouse called the Trocadero Clubhouse. One of the biggest benefits of reserving the Trocadero Clubhouse is the use of a full caterer’s kitchen. This will provide a great deal of flexibility for your wedding planning. The kitchen includes a prep counter, warming ovens, and refrigerators. There is no stove or oven, however. If you decide to have a Stern Grove wedding, I definitely recommend a coordinator, whether a professional one or a very helpful family member or friend. This is because you are responsible for cleaning, stocking toilet paper, taking out trash, and tearing down everything at the end of the event, which makes sense given that it is a public property and has a very low price point. Having a trusted coordinator will ensure you have nothing to worry about and can enjoy the festivities. Another thing to consider is the possibility of hiring live music. Stringed instruments would fit well with the natural aesthetic of this location. This could be a nice touch for a couple that wants an extra bit of elegance for their day.  Final thoughts When planning your Stern Grove wedding, be sure to get your reservation in as soon as possible to ensure the best chances of securing the venue. There can be some competition for popular dates. It is the only wedding venue in San Francisco that offers this type of scenery. The next closest is Muir Woods, and if you are interested in a larger space that has exponentially more redwood trees, take a look at this post on “How to Plan a Wedding in Muir Woods.“ Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335  ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118 Related Posts on the Blog

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silhouette of couple touching foreheads at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco at dusk

How to Plan a Palace of Fine Arts Wedding

Informational, Venues

How to Plan a Palace of Fine Arts Wedding Ultimate Guide to Planning a Palace of Fine Arts Wedding(complete with pricing, photos, and videos) Having a Palace of Fine Arts Wedding is one of the more popular choices for Couples that want a gorgeous venue in the heart of San Francisco. While not commonly used for the reception, this wedding venue is one of the best in the City for your outdoor ceremony. Take a look at the photos below to imagine your Palace of Fine Arts wedding and contact me to discuss your wedding! How to Book a Palace of the Fine Arts Wedding For couples that have their sights set on a Palace of Fine Arts Wedding, the most critical first step is knowing how to reserve the venue. It is administered by San Francisco Recreation & Parks. Reservations can be made one year in advance of the date, and we certainly recommend placing a reservation at that time as it is popular. If more than one person places a reservation for a date, a lottery determines who gets the space.  Reservations themselves must be for a minimum of two hours and start on the hour. Wedding ceremonies can only be conducted beneath the Rotunda; however, while the grounds are beautiful, the Rotunda is the prime spot you’ll want for your ceremony. The Palace of Fine Arts Fee Reservation Fee : $506Hourly Rate (2 hr min) : $144Refundable Deposit : $500 If you’re planning a wedding at Palace of Fine Arts, one thing you’ll have to do is do some more planning for the ceremony. The reservation only includes use of the place. This means you will need to rent tables, chairs, an audio system, photographer, and arrange for catering if hosting your reception here also. You’ll also want to determine and plan décor. Because of this, most couples choose to host their ceremony only and have their reception elsewhere for efficiency Considerations for a Wedding at Palace of Fine Arts When planning a wedding at Palace of Fine Arts, you have to consider it is a public space and it will not be completely private. The park is very popular, and people will be walking around the park it is inevitable they will curiously walk into the Rotunda area. In addition, the area under the dome is extremely windy and there are no bathrooms onsite (just in the Palace of FA Theater which is open weekends only) Experienced Wedding Photographer If you are considering a wedding at Palace of Fine Arts, know that this is the second most photographed location for me (over 75 times), so rest assured I can guide you at this location easily. We will take popular photo ideas in addition to photos that aren’t so expected and cookie cutter, I promise! Please CONTACT ME to discuss your wedding at Palace of Fine Arts and I’d love to capture some awesome memories for you! If You Have a Reception at the Palace of Fine Arts Reception Reservation Fee (min) : $5,000Refundable Deposit : $1,000Staffing Fees (3 hr min) : $88/hourTented Reception (optional) : $15,000 / day Related Posts on the Blog

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Elope to Tennessee – Where and How to Elope

Elopements, Informational

Elope to Tennessee – Ultimate Planning Guide (updated 2025) The Ultimate “How to” Wedding Planning Guide to Elope to Tennessee(complete with pricing, paperwork, and locations) Many couples choose to elope in Tennessee because of its spectacular natural beauty, diverse culture, art, cuisine, and, most importantly, its picturesque wedding venues. You will find a wide range of destinations – it doesn’t matter whether you’re eloping to a town or headed for the mountains. Why Elope to Tennessee Tennessee is among my favorite elopement destinations, with its southern charm and a great party and music scene in the music capital of the world in Nashville. The following is an ultimate wedding planning guide that should help answer any and all questions you may have if you decide to elope to Tennessee. How to Elope  in Tennessee – Legal Stuff Eloping is exciting and enjoyable, and what makes it even better is if its in an ideal location. So, if you’ve set your heart to elope to Tennessee and decide to marry in one of the breathtaking wedding venues in Tennessee, you’ll need to look into some laws as well. The legal age to get married is 18 years old. Also, you have to go to the county office. Only after that, you will be able to apply for your marriage certificate.  You and your partner must present valid identity proof and your SSN- social security number. There is no waiting period as the marriage certificate is issued immediately.  Your marriage must be ordained by a legally ordained officiant. The State of Tennessee does not accept weddings that have been officiated by a person ordained online. If you decide to elope in TN, there is no requirement of any witness, and only the legal officiant is sufficient. How to Get to Tennessee If you want to elope to Tennessee, you should fly into the Nashville International Airport or Memphis International Airport. Both are not far away from the city. You could also rent a car to visit nearby towns. Best Time of the Year to Elope to Tennessee Because Tennessee has such a diverse culture, it hosts various events and festivals. So, first and foremost, you must examine the calendar for significant events. The weather here varies slightly from east to west, but it has a mild climate. All the four seasons have their advantages.  Most couples prefer the fall to get married here. So September, October, and November are the best months to elope in Tennessee. The weather is beautiful, and the temperature is just beginning to drop. The trees are aesthetic then and it makes the perfect backdrop for your beautiful wedding photos.  Best Places to Elope in Tennessee Elope in Gatlinburg Tennessee If you’re a fan of beautiful mountain scenery and love a mix of adventure, Gatlinburg has it all. Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg sits near the border with North Carolina. Visitors will enjoy beautiful mountain views and miles of hiking trails. A variety of museums, restaurants, and attractions also await. If you’re a couple that love to ski or snowboard, Gatlinburg sports several ski resorts. This is a beautiful location and one of the best places to elope in Tennessee. Elope in Nashville Tennessee If you haven’t visited the Music City lately, you may be surprised to find that Nashville is much more than just country music. For those wanting a more urban environment for their wedding, you can choose to elope in Nashville Tennessee. There are many beautiful venues such as the Hermitage, Belmont Mansion, and Marathon Music Works as well as plenty of sites for an extensive honeymoon. With fine dining, outdoor attractions, a vibrant nightlife along Lower Broadway, and classics like the Grand Ole Opry, Nashville is an incredibly popular destination to elope in TN. Elope in Memphis TN Memphis is to the blues what Nashville is for country music; however, this city offers much more than Graceland and B.B. King’s. With many gorgeous wedding venues such as the Atrium at Overton Square, Memphis Botanic Garden, or even Graceland’s Chapel in the Woods, there is something for every couple’s taste. After you elope to Tennessee, enjoy the nightlife of world-famous Beale Street or take in local food in the Pinch District. If you’re staying for the honeymoon, top sights include Sun Studios, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Memphis Zoo. Of course, no trip to Memphis is complete without a paddleboat cruise of the Mississippi or a visit to see the Peabody ducks.  Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville) If you want to combine a rural escape with a beautiful backdrop, Cummins Falls State Park may be the location of your dreams. Located just northwest of the small town of Cookeville, Cummins Falls State Park is home to 282 acres of hilly forests and gorges. The park’s iconic waterfall which plunges into a large swimming hole is not the largest in Tennessee but may very well be the most impressive and accessible. Visitors can easily climb and walk amongst the fall’s many drops. The park even offers periodic evening tours with just a few people for a more intimate experience in the gorge.  The Ruskin (Dickson) Fee: $6500Capacity: 1000 Located a short distance west of the Nashville suburbs, The Ruskin is a fantastic and varied wedding venue in rural Tennessee. Do you dream about getting married in a cave? They have one! The property itself is over a century old with lots of history and features 160 acres of carefully cultivated gardens and landscaping. An elopement at this property features many beautiful locations for a ceremony including the famous Ruskin Cave, a regal garden, several waterfalls, or a restored home from the 1890s. If you are planning to combine your elopement with a honeymoon, you’re a short drive from Nashville’s many attractions, allowing for the pairing of vibrant days with intimate evenings.  Butterfly Hollow Bed & Breakfast (Gordonsville) Fee: $2,999–5,149/eventCapacity: 30 There are many beautiful venues in Tennessee; however, Butterfly Hollow Bed & Breakfast may be the favorite. Located just

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Top Places to Eat Around San Francisco City Hall

Informational

Top Places to Eat Around San Francisco City Hall Check out this post for the Top Places to Eat Around San Francisco City Hall that are within a couple of miles from the popular wedding venue! Whether you are celebrating with dozens of guests or spending the day alone, leave your car in the lot and walk to your reception destination or take a Lyft! As an overall guide, the locations listed below take anywhere from a 3 – 11 minute drive from San Francisco City Hall. Absinthe (.3 miles away)398 Hayes St. 94102 The most popular post City Hall location on this list, the proximity and atmosphere make this a preferred location a 10 minute walk away. A full bar and good French Mediterranean food make this an easy choice in the heart of Hayes Valley. Robin (.3 miles away)620 Gough St. 94102 Japanese omakase with prices ranging from $89 – $189 a guest depending on your preferences. A Mano (.4 miles away)450 Hayes St. 94012 A casual Italian spot with solid food and great ambiance. I like to go here for a quick beer with my couples if you choose an evening session. Rich Table (.5 miles away)199 Gough St. 94102 American restaurant with private dining for parties of 7 – 10 with a four course family style menu to keep things simple. Monsieur Benjamin (.5 miles away)451 Gough St. 94102 I’ve personally gone here for my birthday, and highly recommend it for your reception. The French food and drink menu are amazing, and the atmosphere make it perfect for your evening reception. Espetus (.6 miles away)1686 Market St. 94102 This is a Brazilian buffet, where the servers come to your table and slice meat in front of you! They offer group dining for 20 guests and offer a secluded room to enjoy more privacy. Birdsong (.6 miles away)1085 Mission St. 94103 1 Michelin star restaurant that has two private dining rooms for guest counts ranging anywhere from 6 – 20, offering a 6 course tasting menu for your guests. Zuni Cafe (.8 miles away)1685 Market St. 94102 French bistro that has been around since 1979 that has gained local notoriety for its roasted chicken. Acquerello (.9 miles away)1722 Sacramento St 94109 2 Michelin star Italian restaurant that offers private dining for guest counts anywhere from 4 – 20, with multi course meals to make it easy to decide. State Bird Provisions (1.2 miles away)1529 Fillmore St. 94115 One of the most famous foodie restaurants in the City, celebrities and locals alike enjoy this American 1 Michelin star restaurant. Reservations highly encouraged, although they do have a walk in system if you want to try your luck once they open. E&O Kitchen (1.4 miles away)314 Sutter St. 94108 Asian cuisine for this restaurant a few minutes walk to Union Square. Suitable for those who are staying in the heart of the City or are staying around Union Square to do some shopping / people watching.  Palio (1.9 miles away)640 Sacramento St 941111 Italian restaurant that is one of the best spaces for your larger receptions, with occupancy sizes ranging anywhere from 18 – 250  in different private rooms. Wayfare Tavern (2.0 miles away)558 Sacramento St. 94111 Tyler Florence’s restaurant at the edge of North Beach offers two levels of dining, which allows you to have an entire area for you and your party away from other patrons. Gary Danko (2.1 miles away)800 North Point St. 94109 My favorite restaurant in SF, this 1 Michelin star restaurant is well worth the special meal. Located near Ghirardelli Square,  Ella’s American Kitchen (2.1 miles away)590 Van Ness Ave. 94102 Homey American restaurant that only offers lunch service. Perfect for a more casual meal for you and your guests. If you are little more flexible with your dining location options, take a look at the Best Places to Eat in San Francisco Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335  ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118

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Elope in Georgia : Ultimate Planning Guide (pricing, locations, paperwork)

Elopements, Informational

Elope in Georgia : Ultimate Planning Guide (updated 2022) The Ultimate “How to” Wedding Planning Guide to Elope in Georgia(complete with pricing, paperwork, and locations) Whether you live in Georgia or are looking to travel there, below is a list of the best places to elope in Georgia to help you decide. The most fun part about getting to elope (after, of course, being married to your life partner) is picking the perfect spot for your ceremony. Beautiful mountains, exquisite trails, sunny beaches, quaint and historical spots in town – there are so many different options for where to hold your ceremony.  Why Elope in Georgia? Your marriage is a day when your partner and you hold each other’s hands and commit your lives to each other. Thus, this day has to be special with memories to cherish for a lifetime. With varied climatic conditions, Georgia provides you with gorgeous scenery no matter the season and will never fail to surprise you. It will be a wonderful and romantic experience to elope in Georgia.  How to Elope in Georgia – Legal Stuff To have a memorable wedding in Georgia, all you and your partner need are the following things.  A valid ID, you can use your state ID, passport, or driver’s license as ID proof.  You will have to remunerate a fee of $56 to get a legal marriage license.   Though it has become easy and simple to elope in Georgia, it will be even more seamless if you seek help from some event organizers.  Best Times to Elope in Georgia Georgia is a place where you will witness hot and humid weather, during the summers, and you can feel the cold and moisture-filled breeze during the winters.  During the spring season, you can’t predict the weather here, as rain pours down as an uninvited guest sometimes!  But overall, it is quite pleasant and in spring the surroundings will be blooming with colorful flowers.  So, if you ask me when the perfect time to have your wedding in Georgia is,  my answer will be now! Yes, you can elope in Georgia at any time as each season will be a treat.  Best Places to Elope in Georgia Tallulah Gorge  Capacity: On-demand.Fee: No permit fee and the other expenses vary based on the crowd.  Tallulah Gorge and Tallulah River are iconic spots in Georgia. It’s a state park that is famous for trees towering over the canopies of the park, the full and flowing river that creates beautiful cascades of waterfalls as they travel across the rocks, and earthy and texture rocks that line the walls of the gorge. It’s extremely picturesque, and even if you’ve never been to Georgia, you’re likely to fall in love with this location and all its beautiful scenery. If you’re into the outdoors and being in nature or if you simply want to have exquisite photographs, this is one of the best places to elope in Georgia. Tybee Island Capacity: No limits Fee: $15,000 approx., and $25 to get a permit for having your wedding on a beach and the prices differed for the other spots.  Tybee Island is essentially a small vacation island that is a 30 minute drive from Savannah. It takes about three hours and five hours to get to this island from Augusta and Atlanta respectively, so it is super accessible. It’s kind of like Georgia’s version of Hilton Head Island. There are beaches, activities, events, hotels, and plenty of things to do and see after eloping in Georgia. If you are looking to marry and have an entire honeymoon at the same location, Tybee Island is a great spot to consider.  Sweetwater Creek State Park  As its name suggests, Sweetwater Creek is not only a state park, but its main feature is the creek that runs through it. The creek is stunningly picturesque and makes for beautiful poses and powerful imagery for your elopement in Georgia. An added element to its unique aesthetic is the ruined building of an old textile mill. As with any state park, you’ll want to do some research to make sure you apply for any needed permits to have an elopement there.  Jekyll Island  Similar to Tybee Island, Jekyll Island is a beautiful coastal location for a beachy place to elope in Georgia. It’s calm, relaxing, and resort-like, so if you want to stay around for a honeymoon vacation, this is the perfect spot. The island has golfing, kayaking, horseback riding, water sport rentals, and more to keep you both entertained for your stay. You can take things easy and relax on the beach or get active. Driftwood Beach in particular is an incredible spot, noted, as its name suggests, for miles of exquisitely shape driftwood.  Have an intimate ceremony right along the beach at sunset and enjoy the privacy and romance of the island.  Like what you see? I’d love to be your wedding photographer for your elopement in Georgia CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS WEDDING VENUES IN UPSTATE NY Cumberland Island Capacity: Up to 50 guestsFee: A $50 non-refundable fee for a special permit. A photography permit needs another $50 fee. One of the state’s most spectacular sea islands, this will be an ideal place to elope in Georgia. With the verdant, mossy trees and the presence of wild horses, you will get one of the best scenic venues for weddings in Georgia on this island! It will truly be a one-of-a-kind experience.  Cloudland Canyon Capacity: No limitsFee: $45000 and the permit is free  As the name suggests, Cloudland Canyon is filled with glorious views in all directions. You can view the 1000-foot deep canyons in every nook and cranny of the park. The wooded areas and stunning waterfalls make this location one of the topmost scenic venues for weddings in Georgia. You can enjoy the cute little yurts by renting them; your guests will have a fun-filled experience! The amazing part is that you don’t need any permits to have a memorable wedding at this canyon. Cavender Castle  Cavender Castle is a unique wedding

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lake tahoe elopement photographer spooner lake wedding bride and sun flare in image

Best Affordable Elopement Dresses under $200

Elopements, Informational

Best Affordable Elopement Dresses under $200  If you’re planning an elopement and looking for a dress that matches your adventurous spirit, read below for the best affordable elopement dresses under $200 that are both stylish and practical. While there are numerous wedding dress options in the thousands, you can also find an incredible piece for your special day for far less. A Trendy, Modern, and Feminine Jumpsuit  This Anthropologie jumpsuit is currently just $200, but more importantly, it’s exquisitely simple yet elegant and modern. It’s perfect for a quick ceremony you want to look stunning in. It’s also a great outfit to transition to celebrations later, especially if you’ll be more comfortable dancing in pants. With a delicate feather lining across the neckline, this is just the right combination of simple yet detailed. You skipped out on the formal wedding ceremony and planned the perfect elopement – find the right wedding ‘dress’ that suits your think-outside-the-box attitude and non-traditional approach to life.  A Traditional, Romantic Maxi Dress If you want to find an extremely affordable option for a wedding dress that will still let you have exquisite photos that match the aesthetic of a traditional wedding, this Romantic Lace Dress from Lulus will do just the trick. It features a v-neck and a stunning mermaid hem bottom, which flatter the body and is still comfortable for dancing or simply moving around. For just under $100, your photos will be just as gorgeous as if you’d had on a $4,000 dress.  A Beachy, Bohemian Dress  For an elopement that’s planned on the beach or the shores of a lake, something light, fresh, and with bohemian vibes is going to perfectly match the mood. This delicate number is off-white, made of soft cotton linen, and keeps it beautifully simple with the details. No need for something flashy and fancy when you’re surrounded by beautiful beaches! It even has a shorter hem so that if you’re headed into the water or want to stand where the waves just graze over your feet for photographs, it’s perfect.  A Modest and Sweet Dress The fit-and-flare style of dress, like this one from White House Black Market, is a sensible modest dress that still keeps it short and sweet. Although it has no sleeves, the neckline is higher, and the hem of the dress reaches down to your knees. It’s beautiful and well-made and can be a perfect dress for a courthouse wedding or a brief private elopement in a religious ceremony. These are some of the best affordable elopement dressed under $200 that will make your special day truly unique and memorable! A Sexy, but Simple Satin Dress This ASOS dress is long in style and made from satin, which hangs beautifully on the body, and is overall a sexy dress in appearance. It features a cowl neck that hangs delicately and a beautiful lace-up style back. It has all the feel of something elegant, with a stunning, vibrant sheet of satin that hits the light perfectly. It’s also under $100 and might even be a dress you can wear again for a New Years Eve party if you wanted to.  A Flattering, White Cocktail Dress A Vegas-style elopement means you might be headed out for cocktails, clubbing, or something else fun after your short ceremony. Who needs a costume change when you’re already wearing a flattering white cocktail dress that lets you make the perfect transition to going out? This stylish number is short with long, lace sleeves, a lace-covered back, and a low neckline. It’s feminine and has beautiful details in the design and the lace. It’s short, sweet, sexy, and perfect for a casual wedding and afterparty.  A Rustic, Country Western Dress If you’re eloping n the country, or want to wear a dress that pairs well with cowboy boots, take photos by your barn, or riding horses, this beautiful, rustic wedding dress keeps costs low but personal style high. With lacy detailing and simple straps, it’s light and comfortable to wear and will look great in all your photos. It is a great dress option and super affordable at just $68.  A Fun and Flirty Party Dress This off-the-shoulder dress keeps it short and sweet but also fun and flirty. It has plenty of details in the design, from the lacey, off-the-shoulder sleeves to the scalloped neckline and the ivory ribbon that places a perfect bow around your waist. It’s only $50, which makes it well worth the money, and is a perfect dress for a small party or elopement with a few friends. Nothing fancy or flashy, but still something unique and easy to dress up in that will be perfect for saving for other fun events. If you’re looking for a non-traditional color, it even comes in a rich black fabric!  A Stylish, Chic, and Trendy Dress This Lace and Mesh Off-the-Shoulder dress from Le Chateau is a trendy and modern dress to go with your 21st-century style elopement ceremony. It’s affordable, at $135, and has a beautifully styled neckline and a fitted bodice. The lower half of the dress fans out in a flattering manner, and the hemline sits below the knees. It’s chic, yet still cute, fun, and friendly. Even if you don’t have a crowd to enjoy your dress, you can’t help but feel perfect in it.  A Long, Flowy Train Dress Do you know what makes for incredible photographs in the forest or among the trees or in the mountains? Long, flowy trains that build a beautiful contrast between nature and woman. If you’re having a small, intimate elopement ceremony in a beautiful outdoor space and are hoping to have some truly stunning photos afterward, consider a beautiful and feminine mermaid dress with a long, draping train behind you.  No matter your style, preference, location, or budget, there are tons of options out there to choose from for your elopement. You deserve to look and feel your best, and these are just some of the best affordable elopement dresses to choose from. Finding the right

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Backyard Weddings

Elopements, Informational, Wedding

Backyard Weddings Looking for ideas for backyard weddings and elopements? I love small and intimate weddings where you only have a select group of family and friends to witness your special celebration. I consider photographing elopements (25 people and less) much more meaningful and important because there aren’t hundreds of cell phones to document the day. It is all me. I am tasked with documenting the real moments and keeping those memories alive during the wedding day for everyone in attendance (and not) to remember by. If you are considering eloping, backyards, parks, and Airbnbs provide easily accessible locations for you, but check out these elopement locations in San Francisco to also help in your wedding location search! Backyard weddings have a false narrative of not being as important or as grand as any other wedding. This is totally the opposite from the truth! By choosing to elope or having your wedding more DIY perhaps, you bring the attention to what is most important in your lives – people and relationships. Typically, backyard weddings and elopements are smaller scale to accommodate the size of the backyard. Couples generally keep the decor to a minimum, because they would rather spend money and attention to what they truly value and not worry about putting on a show for other people. I have photographed a backyard wedding where they served Chipotle for lunch! There is no right or wrong, and making the day intentional and about you is what the wedding day is all about. If you are considering eloping and having a smaller backyard wedding, check out these Reasons to Elope to give you some insight into potentially choosing this for your celebration.  Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335  ianchinphotography@gmail.com

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Engagement Shoots with Dogs

Informational

Engagement Shoots with Dogs Engagement shoots with dogs is always a great way to add a personal touch to images (albeit more work). I sometimes get emails from my engagement shoot Couples asking, “Should I bring my dog to my engagement shoot?” I am always a bit surprised when they try to convince me that it will be a good idea (always telling me they are super friendly and only weigh 15lbs for example) because I never need convincing and my answer is always a resounding, “YES!” Animals bring so much to your engagement shoot as they allow you to more easily ignore the camera and simply be yourselves! Engagement shoots with dogs probably get the most love across social media channels, let’s be honest…and I’m sure you follow a cute dog profile or two online as well (Spotted Humphrey is my personal favorite, and I even got to photograph him helping in a marriage proposal!) Often, these fur babies are the first “child” for a Couple anyway, and what better way to document your love story by including your pet and entire family! Have a friend tag a long to dog sitWhile pets can be fun, they can be quite stubborn and having someone watch over them while you are having your photos taken helps tremendously (or better yet help keep them still while they are in the photo). Additionally, finding a location to tie them down, or simply keeping them away from every single photo being taken, might be difficult by yourselves. I can’t be the only one who had a dog that barked every time she was tied up, right? 🙂 Tire your dog out before your session A worn-out dog is more likely to behave during your photoshoot. Even if your dog seems super relaxed at home, they may get a burst of energy when you take them to a new location. Do your best to give your dog plenty of exercise before you arrive for your engagement session. If your dog has already gotten their energy out, they will generally be more responsive to commands, ensuring you get great photos. And if you’re able to take them to visit your session location beforehand, even better! Pro Tip : Treats and hunger always work! Don’t feed dinner the night before. With your doggie being extra hungry, he/she will likely be even more obedient Bring along plenty of supplies Think of your engagement session as you would any other outing with your dog and bring everything they’ll need to stay happy and comfortable. That includes treats, favorite toys, water and a bowl and any other items you think your furry friend might need. Bring matching outfits  If you  enjoy themes or coordinated outfits, it could be a fun idea to have your pet dressed up to match your style. Even something as simple as a flower or “tuxedo jacket” can add a little playful element to your images. The engagement session is all about having fun, being comfortable, and showing off your personalities. What better way to show that than with your coordinated wardrobe 🙂 The best reasons (photographically) to have your pet with you You get to more easily be yourselves. By having your pet included in your engagement session, you instinctually act more natural and candid because you have that “shield” to rely on if you feel awkward in front of the camera. It opens up more creative possibilities and moments that are more unique with an animal. Animal shapes and even animal reactions allow more diversity for the shoot.  And even if you don’t already own a pet together, having animals in your engagement photos adds a little character (and often fills negative space) and is the X factor that makes a good photo great! And hey… if you don’t like how you look in the photos, at least you can say the animals looked cute! 😛 Engagement shoots with dogs make everything more memorable and you’ll have a ton of great photos of just yourselves too!   Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335  ianchinphotography@gmail.com Related Posts on the Blog

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How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

Informational

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer If you’re reading this I assume you are just starting your wedding planning and don’t know where to begin! This guide will hopefully answer the question, “How to choose a wedding photographer?” Like food, there are several different styles of wedding photography. When it comes to photography, there are little to no barriers to entry and one can be overwhelmed with so many different websites it can be intimidating. Below I have broken things down to try to make understanding the things to look for in a wedding photographer easy to understand. TLDR : View full galleries to ensure the FULL TIME photographer can shoot in both daytime and nighttime, and to make sure the photos speak to you and look exactly what you want for your wedding day in terms of candid vs posed, romantic vs goofy, etc. While you’re at it, make sure they have reviews NOT on their website to verify they give you what they promise. Write down 3-5 words that describe what you want in your wedding photography and they should line up with the images on the website (ideally the home page). Can they shoot with flash and photograph in dark settings? Make sure you see a photo of your photographer on the website to make sure you aren’t handed down to a random person the owner found on the internet to shoot for them. And finally meet / talk with your photographer to make sure your personalities fit.  Ask to see full galleries If you don’t read anything else…this is my #1 advice on how to choose a wedding photographer. Photographers will have some of their best images on their websites or social media profiles, but if you want to get a clear idea of their ability and style, ask if you can view at least 3 full galleries (ideally a similar setting and guest size). While you don’t need to request a full gallery from every potential photographer, if you’re down to two or three, it is highly recommended. Viewing a full gallery will allow you to gauge whether or not the photographer is capable of shooting in ANY situation (see my post about What Happens if it Rains on your Wedding Day). If you are throwing the most important party for yourself, you better hope the photographer you hire is fully capable of producing quality images in any situation. When you view the full gallery, pay attention to how the images make you feel. Do they speak to you and give you an idea of the couple, guests, and wedding day? Do the images elicit an emotional response to you? Do they capture emotions of the couple, and the VIP guests of the day? If family formals are the most important to you, are the groups well lit and composed? Are there cropped feet or crooked lines? Are they fulltime? Or do it for fun on the weekend? Whether its painting, cooking, or driving, the more we do something the better we are at it. We all have a natural ceiling if we don’t practice enough. Make sure the person you hire is committed to photography and actually does it more than once a week “for fun,” since there are A LOT of weekend warriors who work in tech on the weekdays, and do photography on the weekend.  This is the biggest (and most expensive) celebration you will ever have in your life. Why hire someone who does it “for fun?”  This is the most puzzling to me TBH. Regardless of price point, someone who does photography fulltime will care more about the experience than someone who does it on the side. Simple fact that they have more pride in their work. Do they have a reviews not on their website? Google, Yelp, Weddingwire, TheKnot…IF your person is legit, they should have a listing on at least 2 of these pages if not all. Random person you found on Instagram – good luck with no repercussions if they do a terrible job. Your wedding day isn’t ONLY in daylight. Can they shoot in the evening? SO many photographers ONLY put daylight photos on their website or IG because that’s what they prefer…no problem with that. Sadly, there are many “photographers” that don’t even know how to use flash. It’s like a chef only using the stove and not the oven! When reading on how to choose a wedding photographer make sure that includes all lighting scenarios.Make sure they can shoot evening photos (with flash)This ties into the number one recommendation above – see full galleries! RUN! When you DON’T see a photo of the photographer on the website! With a more anonymous photography company, chances are you will have a photographer assigned to you, who may or may not even have their photos on the website you love!  One of the “dirty secrets” of the industry is that large companies outsource the photography so you don’t get the same person who took the photos you see on the site. You may love the photos on the site, but you don’t get that person since it is a different photographer every time. There are many posts in FB photography groups asking for a “main/lead photographer” because the “Photo Company Name” outsources their work. It is very deceitful. A photo of your photographer will allow you to trust you will get exactly who you are looking at, and won’t be “pawned off” to someone else. Hopefully, the photographer will take the time to meet/talk with you personally, ensuring that you feel comfortable working with them. You will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your wedding and any specific moments you want the photographer to capture. What style of images do you want? If you don’t know…that’s OK! An easy exercise is to write down 3-5 words that describe your photos and the entire day. Some examples can be fun, candid, natural, glamourous, emotional, detail focused, bright, moody, and

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Why I Became a Photographer

Informational, Personal

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

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