California Coast: No Need to Wake Up for Dawn

Prevailing wisdom is that there is beautiful light everywhere twice a day: some time around dawn, and some time around sunset. A while back I wrote a post about the glories of shooting at dawn, and why it might be better than sunset. I'd like to update you on that, since I know you've been waiting with bated breath.

I'm rethinking it. As you probably already know if you read my blog with any kind of regularity, I'm not a morning person. However, in an almost unprecedented move, I have gotten up twice to see the dawn in the past couple of weeks. Both times on the coast of California (that is, after all, where I live), and both times: not so impressed. In other words, meh.

Recent case in point: the Twin Peaks fog debacle. It was almost impossible to take any decent photos until about an hour and a half after dawn, just due to the dang SF fog. But also, if you want any shots of the water, the light's going the wrong direction. Dawn is (I am assuming) way better on the East coast than the West coast.

Anyway, both of these were shot about 2 hours after dawn, when the light on the water improved (in my opinion).

Took this from inside the Cliff House Restaurant. See the reflection? I actually thought it made the picture better. What do you think?

True, hollandaise sauce doesn't require dawn light so much as the other, but there's really no wrong light for a breakfast as delicious as this. I might not be a morning person, but breakfast is definitely my favorite meal.

Hungry yet?

Dr Seuss Trees

Mouse over to see a black and white version. I couldn't decide which one I liked better. What do you think?

This shot is from a slightly ill-fated but otherwise quite lovely morning photography trip. We tried to make it to Twin Peaks (an amazing SF overlook) at dawn, but of course were completely fogged out. Visibility from the peaks was about 5 feet into the fog. Hoever, there was a film crew setting up there, and I later learned that it might have been for a film starring Jude Law! Oh, had we but waited the fog out!

But we continued on, and about 7 am, or maybe a little later ended up at Land's End. Which was a little misty, and windy. I regretted not bringing a windproof jacket. We walked around, I took some photos.

And then we had an excellent brunch at the Cliff House. It was a pretty good morning.

Open for Business

Come check out my website!
www.quotidianphotography.com

There still may be a few bugs left, just let me know if you find any.

Hannah and Pedro San Francisco Wedding Photographer

Let me introduce you to Hannah and Pedro. Hannah has one of the best smiles I've ever seen. She lights up the room when she walks in. She always thinks you're funny and interesting (I love that about her). And she remembers people's outfits for years after they've worn them. Pedro gives the best hugs. His eyes crinkle up at the corners when he laughs. And he looks at Hannah like he can't believe how lucky he got.

They met after a yoga class. He taught her some arm-balancing. They both got a pair of Smurf knee socks. And it was like fate.

Their wedding day was gorgeous. Here are some photos from the event.

Hannah called me that morning and asked, "Do you have a small gold necklace?" I'm so glad I didn't, because this necklace and her were meant to be. It was perfect for her dress.

All of the details were simple, but perfect.

Don't they look amazing together?

I don't think I've ever seen her happier.

It was a no-shoes affair. I personally think everything is better barefoot.

Hannah and Pedro, I wish you the best! Here's to a long and happy life together, filled with yoga, hot springs, and lots and lots of creativity.

Feeling a Little Squirrelly?

Happy Tuesday! A little inspiration . . .

Cole Thompson on his own version of the Rule of Thirds.

TOP's recent print offer, which I wish I could take advantage of . . . unfortunately the finances are a little tight right now.

And some brownies that are perfect for Valentine's Day, or really whenever!

Looking Up