Jumping the Broom

I shot a wonderful wedding last week for queer feminist writer Andreana Clay and her partner Joan Benoit at the Berkeley Botanical Garden.  In her blog, QueerBlackFeminist, Andreana writes about the transformative experience of standing before one's community of friends and family and publicly declaring your love for another person.  Her article "Be My Husband, I'll Be Your Wife: On Queer Marriage" (click for link) is a beautifully written analysis of LGBTQ marriage and focuses not on the need for state recognition, but rather a more community driven approach to celebrating queer love.

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A Family's Journey with Autism

One of the most rewarding part of people a photographer is being invited into people's home to catch a glimpse of their personal lives.  I was thrilled to be asked by the Children's Health Council to capture the story of Johann Garcia, an exuberant, loving boy diagnosed with autism.  For a couple hours, I got to be part of his life, and was blown away by the incredible amount of work, patience, and loving commitment shared by his entire family. 

Below are additional images that didn't make the newsletter, but are personal favorites.

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Cover photo for Reach Vietnam Magazine

I was pleased to find that East Meets West Foundation, a fantastic development organization working in Vietnam and SouthEast Asia, used another one of my photos for a recent issue of their magazine.  This image was taken while documenting the organization's SPELL program (Scholarship Program to Support Literacy and Learning) in the rural regions of Central Vietnam.

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Rue Atelier

I recently did a shoot with Rue Atelier, a super charming clothing boutique located in the Piedmont district in Oakland, CA.  Barbara Dryden (top photo), owner of Rue Atelier is a conscientious business owner who understands the importance of supporting local artists, and most of the items found in her store are the creations of established and emerging fashion and jewelry designers.  Handmade craft items, including stuffed toys, slippers, hats and scarves are also staples of this eco friendly store.

If you get the opportunity,  Rue Atelier is having a Trunk Show on Saturday, May 7th from 1-5 pm where local artist, Stephanie Arata will showcase her Funky Lotus Jewelry designs.  For those who haven't had a chance to shop for a Mother's Day gift yet, this would be the place to pick up that "perfect something." 

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