Woohoo! Today is Friday and I'm looking forward to a weekend of relaxation and sun-bathing. Hollllla! The weather has been glorious in Orange County lately and I'm insanely thankful to be able to enjoy it. A few years ago–just after college–I was a manager for Nordstrom and there'd be days when I stared out the large glass windows of South Coast Plaza and dream on being on the other side. Wearing flip-flips, a tank top and jeans, instead of four-inch heels and a power suit. I swore to myself that if given the chance, I'd make sure to experience the sun every day. A short time later, I'm happy to say me and Mr. Sun are tight homies.

Before the weekend begins, I thought I'd address a few questions for another FAQ Post…like always, I don't think I'm some photo goddess trying to disseminate knowledge…I'm just sharing how I do things and if ONE person walks away being helped, then rock on!

Katie asked:
When you do first look sessions do you allow other's to be there? And if not, how do you keep it intimate and one on one with the couple so that you can capture that special moment between them without anyone else around?
I actually leave the decision entirely to my client. More than anything, I want their First Look to be everything THEY want it to be. It's so not about me, but, rather, about the experience they want. Most clients opt to see each other by themselves (I chose this option too when I got married), but others want friends and family to share in the moment as well. I love it both ways and as long as the bride and groom are happy, I am too! 🙂

Stephanie asked:
How you organize your life?! I feel like I'm swamped with important documents and I'm not even sure if I have everything I need in the order I need it. HELP! How do you organize the important stuff?
Well. Well, well, well…why, yes, let's chat about organization because I LOVE ORGANIZING!!! If you think the Pope likes to pray, just see me armed with folders, post-it notes, and dry-erase markers!
1. Once I've confirmed a wedding with a client, she'll mail me the Retainer, Price Confirmation (basically a document she signs to identify the Collection she prefers and the price) and the Contract.
2. I receive the three items and scan them. I place the scanned items into a client folder kept on my computer.
3. I create a folder with their names and wedding date listed on the front.

4. I catalogue these folders by the bride's name in a file that's kept in a storage closet.
Some studios create different forms of storage for their client information, I just prefer to keep my office clean and things hidden from sight, hence the filing. The scanned files are basically just a backup for me should anything happen to the tangible copies. Once I receive all this information, I create the folders immediately to ensure these vital documents are stored and taken care of properly.
I hope this helps!

Tim asked:
Were there any books/websites that you found particularly helpful or informative? Any insight would be GREATLY appreciated!
I get this question asked quite frequently. Sometimes I shy away from recommending books because everyone learns differently. What appeals to me, may not appeal to another person, but here are few suggestions:

Photography Related:
1. The Fast Track Photographer by Dane Sanders.
This book is hard core. No, really, it's straight-up and shaken, so be prepared to learn amazing things about how to set up your photography business…but be more prepared to learn great things about YOURSELF through the process!
2. Digital Photography Boot Camp by Kevin Kubota
Kevin mailed me this book a few weeks ago. And he AUTOGRAPHED IT. I started screaming like a sweaty and crazed teenager at an NSYNC concert…not like I'm speaking from personal experience or anything! If you're looking to improve your Photoshop skills and heighten your learning curve, this is your book. It's written in real language and give practical and easy instructions in teaching yourself Photoshop.

Business/Life Related:
1. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
I think this book should be mandated reading for every college student…how I went twenty-something years without reading this golden nugget is beyond me. I ADORE this book and it's caused me to rethink my interaction with anyone and everyone…amazing, amazing, amazing!

Writing Related:
1. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont
This is definitely a more writer-ish book (as in, how to become a better book writer), but Lamont's stories, wit, and practical advice taught me so much. I love her. Like, really, if I saw her in the street, I'd probably trip on front of her on purpose just so she'd have to lean down and see if I was okay. Once she was close enough, I'd smother her with hugs, give her a friendship bracelet, and compliment her pachouli perfume. Yeah. Totally haven't pre-planned this event. At all.

I hope this helps a little bit and I hope your weekend is filled with laughter, love, and chocolate. Lots of chocolate.