198
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Vanessa and Phillip
May 18, 2011
| Weddings
It had been a while when since I had seen Vanessa and Phillip for their engagement session in San Francisco, but when I arrived at Vanessa's parents house where she was getting ready on the morning of their wedding, she greeted me with the same warm smile from months earlier. Inside the house she was surrounded by her friends, family, makeup artists, and hair stylists all making the final touches on their perfect ranch wedding. There was an amazing level of love, support, and pride for her in that house.

Meanwhile, Phillip was busy taking care of a few last minute details of his own (including the marriage license that was left at home) with the support of his close friends and family. He never really seemed nervous about the wedding, but just excited to see and be with his bride.

Both the ceremony and the reception were just down the street at Mount Diablo Ranch. Their ceremony was unique to say the least. Set outside in the afternoon sun under a large oak tree, Vanessa and Phillip were married by two pairs of their friends. That's right, four officiants performed the ceremony. They each took turns sharing advice and playing an intimate role in Vanessa and Phillip's marriage perfectly setting up the feeling of community.

Perhaps it was when Vanessa's sister gave a reading that brought one of the ceremonies most touching moments. It was obviously an emotion moment for her to read the passage at her sister's wedding; quickly it became clear that she was not going to be able to complete the reading without shedding a tear. Picking up on this before anyone else, Vanessa walked over to her sister and placed her arm around her, finishing the reading arm in arm. If that doesn't speak volumes about Vanessa I don't know what does.

That same intimate vibe carried right out of the ceremony and into the reception. We spent a very short amount of tim taking formal portraits just so that Vanessa and Phillip could visit with their loved ones for as long as possible. Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal and cocktails as we listened to the toasts that were offered. Guests sat at long tables as they dined, reinforcing the idea of community even more.

All of that was the perfect setup for the dance floor. Shortly after Vanessa and Phillip shared their first dance as husband and wife, the dance floor opened and was filled with everyone from every age shaking what they had. One of the things that really impressed me was they way that Phillip was on the dance floor for every possible song with his wife. He had told me previously that he didn't consider himself much of a dancer, but nothing was going to keep him from sharing every last second with his wife.

Throughout the day Vanessa and Phillip were obviously overwhelmed with joy and love - it was written all over their faces. From the moment that Phillip first glimpsed Vanessa as she walked toward him, to later in the evening when Vanessa and Phillip slowly dancing poolside by themselves arm in arm, they couldn't hide the love on their faces. It was real and out there for everyone to see.


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197
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Susan and Greg
May 9, 2011
| Elopements | Weddings
It seems like the more that life throws at you, the more you realize exactly what you need. That basic idea sums what is going on between Susan and Greg. In the midst of life's ups and downs, they have learned already that they can always count on each other. More than that, they need each other and both of them know it. It's that good.

When you start with that, the wedding day really is a celebration of love. In fact at the time that they first contacted me, they did not even know where they wanted to marry. That seemingly important detail was a distant second to the simple fact that they were going to spend the rest of their lives together. Love really is the most important part in the wedding. I was liking them more and more.

For their wedding, they decided to marry in Yosemite at El Capitian meadow. They were joined by their pastor as well as Susan's parents who traveled up to be with them on their wedding day. The weather was gorgeous as they stood in the meadow directly under El Capitian to share their love. It was a solemn and tearful moment as these two individuals joined their lives forever. As Greg spoke his vows to Susan, telling her that he wished that he had met her earlier in life, tears of love and joy were shared.

Of course after the ceremony, we traveled around Yosemite valley for a little bit for photographs. At every stop both Susan and Greg were blown away by the beauty of the park and thankful to be able to share them together. Talking with them as we traveled they were relieved to finally be married to each other, knowing that their next steps in life are taken together. It really was a wonderful day for a couple to enjoy the park.

Susan and Greg are such wonderful down to earth people, thankful for the small and large blessings that we all have in our lives. It is inspiring. It was an honor to spend the afternoon with them, to slow down and share in love. I wish you both the best that life has to offer.

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Ted says: Monday, May 9, 2011

Man I can think of so many peeping/voyeur shots that I can do out in Yosemite looking at your work!

Did you use a lensbaby on the 2nd to last?
Patrick says: Monday, May 9, 2011

Thanks Ted! There are lots and lots of things that can be layered into the foreground here for sure. The second to last shot and the first are both from the Lens Baby. It's a lens that I don't use enough, but is always fun to play with.
Gloria bowen says: Monday, May 9, 2011

Soo amazing and beautiful :)
Luv u both !

Cindi says: Monday, May 9, 2011

Those pictures are extraordinary! You are very beautiful Susan. Love them!!!!
Patrick says: Monday, May 9, 2011

Thank you Cindi and Gloria for sharing the love!
Merrily Wilson says: Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Those are the most fantastic wedding photos!!! It was like walking through an art gallery as I sat at my desk. Patrick, I think you captured the magic of Susan and Greg. I can see their love for each other and yours for photography. Great job! Great subjects!
Jennifer says: Friday, May 20, 2011

These photos are absolutely beautiful - the setting, the couple, the light - everything. I love that you add a little narrative at the beginning to introduce the couple and talk about their commitment. It's a wonderful idea! Congratulations, Susan & Greg!
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191
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Amy and Jamie
April 16, 2011
| Weddings
It was the first day that I had been in Yosemite valley in almost three weeks. Heavy storms had recently pounded the valley, creating rockslides, snapping limbs, and bringing down full size trees. Yet on April 14th the sun was out and the warmth of spring filled the valley - we are on the other side of the cycle. Maybe it was this new life all around but I was incredibly filled with the need to create something new. Thankfully I was about to join Amy and Jamie for their wedding.

Before their wedding, I did not have the chance to sit down with Amy and Jamie to talk with them. In fact almost all communication I had with them amounted to a handful of phone conversations with Amy late last year. So when I met them for the first time on their wedding day, I really didn't have a full grasp of their personalities. I didn't know what kind of wildly enthusiastic people I was about to spend the afternoon with.

We met at the Bridalveil Falls trailhead where I took Jamie on a short walk to a few granite boulders while we waited for Amy. She slowly walked up and tapped Jamie on the shoulder and for the first time, under the trees and in the midst of ageless rocks, he held his bride. It was just the two of them.

Instantly any nervousness washed away from Amy and Jamie and love took over. They were relaxed together and at home in Yosemite. We talked quite a bit as the afternoon went on and their love for life (and each other) soaked into everything. They are both lovers of the outdoors and rock climbers, which has brought them to Yosemite together many times. They really seemed like friends that have known each other all of their lives.

They were joined by their family and close friends for an intimate ceremony on the banks of the Merced River. Amy made an emotional walk with her father into a circle created by their wedding guests where she was once again greeted by Jamie. They stood there, in the shadows of the trees, arm in arm throughout the ceremony. It was a beautiful and simple ceremony, both deeply personal and intimate.

After the ceremony we traveled to a few more locations in the valley soaking in the afternoon light, but it was really Amy and Jamie lighting up the photographs. Their zest for life was amazing. We eventually made our way to Tunnel View for the last photography of the day where perfect strangers stood in awe of of this magical couple. Even a little four year old girl pointed at Amy and called her the princess. Could you blame her? They were incredibly full of excitement and living in the moment together.

Congratulations again Amy and Jamie! It was a wonderfully intimate wedding. I wish you both the best of life and I am thankful we were able to create this art together!

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Ted says: Saturday, April 16, 2011

Love. Especially the image with the father walking the bride down.

Patrick says: Saturday, April 16, 2011

That shot was for you Ted - I can play in contests too :)
amy says: Sunday, April 17, 2011

What a fun day and what beauty came out of it. In my dreams I never could have imagined the loveliness in these photos. Again, thank you. Our families continue to exclaim about how stunning these are.

Kristin says: Monday, April 18, 2011

@Patrick & Ted - Hahah! I've got one in my latest batch too :)

Patrick, you are an inspiration and a legend. These are simply amazing. And so are her red shoes.

Patrick says: Monday, April 18, 2011

Ha! You're funny Kristen! No need to inflate my ego on Monday, I've still got the rest of the week to get through ;)
Amy Bliven says: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Sooo awesome! You guys look so happy and these pictures are gorgeous! So cool that you will always have these to remember. And that the weather was so cooperative for magical Yosemite sunlight.

Congrats again:)
Elissa says: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Absolutely gorgeous!! I want to visit Yosemite someday.

Nicki says: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Fantastic shots, Patrick! You really captured the beauty of the day. Excellent location selection and lighting. It was great to see you work!
Stephanie says: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Amy and Jamie!! Your photos are so amazing. I particularly love the shoes. Glad you two were such at home in such a beautiful place. We're lucky to live so close!
Lauren says: Thursday, April 21, 2011

Stunning as always. You really are one of my favorite wedding photographers, and I'm honestly not sure if it gets any better.

Sue Hartman says: Thursday, April 21, 2011

These photos are truly a work of art. I love them! The trees with Amy and James at the right, is stunning. Dad walking Amy view through tree is awesome. Every picture is fantastic! Thank you! Sue, Mother of the bride.
John Shim says: Thursday, April 21, 2011

So images 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, .... are awesome. I prefer your rocky mountains over my smoky ones. :)
suh yang says: Monday, April 25, 2011

really lovely pictures!

best to you both
swy says: Monday, April 25, 2011

it was all worth it in the end

such a beautiful day captured in such a splendid way :)
Jaehee says: Monday, April 25, 2011

Wow, your wedding photos are stunning and you two look amazing! Love every photo.
Congrats to lovely newlyweds! Best wishes.
Adi says: Tuesday, April 26, 2011

sorry for not being original here but WOW!
Beautiful couple, beautiful shots... one can really feel the atmosphere of the wedding. Well done and mazal tov!
James #1 says: Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Congratulations! And I like the shot of your feet.

Vlad says: Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Beautiful photos! Congratulations to both of you!
miko says: Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Amy how beautiful. What absolutely amazing photos! I am so excited for you and Jamie. This looks like a beautiful day!
Phil and Roberta says: Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Stunning photos, a gorgeous couple and a beautiful day. Those shoes and socks are a class act! Mazel tov!
Patrick says: Saturday, April 30, 2011

Thanks everyone for sharing love!
Kristin says: Saturday, April 30, 2011

These are just fantastic!
PATRICK & KAREN CRYAN - JAMES'S PARENTS says: Sunday, May 8, 2011

Patrick - what a wonderful way that you capture the emotion and the magnificent view!

Mei says: Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Congratulations James and Amy. Nice outdoor wedding. My favorite picture is the second from the last that two of you in the wood..
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190
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Megan and Shane's Album
April 13, 2011
| Planning | Weddings
Over the internet it is difficult at best to truly understand how beautiful our wedding albums are. Looking at pictures or seeing layouts online is nothing like holding an album in your hands, feeling the grain of the leather, the simplicity of the design and the quality of the prints.

Just last night Megan and Shane received their completed album and held it for the first time. It was a beautiful rainy October day in Yosemite when they were married. Shortly after their wedding day they returned to their home in Florida and the remainder of our communication was over the phone or through email. Together we worked to build them the perfect wedding album but it wasn't until the album was 100% complete and delivered that either of them had a grasp on the finished project.

Minutes after they first looked at the album I received an email from them: "Patrick! I cannot believe my eyes! Our photo album has arrived today, and it is unlike anything I have ever wished or hoped for!!! It is ABSOLUTELY stunning!!!!!! WOW!!! I love the color and texture of the leather, the weight and thickness of the pages and how crisp and breathtaking the photo quality turned out!!! I am so so so happy Patrick! Thank you so very much for this wonderful piece of art work. "

Their album was a flush mounted album wrapped in a soft textured brown leather. If you are interested, here is the full album layout.


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180
Yosemite Wedding Photographer
Elizabeth and Joaquin
January 24, 2011
| Weddings
Despite knowing very early in their relationship that they would marry each other, Elizabeth and Joaquin decided only a few weeks ago to actually plan the wedding. Keeping things simple and elegant, they invited their families to join them for an intimate celebration at the Estate by the Elderberries in Oakhurst.

Their wedding day did not start as smoothly as hoped however. Elizabeth had originally planned on going to Fresno to have her makeup done, but ultimately was not satisfied with the work. She arrived late at the Elderberry House a bit frazzled and forced to start from scratch. Needless to say, this is not the kind of stress that anyone needs on their wedding, but Elizabeth's parents and family came to her with comfort and support. Not only was this exactly what she needed but also a wonderful models of how to live in a married life.

Both Elizabeth and Joaquin spent the few moments prior to the ceremony writing their vows to express exactly how they felt. Both were nervous, with Joaquin practicing his vows over and over and Elizabeth painstakingly transferring the vows she typed on her iPhone to written paper. As they first saw each other during the ceremony all nerves were laid to rest as their lifelong companionship reached a new level.

After all of her hard work transferring her vows to paper, she stood in front of her family to pull out her vows only to discover that water from her bouquet had caused the ink to smear, rendering the writing useless. With love in her eyes, Elizabeth spoke from her heart and shared her love.

Once the ceremony was over, we walked around the grounds of the Chateau while their guests made their way to the Elderberry House for dinner. We stopped together in a few various locations to take in the grand atmosphere of the Estate and create a portraits. When we arrived at the Elderberry House it was perfectly decorated in elegance for the evenings dinner. The food here is nothing short of spectacular. I must say if you come to visit the Yosemite area and are looking for the perfect dinning experience, look no further than the Elderberry House.
 
Throughout the evening conversation and good cheer filled the room. Both from large families, Elizabeth and Joaquin shared the night with those most important to them. Toasts and words of advice were shared, and tears were shed.

Elizabeth is just over four months along in her pregnancy. Recently they had learned the sex of their baby, but did their best to keep it a surprise until there wedding. They promised all of their guests that they would reveal if they were going to have a boy or a girl just after dinner when everyone could cut into their dessert cake and discover the color of the frosting. It was pink.

As the evening winded down, Elizabeth and Joaquin said goodnight to their families and goodbye for a few weeks. Never before have I seen to unique families come together to form a new one so much as I have here. Embraces of joy were shared with hope and promise for the future. 


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Ted says: Monday, January 24, 2011

I wanna eat that cake.
Dennis Pike says: Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Stunning work Patrick, beautiful use of light, particularly on the getting ready shots.
Gennett says: Friday, January 28, 2011

oh my goodness gracious!!!

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