Alonya Photography: Blog https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog en-us Alonya Photography (Alonya Photography) Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:07:00 GMT Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:07:00 GMT https://www.alonyaphotography.com/img/s/v-12/u887690710-o39725580-50.jpg Alonya Photography: Blog https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog 120 120 The Sweetest Mom & Baby Photo Session, Portland OR https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2024/8/the-sweetest-mom-baby-photo-session-portland-or What a joy it was to photograph the love between these two. This incredible mama wanted to do a photo session to capture this special moment in time with her third baby and let me tell you this baby is pure sunshine. We started with baby waking up from a nap and then spent the rest of the time in and around their home just capturing the love and the cuteness. Emily happens to work in the baby and pregnancy sphere as a doctor of physical therapy and lactation consultant. Check out all her incredible offerings! www.bewellbabypdx.com


These last few images were taken with a Lensbaby art lens. I just love incorporating something a little different into a photo session!

Have some love of your own that you'd like me to capture? Get in touch!

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2024/8/the-sweetest-mom-baby-photo-session-portland-or Thu, 01 Aug 2024 21:58:19 GMT
Business Branding Photo Session with Portland Life Coach https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/11/business-branding-photo-session-with-portland-life-coach Working with Dawn Albert of Courage to Answer  was an absolute joy. I always consider photoshoots to be a collaborative effort and especially with business branding photos or headshots there is a lot of pre-thought that goes into the photo shoot. From outfits, to location, to colors, we talked a lot about what would feel authentic to Dawn and her business. She spent the weeks leading up to the shoot finding outfits that she felt great in and went along with her business colors and modern aesthetic. We shot at a few locations around Portland including some random walls in an industrial area and we ended the shoot just as the sun was going down at Peninsula Park in North Portland. The goal was to provide her with a plethora of photos to use on her website, for social media posts, and various marketing. To learn more about business branding photo sessions CLICK HERE. Enjoy a few of my favorites from this super fun photo session!

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(Alonya Photography) BRANDING BUSINESS HEADSHOTS https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/11/business-branding-photo-session-with-portland-life-coach Sun, 05 Nov 2023 02:53:35 GMT
Joyful Family of Four - Portraits in the Park https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/10/joyful-family-of-four Gosh I just loved photographing this family! These were taken in Redondo Beach at a park right on the water. I live in Portland now, but I was revisiting old work and just had to share these images. Enjoy!




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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/10/joyful-family-of-four Wed, 18 Oct 2023 19:58:45 GMT
Surprise Engagement in Hood River https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/8/surprise-engagement-in-hood-river This engagement shoot was so incredibly special! I have known the bride-to-be since we were six years old so when her boyfriend called me asking me to photograph their proposal at the Colombia Gorge Hotel in Hood River I jumped up and down with excitement. This experience really hammered home what a privilege it is to be a photographer - I get to peek into some of life's most intimate and joyful moments. I'm so grateful I could take these special pictures for them. Congratulations Elimah and Tony!! 💕

  THE MOMENT!! (I was hiding in a bush for this one!) 

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(Alonya Photography) ENGAGEMENT https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/8/surprise-engagement-in-hood-river Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:42:10 GMT
Business Branding Photos for Portland Naturopath https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/2/business-branding-photos-for-portland-naturopath Working with naturopath and mayo abdominal massage practitioner Dr. Kelsey Stang was a great experience! She needed new headshots along with photos to use for her website and social media. We talked about her aesthetic and how to take images that fit in with how she wanted to present herself moving forward. After reviewing her current website and speaking with her, we determined that her aesthetic was a combo of natural and modern. We chose colors for her to wear that fell into that grounded natural vibe but felt modern, fresh, and authentic to her. We took a wide range of photos from outdoor headshots to images of her speaking to clients over zoom and even massaging a client. For more info on business branding sessions CLICK HERE

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(Alonya Photography) BRANDING BUSINESS HEADSHOTS https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/2/business-branding-photos-for-portland-naturopath Mon, 27 Feb 2023 18:00:12 GMT
Southeast Portland Family Photo Session in the Snow! https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/1/family-photo-session-in-the-snow Wow! That's really all I can say about this special photo session. When we woke up to snow on this December morning in Portland it was either a make or break of this scheduled photo session. Luckily this amazing family was up for the challenge and with warm milk on hand and hand warmers in the kiddos pockets we braved the snow for some photo magic!

   





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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2023/1/family-photo-session-in-the-snow Thu, 05 Jan 2023 22:59:13 GMT
Riverside Maternity Session with Adorable Big Brother to Be {Portland Family Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2022/8/riverside-maternity-session-with-adorable-big-brother-portland-family-photographer What a joyful maternity session this was! Between the pandemic and moving to Portland I have not been photographing families on the regular like I used to, so this was such a wonderful way to jump back in. We met at Sellwood Riverfront Park and explored different areas of the park before making our way down to a tiny patch of beach under the Sellwood Bridge for golden hour. Big brother to be Ayerton was so adorable and fun to photograph and the love between this family was so beautiful to capture. Baby brother will be making his entrance soon, but in the meantime that belly sure does look good on mama Tess! Enjoy these special photos :)




 

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(Alonya Photography) FAMILY MATERNITY TODDLER https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2022/8/riverside-maternity-session-with-adorable-big-brother-portland-family-photographer Sat, 06 Aug 2022 23:12:10 GMT
Welcoming Baby Brother {Pacific Palisades Lifestyle Newborn Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/welcoming-baby-brother-pacific-palisades-lifestyle-newborn-photographer I have been photographing this little girl since she was just a newborn. Now she is a vivacious and silly little girl who has recently become a big sister! Enjoy these special photos from baby brother's newborn session. 

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/welcoming-baby-brother-pacific-palisades-lifestyle-newborn-photographer Sat, 15 Dec 2018 05:30:00 GMT
Multigenerational  Lifestyle Newborn Session {South Bay Newborn Photo Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/multigenerational-lifestyle-newborn-session-south-bay-newborn-photo-session My goodness! This little girl is so lucky to be surrounded by so much love! Grandma, grandpa, and great grandmother stopped by for a visit and we were able to get some wonderful multigenerational pictures with the new baby. What a treasure to have! And don't forget Peaches the dog who loved kissing her new little sister! Working with new parents Joey and Grace was a joy. They were only a couple of days home from the hospital and just wanted natural, documentary style photos - or "lifestyle" as we say in the photo biz - of this incredibly special time in their lives. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/multigenerational-lifestyle-newborn-session-south-bay-newborn-photo-session Wed, 12 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT
Baby Girl in Astronomy Themed Nursery {Lifestyle newborn session West Los Angeles} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/baby-girl-in-astronomy-themed-nursery-lifestyle-newborn-session-west-los-angeles What a joy to photograph sweet baby girl Idella, who is as loved and wanted as a baby can possibly be. What a lucky girl she is and lucky me to get to photograph all the love! Also, make sure to pay special attention to the decorations in her nursery. Here parents love astronomy! ðŸ’•



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(Alonya Photography) BABY NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/12/baby-girl-in-astronomy-themed-nursery-lifestyle-newborn-session-west-los-angeles Sat, 08 Dec 2018 04:58:40 GMT
Gorgeous Mama to Be on the Beach {South Bay Maternity Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/9/gorgeous-mama-to-be-on-the-beach-south-bay-maternity-photographer This gorgeous mama-to-be was my roommate in college! I'm happy to say we have remained close and it is absolutely incredible to watch her enter this beautiful new stage of life. I cannot wait to meet sweet baby when she/he arrives! These images were taken in Redondo Beach where I live now!! Enjoy :)

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/9/gorgeous-mama-to-be-on-the-beach-south-bay-maternity-photographer Thu, 13 Sep 2018 23:38:53 GMT
Multigenerational Newborn Session {South Bay Baby Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/5/multigenerational-newborn-session-south-bay-baby-photographer This sweet newborn is surrounded by so much love. What a lucky little girl! Grandma, grandpa, and great-grandmother stopped by for a visit which allowed for us to get some wonderful multigenerational pictures of everyone loving up on the sweet baby. What a treasure to have! And don't forget Peaches the dog who just loves kissing her new little sister! New parents Joey and Gracie were a joy to work with. Just a few days out of the hospital it was important to them that these pictures were natural and documentary style - or "lifestyle" as we say in the photo biz - to truly capture this special moment in their lives. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) baby family newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/5/multigenerational-newborn-session-south-bay-baby-photographer Wed, 02 May 2018 22:43:03 GMT
Three Generations have Fun in the Park {Westwood Family Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/2/three-generations-have-fun-in-the-park-westwood-family-photographer I always love photographing this adorable mother daughter duo, but this time around Grandma was in town! It so wonderful to capture three generations of beautiful women having fun together! Plus the giant carrot just added so much whimsy. I had been to this Westwood park before, but this was the first I noticed the carrot. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) childhood family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/2/three-generations-have-fun-in-the-park-westwood-family-photographer Mon, 12 Feb 2018 14:00:00 GMT
Family Fun on the Beach {Pacific Palisades Child Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/2/family-fun-on-the-beach-pacific-palisades-child-photographer This was such a fun session on the beach just before sundown in the Pacific Palisades. I love capturing families and getting an authentic view into childhood. A beach photo session is the perfect way to do that. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) childhood family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/2/family-fun-on-the-beach-pacific-palisades-child-photographer Mon, 05 Feb 2018 16:00:00 GMT
Scheduled C-Section of Baby Girl {Los Angeles Birth Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/1/scheduled-c-section-of-baby-girl-los-angeles-birth-photographer The birth of little Willamina was truly special. This was a scheduled cesarian section, so unlike most births I had a date and time I knew I had to be there. I went in not expecting to be allowed in the surgery room, which remained the case, but the beautiful and miraculous thing that happened was being able to photograph mama and papa meeting baby through a little window that looked into the operating room. The window was in a restricted area and the blinds were closed. I never want to overstep my bounds at hospitals, but I had to ask if there was any way we could watch through the window (I was with the grandma-to-be) and a truly angelic nurse said "no problem" and opened those blinds right up just in time for us to witness Willa being born! Enjoy these special photos that truly show the journey of a scheduled c-section - lots of waiting and anticipation leading to the most incredible love. 

Special thanks to West Hills hospital for being so wonderful!

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(Alonya Photography) 48 birth fresh newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/1/scheduled-c-section-of-baby-girl-los-angeles-birth-photographer Mon, 29 Jan 2018 20:27:42 GMT
The Best of 2017 {A Year of Photos with Los Angeles Family Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/1/the-best-of-2017-a-year-of-photos-with-los-angeles-family-photographer At the end of every year I like to go through the photo sessions of the entire year and remember each unique experience. Thank you to all the wonderful families that I had the pleasure of working with in 2017. You have touched my life and I hope the photos I took will become precious treasures. Please enjoy some of my favorite images of last year (how is it 2018 already?!). Happy new year!

 

BUMPS

BIRTH

BABIES

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KIDDOS 

FAMILY

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AND HONORABLE MENTION TO THESE ATTACKING GEESE!

 

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(Alonya Photography) baby childhood family maternity newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2018/1/the-best-of-2017-a-year-of-photos-with-los-angeles-family-photographer Tue, 02 Jan 2018 03:51:55 GMT
Family Fun in the Backyard {West Los Angeles Child Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/12/family-fun-in-the-backyard-west-los-angeles-child-photographer I loved capturing this beautiful family! This session in particular truly shows why doing a session at home can be so special. Kids grow and change so fast. When I come into a home I want kids to be themselves and just play so that I can freeze time for a moment and capture the joy, fun, and curiosity of childhood. Enjoy this special session!

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(Alonya Photography) childhood family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/12/family-fun-in-the-backyard-west-los-angeles-child-photographer Mon, 18 Dec 2017 16:00:00 GMT
Gorgeous Baby Girl and Fun Big Brother {Westwood Newborn Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/12/gorgeous-baby-girl-and-fun-big-brother-westwood-newborn-photographer What a wonderful newborn session this was! Baby Olivia, as you can see, is totally beautiful and perfect. She was also such an easy baby - allowing me to get all the sweet sleepy newborn portraits we all love. My newborn sessions are always in home which gives me a fresh and new environment to work with every time. As a natural light photographer I was happy to find big windows and wonderful light in this Westwood home. I also loved using their dark wood floors to contrast Olivia in the basket. And don't get me started on three year old big brother Max! What a fun little boy. He had his very own digital camera and he was photographing me while I was photographing him. Enjoy these photos of a very special family!

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(Alonya Photography) baby family newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/12/gorgeous-baby-girl-and-fun-big-brother-westwood-newborn-photographer Mon, 04 Dec 2017 04:05:54 GMT
Celebrating Adoption {Culver City Family Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/11/celebrating-adoption-culver-city-family-photographer After over a year of being a family, one year old James' adoption had still not been officially finalized. For legal reasons James' image was not allowed online until the adoption was official and mama Erin would have to put stickers over his face when she wanted to share something on social media. So what better way to celebrate the finalization of sweet James' adoption than with a family photo session? The stars aligned for this session and I happened to be available on the exact day of the adoption finalization. The family came straight from the court house to the session and we had a wonderful afternoon taking pictures and celebrating wonderful, sweet, adorable, hilarious James. Enjoy these special photos!

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(Alonya Photography) childhood family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/11/celebrating-adoption-culver-city-family-photographer Wed, 08 Nov 2017 00:09:11 GMT
In Honor of Northern California {One Year Old Portrait Session) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/10/los-angeles-photographer-in-northern-california-one-year-old-photo-session I thought I'd share a session from the beginning of the year that took place in Northern California's beautiful Jack London State Park. I am from Northern California, Mendocino specifically, and will always consider the mossy ground of a redwood forest to be the most beautiful and peaceful place on earth. The devastating forest fires up north have truly broken my heart. If you would like to donate to help the thousands of people affected by the fires please consider these organizations:

www.unitedwaywinecountry.org

http://www.communityfound.org

And please enjoy the special photos from my NorCal photo session with sweet, amazing, adorable Orson!

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(Alonya Photography) baby childhood family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/10/los-angeles-photographer-in-northern-california-one-year-old-photo-session Sat, 21 Oct 2017 06:28:07 GMT
Big Sister Loves her New Baby Sister {Van Nuys Fresh 48 Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/7/big-sister-and-new-baby-sister-meet-van-nuys-fresh-48-photographer This First Moments or "fresh 48" session was so special. For those who don't know, "fresh 48" is a photo session done within the first 48 hours of a baby's life - taken at their place of birth. It is a wonderful time to capture photos of siblings and other family members meeting the newest addition for the first time. In this case I came back in the morning after baby Jane's 3:33am birth (which I also photographed!) to capture some moments with her doting new big sister, Arlene, along with Auntie and Grandpa. It was one of the most heartwarming events I've ever photographed. Arlene was so immediately taken by her baby sister. She was singing songs and giving her lots of hugs and kisses. Enjoy these special photos!

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(Alonya Photography) birth fresh-48 newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/7/big-sister-and-new-baby-sister-meet-van-nuys-fresh-48-photographer Thu, 20 Jul 2017 01:24:38 GMT
Sweet Baby Boy at Home {Van Nuys Newborn Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/5/sweet-baby-boy-at-home-van-nuys-newborn-photographer I had the privilege of documenting Aden's journey from belly to birth, so it was truly special to document him at home as a newborn getting settled with his wonderful parents. Can't you just feel the love when you look at these images? Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/5/sweet-baby-boy-at-home-van-nuys-newborn-photographer Sun, 21 May 2017 04:09:09 GMT
Beautiful Outdoor Pregnancy Session {Pasadena Maternity Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/5/beautiful-outdoor-pregnancy-session-pasadena-maternity-photographer There's no other way to put it. Noel is a pregnant goddess! I loved our morning maternity shoot in Pasadena. The light was creamy and warm and Noel and her husband Javier are such vibrant and fun people to be around and photograph. They couldn't be more excited to welcome their baby boy into the world! Birth story coming soon :) Enjoy these special pregnancy portraits. 

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(Alonya Photography) MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/5/beautiful-outdoor-pregnancy-session-pasadena-maternity-photographer Wed, 17 May 2017 17:29:35 GMT
Natural Hospital Delivery of Baby Boy {Los Angeles Birth Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/4/natural-hospital-delivery-of-baby-boy-los-angeles-birth-photographer-2 Photographing sweet baby Aden come into the world was a very special experience. This was an emotional and profound birth and capturing it was a true honor. I had photographed Ally and Ben's maternity session and had an inkling of Ally's incredible strength and grace after that session. But it was certainly revealed to me during her labor and delivery as she worked through her contractions calmly and peacefully and then pushed with determination and bravery. I was also astounded by her amazing support team - her loving, caring, and focused husband Ben, her doula Rachel, and her wonderful mother. Each birth story is unique, but the common thread is always the prevailing strength that love provides. This is why I am so drawn to capturing birth stories. Thank you Ally and Ben for allowing me to capture yours. 

   

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(Alonya Photography) BIRTH FRESH-48 https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/4/natural-hospital-delivery-of-baby-boy-los-angeles-birth-photographer-2 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 05:43:03 GMT
One Year Old Boy Enjoys the Outdoors {Los Angeles Baby Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/adventurous-one-year-old-boy-enjoys-the-outdoors-los-angeles-baby-photographer I documented this amazing little boy's birth over a year ago. Now he is a walking, babbling, adventurous toddler and is so fun to photograph! Mom and dad are totally in love and it is so wonderful to capture the love and joy of this (growing) family. Spoiler alert! Mom is pregnant again with baby #2. I can't wait! Enjoy these fun photos! 

One year old boy shows off his two little teeth. Young family holds hands walking by a lake. Mom and dad playing with laughing baby boy.

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(Alonya Photography) BABY CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/adventurous-one-year-old-boy-enjoys-the-outdoors-los-angeles-baby-photographer Sun, 22 Jan 2017 22:58:29 GMT
Beautiful Connection Between Mother and Daughter {Westwood Family Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/beautiful-connection-between-mother-and-daughter-westwood-family-photographer I have photographed Bella and Stephanie for three years in a row now and it is always a treat. Bella is a beautiful, fun, and super photogenic kid who continues to grow in sass and inches every year. She is always a joy to photograph, but the most special thing about photographing these two is their connection. They are an incredible mom and daughter duo and dog Jeremy completes the family. We went to a park in Westwood and just had fun! This wonderful session made me grateful for the amazing weather that we get year round in Los Angeles. You'd never know this photo session took place in winter! Enjoy!

 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/beautiful-connection-between-mother-and-daughter-westwood-family-photographer Tue, 17 Jan 2017 18:00:00 GMT
Adorable One Year Old Girl {Coldwater Canyon Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/adorable-one-year-old-girl-coldwater-canyon-photographer Violet is one of the most joyful babies I've ever met! I absolutely loved photographing her at Franklin Canyon Park in the beautiful Coldwater Canyon area of Los Angeles. I love venturing into the canyon because there is so much beautiful nature to be found right in the middle of LA! I photographed Violet when she was just a tiny newborn, so it was special to have the chance to take some new portraits of her as a one year old. Violet is going to be a big sister soon too! Mom's pregnant baby bump is just starting show. Enjoy!

happy baby girlhappy baby girl sweet one year old girl in los angelessweet one year old girl in los angeles Family portrait in Coldwater CanyonFamily portrait in Coldwater Canyon Mom and baby daughter laughing outsideMom and baby daughter laughing outside One year old and dad having funOne year old and dad having fun Happy baby girl in the sunshineHappy baby girl in the sunshine One year old girl portraitOne year old girl portrait Pregnant mom and baby daughter in mustard dress outsidePregnant mom and baby daughter in mustard dress outside

Baby girl laughs with her dad in the canyonBaby girl laughs with her dad in the canyon Black and white portrait of baby girl holding mom and dad's hands. Black and white portrait of baby girl holding mom and dad's hands.

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2017/1/adorable-one-year-old-girl-coldwater-canyon-photographer Mon, 09 Jan 2017 17:00:00 GMT
Happy Baby Boy Enjoying the Outdoors {Culver City Baby Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/12/happy-baby-boy-enjoying-the-outdoors-culver-city-baby-photographer I had the privilege of photographing this sweet baby boy when he was just a newborn last December at their home in the South Bay, so I was thrilled when his mom reached out to get some family portraits this fall. Little Dylan is a dream baby to photograph. He has a mellow temperament, but loves to laugh and squeal. I think the squealing pictures are my favorite! We had some yummy late afternoon sun and captured joyful, sweet images of this cutie and his wonderful family including his dog bestie Koa. Enjoy!

 

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/12/happy-baby-boy-enjoying-the-outdoors-culver-city-baby-photographer Fri, 30 Dec 2016 05:59:00 GMT
Empowering Images of Pregnant Yoga Enthusiast {Culver City Maternity Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/11/empowering-images-of-pregnant-yoga-enthusiast-los-angeles-maternity-photographer My beautiful client Ally had the wonderful idea to take some yoga images for her maternity session. Her yoga practice has been a big part of her pregnancy and I was excited by the idea of taking some special yoga mama portraits. I had a vision of having her up above the city commanding the sky, so we found a wonderful spot overlooking Culver City. It was an overcast day, so we got these wonderful moody clouds. Can you believe how beautiful, powerful, and strong she looks? I walked away from this session feeling so inspired and so in love with what I do. I am happy to say that I have started going back to yoga class (it had been months!) and even feel compelled to feed my body better too. We must love our mind, body, and soul everyday whether we are gestating a little life inside of us or just trying to be loving people of this planet. It starts with self love and self empowerment. Thank you, Ally for the inspiration!

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(Alonya Photography) MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/11/empowering-images-of-pregnant-yoga-enthusiast-los-angeles-maternity-photographer Wed, 16 Nov 2016 22:52:17 GMT
Los Angeles Photographer Gets Ready for a Big Trip {Photos from Salt Lake City} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/9/getting-ready-for-a-big-trip---photos-from-salt-lake-city Today I have been preparing for a big trip to England. It will be my first time going "over the pond" and my excitement is through the roof. I have always been a little scared to travel with my camera (aka my baby) and often leave it at home because I don't want to risk losing it or hurting it. I end up relying on my cellphone for picture taking which produces underwhelming results for this photographer. I ALWAYS wish I had my trusty Canon 6D with me, so this time she is coming for sure! How can I not have my camera to capture the picturesque English country side and quaint cobblestone villages? The thought of photographing these places thrills me. The last time I brought my camera along was on a visit to Salt Lake City Utah, but I was lacking good bag to carry it in, so after extensive research I went for a new bag and it came today! It is called the Abbey Bag by Jo Totes. I'm excited to try it out.

I don't have any pictures of England to share yet, but in the meantime please enjoy these images from my trip to Utah. My love, Marc, and I rented a car and drove out to Antelope Island which I can easily say is one of the most jaw droppingly beautiful places I've ever seen. Enjoy!

 

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(Alonya Photography) TRAVEL https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/9/getting-ready-for-a-big-trip---photos-from-salt-lake-city Tue, 27 Sep 2016 01:03:18 GMT
Emergency C-Section - NICU Baby {Los Angeles Birth Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/emergencycsection First I want to start off by letting you know that all parties involved are absolutely healthy and recovered now. The amazing doctor at Cedars Sinai detected the need for an emergency cesarian just in time and all that was needed for baby to recover was about a day and half in the NICU to regain some strength after losing and swallowing some blood. 

I feel so grateful to have been able to capture this unique birth story. Every baby arrives in their own way. You may remember this mama from the sunny pregnancy session I posted a few months ago. Of course she wasn't planning to have an emergency c-section, but her mother's instinct told her to go to the hospital even though she was only in very early labor. I rushed to the hospital and got there just after the surgery. I captured everything I could of this story - Mama waking up from general anesthesia and hearing that her baby was healthy, daddy visiting baby in the NICU, and then I returned the next morning to capture the moment mom met her baby boy for the first time. Please enjoy these beautiful images of this family's birth story. 

Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section.

Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section.

Father meets son in the neonatal intensive care unit. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section.

mother eagerly awaits meeting her baby Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section. Birth photography photos at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles, CA. NICU baby, emergency C Section.

CONTACT ME to set up a session or discuss birth coverage!

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(Alonya Photography) BIRTH C-SECTION https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/emergencycsection Sun, 28 Aug 2016 04:52:52 GMT
Fun and Vibrant 3 Year Old! {Baldwin Hills Child Portrait Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/arlene-gail-3-years-old-los-angeles-child-portrait-session I have been photographing this cutie since she was only a three month baby. Arlene and I have done many photo sessions together, but this one was the first one where she could actually talk to me. "Are we done yet?" she would periodically ask. When the answer was "no" she would happily go back to participating. No fussing at all! She has an amazing attitude and spirit. I can't believe it, but she turn three years old yesterday! We had so much fun exploring Kenneth Hahn Park in the Baldwin Hills area. Arlene remains one of my favorite people to photograph. She is vibrant, sweet, and silly. Enjoy! Three year old portrait in field Three year old laughing Little girl giggles Eye lashes and sun. sweet child smiles Black and white child portrait ​

Dreamy three year old portrait. Family laughing together at the park Family portrait in Culver City Mother and three year old daughter love. Family goes for a walk black and white portrait. Father and daughter bond. Father and little daughter hug.

 

Happy birthday, Arlene! Hugs and kisses, Alonya

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/arlene-gail-3-years-old-los-angeles-child-portrait-session Sun, 14 Aug 2016 23:59:24 GMT
Sunny Day and Glowing Pregnant Mama {Culver City Maternity Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/sunny-culver-city-maternity-session A sunny afternoon at one of my favorite parks. A gorgeous pregnant mama. Creamy sunlight. Pure love! It was really special to photograph beautiful Vanessa as she and her husband await the birth of their baby boy. I am honored to also have been entrusted with photographing the birth of their little one. In just a few weeks I will officially be on call awaiting the notice that Vanessa is in labor. Enjoy these special images of pregnancy

Black and white pregnancy portrait.

Sun filled maternity portrait. Glowing pregnant woman. Expecting couple walk hand and hand in the sunshine. Pregnant belly in sunlight. Pregnant mother awaits the birth of her son. Maternity portait in field. ​

 

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(Alonya Photography) MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/8/sunny-culver-city-maternity-session Sun, 07 Aug 2016 23:58:10 GMT
Sweet Baby Grace {West Hollywood Newborn Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/6/baby-grace---los-angeles-newborn-session Oh sweet baby Grace! I loved everything about this West Hollywood newborn session. Grace was a perfect, yummy, curly little newborn who was a joy to photograph. Her parents, Beth and Marc, are some of the greatest people I've ever met. Gracie gave us a good amount of sleepy bliss which allowed me to capture these special photos. My goal was to keep the images simple and capture Grace's delicate sweetness. Enjoy!

 

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/6/baby-grace---los-angeles-newborn-session Mon, 27 Jun 2016 22:16:04 GMT
Adorable Family of Girls {Santa Monica Portrait Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/5/santa-monica-family-session---the-adorable-gubbins-family What a beautiful, sweet, fun family this was to photograph. Lucy and Mary, the adorable little girls, were so fun to follow around with my camera. I feel like I was able to capture some real genuine moments of childhood with this session - finding bugs, taking baby alien for a walk in the stroller, playing with mom's hair. Childhood is so fleeting and I love using my photography to freeze time in an artistic way. And then there was baby Margot who I was able to capture sleeping ever so sweetly in mom's arms. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/5/santa-monica-family-session---the-adorable-gubbins-family Sun, 29 May 2016 23:05:23 GMT
Sweet Newborn Baby Girl w/ Toddler Brother {Los Angeles Newborn Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/4/tierney-noelle-newborn-session This was a really special session. I photographed the birth of precious Tierney, so I had a special connection with her already. Little brother Kieran was super fun to photograph too (that red hair!) and it was amazing to see him interacting with his new sister and learning how to "be gentle". I also took some time to follow him around and captured some wonderful images of him just being a toddler - turning on lights, playing in the curtains, laughing. I'm really excited about the images that came out of this session. Enjoy!

 

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(Alonya Photography) childhood newborn https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/4/tierney-noelle-newborn-session Tue, 05 Apr 2016 01:22:59 GMT
Beautiful Labor and Fast Hospital Birth of Sweet Baby Girl {Santa Monica Birth Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/3/the-birth-of-tierney-noelle It was very special to witness and photograph Ann and Brendan welcoming their second child into the world. Ann was the most positive and cavalier I've ever seen a woman in labor be. She laughed and smiled through the process and won over the entire staff. By the time she was ready to push she gave one big push and out popped little Tierney. I'm not joking! The doctor couldn't believe it (you'll see some great expressions from the doctor below) and the room was jovial and laughing as they exclaimed and recounted the "one push". 

Thank you to the staff of UCLA medical in Santa Monica for being so warm and welcoming and to Ann and Brendan for being so open and allowing me to share these photos. Enjoy this beautiful and unique birth story!

A week later I was able to follow up with Ann and Brendan for an in home newborn session with sweet baby girl Tierney and big brother Kieran. 

 

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) BIRTH FRESH-48 https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/3/the-birth-of-tierney-noelle Wed, 16 Mar 2016 19:36:08 GMT
Clayton Bradley Newborn Session: Los Angeles Newborn Photographer https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/2/clayton-bradley-newborn-session Remember that amazing birth I got to document? Well, just two weeks later I had the privilege of photographing little Clayton again - this time in his home. If birth is a whirlwind, then the experience of entering a family's home after birth is breezy, calm, and fresh. It feels like I am entering a sacred space and it is so amazing. I love capturing connection. I love capturing love. Enjoy these special photos!

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/2/clayton-bradley-newborn-session Tue, 01 Mar 2016 05:01:26 GMT
The Best of 2015 https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/the-best-of-2015 2015 was a year of growth, learning, and joy. As Jozu Photography continues to evolve, so have I as a person and artist. I feel so grateful to every little baby, belly, and child that has come into my life this year. It is with gratitude to the subjects of these images that I share my favorite photos from 2015. Enjoy! xoxo, Alonya

 

Let's make more wonderful memories and beautiful images this year, shall we?!

 

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/the-best-of-2015 Mon, 18 Jan 2016 21:58:51 GMT
Natural Cedars Sinai Birth {Los Angeles Birth Photographer} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/the-birth-of-clayton-bradley My dear friend Lindsey asked me to document the birth of her son and I was honored and thrilled to do so. What a beautiful birth this was! I witnessed the most tremendous strength as Lindsey trusted her body and the process - handling the pain with grace. I saw the definition of love and support in her husband Nathan, her mother, friends, and doula. And then I got to see life appear before my very eyes and capture the joy of it all with my little camera. I don't even have the words to express how grateful I feel to have been at this birth and been able to use my photography to preserve and capture the emotional occasion. Enjoy these very special photos. 

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(Alonya Photography) BIRTH https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/the-birth-of-clayton-bradley Mon, 11 Jan 2016 00:15:04 GMT
Sweet Swaddled Baby Boy {West Los Angeles Newborn Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/newborn-session-dylan-wu---10-days-old Dylan was such a perfect little bundle and so wonderful to photograph. At 10 days old he loved being swaddled and stayed angelically asleep until the very end of the session. His new parents, Lucy and Dennis, were so great to work with and we even were able to get a few photos in with Grandma and their original baby - Koa the dog! Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2016/1/newborn-session-dylan-wu---10-days-old Wed, 06 Jan 2016 18:17:36 GMT
Violet Bee: Los Angeles Newborn Photographer https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/11/violet-bee---newborn-session Oh goodness. What is there to say about little miss Violet Bee? She is such a yummy and beautiful baby! I couldn't believe how expressive Violet was at only 7 days old - smiling and making eye contact numerous times. Proud parents Justin and Elizabeth are so in love. As a friend of theirs it was really special to see them entering this magical new time in their lives. Enjoy these special photos and don't be alarmed when Darth Vader appears! Justin insisted on that one. 

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/11/violet-bee---newborn-session Wed, 04 Nov 2015 20:09:43 GMT
Lindsey and Nathan - Maternity Session https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/10/lindsey-and-nathan---maternity-session These photos are special to me because Lindsey and Nathan are dear friends. Lindsey's cute little bump holds a baby boy that so many people are just so excited to meet. We started at their home in Van Nuys for some intimate images. I really appreciated Lindsey being open and brave enough to be in a bra and panties. Doesn't she look absolutely gorgeous?! Then we ventured into the canyon for some photos at magic hour. What you can't see is that it was a ridiculously hot day and we were all sweating and swatting flies the whole time. Poor Lindsey was quite the trooper! Enjoy!

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/10/lindsey-and-nathan---maternity-session Wed, 21 Oct 2015 18:12:46 GMT
The Sarrafan Family - Los Angeles Family Photo Session https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/9/the-sarrafan-family---los-angeles-family-photo-session I truly loved this session. This family was so loving, genuine, and fun. 6 month old Lena and 3 year old big sister Hannah were not only gorgeous to photograph, but also so delightful to be around. Hannah took her role of big sister very seriously which was totally adorable. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) BABY CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/9/the-sarrafan-family---los-angeles-family-photo-session Wed, 30 Sep 2015 18:43:32 GMT
Cyrus James: Los Angeles Newborn Session https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/8/cyrus-james-newborn-session Eleven day old Cyrus James was simply wonderful to photograph. His parents Jenni and Bryce are totally in love and my favorite part of the session was just watching them adore him. How could they not? Look at that handsome little face! Enjoy these special photos. 

 

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/8/cyrus-james-newborn-session Thu, 27 Aug 2015 21:02:36 GMT
Los Angeles Maternity Session: Elizabeth and Justin https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/8/elizabeth-and-justin-maternity Elizabeth and Justin are dear friends of mine and I was so excited to take their maternity photos. Elizabeth is a classically stunning individual and her pregnancy is just making her even more beautiful. I mean, look at her! She is a dream to photograph. We spent a few hours at Kenneth Hahn Park in the Baldwin Hills area of Los Angeles capturing these photos and using that late afternoon glow to our advantage. I adore so many of these images. I hope you will too. Enjoy!

 

 

 

If you recognize these two it might be because you have seen them in their viral Buzzfeed videos! Their latest is all about the ridiculous and unsolicited advice you get when you're pregnant. I'm sure many of you can relate. You might also recognize a certain someone in this video. Yes, that's me in the clothing store saying the most terrifying things about giving birth! Check it out: 

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/8/elizabeth-and-justin-maternity Thu, 13 Aug 2015 20:08:54 GMT
Newborn Session: Ella Grace https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/6/newborn-session-ella-grace-carlitz I had such a pleasure working with these new parents and their beautiful baby girl, Ella Grace. I love to use items in my clients' homes to make the images extra special and unique. I was immediately drawn to this great blue chair and a big red sign that said "LOVE". I had fun setting the scene and little Ella was perfectly sleepy and cooperative. The other series of photos were taken in Ella's room. I always bring my own blankets, but they had a very special knitted blanket made by her great grandmother. I would much rather use a blanket that has real sentimental meaning! The other wonderful thing about this session is that Ella's grandmothers were visiting, so I was able to get a great multigenerational portrait. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/6/newborn-session-ella-grace-carlitz Fri, 19 Jun 2015 19:30:59 GMT
Lucas: Headshot Session and more https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/5/lucas-headshot-session-and-more Nine year old Lucas has decided that he wants to be an actor. Well one of the first steps is a great headshot! I really enjoyed photographing this awesome kid and capturing a little more of him than just a typical "headshot". Enjoy. 

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For more of my headshot work:

facebook.com/headshotsbyjozu

 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/5/lucas-headshot-session-and-more Sat, 16 May 2015 01:40:00 GMT
Lilea and Mark: San Francisco Engagement Session https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/5/lila-and-marks-san-francisco-ferry-building-engagement-session Lilea, or "Ela" as I've always known her, was my roommate for three years in college. Since then she has remained one of my dearest friends and I was thrilled when she asked me to take engagement photos for her and her wonderful fiancé, Mark. I packed up my gear and headed to San Francisco for an excellent weekend of catching up, good food, and photography! Enjoy my favorites from this super fun session. 

 

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/5/lila-and-marks-san-francisco-ferry-building-engagement-session Mon, 04 May 2015 04:23:22 GMT
Arlene: 18 Months {Culver City Portrait Session} https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/3/arlene-and-ashley I have been photographing Arlene since she was only 3 months old. Now she is a joyful/silly/adorable toddler and still one of the most photogenic little girls in the world! Enjoy the photos from our last session with her beautiful mommy, Ashley! 

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(Alonya Photography) BABIES MOTHERHOOD https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/3/arlene-and-ashley Mon, 09 Mar 2015 22:32:55 GMT
Newborn Session: Sonny Clare https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/2/newborn-session-sonny-clare Scrumptious little Sonny Clare was only eight days old when I had the privilege of photographing her. When she fell asleep on the couch my heart just swelled at the sight of such preciousness. Her family already adores her and beautiful big sister Rae is very proud. This photo session was a joy! Take a look at these special images. 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2015/2/newborn-session-sonny-clare Wed, 11 Feb 2015 20:53:41 GMT
Best of 2014 https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/12/2014-favorite-photos-and-reflection When I think about this year I am struck with profound gratitude. My first official year in business has been more rewarding and magical than I could have imagined. I have met the most precious and vibrant little souls and been welcomed into the homes of simply wonderful families. Together, with the openness of my clients, we have created beautiful images. Here are some of the images that stood out to me the most this year.

 

 

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Thank you for all the support and to those of you who took a chance on Jozu Photography this year I thank you from the bottom of my heart! I look forward to another prosperous year.

Love,

Alonya 

Joanie and Zuzu say happy new year too!

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/12/2014-favorite-photos-and-reflection Wed, 31 Dec 2014 20:39:57 GMT
The McGraime Family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/the-mcgraime-family This beach session turned out to be something really special. There were just enough clouds in the sky, not too many people around, and the kids were so excited to be on the beach. It was so fun to capture this wonderful family interacting with each other and having fun in their environment. When I got home to start my editing process so many of the images made me giddy inside. I hope you'll see why.  IMG_8820-EditIMG_8820-Edit IMG_8760-Edit-2IMG_8760-Edit-2 IMG_8766-Edit-2IMG_8766-Edit-2 IMG_8773-Edit-2IMG_8773-Edit-2 IMG_8893-EditIMG_8893-Edit IMG_8794IMG_8794 IMG_8804IMG_8804 IMG_8868-EditIMG_8868-Edit IMG_8875-Edit-EditIMG_8875-Edit-Edit IMG_8907IMG_8907 IMG_8925IMG_8925 IMG_8923IMG_8923 IMG_8937IMG_8937 IMG_9007-EditIMG_9007-Edit IMG_9019-EditIMG_9019-Edit IMG_9021-EditIMG_9021-Edit IMG_9200IMG_9200 IMG_9171IMG_9171 IMG_9165IMG_9165 IMG_9222IMG_9222

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/the-mcgraime-family Sun, 23 Nov 2014 01:27:52 GMT
Bella, Stephanie, and Jeremy https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/bella-and-stephanie Bella and Stephanie are a dynamic mother and daughter duo. They are absolutely adorable together and were so fun to photograph. Bella is so vibrant, silly, and the epitome of cute. She loved her new sparkly pink dress and kept spinning in it. I really love pictures of little girls spinning in dresses. Maybe it's because I went through a phase when I was probably about five where I wouldn't wear anything except "dresses that spin". They also love their dog Jeremy, so I made sure to get a portrait of him too. Enjoy!

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/bella-and-stephanie Tue, 18 Nov 2014 07:24:05 GMT
The Williams Family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/the-williams-family Sky and Marlowe are 4 year old fraternal twins. They are so fun, funny, and wonderful. When I asked their mother, Danielle, what she wanted to get out of the session she said "to capture life as it is right now". I love that she said that. I always hope the images I take will become treasured representations of a very special moment in time that is going to fly by so fast. The Williams live within walking distance of downtown Culver City, so we started at home and then headed out to have fun downtown. I absolutely adore the pictures of the boys playing by the fountain. They are the kind of pictures that could never be planned. 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/11/the-williams-family Wed, 05 Nov 2014 06:20:59 GMT
Tahoe https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/10/tahoe A few weeks ago I went to Lake Tahoe to celebrate my cousin Crystal getting married. I took some photos that I just love on the trip, so I thought I'd share.  You are about to see a mermaid!

Little cousins:

Crystal and her new husband Toby:

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/10/tahoe Tue, 28 Oct 2014 20:24:26 GMT
Sasha: 6 years old https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/10/sasha Sasha was a dream to photograph. She warmed up to being photographed fast and was so playful and genuine on camera the whole time. She also had lots of outfits picked out for the shoot which was fun. I love a good costume change! And those pink boots. I mean, come on! Do they come in women's 8.5? There are so many photos that I love from this session. Enjoy! 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/10/sasha Fri, 10 Oct 2014 04:02:19 GMT
The Crispin Family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/9/the-crispin-family I love the Crispins! They are so much fun and up for anything. When I talked to Maggie (mama Crispin) she said that they wanted to try an unconventional, more conceptual family photo. I love venturing outside the box, so I was completely on board. They have a wonderful yard and after only a little deliberation we set out to get the perfect shot. 

I present to you THE CRISPIN FAMILY PHOTO:

After nailing the main photo, we still had time for some more fun. Here are favorites from the rest of the shoot:

Let's end on an offbeat note: 

Thank you Maggie, Aaron, Wyatt, and Jane for a fun and unique photo session! 

 

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/9/the-crispin-family Tue, 23 Sep 2014 19:40:27 GMT
James: Senior Portrait https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/9/james---senior-portrait My baby brother James just started his senior year of high school. I can hardly believe it. So while visiting home (Mendocino, CA) this summer I made sure to take his senior portrait. I just love the images that came out of an hour of him and me romping around the backyard together. The backyard is less of a backyard and more of a forest, which made for a great backdrop. How I wish there was greenery of this sort in LA! James was my first muse when I discovered my love for photography as a teenager. I have many photos of him that I took with my old 35mm and developed in the dark room of my high school. Here is one of them - taken in the same backyard! On the back of the print it says "fast shutter speed". I think it was for an assignment in which I had to experiment with shutter speeds. 

 

From little cutie to big cutie...

 

 

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) SENIOR https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/9/james---senior-portrait Tue, 16 Sep 2014 00:36:10 GMT
Ami and Doug turn One! (Anniversary Session) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/7/ami-and-doug-turn-1-anniversary-session This shoot was a blast. Ami wanted a combo of fun and romantic pictures to celebrate their first year of marriage. We started at Union Station and shot until we got kicked out. The security guard said that my camera looked "too important." I think it might have also had something to do with the fact that we were standing in the middle of the main hallway and I was yelling across to them "Jump! Ami, put your leg up! Kiss!". Luckily we were able to sneak a few more pictures in the garden and in front of the building after that. Then we headed across the street to the colorful and festive Olvera Street. It was a busy Saturday and there were a lot of people around. We came up with the code "hold for pigeons" to indicate that there was someone in the background that was getting in the frame. I will definitely use that one again next time I am in a busy public place. 

Here are some of my favorite shots from the session. Ami and Doug's fun spirit and the love they have for each other just shines. It also helps that Ami is extremely photogenic. 

 

Union Station: 

Olvera Street: 

 

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(Alonya Photography) COUPLES https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/7/ami-and-doug-turn-1-anniversary-session Sat, 26 Jul 2014 22:48:13 GMT
Arlene Gail: 11 Months https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/7/arlene-gail-11-months A week ago I got to photograph one of my favorite babies. I did her portraits when she was only 3 months old and now she is almost a year! Time flies and little Arlene just keeps getting cuter. 

 

Remember this Jozu baby? 

 

Well look at her now!

Arlene can wave hello:

and touch her head:

clap her hands: 

and even play the tambourine!

Arlene loves to read:

 

She loves her family:

and even if she gets a little cranky: 

It never lasts long:

Good idea, Arlene. Let's ditch the hat. 

Keep up the good work, Arlene!

Bye!!

 

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(Alonya Photography) BABY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/7/arlene-gail-11-months Tue, 15 Jul 2014 20:13:31 GMT
Macy Eye Center https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/macy-eye-center I really enjoyed taking promotional photos for Macy Eye Center in Beverly Hills. Check out some of my favorites!  

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(Alonya Photography) COMMERCIAL https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/macy-eye-center Tue, 24 Jun 2014 20:21:42 GMT
Baby Ally Newborn Session https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/the-reiss-family-newborn-session I feel honored and privileged to have done both maternity and newborn photos for Rachel and Brian. They are a wonderful family and Jase and Ally, the little ones, are so incredibly cute. I also appreciated how open they were to me trying some out of the box photos. I am simply in love with the shots of Ally in the swaddle on the graphic sheet and the ones of her "floating" on the colorful play mat. When was the last time you saw newborn photos like that?!

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/the-reiss-family-newborn-session Thu, 19 Jun 2014 17:31:18 GMT
JPEG vs. RAW (and pictures of my adorable cats) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/jpeg-vs-raw These photos had the exact same edits done to them. Can you guess which one was the RAW file?

You may not have any idea what I'm talking about and that's fine. But for those of you interested in the technical aspects of photography this post is for you. I admit that I am not exactly the most "techie" of people. Many think I am because I like to edit both photo and video and have fancy equipment. But I just see these "techie" things as the means to express my creativity and I've had no other choice but to learn how to use them. However, most of my knowledge probably doesn't extend beyond what I need to know in order to get the job done. When a new job needs to be done - that's when I do research and learn new things. Here's what I learned about shooting RAW. 

When I started considering making photography into a business I knew I had to step up my tech game. I could take good photos, but there was this polished, deeper, richer look to the photos of professional photographers that I was having trouble achieving. Part of this has to do with having a superior camera and fancy lenses which I promptly invested in once I became serious about this being a real business, but most of it has to do with being skilled at processing the photos or "developing" them in your editing program. 

When I started reading up on how to elevate the quality of my photos I came across the concept of shooting RAW for the very first time. I wish I could say that I knew what RAW was from the start, but the truth is that I didn't. I'd never heard of it because I'd never needed to hear about it. But suddenly I was being bombarded with this "real photographers shoot RAW!" ideology. And then to confuse the matter more I also came across articles expressing that there was no need to go RAW. These articles contended that plenty of professional photographers shoot JPEG and RAW is hard to deal with and takes up a lot of storage space. At first I was convinced to stick with JPEG. Really this was because I didn't want to deal with learning something new and my pictures were good anyway. Getting a better camera and practicing had already elevated the quality greatly. But one day I decided to try it out and I was immediately convinced that I could offer my clients even higher quality photographs if I shot RAW. 

Now like I said, I am not great with the techie talk, but here is the basic idea. When your digital camera takes a picture the sensors record all kinds of information from the environment you are shooting. It then converts that into your digital picture. A RAW file is uncompressed and retains all of the data the sensors picked up. When your camera saves a JPEG file it compresses it and adds effects to it to make it look good. Because of this it can be opened and viewed on your computer easily whereas a RAW file needs special software to view and must be processed, but you are fine if you have a program like Aperture or Lightroom. A JPEG does not save as much data, so when you go to edit, if a photo is under-exposed or over-exposed or your white balance is totally off it is very hard to get the detail and color back from a JPEG file, but a RAW file has that data stored and you can much more easily correct your picture. Where detail was lost forever with a JPEG it can be retained in your RAW file.

Many photographers who shoot in JPEG only will say that it is important not to rely on your editing software and that you should nail the picture in the camera. I agree that you should know how to properly expose and take a photo, but there are situations for all photographers (unless you are in a totally controlled studio environment) where you cannot change your settings in time or you might have just mis-judged. For me, I am often running after small children and may find myself in a new lighting situation within seconds without enough time to change my settings. If I end up with a slightly under-exposed picture now that I shoot RAW it is much more salvageable than my old JPEG pictures were. Also, what's wrong with making a picture better with editing? It's the developing process that used to be done in a dark room. I'm not big into crazy effects or anything - I just like to enhance the already good photo I took. 

So enough words. Here are some images to demonstrate the difference. I set my camera to capture both a RAW file and a JPEG file and started following my cats Joanie and Zuzu around. 

This is a picture of my cat Joanie. After importing the files into my editing program I edited the RAW version to my liking (I did not utilize some of the editing options that are available for RAW files only, but that is another advantage of RAW) and then I cut and pasted the EXACT SAME attributes to the JPEG version. Here are the results. 

RAW edit:

JPEG edit (same exact attributes as above RAW):

Totally unedited original: 

It is subtle, but you can see that the RAW version was able to retain much more detail. Look at the chair between the two photos, you can't even see parts of the pattern in the JPEG version. 

 

Here's another example with my cat Zuzu. The picture is underexposed - too dark. I kept this one simple for the example. All I did to the RAW and JPEG versions was bring up the exposure as far as it would go and brought the recovery up to avoid blowing out parts of the photo. 

Underexposed original:

RAW with upped exposure:

JPEG with upped exposure: 

You can see that the RAW version keeps detail and richness whereas the JPEG is really struggling not to be totally flat. Poor JPEG :( And remember, I didn't do a thing to the color!

Now maybe if I had fiddled with the settings a little longer I could get the JPEG up to par, but I don't want to spend more time than I have to. I just want to bump up the exposure and be done with trying to correct it. 

Here's a few more examples just for fun:

Washed out original:

Edited RAW next to JPEG with same attributes:                           

 

The JPEG is going to need more work to get the white balance right. 

 

Underexposed original:

RAW with edits:

JPEG with same edits:

Wow!

I hope this was interesting and even helpful to those out there also exploring and trying new things. When I am shooting for a client I will always use RAW now. I am officially converted!
 
Thanks for reading,
 
Alonya (and Joanie and Zuzu)
 
By the way, if you are super into my cats you can follow them on Facebook! Yup. That's right. Joanie and Zuzu have their own Facebook page! I started it so that I could have a safe outlet for all the photos and videos I take of them. Lots of my photography makes its way there, so check it out! facebook.com/joanieandzuzu
 
And don't forget to like Jozu Photography on Facebook too! facebook.com/jozuphotography
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(Alonya Photography) PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/jpeg-vs-raw Tue, 10 Jun 2014 21:08:30 GMT
The Reiss Family - Rachel, Brian, Jase, and little girl bump https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/the-reiss-family When Rachel contacted me for a maternity shoot she said she wanted vibrant and fun photos that focused on her family and soon to be big brother - little Jase. My goal was to capture a sense of joy and to let energetic and adorable Jase lead the way. He sure did! He was such a fast little scooter. Sometimes it was hard to snap a picture of him because he kept scooting away, but because of that the pictures radiate an innocence and curiosity that is so magical and special.  Here are some of my favorite shots from the session. I love the first photo below because it was completely unplanned and is so dynamic and unique. We were trying to get Jase to play on the play mat with Rachel and Brian, but he was in total explorer mode instead. 

I was just notified that their baby girl was born and I cannot wait to meet her and photograph her! Newborn shots on the way!

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(Alonya Photography) BABY FAMILY MATERNITY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/the-reiss-family Wed, 04 Jun 2014 20:18:25 GMT
Beach Fun https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/beach-fun This weekend my boyfriend Darren and I went out at sun down to test my newest lens (Tamron 24-70) and experiment on the beach. Here are some of my favorite pics from our adventure. (Just imagine Darren is a beautiful pregnant woman). 

And here's one he snapped of me!

 

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(Alonya Photography) https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/beach-fun Mon, 02 Jun 2014 22:00:46 GMT
Baby Elijah https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/baby-elijah Remember this beautiful pregnant woman?

Lucy had her baby! Little Elijah is so cute. When I arrived he was sleeping so sweetly and I just started clicking.

Then we propped him up on some pillows and blankets and let him sleep a little more...until it was time to eat. Lucy was so wonderfully open and let me capture the tender moments of breastfeeding. 

Then we let Elijah be naked and he just loved it!

What a sweetie! Congratulations to Lucy and Michel. Documenting both the pregnancy and their post-baby love was such a privilege. Look at this beautiful family!

 

 

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(Alonya Photography) NEWBORN https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/6/baby-elijah Sun, 01 Jun 2014 22:33:07 GMT
The Nordan Family https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/5/the-nordan-family This was such a fun shoot. First I took photos of Keegan (mama Nordan) and her home for Keegan's business Obsessively Organized by Keegan. Check out her website with my photos. She is a seriously fun woman and I'm so glad I was able to help her awesome business by taking some promotional photos. Then her three beautiful girls - Keira, Kylie, and Edie came home with dad Erick. These little girls were a dream to photograph. I mean, just look at how gorgeous and cute they are!

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(Alonya Photography) CHILDHOOD FAMILY https://www.alonyaphotography.com/blog/2014/5/the-nordan-family Tue, 20 May 2014 20:13:14 GMT