Michelle Johnson Photography Blog

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort Photographer{Patrick + Shannon} Palm Desert

2012-01-28T10:05:00.000-08:00

New Years Day 2012. What a great day to kick off the New Year by photographing a beautiful wedding at one of my favorite venues in Palm Desert. The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa is incredible. Patrick traveled all the way from Japan to marry his bride Shannon, who traveled from Hawaii to the have their destination wedding in Palm Desert, California.

It was a typical day in Palm Desert, temps around 82 desgrees, sunny skies, slight breeze. The hotel was bursting with love on this New Year's Day and Mark and I were there to capture every minute of it. I felt so blessed to be doing what I love and making lasting moments for this sweet couple.

The wedding ceremony was held at the Pointe on the grounds of Desert Springs Resort and Spa.
Shannon traveled across the resort via a boat, then she made her walk down the aisle to marry her groom.

Patrick and Shannon's closest family and friends traveled to Palm Desert to share in this sweet destination wedding. I love intimate weddings. Each and every person there is unique and special to the couple.

It was truly an honor to be a part of this military wedding. Patrick's uniform adorned all of his accolades he earned while protecting our country. The couple even used Patrick's military sword to cut the cake. How cool is that!

Enjoy the sneak peak at this beautiful Palm Desert Destination Wedding.

This photo is a sneak peak of how my new blog posts will be featured as soon as my new website and blog are up. I can't wait!

The First Look Photos are always so romantic...

The Bride Shannon arrived to the ceremony via boat. So fun for all.

Love this shot.

Palm Desert has the most amazing sunsets.

Upland Photographer Wins Wedding Wire's Bride's Choice Award 2012

2012-01-26T12:55:00.000-08:00

‎{Upland,CA} – January 23, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce Michelle Johnson Photography has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Photography!

The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, Michelle Johnson Photography was selected based on its stellar reviews from past newlywed clients.

Michelle Johnson Photography is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada. The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Michelle Johnson Photography for their continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”

We are happy to announce that Michelle Johnson Photography is one of the very best Photographers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback we were able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012.

Claremont Senior Photographer

2012-01-19T10:47:00.000-08:00

Yay! I photographed my first high school senior session of 2012. I absolutley love photographing these amazing grads. Samantha actually graduated early so she was Class of 2011. She graduated in Claremont in December and wanted to have some cool photos to show off this important time in her life.
We met and walked around downtown. I just love finding new knooks and crannies to photograph my seniors. The urban city style is one of my favorites. Samantha was super sweet and we had a great time. I enjoyed hearing about her exciting life in Claremont and her goals she has ahead of her. Congratulations Samantha. I wish you the best! xo

Michelle Johnson Photography is Wedding Wire's Bride Choice Awards 2012

2012-01-17T09:26:00.001-08:00

As a recipient, Michelle Johnson Photography is being recognized as part of the top 5% of Wedding Professionals nationwide

La Immaculata and Scripps Seaside Forum Wedding Photographer- San Diego Wedding Scott + Samantha}

2012-01-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

Scott + Samantha were just the sweetest couple. They met in Houston texas where Scott is from. Samantha's family is from Riverside so they decided on a destination wedding in beautiful San Diego, California. San Diego is simply amazing, with perfect temperatures daily, bright sunny skies and endless possibilities for fun.

Fun is exactly what this couple enjoys. They work hard so they play hard. Their wedding was filled with lots of fun and tons of love.

The wedding was held at the amazing La Immaculata on the University of San Diego campus. This chucrch is incredible. It was an honor to photograph in such a prestine location.

After the wedding ceremony at La Immacualta, we headed to La Jolla to Scripps Seaside Forum. This wedding venue is located right on the ocean. The views are breathtaking. The guests arrived to a beautiful cocktail hour during sunset. The reception at Scripps Seaside Forum was filled with great food, great memories, dancing and sharing in this sweet couple's love.

Thank you Scott + Samantha for choosing me to capture your precious wedding day memories. I wish you love and a long healthy marriage.

Here is a sneak peak of my favorite photos from this San Diego Wedding. Enjoy!

Another one of my weddings was featured today!

2012-01-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that another one of my weddings was chosen to be featured, this time in A Low Country Wedding. You can view the feature here. Please leave us all some love.

Pasadena Engagement Photographer/

2012-01-04T22:46:00.000-08:00

I met up with this sweet couple in Pasadena for some engagement photos. I will post more soon, but wanted to give you a sneka peak at their photo session. See you back here soon.

Los Angeles Boudoir Photographer- Beautiful L.

2012-01-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

Beautiful L. wanted to surprise her husband with some boudoir photos. We met up in one of my favorite hotels in Los Angeles to do her boudoir session. She is such a beautiful person inside and out and I am so happy I was able to create these amazing images for her and her husband to treasure forever. To protect her privacy, I am not showing any photos that clearly show her face. There were so many amazing photos from this Los Angeles Boudoir Session that I cannot show you, but I am sure you can use your imagination. If you are interested in having some of these photos taken for Valentines, please call now to schedule. 909-721.6696 or MichelleJPhoto@me.com

Lovely Little Ones...Upland and San Dimas Newborn Photographer

2012-01-02T17:50:00.000-08:00

I just adored photographing these sweet little newborns. It is just a joy to have such wonderful connections with my brides and grooms and I get the awesome experience of being their photographer for their pregnancy and newborn photos. I actually photographed these little ones on the same day. I met precious newborn girl Ainsley at her home in San Dimas and little baby boy Lukas at my home studio here in Upland. They were both so good and it truly was an honor to hold them and spend time with them. I look forward to photographing each of them for my babies first year plan which includes an awesome 8x8 album at the end of the 3 photo sessions. It really is an amazing keepsake. I still have some other sessions from 2011 to blog so stay tuned and I look forward to sharing more of my newborn photos with you during 2012. enjoy!

Introducing sweet newborn girl Ainsley, featured here in her San Dimas home.

Introducing sweet newborn boy Lukas. It was a treat to photograph him in my Upland studio.

Here's to an incredible year. Thank you 2011. Inland Empire/Orange County/ Los Angeles/Palm Desert and San Diego Photographer

2012-01-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

Here's to an incredible year. 2011 was filled with so many wonderful opportunities for me and my photography business. I have had the privilege of being a professional photographer for 17 years. I was so blessed to photograph 32 weddings, 7 corporate events including some Hollywood Icons, and over 80 Portrait Sessions in 2011.

I started my business shooting film and mostly photographing children and families. My love for this beautiful profession grew and so did my business. I quickly grew my wedding and engagement business and have always kept my portrait clients close to my heart. Photographing weddings is such an honor and I also adore the beautiful moms to be with their growing bellies, the sweet innocence of newborn photography, capturing the growing moments of the children and teen years, the importance of a family portrait, my amazing high school seniors, who bring so much joy to my heart, the allure of the boudoir sessions, my interesting corporate photography, the list goes on and on. I have established myself and Michelle Johnson Photography as one of our areas top photographer's. This could not have been possible without the support of all of you. I especially want to thank my family. They have truly been a blessing to me. Giving up my own family times can be difficult, but having the opportunity to create lasting moments for other's makes it all worth it. I have a wonderful team of associate photographer's who are talented and I appreciate them so much. Mark, Bill, Shelly, Jeanette and Eric help Michelle Johnson Photography create once in a lifetime moments and I am so proud to have them on my team. I am looking for other's to add to my team. I am currently seeking talented photographer's who know their camera and how to use it inside and out. High End Professional equipment and lenses are a must.(Not the cheapo stuff you can get at Costco) I am looking for someone who will be a team player and loves photography but doesn't want to run their own business. You can always drop me an email and tell me about yourself, I can view your work and see if you will be a good match for all of us here at MJP.

I hope 2012 continues to bring success to Michelle Johnson Photography and most importantly, I wish health, love, and friendship to each and everyone of us.
God Bless you all for supporting me and let's make it a great year.
xo Michelle

Claremont Family and Children Photographer

2011-12-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to photograph these children and family a few weeks ago in downtown Claremont. As you all know, Claremont, is one of my favorite locations for photos. The lighting is just gorgeous and there are so many locations to choose from. The first group of children, I have been photographing my entire 17 years of being a photographer. The family shown below, was a new client. It was really a great day and I wish them all a wonderful Christmas.
xoxo

Chapel of Roses Pasadena Wedding Photographer {Danielle + Fredo} 11.20.11

2011-12-19T13:02:00.000-08:00

What a sweet wedding I photographed at The Chapel of Roses in Pasadena. Danielle + Fredo are a young couple in love. I have watched Fredo grow up since he was a little boy. Photographing for his family has been a blessings. I photographed his sister Ashley's wedding 2 years ago and to be a part of this wedding was an absolute joy. Danielle and Fredo met in Spanish class in High School. Their friendship grew and grew and they have been in love ever since.

It was a rainy November day but the love that this couple shared brightened up the wedding day. We took some photos outside in the rain and it was really fun.

The Chapel of Roses in Pasadena was the perfect location for this sweet couple's wedding. It is a gorgeous chapel and I loved that rose petals fell upon them as they were kissing. Such a sweet symbol of love.

The wedding reception was held at The Upland Women's Club. The evening was filled with good food, family, laughter and loving memories for this couple to keep in their hearts forever.
I wish them the best and many blessings for the future. xo Michelle

Published in Delightfully Engaged

2011-12-16T17:35:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that Nicole and Matt's E-Session was published by Delightfully Engaged. Their publication is viewed by millions of brides world wide. So cool. Please check it out here.

OLA and Doubletree by Hilton Claremont Wedding Photographer {Maurgan + Keith}

2011-12-11T09:40:00.000-08:00

I was really looking forward to this wedding. Maurgan and I had an instant connection from the very first time we spoke on the phone. That connection continued when I got to meet her in person along with her husband to be Keith. This sweet couple is so in love, honestly, the tears, (including mine) were flowing all day long.

I always love to get to my clients early and take lots of detail photos and pictures before the wedding. We started this wonderful wedding day at the beautiful Doubletree by Hilton Claremont. This is one of my favorite venues. John and his team are simply the best at what they do and I just adore working with them. Thanks John for the VIP treatment as always. xo

Maurgan and her bridemaids were finishing up hair and makeup when Mark and I arrived. Maurgan was then surprised with a wedding gift from Keith. Such a sweet wedding memory. We lucked out with the weather and just missed the rain. We took the girls outside to the luscious grounds of the Claremont Doubletree and got the picture taking fun started. Maurgan was simply beautiful. She was really comfortable in front of the camera.

Next we headed to meet Keith and the guys. Keith was also surprised with a gift from Maurgan. I am happy to say that I helped fulfil her dream to give Keith a "For your eyes only" wedding day gift that he will treasure forever. Keith and the guys were easy to work with and we had fun walking around the Doubletree taking photos.

The ceremony was held at OLA Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church in Claremont. Maurgan's family has a strong history at this church so it was very special to be married here. After the ceremony it was time for family photos, wedding party and then lots of romantics of the bride and groom.

We came back to the Doubletree by Hilton Claremont for a fun filled wedding reception. This day truly was magical for Maurgan and Keith and I am so blessed that I got to share in it and create lifelong wedding memories for this sweet couple. God Bless you both. xoxo Michelle + Mark

I would like to thank my wonderful team of wedding vendors.
Venue-Doubletree by Hilton Claremont
Church-Our Lady of Assumption
Flowers-Carol's Secret Garden
Cake-Cucamonga Cakery
Music and Lighting-Dancing Wheels- Janet Hart
Awesome second shooter- Mark Johnson- Real Estate Broker by day, second shooter by night. Go Mark.

Baby love {Upland Newborn Photographer} Sweet Ally and her brothers

2011-12-05T10:06:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of meeting these sweet kids a couple weeks ago. Ryan and Connor have a newborn sister Alison. Their mommy and daddy wanted some precious photos of them so I headed over to their Upland home with my photo props and we just had a blast. Newborn Alison is growing fast, she had the cutest chubby cheeks and was absolutlely the sweetest baby ever.

Her big brothers Ryan and Connor were a big help. They loved holding her and smiling for the camera. We took some photos in the backyard and then headed into Alison's sweet baby nursery. Her mommy decorated it so cute.

I love meeting fellow Upland families. This town is so great and it has been a joy to raise my children in such a wonderful place. I hope to see more of these children as they grow up. Thanks for having me over to your beautiful home. Have a blessed week.

Upland Family and Children Photographer

2011-12-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have been photographing families and children in Upland and the surrounding areas for over 17 years. It has been such an amazing journey. I have gotton to know so many wonderful families and watch them grow, photograph their milestones like birth of a new child, baptisms, birthday celebrations, graduation photos and their incredibly special weddings. I have been blessed with so many friendships and I am so grateful to be such a well known photographer in Upland and our community. Here are some of my latest families and children that I have photographed. Thank you to these families for their year after year support of my business. I am truly thankful...

Sea of Love {Newport Beach Yacht Wedding} Kim + Ashley

2011-11-30T09:28:00.000-08:00

Come with me, my love, to the sea, the sea of love...

Kim + Ashley got married in Newport Beach Harbor at Pacific Avalon Yacht Charters.
They committed their hearts to one another with their loved ones by their sides.

Kim is the sister of one of my oldest friends, so it was very special for me to be the one to photograph their union.

The weather in Newport Beach was beautiful, with clear skies and a cool breeze.
The yacht set sail around the Newport Beach Harbor and guests were treated to a lovely luncheon and reception.

Kim and Ashley are so in love and to witness their tears of joy was really special.
I wish them so much happiness and love.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from this Newport Beach Wedding. Enjoy

Sweet Sisters- {Redlands Senior Photographer} Chanel and Chloe

2011-11-28T16:05:00.000-08:00

Introducing Chanel and Chloe... Redlands High School Class of 2012.

I had the pleasure of photographing these super sweet sisters for their High School Senior Photos. Chanel and Chloe are only 15 months apart so they are graduating at the same time. How cool huh! These young girls go to Redlands High School. They are really close and love to hang out together. Chanel's little baby boy Eric got to be in some of the photos too. What a little cutie pie. I have had so much fun photographing so many seniors from Redlands High and these kids are such an inspiration and joy to get to know.

Check out some of my favorite photos of the girls below...

Indian Summer Wedding JW Marriott Desert Springs Photographer} Dayna + Reeve

2011-11-26T21:27:00.000-08:00

Indian Summer is my favorite time of year to be in Palm Desert. The days are still warm and the evenings are warm with a sweet breeze.

Dayna + Reeve love Palm Desert. They are from Canada and this is one of their favorite destinations so it made perfect sense to have their wedding here.

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa is a breathtaking resort. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and the resort is surrounded by water. It's no wonder that this is a top wedding destination in Palm Desert.

Dayna + Reeve had a intimate ceremony at The Point. They were married in between a ring of rose petals. It was truly magical. Their family and daughter witnessed the exchange of vows and rings. This couple is very blessed and I was blessed to be a part of this wonderful wedding.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from this destination wedding at the wonderful JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa.

Halloween Wedding {Steven + Samantha} Pasadena Masonic Temple Wedding

2011-11-21T22:00:00.000-08:00

I have to say this was the coolest wedding I have ever photographed in my 17 years of business.
Steven + Samantha wanted a Halloween Wedding. They planned for over a year to make this event the talk of the town. Each and every detail was perfect and made for a spooktacular evening.

Samantha, the bride is absolutely beautiful. She is a make up artist and she did her own makeup for her wedding. Steven, the groom, is a tattoo artist. It was such a joy to photograph this wedding held at the Pasadena Masonic Temple. I have been photographing for Steven and his family since Steven was a little boy. It truly was an honor to watch him marry the woman of his dreams.

The venue for this Halloween wedding was ideal. The Pasadena Masonic Temple was built in the early 1900's. The mahogony wood, arched ceilings and Roman Gothic architecture made for really cool photos.

Samantha walked down the asile to the Dsineyland's Haunted Mansion's version of Here comes the bride. The low fog made for an eerie ambiance along with the spooky lighting done by Jay from The DJAy Company.

The candy bar was filled with horror treats and ghouls. The bloody wedding cake featured Frankenstein and his bride at The Monster Ball. The low lying fog continued throughout the lower level of the Masonic Temple and made for an exciting grand entrance.

Steven and Samantha really made each and every detail of this wedding come together and I was really impressed by their creativity.

I would highly receommend the Pasadena Masonic Temple for weddings and events. It is spacious, grandious and very beautiful.

I would like to thank my husband Mark and my associate shooter Bill helping me photograph this special Halloween wedding.

I wish Steven and Samantha years of happiness and a life filled with new adventures. xo

Central Park Rancho Cucamonga Wedding {Danielle + James}

2011-11-16T13:42:00.000-08:00

Danielle and James had the most beautiful wedding. They chose a gorgeous Rancho Cucamonga wedding venue. Central Park has a ceremony sight, beautiful spots for photos and a lovely banquet room for the reception.

We started the wedding day at The A Loft hotel. It was modern and hip and really cool for photos. Danielle and James have the cutest baby boy Anden and he was the ring bearer. Too cute...

Next we ventured over to Central Park in Rancho Cucamonga for the wedding. It was a gorgeous October day and the weather was absolutely perfect. It was great seeing Ashley and Chris as well. I photographed their wedding last December and they referred me to this sweet couple.

The Indian Summer weather was perfect and the afternoon warm colors of the sun made for romantic wedding photos.

I wish Danielle, James and their baby boy so much love. Enjoy the sneak peak... xo

Destination Wedding Love {Desert Springs Photographer} Anders + Stephanie

2011-11-14T19:47:00.000-08:00

I absolutley love destination weddings. One of my favorite destinations is Palm Desert. Desert Springs JW Marriott Resort and Spa is one of my favorite venues. I have been their preferred photographer for almost 10 years and it has been such a wonderful experience.

Anders + Stephanie have a deep love for Palm Desert. Stephanie's family has vacationed here every year since she was a little girl. She introduced Anders to Palm Desert and he quickly fell in love as well.

This sweet couple, along with their families, traveled all the way from Minnesota to celebrate this destination wedding. The ceremony was held at JW Marriott's Desert Springs Resort and Spa at the Point. It was a beautiful Indian Summer day.

My husband Mark and I had such a lovely time working with this young couple. Hearing the story of how they met and voluntered together brought chills to my skin and witnessing their pure love put a warm feeling in my heart.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from this beautiful Palm Desert Destination Wedding. Enjoy.

Sweet baby Kaydence {Upland Newborn Photographer}

2011-11-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

Oh my sweet goodness. Was this little bundle of joy the cutest thing ever... I am telling you, my clients Kelly and Ryan sure make beautiful babies. It has been a blessing sharing in their lives. From engagement photos, to their gorgeous wedding, to newborn Ryder's photos and now sweet baby Kaydence. I sure am blessed.

Kaydence and her family came to visit me in my Upland home 2 weeks ago. We did some sweet newborn photos in my home studio and then headed outside for some natural photographs. I was even able to capture a few of big brother Ryder. WOW, that hair and those big blue eyes...stunning. Baby Kaydence was too cute, she kept blowing bubbles...

Here is a sneak peak at some of my favorite photos from this sweet newborn shoot. Enjoy!

To Cherish + Love {Crestline Engagement Photographer} Nicole + Matt

2011-11-10T11:38:00.000-08:00

To Cherish and Love... Crestline Camping Engagement Session. SO CUTE!!!

I just adored this engagement session so much. Nicole and Matt are just so sweet. I have known Nicole since she was a little girl and to see her grow into such a lovely young woman has been such a blessing. Nicole met Matt at her work and she knew in her heart they were meant to be together. They love the outdoors, hiking, camping and playing with their dogs. Matt loves playing the guitar and taking photos of Nicole. Nicole has been a balerina all her life and now she heals athletes with her physical therapy degree. They are getting married in Crestline this April so we decided to head up to the mountains and do a camping photo shoot. It was so much fun collecting props, making smores and building the tent from logs and an old quilt. So cute... This might just be my favorite engagement session yet.

Country Barn Wedding {Kellie + Brett} Strawberry Farms

2011-11-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

Kellie + Brett had dreams of the perfect country wedding in a big barn. When they drove down the white picket fence lined streets of Strawberry Farms Gold Club, in Irvine, they knew they had found their wedding venue. The big red barn was the perfect centerpiece to their country wedding.

I had actually photographed for Kellie and her family when she was a little girl. She was so cute when she arrived at my house with her wedding planner, Holly of HMC Event Solutions. Kellie was holding one of the old fashioned photos I had taken of her and her family when she was a little girl. Wow, I don't remember getting older, but I must be if my little girl clients are now my brides. I also photographed the groom's sister Marissa when she was a high school senior so it was just a joy to see everyone and share in this fairytale wedding.

None of this would have been possible without the amazing vendors I worked with.
Holly and her team from HMC Event Solutions were the glue that held everything together. Thank you for trusting me with this very special wedding. Holly was the one who suggested to the bride and groom to visit Strawberry Farms Gold Club. This was the start of their dream wedding.

Blend Media Solutions was the videography team. I can't wait to see what they created for this adorable couple.

Cucamonga Cakery Rocked the cake. It was so rustic and beautiful at the same time and their cakes are so yummy.

The flowers were gorgeous. I loved every rustic detail about them. Green Leaf Designs did a wonderful job.

The DJ was Steve Burdick and he was really great to work with. I loved how the wedding party entered the barn and did a country line dance. Such a cute idea of the bride's.

Rochelle from Strawberry Farms was wonderful to work with. The staff at Strawberry Farms was so helpful and welcomed us to their venue.

My associate second shooter Shelly helped me rock this wedding. Shelly got some amazing detail shots and her photos helped me complete the story of this wedding.

This team of wedding professionals was a perfert match for Kellie and Brett's wedding. We all worked together and gave them their wedding of their dreamms.

Here is a sneak peak at this gorgeous, country, barn wedding at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine, California.

Covina Childrens and Family Photographer {The Hert Family}

2011-10-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

I was so happy when my friend Barb asked me to photograph her precious family. Barb is from Covina, the town where I grew up. Her kids all live pretty close by so we headed to a central location and got these gorgeous photos of the whole family as well as each family and grandkid individually. The kids were all so dang cute and looked like they just got done with a Gap commercial. Here is a sneak peak at this adorable family photo session.

Beachcomber Cafe Crystal Cove Wedding {Melissa + Sean say I do}

2011-10-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

Melissa + Sean had their hearts set on a casual beach wedding. The search was on for the perfect location. They decided to have their wedding at the Beachcomber Cafe at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach. I was so excited because this is one of my favorite beaches to photograph at, and I knew we would have the best time.

My awesome associate Bill was my second shooter during this wedding. Bill and I work really great together and he always gets some great photos.

I loved all of the casual aspects to this beach wedding. Melissa hand made all of the foot jewlery that she and her bridemaids wore. Sean was in a beige linen suit and his guys were dressed in Khaki's. I loved their hats. The ceremony was right on the sand next to the Beachcomber Cafe. The reception venue was so relaxing and overlooked the Pacific Ocean at Crystal Cove. It truly was a lovely setting.

I loved how sweet and tender Melissa and Sean were with one another. All of the families helped out with the wedding and the day was just perfect.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from this Crystal Cove Wedding. Enjoy and have a great weekend.

Baby Bump {Claremont Maternity Photographer Amber + Colin

2011-10-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled when Colin and Amber contacted me that they were going to have a baby. I just adored their wedding photos that I shot last year in Downtown Claremont. Both Colin and Amber work for the city of Claremont so we get to basically rule the city during our photo shoots. There were a few locations that Colin and Amber had wanted for the maternity photos. We started the session at Bridges Auditorium. It is such a lovely venue and it is amazing for photos, especially for weddings. We had fun taking photos around the square and photographing Amber's baby bump was so much fun. I love the bright purple she wore for the photo shoot and they both had on their lucky converse shoes that they wore in their wedding pictures.

To continue on our maternity photo session we headed to the packing district area of Claremont. The mural is always a fun stop for my photo shoots and Amber's belly looked great with the colorful backdrop.

Lastly I decided to shoot some sun flare photos for this sweet expecting couple. We just had the greatest time catching up on the last year and talking about the new baby that will be here soon. I am looking forward to photographing my babies first year plan with them soon.

Miss M. {Upland Boudoir Photographer}

2011-10-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

So I wish I could share more of Miss M's boudoir photos with you, however, they are a surprise for her groom. Miss M. chose to do her boudoir session at my home here in Upland. I had the stage set complete wtih chilled champagne, and itunes in the background. We got some smoking hot photos and her guy is just going to melt when he sees his wedding gift. Miss M. had me make her man a hard back boudoir book. These are amazing wedding gifts and I love when my brides do this for their grooms.

Feel free to contact me regarding my boudoir photo sessions. I can take them in my Upland home or you can rent a hotel room. I have several hotels to recommend that are super sexy for boudoir shoots.
Click here to see a slideshow of my boudoir photos.

Upland Newborn Photographer {Corey Cameron 13 days old}

2011-10-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

Isn't Corey Cameron the sweetest newborn ever... I was so excited to see this sweet 13 day old in my Upland home. His mommy is very special to me and I was so excited to take these photos for her.

I chose to take these newborn photos at my Upland home because I have several rooms where the lighting is perfect for picture taking. Also, Corey's mommy is comfortable here so it was the perfect location.

I was so happy that my recent purchase of newborn hats made it in time for the photo shoot.

Here are a few of my favorites. Enjoy this sweet little man...

Michelle Johnson Photography Real Wedding Featured by The Wedding Vendor

2011-10-14T11:22:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. The Wedding Vendor contacted me and had seen my work and wanted to feature it in their publication. Check out my published work here. Comments are great too!

Andre 8 Months {Upland baby and family photographer}

2011-10-12T22:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, how time flies. It seems like yesterday when I was photographing baby Andre's newborn photos. Today he is a happy 8 month old and oh so yummy. His mommy wanted his second photo shoot, of my babies first year plan, to be in a fall setting. I had so much fun scouting my Upland neighborhood for the perfect spot for photos. I love the field and fruit tress and the old red wagon was Andre's mommy's when she was a baby. How sweet is that!

We just had to take a few family phtoos while we were out and I am so glad we did. I just think baby Andre has the cutest smile, just like his daddy. This family is just adorable. It was so much fun spending time with them on our little photo venture in Upland. I have great plans for his one year photo session. That will be here in a blink.

Enjoy the sneak peak of baby Andre- 8 months old.

Castle Green Wedding Photographer {Janet + Matt}

2011-10-10T23:20:00.000-07:00

Boy oh Boy, did I have a great time at this wedding. Janet + Matt are really fun and loving people. From the minute I met with them at my home office, there was an instant connection and we laughed so much. I can just see them zipping around town in their cute Mini Cooper, which, by the way, Matt is a salesman at in Ontario! They even have the sweetest dog named Lily and she is just adorable. I was also excited because they were getting married at one of the hottest Pasadena wedding locations. Castle Green is a dream to photograph. There is so much history and charm at this venue. I loved the castle's architecture and inside there was the coolest staircase.

Janet + Matt chose awesome wedding vendors:
Castle Green In Pasadena- Absolutley gorgeous venue.
Peter Merry of Merry Weddings- such a fun DJ.
Heather of Cupid's Arrow Weddings, the best florist around.
Michelle Johnson Photography- My husband Mark was my second shooter and he got some awesome photos at this wedding so thank you so much hunny! His real job is selling real estate so if you are looking to buy or sell contact Mark.

Now, I just have to tell you that the wedding party rocked this wedding. They were so much fun and I really enjoyed working with them all.

Here is a sneak peak at Janet + Matt's dream wedding at Castle Green in Pasadena. Enjoy and please leave me a comment and share this with your friends.

xo Michelle

Padua Hills Theatre Wedding Photographer {Michelle + Phil}

2011-10-05T23:48:00.000-07:00

What a joyous day for this sweet, young couple. Michelle + Phil had the wedding of their dreams. They chose the perfect Claremont venue, Padua Hills Theatre, featuring Chantrelles Fine Catering. Entertainment Express was the on site MC and disc jockey for the evening. Mark and I were there to photograph each and every single detail of the day.

The weather had finally cooled off in Claremont and Padua Hills Theatre was just bursting with family and friends of Michelle and Phil. The ceremony was absolutley beautiful and I was so touched by Phil's tears falling down his face as her watched his bride walk towards him. This couple is so in love and it was an honor to photograph their perfect wedding day.

Here is a sneak peak at this romantic Padua Hills Theatre Wedding. Enjoy...

Redlands Senior Photographer {Matt Class of 2012}

2011-10-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

Meet Matt, one of Redlands High School Seniors, Class of 2012. He is a really sweet, and kinda shy kind of guy. I have enjoyed getting to know him and his family over the past couple of years, I photographed his sister Marissa's Senior photos two years ago. You can view them here.

So Matt really loves his town of Redlands so we just walked around the University of Redlands Campus and got some great photos. Matt loves baseball, his freinds and family. He is enjoying his senior year and looking forward to college next year. I can't wait to see which photo he chooses for his senior photo. Here are a few of my favorites from his shoot.

Claremont Baby Photographer {Sweet Matthew is One}

2011-09-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

My oh my what fun we have had over the last year. I have been fortunate enough to photograph Matthew's first year and it has been such a joy watching him grow. I have photographed for this family since Matthew's mommy was in high school and they are just the greatest family. I love sharing years of history with my clients.

So for the last session of my babies first year plan, I wanted to incorporate some areas where we took Matthew's parents engagement photos. We headed down to my favorite area of Claremont. We started the photo session at the Claremont Depot, then made our way to the sweetest locations for photos.

Matthew was a trooper and I just adore his baby photos. Here is a quick peak the the fun we had!

Doubletree by Hilton Claremont+ Upland Wedding Photographer {Georgia + Ricky}

2011-09-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend was absolutely gorgeous. The temperatures were down by almost 20 degrees from the previous weekend here in Upland and Claremont, California. I had planned on taking this weekend off but when LaDawn from Platinum Lining Events requested my photography services for this sweet couple I couldn't refuse. Georgia + Ricky were so easy to work with, we actually photographed their engagement session just a few days before the wedding. I will post those pictures soon.

We had amazing vendors at this Wedding. Doubletree by Hilton Claremont, Fleur De Lis Chapel in Upland, Platinum Lining Events, Cucamonga Cakery, The DJay Company and of course me, Michelle Johnson Photography. My husband Mark helped me shoot this wedding and we had a blast.

We started to afternoon taking pictures at Doubletree by Hilton Claremont, then we headed over to the charming, historic Fleur De Lis Chapel in Upland. The ceremony was beautiful. I love the fact that this chapel is just blocks away from my Upland home. So nice to work there.

We made a quick stop in the Claremont Colleges for wedding party and romantic photos and then back to the Doubletree in Claremont for a reception filled with great food, laughter, family , friends and fun memories. It was great spending the day with everyone. Here is a sneak peak at Georgia + Ricky's wedding.

First Look Photos are so romantic....

Fleur De Lis Chapel in Upland is simply charming.

LaDawn from Platinum Lining Events. What an amazing women and wedding co-ordinator!

National Charity League Presentation Portraits {Brittany Class of 2012}

2011-09-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

It was such a joy to photograph these Presentation Portraits. You may wonder what a presentation portrait is so here goes... National Charity League's mission is to foster mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. When the girls are in their senior year of high school, they have a special evening dedicated to them. The senior girls wear beautiful white gowns to mark their coming of age and into society. It is truly a breathtaking evening. My very own daughter and I were members of National Charity League, Foothill Chapter and it was an incredible 6 years of working together and enjoying community service together.

Brittany is a gorgeous girl inside and out. Her sweet nature and love of the Lord was contagious and I was truly honored to spend time with her and take such wonderful presentation portraits for her. I am looking forward to see which one she chooses to put on display for presentaion night. Here are a few of my favorites.

Newport Beach Photographer/ Engagement/ Bill + Krista

2011-09-23T15:51:00.000-07:00

Bill + Krista are engaged. I am so excited to photograph their Orange County Beach Wedding next April. Since the beach is the theme of the wedding, we headed down to one of my favorite Newport Beach locations for their engagement photo session. The afternoon lighting was a gorgeous amber and the waves were unusually high. Part of this Newport Beach was actually washed away from the large waves.

Bill + Krista are super fun and love to joke around and play games. We incorporated fun and games into this photo session which made it unique and playful. Mark and I had a ball hanging out with this couple! We have become fast friends.

I hope you enjoy this fun Newport Beach photo session. Have a great weekend.

Upland and Claremont children and family photographer

2011-09-12T13:10:00.000-07:00

I am finally catching up on my blogging. I did these mini family and children photo sessions in Claremont and also in my Upland backyard. The Claremont College area is a wonderful place to photograph and the ligthing and the architecture is always magical. I also loved the photo sessions in my backyard. A few years ago, my husband put in a vineyard and it really is breathtaking in photos. Enjoy these mini sessions and have a blessed week.