upscale photo

Happy Bride and Bridal Shower Ideas

2011-10-17T05:59:00.000-07:00

Bridal Shower JB's on the beach

Though my last post on this blog was in March, I am still not giving it up and trying to get back from time to time.

Here is something I wanted to share. It is my future bride's testimonial (actually it is words of happiness she left on my Facebook page) after she saw her Bridal Shower pictures.

I cannot be happier to hear that from her! it make all my "working hard" worth it!

This bridal shower was a "surprise" one. Arlie is very special, she has most amazing and caring brides maids I have ever seen. They organized this bridal shower in one of the beach restaurants (it was JB's) in Boca Raton / Deerfield Beach.

It was tastefully decorated by the girls in a beach theme. Food was great, fun atmosphere and a "surprise" factor on top made this party very special. Even I was a surprise! The girls arranged me as a photographer being there for Arlie and capturing this event.

I want to share a few pictures from the event and especially point out to the most creative bridal shower gift I've ever seen!

Thanks to the best brides maids who made it happen!

Enjoy!

This bridal gift just blew my mind - how creative!! It is actually a shower rag with the image of the heart and their names on a tropical beach! Bravo to the person who thought of it and created it!

Anyone Can Be A Wedding Photographer!

2011-03-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

I saw a tweet this morning about how awesome digital photography is - anyone who bought a decent digital camera can be a wedding photographer!

How easy is that? Fortunate brides can hire now a boy at a very low fee who shoots enough photos so a few will turn out all right...

Brides be aware of this type of wedding photographers. Unless you feel comfortable about that.

When you interview your wedding photographer don't forget to ask them:

* How long they are in the business and how many weddings have they shot?

* What camera models and lenses do they use? (Professional photographers carry around $10,000 equipment in a bag including back up)

* Do they guarantee their work? This one is important because real pros will guarantee their work, not just hope that a few photos will turn out decent.

These are just a few questions, research on the subject, educate yourself before actually making your final decision on wedding photographer.

Here is a link - real stories of brides who is going to file a law suite for RIP OFF photography services. Be aware, and be careful choosing the right studio for you.

Florida Wedding Photographer - Upscale Photo - Real Clients Reviews

2011-03-18T23:27:00.001-07:00

I am so grateful for your testimonials! Thank you to all who participated! As promised I will hold a drawing for FREE portrait session at the end of March and show the video. The winner will be announced soon. Stay tuned! :)

Why Traffic Geyser? Why only $1?

2011-02-18T06:37:00.000-08:00

I just got an email that I had to share.

As business owners we do want more traffic to our websites, more clients and more sales. I have found a great tool I am secretly using, but decided to share it with my industry colleagues to help them out. I realize that not everyone will jump on this idea but those who does will thank me later.

Mike, at Traffic Geyser, let me know that they're re-opening a trial for their awesome web tools, and, it'll cost you just $1.

Click here to check it out now!

This is a great way to test out what a lot of the top web marketers have already been (secretly) using. Traffic Geyser help you dominate the web, seriously.You can easily blast your content out as a video, podcast, audio, articles and more.

I've used their system, and seen it work, but I'm not the only one. Take it for a
spin. It's a buck, after all. Check it out for yourself, and let me know how it well it worked for you:

Get More Traffic Now

Family Photography, Matheson Hammock Park

2011-02-12T19:57:00.000-08:00

Yulia, Yordys & Mila

Lovely family, fun photo shoot! I enjoyed working with Yulia, Yordys and their little pumpkin - Mila. Mila did not say a word, she was such a great baby to work with. Thank you Yulia for your kind words!

Intimate Boudoir Photography

2011-02-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day Special - Ms. X Secret Boudoir Portraits

Every woman (or almost every woman) dreams of pictures like that. It can be many reasons to do a Boudoir Photography Session – for yourself, for him, just for fun… I love capturing that special beauty every woman contains inside and out.
My client Miss X (can't reveal her real name because of sensitive nature of boudoir photography) kindly agreed to show some of her images on my blog and website. We both enjoyed this photo session, and I was very happy with the results.
I cannot show all the beautiful pictures, but am giving you a little taste of her boudoir photography - imagine how your pictures will look like!

Destination Wedding Invitation Ideas

2010-12-18T09:53:00.000-08:00

See pictures of a creative invitation for a destination wedding. Clients of mine Ernesto and Rocio celebrated their wedding in Belize on a small Caribbean Island San Pedro. This is their invitation: "Passport" with their photo in it and an invitation message and a "boarding pass" for reservation in an envelope. I absolutely loved their creativity!

Turanor PlanetSolar, day two in Miami

2010-11-28T18:58:00.001-08:00

This morning was an official arrival of a historic Turanor PlanetSolar to Miami. I was photographing the event and was lucky again to get on a boat. See photo of myself standing on solar panels that cover the top deck. Pretty cool!

Turanor PlanetSolar arrival to Miami

2010-11-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

November 27, 2010

Today I photographed private arrival of famous Turanor PlanetSolar boat, one of the the largest boats in a world powered by solar energy, to Miami. Very exciting event! Here is more info about Turanor on Wikipedia.

Below are just a few pictures of the boat arriving to Miami, top of the boat covered with solar panels, a happy team, and myself with a Capitan of Turanor Patrick Marchesseau.

Eden Roc, Miami Beach, Family Reunion Gala

2010-11-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

OCTOBER 30, 2010

It was great working again with 2 Taste Catering at Family Reunion Gala event at Eden Roc, Miami Beach. Event was organized by Catholic Charities of Miami. Catholic community was welcoming new Archbishop of Miami Thomas Wenski

I always give compliments to John Rossetti - the owner of 2 Taste Catering. He is a wonderful person and a high end professional. John is always there at the event making sure things go smooth.

Below is an image of myself with Archbishop Wenski. And images of beautiful reception done by John Rossetti and his team.

I am not dead!

2010-10-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

I am probably the worst blogger! Have not posted since June! I am not dead, I just have been extremely busy.... Exciting project on boudoir photography, baby photos, engagaments, weddings, commercial shoots - this is what I have been doing for last few months with no stop and no extra time for blogging... And I started working on my new progect Florida-Weddings.net. Sorry folks... Pictures are coming, I have so many gorgeous ones!! Coming soon!!

Upscale Photo Blog - NEW look!

2010-06-06T18:42:00.000-07:00

I spent all evening figuring out how to adjust my blog template - and I DID IT! Congratulations to me :)

Though I still need to find out how to make images look bigger when I upload them. Hopefully I will succeed here too, I saw others do it.. If you know how, please share your knowledge.

Now I am off the computer and back to my family and my hubby!

Belize Wedding at Ramon's Village, Ambergris Caye

2010-03-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ernesto & Rocio, March 20, 2010

What an amazing exotic wedding! I was happy to get out of Miami for a change. Ernesto and Rocio have planned their wedding perfectly with great help of Valerie Woods, event planner from www.belize-events.com

With attention to every little detail Ernesto and Rocio created a unique invitation to their wedding (see pictures). The wedding took place at truly exotic place Ramon's Village which is located in city of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. Perfect set up by the ocean for the ceremony! We took tons of beautiful images in the village and on the pier by the water - I wish I could show you all of them! Cocktails were at Ramon's and then water taxi took the guests to the reception - restaurant Capricorn.

Everything was perfect - the weather, hospitality, beauty of the place, event planner help and the couple themselves. Everything! I did enjoy working there very much. And especially I had fun working with Ernesto and Rocio!

I am missing photos from welcome party which was on Thursday upon guests arrival, and private casual photo shoot around Ramon's Village. These will be posted sometime soon.

Total amount of images shot is close to 3000... so what you see is just a tiny pick... Hope you enjoy the photos! Please leave a comment :) You can click on an image to see it larger.

Picture Perfect Wedding - Miami, Deering Estate

2010-02-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

Diane and Jerry, February 26, 2010

Another beautiful wedding at Deering Estate! Here is the wedding story...
I have not met Diane and Jerry until the wedding date, it was a last minute booking. My Facebook friend Elizabeth Carlisle, bride's sister-in-law, recommended me to the couple. I was happy to meet Diane and Jerry when their arrived in a limo and discover what a good looking couple and nicest people they are!

The day was PERFECT and wedding turned out simply AMAZING! I enjoyed working with them so much! Cake by Ana Paz was absolutely gorgeous and as always delish. It was decorated with real shells. Top notch catering by Bill Hansen Catering, wedding rentals by Hitched Event Rentals.

Jerry was quiet funny - not every groom goes for a handstand! He also tricked me while cutting cake, after Diane gave him a piece of cake he choked and started coughing. I was scared at first till he started laughing! Can you imagine?!

Diane and Jerry, I thank you so much for making your wedding so fun and beautiful. Special thanks for taking care of me and sharing your delicious cake.

Enjoy the pictures and feel free to leave your comments!

Wedding Photography at Deering Estate, Miami

2010-01-23T05:34:00.001-08:00

Olivia & Ilia, January 16, 2010

Another beautiful wedding at Deering Estate - one of the most beautiful wedding locations in Miami. I enjoyed the wedding all the way - dear clients of mine were giving away their second daughter, Olivia. Beautiful day, gorgeous flowers, fun reception... Great catering by Fare To Remember (305.662.8664).

I could not wish for better bride and groom! Enjoy the pictures!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2009-12-21T19:08:00.001-08:00

Leaving tomorrow to Boston for Christmas! My daughter Ariel is probably the most excited one, though my 18 years old son very excited too! Kids look forward to see the real snow, make a snow man and play snow balls! Ariel told me she wants to do that and then to have hot coco to warm up... she is romantic :)

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year! Hope 2010 will bring you more joy and new successes!

Miami Beach Wedding Pictures

2009-12-14T20:01:00.000-08:00

Here we go! It is after 11 pm - I couldn't go to sleep without posting these pictures. Hard to select I posted some of my favorites.

A beautiful photo shoot of my clients from South Carolina... I become famous there ;) A brother of my other client from South Carolina came over for a photo shoot with his wife!

I believe thy will be happy with the result. We did fantastic! I LOVE my Nikon D3!! Enjoy the pictures!

Usually the bride is the one to lift up the leg. we did it opposite! LOL

Oasis Of The Seas Review and Pictures

2009-12-04T19:16:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy lately! Finally there is a moment I can share my experience on board of Oasis of The Seas - newest Royal Caribbean world's largest ship. My husband, Brett Vitols, was a project manager for the Aqua Theater at the ship. It is truly amazing project on it's own!

See my pictures of the real ship Oasis of the Seas here.

Tips for the lucky people who is going on cruise on Oasis of the Seas

1. Plan your trip in advance and learn about the ship as much as possible.
The ship is HUGE and the program is full of activities. Spectacular shows in Studio B (ice show Frozen in Time), Aqua Theater (Oasis of Dreams), Opal Theater (Hairspray) - these are just a few popular ones. There are a lot more shows and activities!

2. Do on-line check in to make it easier at checking in.

3. Do all your activity reservations for the trip FIRST THING when you get on the ship. This tip is A MUST. They recommend to do reservations. All shows you want to see, all specialty restaurants you want to visit and top deck activities like golfing, surfing, zip line...

I have learned that you can miss something you wanted to do because all time slots for this activity are full. I wanted to ride on a Zip Line and it was too late when I came there to try. Plan what show and when you will go soo and make reservations right away first day!

If you cannot make a reservation for the show because it's full, you will stay in line and wait to get in after all people with reservations come in. Or you may have no table for a sushi dinner if you did not reserve in in advance.... So to get the most out of your ship experience do RESERVATIONS right away when you get on the ship.

You have to visit the Office Box on the Promenade for all show reservations (they have all cruise schedule right there), and visit top deck locations for sports activities reservations. Call restaurants you want to visit. Good planning will pay off and you won't miss a thing!

Also I do recommend to see the Parades - they are truly amazing! Have a video camera or take pictures - be prepared.

4. When you go see Aqua Show and Fountains Show - have a simple plastic rain coat if you do not want to get wet. No kidding. Do not watch the show in your dining clothes before dinner- you are very likely get soaking wet from head to toes! I watched photographers happily taking pictures of the aqua show till the moment when fountain show came up and all people and cameras got wet completely. Keep in mind that the water used is ocean water... be prepared...

5. Food is available for free at many locations. Must try: breakfast burritos at the Park Cafe, lunch signature sandwich at Park Cafe. Healthy food is available at Solarium cafe. Free unlimited pizza at Sorrento's at Royal Promenade. And of course Windjammer and main dining room! There are alot more places to have a snack any time of the day (here is the problem - do not overeat!)

These are just a few most important thing to know.

Oasis of the Seas REVIEW

I have a lot more to say about my favorite amazing shows and board experience but it's time to go.

To be continued....

Taste for Events - a full service wedding planning and design company

2009-12-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Today I had a pleasure meeting with Elizabeth Morales - a CEO of Taste for Events - full wedding design and catering services company. I knew Elizabeth from years ago when she and my husband used to work for the same company.

Luckily Elizabeth explored her own way into a party rental business and expanded into full wedding services company. We all do our own destiny! How true it is! 5 years later she found my name in Deering Estate event planning brochure and we made a contact with plans to work together.

Now they help brides to do basically everything offering wedding planning and coordination, catering, lighting and design, including photography and videography services. Elizabeth gathered a talented team and takes care of anything and everything helping brides to make their beautiful wedding happen! People who went through wedding planning by themselves do know how hard it is to keep track of all the details!

If you are in need of any help – give Elizabeth a call 305-235-9770! She is an energetic positive person very nice to work with! She is kind of a person I like to hang around – no negativity in our world!

What makes an event beautiful is people who has beautiful imagination… Talk to Elizabeth and she will help you!

Her office is conveniently located near by Dolphin Mall:

Taste for Events
11231 NW 20th Street
Suite 132
Miami, FL 33172

305-235-9770
305-677-0256

Bridal Show at Westin Colonnade, Coral Gables, FL

2009-11-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

I will be exhibiting at an exclusive bridal show organized by VIVE magazine. Show will take place on November 9, from 4pm to 8pm. Ticket is $50 for the bride and a guest. I have a few FREE tickets available in my hands, if you would like to come please contact me ASAP!

Come and see Upscale Photo booth and meet me in person at the show!

I will also be at another show at Boca Raton Resort and SPA on November 16th. Same time.

Look forward to see you there!

(Click on an image to view it larger)

TLC is casting new show featuring weddings in Miami, Florida!

2009-10-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Just passing exciting news - TLC is looking for brides for their new show. Read lines below from their casting letter:

"TLC is currently casting an exciting new show that features
brides getting married in the Miami area in NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2009.

This very cute show gives you the chance to compare notes with OTHER brides - before - during - and after your big day!! We will introduce you to other brides where you will compare notes and talk about your wedding (every bride’s favorite topic), what the planning has been like, how stressed out you are, how excited you are, all the things that you encounter when planning a wedding, etc. Then, you’ll attend each other’s wedding to see how it all turns out.

AND
brides have the chance to: Win an exciting 5 star honeymoon (or first year anniversary trip)

No matter what, your wedding will be commemorated forever on national TV. What a way to make an amazing memory!

We are looking for ALL types of weddings:
Traditional, over the top, unusual venues or event spaces, married on a cliff,
at the zoo, while sky diving, fairy tale, on a boat, very small & intimate, themed...
ANY and ALL types of weddings! It can be your first, second, third or thirteenth wedding. Any and all ages welcome!

If you’d like us to consider for our show, please email or call us at:
4WeddingsMiami@gmail.com or 212-505-7775x106.
We need to consider our brides SOON, so please drop us a line ASAP"

If you are the bride who would like to be on TV - contact them ASAP! Good luck!

New trends in wedding photography - "Day After" photo shoot

2009-10-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

Long time no blogging! I must improve! This time I wanted to share beautiful pictures from a photo session called "Day After". What it is - it is a new direction in wedding photography. Wedding day is too hectic for this kind of pictures. Usually brides worry about getting dress dirty on the wedding day. So, creative couples who want something DIFFERENT, "out of the box" schedule another photo session sometime after the wedding.

I had pleasure working with a wonderful couple from South Carolina who came to Miami for such photo shoot - Polina and Anatoliy. They shared their vision with me and fun has began without worrying about getting dirty! I had so much fun working with them! Ideas were flowing, I was open to their suggestions as well. Pictures are below, you be the judge.

"Day After" photo shoot is worthy if you are looking for amazing images to remember.

Fantastic Portraits at Barnacle Park, Coconut Grove!

2009-05-31T20:01:00.000-07:00

A fantastic photo session! Tere, Tony and their 2 cutest kids - Sofia and Lorenzo. I was thrilled with the results! Although we had a challenge of all week rains, Miami summer heat and a few mosquitoes, photo shoot turned out beautiful. The morning was sunny - no rain! We arrived there right after the park opened.

I picked the place for this family pictures. It was a first photo shoot at Barnacle Park I did. I really fell in love with this place when I saw it the first time, I though it is a perfect location for family and kids photography. It is also great for private events and weddings - beautiful view!

Results? Be a judge... I am thrilled how pictures turned out! Thank you Tere and Tony for cooperation and your passion about my photography :)

Wedding at Ritz Carlton, Ft. Lauderdale

2009-04-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

Tina and Chapman, April 18, 2009

What a beautiful wedding it was! Tina is my special client, I have known for a long time. I was happy she picked me to photograph her wedding!

Ritz Carlton in Ft. Lauderdale - what a great location! Fantastic ocean view, beautiful terrace for cocktail hour party. Very nice personnel and excellent chief's cuisine! Cake was also made by hotel's chief.

Bridal Dress: Priscilla of Boston - amazingly beautiful!
Hair Stylist: Paco Camp The Salon 305-442-1065 - BEAUTIFUL hair
Quartet Cantilena: www.cantilena1.com
Limo: Millenium Limo

Enjoy the pictures!

Successware class - last day!

2009-03-23T04:19:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of my class. It was a GREAT experience.

Sean and Wen Mc Nally invited everyone to visit their studio. I cannot thank those guys enough for their hospitality and sharing. 3000 sf beautiful studio!

There is a class today and 1pm I am off to the airport! It is exciting to get back home, I miss my family. All recharged and enthusiastic I am coming back to Miami :)

Successware training class - day 2

2009-03-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

We had a very intense learning day - at the end of the day our heads were "spining around". All group was invited to lunch, which was very nice of our teachers!

In the evening a group of people went downtown of Fredericksburg to eat at Capital Ale House. We all had a great time talking about our photography experiences, food was also tasty.

There is a homework to do for tonight and tomorrow will be another awesome day!

Successware class

2009-03-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

I am in Fredericksburg (I finally can spell this word!) taking a class for studio management software. This is exciting! I will be a studio management guru :)

It is a nice hotel Homewood Suites Hilton. I have a big room with the kitchen and a little living room/bedroom and my desk... I like the room...

Now I am off to my class - it will be 4 days packed with info!

Wedding at Colonnade Hotel, Coral Gables

2009-03-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

Natalie & Nathan

I am finally back to blogging with pictures!

It was a beautiful wedding of Natalie and Nathan. I did a wedding of Natalie's sister 2 years ago and was happy to come back to the family!

I fell in love with Colonnade Hotel! What a beautiful place for weddings! 5 stars. Personnel was friendly and caring, food was excellent and of course it was a lot of picture opportunities inside and outside of the hotel.

Natalie had everything in the hotel - getting ready, ceremony and reception. I loved her idea with table numbers (see pictures).

Well, I can't place all 45 images that I selected for the blog - but will try my best to select the best of the best :) Sorry it goes upside down, the beginning is at the bottom... Enjoy and leave your comments!

Seriesse International, a business opportunity from Jennifer and Sylvester Stallone family!

2009-03-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

Seriesse Business Opportunity

My story how I became a Seriesse Consultant.

MY BACKGROUND

Originally I am from Russia, came to the United States in 1998. Since then I live in Miami and own a successful photography business. I am a busy professional, mother of 2 children and wife. Getting involved in a networking company was not really my dream - previously I had a bad experience with another direct sales company.

HOW I BECAME A SERIESSE CONSULTANT

One day I received a call from my sister-in-law Cathy. I have to confess – there is a relation between Cathy’s sister and Stallone’s family. Cathy’s sister is married with Patrick Flavin who is the brother of Stallone’s wife Jennifer. You can find his name on seriesse.com as a Presidential Founder. Cathy works directly with Patrick Flavin. Knowing some about how networking company works it took me not long to realize how big this opportunity is. It IS a ground floor opportunity, directly from the co-founder of the company.

GETTING EXCITED

I am really excited that I am now a part of it! There are several factors that make me so excited. First is the greatness of the products. Read the story of Jennifer Flavin-Stallone. People LOVE the products, they are natural, top of the line, and very important, they are AFFORDABLE. Anyone can use them. Second thing that excites me is being on the ground floor of the organization and working directly with co-founders. Third thing is uniqueness of the company itself – started by two mega stars just to help others to become a part of their success. As I mentioned before I already had not very good experience with another networking company also skin care/health related. They wanted your money and easily were ripping you off. Seriesse is totally different, it is easy and AFFORDABLE to start your own business. It won’t break your wallet! Of course, great products at great prices make it simply irresistible.

SERIESSE WEBSITE AND PRODUCTS

I love the videos about every product! This feature is not only cool and different, it is great to find out what is the product for and see how it is used. I have never seen anything like that! Videos make buying experience personal and easy, there are sales people working there for you 24/7.

JOIN MY TEAM - CLICK ON THIS LINK

I invite you to take a look at this incredible ground floor opportunity. Who can get involved? Anyone who wants more in life. You may be working professional like myself, or stay-at-home mom, or a retired person, or someone who is looking for additional income. Join my team as a Seriesse consultant or just a retail customer. Enjoy the products, build your own business. It’s up to you what to do. For a limited time only it takes only $99 to get started, which values at $300. Contact me for any reason, I’ll be happy to help!

Smith and Wollensky Restaurant - Miami Beach

2009-02-24T20:14:00.000-08:00

Recently I visited Smith and Wollensky restaurant in Miami Beach. Ivette Day, catering manager, invited me to take some pictures there.

There is a renovation going on in the area of the restaurant. After it is done people will enjoy more beautiful park and a walkway alone the ocean starting at South Point.

They have built new balcony/terrace overlooking the ocean on the second floor of the restaurant. I can simply imagine how romantic it is to sit there in the evening, enjoy the view and watch cruise ships to pass by!

Here are some pictures - Smith and Wollensky remodeling. Can't wait to see it all complete and come and enjoy the "new" restaurant!

Wedding of Elle and Bob

2009-02-08T19:34:00.001-08:00

It seems I was gone forever! I had quiet a few beautiful weddings and other interesting photo shoots. Like events of Orange Bowl Committee downtown Miami and at Vizcaya. I saw the christal bowl - a winner's award even before it had a winner's name on it! But honestly I am not a big fan of football.

Well, today I wanted to post a sideshow of a small wedding that happened on January 23 of 2009. Elle and Bob - wishing you lasting happy marriage!! Congratulations!

www.miami-wedding-guide.com

2009-02-08T19:30:00.000-08:00

My project that I started in September (I believe!) is coming alone slowly. What makes me happy that number of every day visitors growing and people do look at the content of the site! So this is really exciting!

Check it out:

www.miami-wedding-guide.com

There are my personal referrals to the best wedding venues in Miami and the Florida Keys as well as great wedding vendors. I am planning to add many more pages and pictures! Miami Wedding Guide is a website with pictures and reviews.

I DO hope it helps brides to find what they are looking for :)

NOT JUST ANOTHER TYPICAL QUINCE!

2008-08-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

The other day I had a second photo shoot with Gabi and her mom and friends. 15 years old who wasn’t just another typical Quince. What Gabi wanted is something different and artistic. I supported her idea for a SUNRISE photo shoot at the beach. We went to Virginia Key and had some unpleasant surprise – we were thrown out from our sunrise photo shoot by not a very friendly security guard. Official time for opening the beach is 9 am so all the kids and I had to finad another place – which we did! Tip of the day – check if the ocean line is not guarded by security if you are looking for a sunrise photos!

Anyway, below are some pictures with my artistic touch. Yesterday I was at the great seminar for photographers (always keep learning!) I picked up some tips and some creative software there. I leave you to judge the magic of photography PLUS magic of Photoshop (and my own creative imagination :) Hope you enjoy the photos of Gabi!

AMAZING wedding

2008-08-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. My last couple was interviewed by NBC 6 last Friday. I was not able to see the interview (even though I knew my pictures will be shown there). I am taking a little credit only because after the wedding I went on the website www.nbc6.net and sent them a message. Surprisingly next day I received a call from Diana Gonzalez and she told me they want to interview the couple (that was like a miracle to me!)

It was an AMAZING wedding. Very special couple - Erik and Barbara Compton. Erik and Barbara got married just THREE MONTHS after Erik had his SECOND heart transplant. At the wedding couple announces they are expecting a baby – this sounded like a miracle. They both have lots of love for life. I cannot even imagine how it makes Erik feel – be reborn a third time with his second heart and get married and become a father… Barbara met him in January 2008 and she went through the operation with him. Erik’s mother Eli said at the wedding – she experienced birth of her son 3 times – his actual birth and 2 more with every heart transplant he had.

This wedding and their story was such an inspiration that I felt the world needs to hear that. That was the only reason why I went on-line (I don’t know anybody on NBC 6) and filled their contact form. And it worked!

I want to add a few words from Press Release that was sent by Transplant Foundation:

“After surviving the 10-hour surgery, I realized how fortunate I am,” commented Erik following his second transplant procedure. “I know that there are more than 90,000 people waiting for an organ and I was lucky enough to receive the gift of life not once… but twice. I am surrounded by great individuals who care about me,” added Erik. “I have a great and loving woman by my side, who I want to walk along with me upon hitting the golf course again.”

How often do you apprecciate a gift of LIFE?

PS: Enjoy the pictures!

last photo - Erik dances with his doctor who did the operation.

As I promissed...

2008-07-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

Here are wedding pictures of Fara and Chris, I photographed their wedding on June 27, 2008. They are very sweet and very special couple. It was no dry eye at the wedding, it was trully special.

I am working on posting more pictures from other weddings I've done recently. Coming soon!!

Recent Weddings

2008-07-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

It is almost midnight - still July 18. Lately I had several weddings, all beautiful. Michelle and Juan (married on June 14, 2008), Fara and Chris (June 27, 2008) and Jerry and Johanne (July 12, 2008).

Here is a great lesson for brides and photographers. If your wedding ceremony is outside - be ready for unexpected rain! Helen Fong - the wedding coordinator of Jerry and Johanne's wedding - suggested a very smart solution. She provided to every guest beautiful white umbrellas customized with monograms on a handle. And those umbrellas were used! The rain was sprinkling, I was just happy me and my assistant had couple umbrellas of our own - so cameras were saved.

Choosing the right location is ESSENTIAL for pictures. I was very happy with choice of the church at Michelle and Huan wedding, we had a lot of fun taking really cool pictures at Las Olas with Chris and Fara near by Riverside Hotel, and my favorite Deering Estate is simply perfect choice - Jerry and Johanne wedding.

I wanted to THANK all my recent brides and grooms for choosing me to photograph their wedding. Pictures will be posted when I have a minute to do it...

Michelle & Huan

2008-07-09T12:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a slideshow of the wedding of sweet Michelle and Huan, June 14, 2008. I photographed Michelle's sister wedding last year and was happy to be there for Michelle and Huan. Here is a sneak preview - enjoy the show!

Our 9th anniversary selebration at Talula!

2008-07-02T18:16:00.000-07:00

I am back from Talula restaurant located on the corner of 23 Street and Collins. Our 9th wedding anniversary was on June 19th but we had a chance to go out just now. So I wanted to share our fine dining experience... I have never heard about Talula till this spring when they hired me to take some pictures. Then I tried their delicious and beautifully presented dishes. When it was time to celebrate our anniversary I suggested to my husband to visit Talula.

What a great place and really great food. Not many places you leave with such feeling. Best of all Talula is participating in Miami Spice program, 3 courses of meal are offered at one low price (only $36): amazing appetizer, main course also amazing and delicious desert. I had great experience of their food tasting; it was also very beautifully presented. Best of all they change Miami Spice menu every 2 weeks, so guests are not bored by all same stuff...

Talula is a very cozy place I liked from the first time I came in. If you really up to upscale fine dining – check this place out.

Sorry - no pictures... I still don't know how to get them out from my phone.

Gabi

2008-06-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

OMG! Time flys! I cannot believe it is June speeding up... Today I had fun photographing a beautiful girl. Presenting you Gabi's 15th pictures. I know she's dying to see the pitures :) here are a few... We are goinh to have more fun at the beach on Tuesday with friend's and family get away at Virginia Key! Enjoy the show!

Awards Of Excellence, WPPI, 2008

2008-05-24T18:27:00.000-07:00

This year I decided to participate again in WPPI print competition (I had a break from year 2004 when I had won similar awards). Out of 4 pictures 2 received an Award of Excellence. See below photo of me holding my awards which I received last week :)

Another news - wedding of Mari Claudia and Steve (from January) was published by national Latin American magazin In Fashion. I am really excited to see my work in huge publication like that! This magazine distributed in several Latin American countries... (not in the US).

Panama Canal Adventure!

2008-04-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

After intense month of weddings I was a bit exhausted. Here came an opportunity to make a 6 day trip on the board of Radiance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International), a cruise that was going through Panama Canal. My husband was working at the ship for 4 weeks and I gladly joined him there :). It was a rare opportunity when kids were taken care of, my mom stays with us for a few months…

Cruise is a special kind of travel, of course I had my camera handy. Going through the locks of the canal was an adventure! I was so thrilled to see wild jungles! It made me very happy :) More info about Panama Canal get at http://www.pancanal.com

My small photo reportage is included below… of course I have many more pictures! Enjoy!

PS.: I will be posting resent BEAUTIFUL weddings photos a bit later, stay tuned!

You made me want to get married again…

2008-03-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

This morning I had an appointment with one of my brides - Erica. Her wedding was in April last year. She came to pick up her wedding albums (one book of her own, 2 parent books and 6 mini copies!) The book was amazing!!! Graphistudio does such an amazing job of printing, overall books quality is simply stunning.

After Erica looked through her album she said: “You made me want to get married again!” This was a compliment I have never heard.

Being a wedding photographer has two sides. One side is a huge responsibility. And the other – is feeling satisfaction from your work… I feel happy seeing my clients happy with their wedding pictures…

Wedding Gallery - Bridal Show! March 9, 2008. Kovens Conference Center, NMB.

2008-02-21T03:24:00.000-08:00

I am inviting all the brides and grooms to be and their parents to a bridal show I will be a part of - the WEDDING GALLERY @ KOVENS CONFERENCE CENTER.

MARCH 9, 2008 - SUNDAY - FROM 11AM TO 2PM

Best Miami Wedding Vendors will be showing their talents and services. You can WIN a PRIZE from every vendor!

Kovens Center is a beautiful privat location with bay and golf cource views. I am telling you - views are the most important part in the pictures (with the right photographer!!) See some sample of my latest wedding HERE (it's not Kovens but golf course view) ...

See you there on March 9th!! I guarantee you will enjoy the show!

A note from Mari-Claudia

2008-02-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

I can't resist not sharing the words that my brides sent me after they see their pictures! Mari-Claudia sent me a note yesterday which I wanted to publish. This is what makes me happy after all - I feel I do something important, I create memories in people's lives... Beautiful memories.

Hi Galina,
My Mom has been showing me the pictures you sent her and the ones on the blog and I just wanted to write to you to tell you how FANTASTIC they are-- they really are beautiful. I just adore how natural and spontaneous they are-- you really have a wonderful eye for detail and for capturing moments. I am very excited to see them all!

Thanks again-- your pictures are truly AMAZING!!

Mari-Claudia

Mari-Claudia & Steven, January 26, 2008

2008-01-31T09:37:00.001-08:00

Mari-Claudia and her mom hired me about a year in advance. All I knew - they wanted to have a fun simple wedding with least of formalities. Having natural pictures and spending the least amount of time for posing were their priorities. They also liked my style... Closer to the wedding I found out more about this amazing family. You can take a closer look by reading New York Times Wedding Announcement. I've also learned that I will be working side by side with famous movie director Leon Ichaso - bride's uncle. Mari (bride's mother) modestly mentioned that he will videotape the wedding and won't get on my way. It was my honor :)

I would like to list the vendors who worked their best to create this beautiful wedding.

Bridal dress and mother's of the bride dress by Carolina Herrera. I liked both dresses. Really elegant and comfortable.
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Florist: Flowers Unlimited Corp. by Alberto Fleitas (305) 661-8847. Bridal bouquet was SO beautiful! I have seen many flowers but this one was something different! Simply amazing.
Cake: Todo Dulce (305) 667-6150 - DELICIOUS cake! and beautiful too!!
Make up by Andrea (for Bobby Brown at Sak's Bal Harbour)
Hair: Jennifer Richardson
Limo: Meilan
Reception: The Links at Key Biscayne

It was such a fun and beautiful wedding! I am not finished with this story, keep eye on the blog with more news about it ;)

Dafina & Tertric, January 19, 2008

2008-01-31T09:02:00.000-08:00

Very lovely wedding. I enjoyed working with Dafina and her family.

The truth from Dan Harris

2008-01-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

I was searching the web and came across with a website I wanted to mention about… It is a website of Dan Harris – the wedding photographer from Jacksonville, FL.

By my nature I do not consider other photographers as competition, but rather see them as colleagues (and I have photographers-friends as well)… Dan amazed me not only with his work, but with his “insider secrets” he shares with the brides. As you know I wrote a book: Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride’s Personal Guide to Wedding Photography in the New Millennium. When I was reading Dan’s pages I thought we share the same truth we know. If you really want to know THE TRUTH about wedding photographers go and read it right now at Dan’s website. Or buy my book and read it when you want it and where you want it.

Happy reading!

Corey and Rene, engagement pictures

2008-01-05T20:44:00.000-08:00

Today is unusual day (night actually) because I am still posting more pictures!

I met Corey's mom a few months ago, I was recommended her by a friend. But I have not had a chance to meet Corey - the bride - till our scheduled engagement pictures. We were planning to do it just after Christmas but we've rescheduled it for January 3, 2008. Ironically it happened to be THE coldest day in Miami (the rest of the country, please don't laugh!) It was a windy day with 60 F high (16 C). We could not change the date and decided to go for it. Corey chose the same location as the wedding - Coral Gables Riviera Country Club. The place is beautiful. We were brave and sometime we ran inside to get warm... At the end of photo session we were invited by the catering director Yadira for a cup of hot chocolate. That was SO nice!!

Ok, here are some beautiful pictures! Enjoy!!

Andrew's Bar Mitzvah, 12/08/07

2008-01-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

Even though I am a little late with these pictures, I wanted to share with you this event. It was a small private Bar Mitzvah. Service was performed by Rabbi Frank. This is probably the most positive and inspiring rabbi in South Florida. His positive energy is contagious... The ceremony was amazing. I was challenged by a small (tiny) room, but challenge is part of my work. I take it and find a solution. Below are a few pictures...

Wedding of Amy and Kenny, 11/17/07

2008-01-05T19:37:00.001-08:00

Here are pictures from one of my favorite weddings of last year. (Of course I have MORE favorite weddings!) Wedding of Amy and Kenny was on November 17, 2007. The ceremony and reception took place at Miami Beach Resort and SPA, wedding decor and wedding planning by Ocean Flowers. Just now I am back to normal schedule and posting some of my favorites. I can imagine how difficult it is to select pictures, I have this challenge daily... Enjoy these photos with me!

Image below "Dancing with the stars" is totally my favorite!!

I LOVE this one too!

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2007-12-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Do you feel Christmas Spirit? I do. It looks like coincidence but it’s not. Last week I went to Cadillac dealership to pick up paint for touch ups for my car and met my accountant lady there. Right after that I went to Dadeland mall and ran into a client I wanted to contact. This early morning I went to the store to do some last minute shopping and someone called my name. When I turned around I was a client of mine whose wedding I did 3 years ago. It looks like everywhere I go I see people I know. It is a little strange but I guess it is Christmas Spirit. There is no accidents in our lives.

But the BIGGEST news, that made my Christmas really happy, is a small publication about me and Mia and our book “Your Picture Perfect Wedding” in a largest and most popular Latin magazine VANDADES (January 2008 issue). A client of mine sent me a note that there is a mentioning about my book in this magazine. I ran out to Publix and bought the magazine. On the top of page 19 (next to photo of Leonardo DiCaprio). WOW!!! This is a national publication read by millions.

That news just made my Christmas.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

What's new at Upscale Photo

2007-11-24T20:03:00.000-08:00

Oh…. In South FL it is the busiest time of the year… So many things were happening, I was swamped. Weddings, book fair (I was an exhibitor at Miami International Book Fair), working with albums from past weddings, meeting new brides and clients… Thanks God life is busy!

Great news: Your Picture Perfect Wedding (my book) was featured at Get Married (Lifetime TV) in What’s Hot episode. At the same time I was presenting the book at Miami International Book Fair.

November 17 I photographed spectacular wedding of Amy and Kenny Blanco (Miami Beach Resort and SPA). I did enjoy it and pictures are spectacular…. Will be posting those tomorrow…

www.ontapestry.com is gaining more business; it seems search engines are picking it up. This is one of the services I offer. Every month I feature a new tapestry in Tapestry of the Month section. Some great stories are told there…

Will be back with new pictures posted soon! It makes me so happy to do what I do. Really. I love it.

Wedding Websites.....

2007-07-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

There are SO many resources about wedding planning on the web! Sometime I search and – if I were the bride – feel frustrated. How many pages brides go through to find information they will actually use? I DO know for sure that they are the busiest people in the world (ok may be not in the world but THEY ARE busy!) So I am very picky about choosing the websites where I put my ad…

There are a few websites that I like:

1. www.mywedding.com – absolutely clean, easy to navigate site. Best vendors in town advertise there. I like it because it’s not overwelming or cluttered. Just the vendors and wedding planning tools. AND they did mention my book at their blog! I do have my ad at www.mymiamiwedding.com
2. www.getmarried.com – such an exiting website! I absolutely love the colors and modern design. It is just about everything related to the wedding. But the best part is – it’s on TV! I think bridal forums is such a great place to get referrals or info… those who already went through a whole process now can teach the new brides!

www.mywedding.com BLOG

2007-07-09T12:46:00.001-07:00

Our book Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride's Personal Guide to Wedding Photography in the New Millennium is mentioned at WWW.MYWEDDING.COM blog!!!

That's a big news !!! www.mywedding.com IS one of my favorite websites. I like it because it is not cluttered like many other websites. What is most valuable thing in your life? It's your T I M E. You may find this website very useful - it's very easy to navigate, very well organized AND they do select best local vendors. Check it out!

BUT I am SOOOO proud that my book was featured at their blog!! As a co-author I know - this is a great book full of useful information for the brides and grooms. Where will you learn about your wedding photography? Our experience is the source and we are happy to share our knowledge with you.

To buy the book directly at Amazon.com just click on the link: Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride's Personal Guide To Wedding Photography In The New Millennium

2007-05-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

Sarah and Matt, May 19, 2007
Fairchild Garden

If you are looking for a garden type of a wedding there is no better place then Fairchild Garden. Sarah and Matt have dreamed about this wedding and it turned beautifully! As lucky as they can be – the rain came for a moment and it was gone for the ceremony and cocktail hour. The groom was waiting for the guests who were arriving by a train all together!I cannot tell you how breathtaking their pictures look! What you see is just a tiny part of photo coverage. One of the best in town caters (A Joy Wallace Catering Production) was perfect - tasty, elegant, creative. It was a perfect wedding. I can’t wait to show Sarah and Matt their pictures!!

Weddings, weddings and more weddings...

2007-05-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

Arlene & Mike, May 5, 2007

It was a very happy wedding. Beautiful couple, lot's of fun. I did enjoy being a part of it. It was a pleasant surprise to meet another couple whos wedding I photographed a couple of years ago among the guests. I was working when I've heard - We were just talking about you. You photographed our wedding and these are the most beautiful pictures we've got. What a pleasant surprise!

Tammy & Vito, May 4, 2007
Deering Estate, Miami

Second marrige is very special... Tammy and Vito are very much in love! I always feel blessed to be in this busines - I witness and record true LOVE... Tammy did an amazing job selecting wedding details. By the way if you are looking for great wedding favors here is the world's best chocolates: www.romanicos.com. Check out this website!

Angela & Jeff, April 21, 2007
Islamorada

Beautiful wedding at Pierre's Restaurant, Islamorada. As a preferred vendor I travel there sometimes. Just see the pictures! I don't mention about upscale services and world's best cooking! Tropical wedding at the very best place. Enjoy!

Perfect Wedding! Aubrey and Chris, March 31, 2007

2007-04-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Dear my blog readers,
Thank you for stopping by! I can’t tell you how breathtaking was the wedding I had privilege to photograph last Saturday. Aubrey and Chris wedding: March 31, 2007. I want to give special thanks to mother of the bride – Louise – who found me and chose me for her daughter’s wedding. I was so thrilled to be there – and YES! – pictures look gorgeous! I can’t show them all here, but just post a few to give you a taste of this wonderful wedding. A special word about Thierry’s Catering who was serving at the wedding: If you guys are looking for the best – get your phone and call them now. They are the best. Well, I won’t be long – Enjoy the pictures!!

Latest Weddings

2007-03-18T11:03:00.000-07:00

Meanwhile I had 3 more weddings and no time to post it… No wonder – being a recently published author, a President of Focus on Brides Group, a busy wedding photographer and a wife and mom of 2 kids – takes A LOT of time!
Here it is...

Wedding of Eddy and Susie, March 10, 2007.

I wanted to thank these guys for keeping me as their photographer! Coral Gables Congregational Church was a perfect choice for their ceremony. Every wedding has something – we all know that. So their thing was a limo problem…. It got the groom a bit nervous when he found out that the limo broke and is not brining his bride!! Well after all the wedding took place and a happy couple left the ceremony. They sure have something special to remember!

Wedding of Alice and Wayne, March 4, 2007

Deering Estate wedding. This is one of my favorite places. Amazing flowers arrangement by Yamir Floral Designs, Macy’s Catering, creative table decors with masks – altogether it made a perfect wedding. I enjoyed just being there and seeing all the beauty…

Wedding of Eduardo and Mari, February 23, 2007.

One of my friends-photographers asked me to help him out to photograph some of his brother’s wedding. Photographer Alex Cabrera – a groom’s brother was a best man and could not take pictures during the ceremony… So I did help... Gorgeous bride, stunning wedding at Vizcaya – I was more than happy to capture all this beauty. Below are some photos, enjoy!

Book is PUBLISHED!

2007-02-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

Finally after one year of hard work of writing, editing and designing my book Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride's personal Guide to Wedding Photography in the New Millennium is PUBLISHED and available!
Yesterday was a super happy day because I received my printed copy from the publisher and went on-line to see if the book is already there. Good news was not just I found the book on amazon.com, borders.com, target.com but also that it had a GREAT review!!!
A Wedding Planning Guru from NY read my book and shared their thoughts with others. If this person will ever see my blog - BIG THANKS to you! And once again I am trully grateful to Mia Johnson (my co-author), and my friends who helped me and my family for support! To buy a copy of the book click on the link on the right. Thank you!

Your Picture Perfect Wedding

2007-01-29T07:11:00.000-08:00

January passed so quickly! I can’t believe it is already the 29th.
Last week I received exiting news – my new book I wrote with my co-author Mia Johnson is finally on the way to the brides! Book - Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride's Personal Guide To Wedding Photography In The New Millennium.

Every time I meet a bride I have to educate her and her fiancée about wedding photography. There are so many things they should consider prior making a final decision – who to hire to photograph their wedding. So I decided to write this book as a step by step guide - what to do before and after the wedding. Short 60 pages of valuable information – I tried my best to be honest and share all my knowledge and experience with new brides and grooms. Their wedding photography is the only thing they will have left. That is how they will remember their wedding.

Book will be available in approximately 2 weeks at www.borders.com, www.target.com, www.amazon.com.
Your Picture Perfect Wedding: A Bride’s Personal Guide to Wedding Photography in the New Millenium.
ISBN: 1-4196-2495-4
Authors: Galina Vitols and Mia Johnson.

If you decide to get this book, i will be happy to hear from you. Please share your thoughts, send me an e-mail: galina@upscalephoto.com

Alisa & Paul - December 3, 2006.

2006-12-07T20:02:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful wedding at Islamorada, Pierre’s… Thanks to David Shine – event designer at Pierre’s – he recommended me to Alisa and Paul. They had a sunset wedding by the ocean which followed with a reception at Pierre’s. I love this place for several reasons. First – it has a gorgeous set up, so many great photo opportunities. Second – super nice service and great food at the restaurant. I do not mention about all the unique décor inside and views outside! This place does make a Picture Perfect Wedding. Alisa and Paul, congratulations! And I want to thank you for choosing me as your wedding photographer.

Elsi and Jeff - November 12, 2006.

2006-11-15T17:24:00.000-08:00

The perfect wedding! Carefully planned the date was chosen by family tradition. It was two more wedding anniversaries on this date: Elsie’s parents and grandparents. I was impressed with beautiful ceremony, and enjoyed so much fun and beautiful reception. Everything happened at The Rusty Pelican – beautiful city line view, ocean, sunset. God Bless your family guys!

Beautiful wedding at Pierre’s (Islamorada).

2006-11-15T17:10:00.000-08:00

Angela and Kevin joined their lives on November 4, 2006. They have chosen one of the most gorgeous and unique locations for their ceremony and reception – Pierre’s Restaurant located at Islamorada Key. Property of The Moorings Village, this place is famous as one of the world’s best places to travel to, also this is #1 choice for fashion magazines to take pictures of their models. Moorings Village where the couple stayed before wedding is absolutely stunning. I want to share just a few of my favorites here, thought there are MANY more amazing photographs! Congratulations Angela and Kevin!!

Gertrudis & Eric - October 27, 2006

2006-10-31T12:37:00.000-08:00

Simply LOVELY intimate wedding! Prior the ceremony I and the couple stopped at Vizcaya for a wedding day portraits. This is in my opinion THE BEST plan for the wedding day. Truly stress free wedding. Of course “groom’s first look” when he sees the bride for the first time was planned and successfully accomplished! We took all the beautiful portraits PRIOR the wedding. And then we followed to the ceremony and reception at famous Rusty Pelican. There are so many beautiful photos – it was tough to choose. Here is a sneak preview:

ONLY 5 MIN BEFORE THE WEDDING!!

Krizia - SWEET FIFTEENTH.

2006-10-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a trip to my favorite place – Vizcaya. I photographed a beautiful girl Krizia for her coming 15th birthday party. It is not what I do often, but I was referred to the family by my weeding client – and of course I love doing portraits and event pictures!! It was pretty hot! At the end of the photo shoot Krizia said: it was fun, I thought it’s going to be horrible. Thanks god! When I hear that my client is happy, it is the best compliment. Here is a sneak pick of our Vizcaya adventure!

With NEW ARRIVAL!

2006-10-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

My sincere congratulations to Richard and Collise Scotland with their new arrival! Jada – their little daughter was born on October 19th, 2006. I had a privilege to get pictures of a brand new baby on her very first day. What a delight to see calm sleeping little person – full of life, full of potential…. By the way I was impressed with the hospital – Miramar Memorial Hospital – beautiful and super secure. Here are a few photos of Jada with parents, enjoy!!

Krina & Jeff

2006-10-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

Karina and Jeff from NJ had a lovely intimate wedding on September 27th at the Grove Isle Hotel. They had dreamed about a ceremony and reception with an ocean view. For a small wedding like that Grove Isle was a perfect place. It was a very elegant wedding followed by a sunset cocktail hour and delicious dinner. In the middle of reception there was a thunderstorm! It was a surprise and they say a very good sign for the marriage. Rain on the day of your marriage means a very happy and long life together.
For me this intimate and beautiful event was a treat! Everything was perfect! I welcome back Karina and Jeff from their honeymoon and want to share a few favorite pictures. Of course there are A LOT more!!

I am so sorry Ivette...

2006-09-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Terrible tragedy happened in my friend’s family Monday night… Ivette’s Day son Cory was killed in an accident. He was 18 years old happy kid. Ivette is such a special lady, everyone who had an event at Smith and Wollensky restaurant know her. She is a director of private dining there. I could not believe in what I heard… but Cory is gone. I am wishing Ivette and all her family to go with love through this tough time… keep life going on. I am so so sorry… details about Cory can be seen at www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/obituaries/, browse for Beland last name. I wish them peace…

Natasha & Michael

2006-09-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday September 16th I went to photograph a wedding north from Vero Beach at Sebastian. The bride was Russian girl from my home town. To find someone from Far East (where I am from) here in Miami was a miracle in first place. Usually when people find out that I am from Russia they recall Moscow or Saint Petersburg. When I explain that I am from Vladivostok which is a neighbor to China, Korea and Japan – it is truly a surprise! Russia is a huge country… But now I am talking about lovely wedding with marina view at Capitan Hiram’s restaurant at Sebastian, FL. Before the wedding couple agreed to take some romantic pictures and we followed to a beautiful beach nearby. I am posting a few out of thousand pictures for your enjoyment. I really love weddings, even if I need to travel…

Beautiful couple...

2006-08-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today I had an engagement photo session with a couple from Virginia – beautiful people! Lately the weather in Miami very unstable, tropical rains come and go quick… We all were very lucky to have beautiful sunny morning! Though on the way home I got into such a heavy rain that couldn’t see a thing on the road… and a few miles later it was sunny again! Yes – this is typical Miami weather… Alisa and Paul enjoyed our photo journey around the beach in Hammocks Park… Photographs turned out beautiful! Here are a just few. Enjoy!!

Flowers Ideas!

2006-08-19T16:22:00.000-07:00

After crazy “back to school” days (I am a mother of two) I am back to my blog… My company exists for 3 years (already!!) and as my wedding collection is growing, my stock wedding photography expands as well. I though it would be great to show some of my favorite galleries: FLOWERS, BRIDAL SHOES, RINGS, WEDDING SET UPs and other details I see at weddings… You can take favorite ideals and play with colors your way… Today’s topic is FLOWERS, more to come in the nearest future, check my blog often!

Classical RED

VERY popular for destination weddings - Flower Hair Decor!

In this photo I like how the “bouquet for throwing” is decorated with ribbons – looks great in action!

Colorful centerpieces

Congratulations Erica and Jorge!!

2006-08-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day was August 4! I am so grateful that Erica and Jorge (my former bride and groom) invited me to photograph their baby's First Day!! Welcome to this world little Malakai... He was so calm and peaceful... The most amazing thing is that he looks just like his dad, he is just born but we can see his little face is the same as dad's! I felt so good after I left the hospital. I am posting a few images... all of them look fantastic! What a priceless moment! Congratulations with your new arrival! As Jorge said: "Another guy..."