And Now, For Desert 🏜️

One thing I absolutely love about living here is the gorgeous Sonoran Desert that surrounds us. If you're considering tying the knot, I highly recommend you consider getting married in this stunning landscape. Let me tell you why!

First of all, the Sonoran Desert is incredibly unique. It's the only place in the world where you'll find the saguaro cactus, which can grow up to 40 feet tall and live for over 150 years. These iconic plants make for an incredible backdrop for wedding photos. And with over 120 species of cactus and an abundance of other desert flora and fauna, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your big day.

Another benefit of getting married in the Sonoran Desert is the weather. While it can get pretty hot during the summer months, the rest of the year is absolutely perfect. Winter afternoon temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s, which means you can have an outdoor wedding without worrying about your guests freezing. And even in the summer, if you plan your ceremony for early morning or late afternoon, you can take advantage of the cooler temperatures and still enjoy the stunning beauty of the desert.

Speaking of outdoor weddings, there's something truly magical about exchanging vows surrounded by the vast expanse of the Sonoran Desert. The natural beauty of the landscape provides the perfect backdrop for a rustic, bohemian, or even modern wedding. And with the right lighting, you can capture some truly breathtaking shots.

Of course, getting married in the desert isn't for everyone. If you're looking for a traditional, formal wedding with a ballroom reception, this might not be the right choice for you. But if you're looking for something a little more unique, a little more adventurous, and a lot more memorable, I highly recommend considering a desert wedding.

As a photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing some truly stunning desert weddings over the years, and I can tell you firsthand that they are truly unforgettable. So if you're planning a wedding and you're looking for something that will truly stand out, I encourage you to consider getting married in the Sonoran Desert. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Wowzers! 2023?!

It's been a wild and busy year for me as a wedding photographer. With the ongoing pandemic, many couples had to reschedule or adjust their wedding plans, leading to a rush of events in the latter half of the year.

Despite the challenges, it was such a privilege to be a part of so many special moments. I saw firsthand how love and commitment can endure even in the face of adversity. I was also reminded of the importance of adaptability and flexibility in my line of work.

One of the biggest changes I had to make was switching to a more digital workflow. With the need for social distancing, I had to find new ways to meet with clients and share proofs. But it also allowed me to streamline my processes and work more efficiently.

I also had to get creative with my photography to accommodate for the smaller, more intimate gatherings. Instead of grand ballrooms and large groups, I found myself shooting in intimate backyard settings and intimate elopements. It was a refreshing change of pace and allowed me to focus on capturing the raw emotions of the couple and their loved ones.

Overall, it's been a challenging but rewarding year. I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what I love and for the trust my clients have placed in me. I can't wait to see what the future holds for weddings and photography.

Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.

The great quote of Ralph Waldo Emerson  should shake you to the core; "Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." At first glance, it's a rather obvious observation, isn't it? But when you turn off your surroundings for a moment, close your eyes and really listen to his words, you soon realise that most goals you enjoy reaching were all accomplished with enthusiasm. 

My enthusiasm for photography has grown exponentially over the years. There were many times in the beginning of my journey that I didn't even want to pick up my camera, because I had walked around my neighborhood dozens of times. I had already taken every shot I could think of! I wasn't yet confident enough (in skill) to ask others if I could practice photographing them, and it felt like I wasn't truly improving, or at least not at the rate I was hoping. I expected to be a pro in a matter of weeks! That's pretty ambitious, now that I'm looking back roughly 5 years. 

Slowly but surely, with the help of my lovely fiance, I was able to practice photographing people, and things finally started to come together! I had the basics down, and I became much more comfortable and confident shooting people (rather than plants and buildings). With plenty of enthusiasm and ambition, I began to get hired on to photograph people! Imagine the feeling of getting compensated financially for doing the thing you love to do. Now don't get me wrong, a simple photo shoot with an individual may take me 2 hours to get the photos taken, but still takes me another 6-8 hours of editing back in the office. It's not easy work by any means, but it is my passion to capture people in a beautiful state, so that they will always have something to look back on. And now, after hundreds of hours in editing, I'm finally able to achieve a classic, vintage look to my images that really give them a kind of warmth that I've desired. 

I've come a very long way in terms of experience, and I have had to traverse both mountains and valleys, but it isn't over, and won't ever be until I set my camera down for the very last time.  

Photography is my passion, and this train is only getting more momentum. You will always have excuses not to do something, but it's your choice whether those excuses actually stop you or not. Remember, tomorrow is not a guarantee.
So, I ask you; What is your passion, and why aren't you doing it right now?

Five Cheers for Three Years!

What is it that makes you truly happy? I'm not talking about getting an ice cream cone, I mean something that really warms your heart.

Maybe, a relationship you hold?  It is astounding to see all the interactions people have. Parents and their children, people and their pets, young love, old love. Considering how extremely social (most) humans are, it's no surprise that many relationships hold precedence over every other aspect in life. Then again, there are many who prefer to hold alternative priorities. 

I have a few things that I hold dear to me: 

• My wonderful fiance, Taylor
• Friends/Family
• Photography
• Technology

So, how about you?

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Future Mrs. Bristow

A New Year and A New Website!

As most of you probably experienced, 2012 was a lightning bolt. It felt like a matter of weeks! (I suppose technically it was a matter of weeks...)  Although in that short time, many powerful events took place. Both, for the better, and unfortunately for many here in the USA, for the worse. My deepest condolences go out to all who suffered a loss this past year. I hope for many of you that you made it through the year with great positivity and a warm optimism. 

Let's kick the doors off of the new year and start it with a flashbang!