Shannon was the picture of nervous anticipation when I arrived at her parents house a few minutes before 1pm. Her hair and makeup were almost done, thanks to the skill of the fabulous Mina Drake. Her sisters, Ashton, Aundrea and cousin Elizabeth were all in matching white robes looking very relaxed. Could it be that the only one nervous was Shannon's dad? It was hard to tell on this beautiful Saturday afternoon.

With the ceremony only a few hours away, Janet Lash of A Very Special Occasion was no doubt tending to all the stylish details at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga. Leila Simms of Half Moon Flowers would soon arrive to setup the rose and vine arch in birch vases that would frame Shannon and Kerry for their ceremony. DJ Adrian of Sound in Motion DJ's would roll in his systems and prepare the music that would serve as the soundtrack to their day.

I even had some time before Alfred Salom Photography arrived (a rare luxury), which allowed me to get a few stories from the bride on how she and Kerry met and fell in love. It was great to hear how they breezed through their pre-wedding counseling, both agreeing that they had no reservations at all.

When Shannon's uncle showed up in a vintage Caddy, I got a bit jealous that I couldn't be the chauffeur for a day.We arrived at the winery in time to watch the cake setup by BethAnn Goldberg of Studio Cake Design. The weather couldn't be better, and guests started arriving and immediately commenting on the beautiful scenery and decorations.

I knew the bride and groom would be jetting off to Hawaii soon after the wedding, but I wanted to give them a bit of a teaser of their movie to come. Enjoy and congratulations to Shannon and Kerry.

Mountain Winery Saratoga Wedding Teaser- Shannon & Kerry from Oren on Vimeo.

Green Weddings - Fad or Fantastic?

Recent headlines about the BP oil spill in the Gulf got me thinking once again about the impact we all have on this world. I won't rally against the evils of oil, as nothing yet has been found to effectively replace it (especially when it comes to plastics and other oil-related products we rely upon daily). I will recommit myself to maintaining a low footprint in my work and my life.

Small steps, helped by an industry that is finally waking up to the realities of shrinking resources and consumer awareness, can lead to big results. For example, I have completely eliminated disposable batteries since 2009. It required a few (more expensive) equipment purchases...so this is not necessarily a money-saver, at least in the short term. But I'm so much happier knowing that I don't have to dispose of a half-used set of batteries after each and every shoot.

Likewise, moving my demo videos online means fewer DVDs sent out. From 2001-2008 I was averaging 56 mailed DVDs per year. I'm pretty sure they eventually find their way into a landfill. As online viewing options and quality increased, that number greatly decreased. I'm hoping that this year will continue as a online-viewing-only year.

A recent wedding I covered in Monterey included some wonderful, earth-friendly touches such as hand-painted wood cake-toppers and paper-flower table seating guides. Low impact can be quite chic and stylish. The only limit is your imagination and willingness to think outside the box.

In the next few weeks, I'll be writing more about other ways to 'green' your big day.

Swept Away: Lydia & John

Viansa Winery in Sonoma is one of my favorite wine-country destinations. I used to visit there often after I relocated to California from New York. When I found out that I would be capturing Lydia and John's wedding in Viansa, I was excited to return there. I distinctly remember my last wedding at Viansa, as it was 108 degrees and everyone was hugging the shade. A breeze was most welcome that day, and we were all glad when the heat finally broke. By comparison, the 25 mph gusts made the 65 degree day just a bit chillier. The golden sun, bright green vines and warm ocher hues of the winery contrasted with the beautiful blue of the sky and bridesmaids' dresses. Inside the white reception tent a clean white on white scheme was accented with silver twigs holding candle votives. This intimate and beautifully organized wedding was a delight for the senses. The winds might have been blowing a bit more than usual, but it did nothing to faze this wonderful couple.
The fantastic team included Tinywater Photography, California DJ's, and Wine Country Flowers.

Lydia & John: Wine Country Wedding from Oren on Vimeo.

Spring Scams

Being a small business owner is a constant learning experience. Having never benefited from an Ivy-league biz-school education, I took my cues from my parents, who have owned a business since I was a teenager. My father faced many issues that are common to all businesses, and thankfully, I have been the beneficiary of some of his hard-earned lessons. Most importantly, he has taught me the value of trust as the basis for every business decision.
The advent of the internet has exposed us to a world of associations that wouldn't normally occur. I can conduct a transaction with people around the world, whom I have never met (nor might ever meet). This has, unfortunately, brought about an exploitation you are probably all too familiar with by now: the email scam.
While my wife and I were enjoying a mini-vacation to celebrate my birthday, I received notice that a company in Asia was looking to register my domain name within Asia. The informer put themselves forward as a professional internet consulting company. Their website raised only a few red flags (stock image on home page of a young white male with open arms being the first one). After a few back-and forth emails from the very aggressive "Wanda Peng", I finally had the time to do a bit of digging. Of course, it didn't take long to determine that this is yet another scam that scares business owners into thinking that our very names are at risk of being stolen.
I wish there was a happy ending to this and I could tell you that the offending company has been caught and convicted...but like most overseas scams, I have little hope that anything will be done. At least I didn't get sucked into an expensive and useless service. I can only hope that other business owners find this before they make the mistake of responding to SKDNR/Wanda Peng/AsiaDM or whatever they call themselves tomorrow.

Crystal & Nathan

Crystal and Nathan tied the knot in Oakland and chose AwesomeShot Studios to cover their day. The day began appropriately at the "I Do Hair Couture" salon in Los Gatos, before moving up to the Oakland LDS Temple for the ceremony. After a triumphant exit applauded by waiting family and friends, Marielle Hayes of Marielle Hayes Photography took the family around the Temple for portraits.

Soon, it was time to return to Los Gatos where Cindy of the Los Gatos Opera House coordinated an elegant reception for the guests. I was asked to create the photo montage playing for guests as they enjoyed hors d'œuvre and a fun photobooth setup by Kao of PhotoBooth Royale. DJ Tim of Denon & Doyle handled the MC duties like a pro and guided the bride and groom into the room to thunderous applause. Look for the emotional and cinematic video highlights soon.

Crystal & Nathan Montage from Oren on Vimeo.

Lindzie & Brian: A Fine Fall Wedding

This fun couple got married on November 14th at Wine & Roses, but we met a few weeks prior to tape their love story (parts of which are included in these wedding highlights). The cooler weather of early fall and the early sunset meant that the outdoor wedding plans had to change. But the ceremony proceeded without a hitch and the beautiful bride walked up the aisle to admiring glances from friends, family...and her husband to be. Their 2 year old son, Alex, wasn't too pleased to be away from Mom and Dad for so long. But the ceremony was short and sweet, so he was all smiles afterwards. DJ Brian of Denon & Doyle kept the party rocking with the expertly spun music and deftly handled MC duties. Photographer Richard of Everlasting Moments captured the stills.
Little known fact; Lodi is the Zinfandel capitol of the world! Might not be that bad to be "stuck in Lodi again".

Adrienne & Jeremy: Let it ride.

What a great idea! After the wedding vows were exchanged in beautiful San Francisco City Hall's rotunda, the guests were treated to a private double-decker guided bus tour of San Francisco on a beautiful September day. The celebration continued in a private room of the Foreign Cinema restaurant where guests were feted while enjoying "8 1/2" by Federico Fellini. Hope other couples catch on to this wonderful way to keep guests entertained during the photo session.

Adrienne & Jeremy: San Francisco Touring from Oren on Vimeo.

Chateau Felice hosted this sublime wedding of Melanie and Riaz on September 19th. The ceremony was short but emotional, which left more time for the rockin' reception and gourmet food and wine that plays a big role in this couple's life. Sasha Souza Events set the mood expertly with beautiful decorations, flowers, table settings, and pillow-covered benches overlooking the lake. The dynamic duo of Lisa and Sasha of Tu Photography put smiles on everyones faces for the still photos.
Since many of the family members live in India and couldn't attend the wedding, they will soon be able to enjoy the entire day as if they were guest with the best seat in the house. In the meantime, we can share the highlights which incorporate some of the vows, the readings and toasts along with footage of the beautiful bride and handsome groom.

Melanie & Riaz from Oren on Vimeo.

Erika & Jesse: At Last

The Historic Sesnon House in Aptos was the backdrop for this emotional weddings that joined Erika to Jesse. The bridal party included some talented groomsmen who lent their skills in song and music for the ceremony and reception.
The warm sun and clear skies set the tone for the outdoor ceremony and dinner. Afterwards, the party moved inside for music laid down by DJ Jack of Music Now DJ's and the Funk Band Groovus. The talented team of Allumer Weddings and Events, Gillett Photography, and yours-truly, AwesomeShot Studios helped to set the mood, and capture the action.

Erika & Jesse July 25, 2009 from Oren on Vimeo.

Polina & Dimitry

The toasting never stopped at this chic wedding at the beautiful Villa Montalvo. The non-stop action certainly kept me on my toes as there was never a quiet moment. From their first meeting, signing the ketubah, onto the outdoor ceremony and during a gourmet dinner punctuated with toasts, stories, games and songs (as is Russian custom). Of course, every toast ended with shouts of "Gorko", urging the bride and groom to kiss. Who could object? Mazel Tov to this wonderful couple!

Polina & Dimitry from Oren on Vimeo.

Vanessa & Chris

Villa Montalvo is dramatic enough in itself without the fast-moving clouds that were rolling in on this July weekend. By the time the string quartet began, the clouds were making way for a strikingly bright exit of the beautiful Vanessa in her custom wedding gown. The handsome groom and anxious bride exchanged their vows under bright skies and amidst adoring glances. The reception was lavish, touching, and funny as the couple toasted each table, played trivia games and dined on a magnificent dinner. No detail was overlooked, which made for a spectacular start to a new life together. Cheers to Vanessa and Chris. Many happy years together to this wonderful couple.

Vanessa & Chris from Oren on Vimeo.

Fields of Gold: Maria and Andrew

Villa Montalvo, the historic and beautiful former home of California Senator James Duval Phelan was the setting for Maria and Andrew's July 3rd wedding. The bright blue sky and typically gorgeous California day set the mood for their vows under a very special chuppa (ceremonial Jewish wedding shelter). A self-described 'small town boy from Tennessee' met his match in a 'Russian-Jewish ice-skater who loves penguins'. Two worlds were joined in a wedding that was both moving and enlightening. Still photography was handled by the wonderful and talented Claudia Akers who I always enjoy working with. The Full Tilt Band supplied the tunes that kept the dance floor packed. What a way to start a holiday weekend!

Maria & Andrew from Oren on Vimeo.

Belle & Mike: Everything is Beautiful

Belle & Mike: Everything is Beautiful from Oren on Vimeo.

The challenge: how to ride your custom chopper into a country club with the bride on the back (to the tune of 'Bad to the Bone'). Answer, with great care. Mike and Belle went so far as to plastic wrap the rear tire for this surprise entrance that dropped jaws and garnered many high-fives. Unfortunately, the couple's two 'kids' (Doberman's) weren't allowed to serve as ring-bearers. Other surprises included the groom singing to the bride for their first dance. Needless to say, this was a very well planned, beautiful, emotional and memorable wedding. We were glad to be there to capture the moments that go by as quick as, well, Mikes chopper.

Memorial Day Wedding

If you're going to pick a date to get married, I would recommend holiday weekends. Not only are they easier to remember, but you also get to celebrate future anniversaries with an additional day off. Marisa and JP tied the knot at Martinelli Event Center in Livermore this past weekend on a beautiful (if somewhat windy) summer day. Livermore isn't known for its mild weather, but this one was an absolute dream. I had met with Marisa, and her parents last year and knew that this would be a stylish wedding. Kristen from Sugar Rush Events worked her magic in transforming the event center into a dreamy and colorful fantasy world fit for royalty. Some of the unique elements included crystal chandeliers for the outdoor ceremony, placecards in a sea of coarse rock-salt, and a planter filled with 'dancing shoes' at the corner of the dance floor. Of course, the highlight of the day was the emotional ceremony that combined the two families into one. The beautiful flowers by Jinger of The Flower House surrounded Marisa and JP as they exchanged their vows under the late-afternoon sun. Ingrid Nelson discretely captured the stills on film and was an absolute pleasure to work with. When the sun finally set and all the toasts were over, DJ Stefano from Big Fun DJ's rocked the house with a killer light show and inspired music selection. Nothing pleases me more than seeing empty chairs during the dancing. Even when the cake was waiting for them! Hopefully, the highlights capture the elegance and romance of this evening as narrated by Rev. Angela Yarber, the best man, Chris, and the maid of honor, Celia.

Irene & Joe: A new reason to celebrate Mother's Day

Mother's Day just took on new meaning for Irene and Joe, who tied the knot at Casa Real Event Center in Pleasanton May 10th. This beautiful and emotional wedding under the late afternoon sun had all the elements of a perfect day. Beautiful bride, handsome groom, and the love of friends and family. Mark Gelineau, a first-time officiant and close personal friend of Joe performed a moving ceremony with plenty of humor, personal touches..and even a greeting in Korean! AwesomeShot Studios handled the moving images, the superb team of Augie Chang Photographyhad it all covered for stills. DJ Brandon of Elite Beat Deejays got the crowd on their feet and Alyssia Jones of Casa Real made sure that it all went together smoothly.

Irene & Joe from Oren on Vimeo.

Go Speed Racer

After a recent wedding for a couple that I was connected to on Facebook, I started thinking a bit differently about what I can do to keep the energy of the wedding day going and allow friends and family to experience a little bit of what I observed and recorded as a videographer. Not wanting to let the photographers have all the fun of instant feedback, I wanted to contribute in my own way. Therefore, I started putting together a highlight video within a couple of hours.

Knowing the footage intimately, I was able to capture those scenes I would use, set them to the right music, add a few classy effects and encode it for immediate distribution. Of course, this still takes quite a few hours. But since I'm not working on all of the footage, my first few hours are the most crucial ones to getting a great final trailer. There are so many great and emotional shots to choose from...but you've got to really focus on those that tell the story best. Within a half-day of the wedding, I was able to post this video on Facebook to share with Grace and Russ.
Location: Los Gatos Hotel
Flowers: Natalini Flowers
Cake: Jen's Cakes
Photographers: Kim and Niki

What comes around...

When I was just starting out in my video career, I had a job at ABC News in New York's Kennedy airport. I loved it, even though it was a part time job in a small office with no one to talk to. My task was to downlink (not download...this is 1988) "This Week with David Brinkley" and "Nightline" and re-edit them for Delta Airlines in-flight news programs. I would also duplicate the tapes (Sony's Beta format, RIP) for each Delta flight according to the daily manifest. The fun part was rushing to deliver each one to the flights (often minutes before the flight departure).
It was in this job that I got to know Cokie Roberts and Ted Koppel, as well as the late David Brinkley and the other fine journalists of ABC. Unfortunately, I never got to meet any of them in person...but I felt like I knew them. So it was with great satisfaction that I happened to run into Cokie at a video shoot honoring Prof. Charles Ogletree (Obama's Harvard Law professor). When I told my table-mates at the Kaiser Family Foundation about the ABC/Cokie connection, they insisted I introduce myself and repeat the story I had just told them. Well, Cokie got a kick out of it, having been reminded of old times and we chatted about the state of journalism today (having a background in journalism myself). I've never been a star-seeker, but here was a journalist I greatly admired and respected, so I'm proud to have finally come full circle and met 'in reality' the woman who I've seen hundreds of times before.

Charging into 2009

Its a New Year. My first wedding of 2009 is in progress. There is a shaky economy. War hasn't disappeared. Yet I feel confident that this will be a transformative year. I always go into a new year with the hopes that things will get better. This doesn't mean that problems will disappear...but its the HOPE that they can be worked on. Already, I'm excited about the prospect of some fresh leadership in the white house. If we need anything right now, its a bold vision of a better future.

My small part is (and always has been) to consume less and give more. As 'green' as the video industry might be, there is always room for improvement. To that end, I've almost completely eliminated my dependence on Alkaline batteries (audio gear, mostly). The 9V batteries I've used in the past 20 years could easily fill a small room. The rechargable alternatives have never been attractive in terms of performance and lifespan. I had plenty of 50-60% full 9V batteries that I had to dispose of. Recently, I've purchased a new wireless system and audio recorders that use AA batteries. The hybrid rechargeable AA's are much more advanced and do no self-discharge as readily as the old NiMh ones.

I've always relied on (very expensive) rechargeable batteries for my video cameras and portable lights, so I jazzed to be able to replace the alkaline batteries that always seemed to pile up (half used, of course). There is only so much re-purposing one can do with a used AA (trust me, I've tried it all).

So its the calm before the storm. Hard drive is cleaned up and ready for the new batch of footage, desk is (slowly) getting uncluttered, and I have even found time to return to the gym regularly (more than twice a week). I always look forward to this time of year as a time of catching up with the workload, the friends and the family. This year will be a challenging one for everyone, and I often retreat to the safety of my office...even if I don't need to be there. So it was little surprise today that I found myself photoshopping some pictures of our studio-cat Binky. This is his first appearance on my mostly-business blog. At 19 years old, he might not be making a long-term appearance, but we certainly hope he sticks around. He is family, after all.

Anna Marie & Dale

San Francisco is known for many wonderful things, but consistent weather is not on the short list. Driving up the coast as the fog got thicker, I was glad that this couple chose to tie the knot indoors at the Cliff House, rather than on the deck overlooking the cool-blue Pacific. However cold an windy it might have been right outside the doors, there was a wonderfully warm and inviting group of friends and family that came to watch these two exchange their vows. Anna is a wonderfully expressive and outgoing bride, and Dale could pass for Hugh Grant if he pulled off the British accent.