Kacie Jean Photography

Busy...Busy...Busy...

2011-09-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

I am almost embarrassed at how long it has been since I last updated my blog. Has it really been since June!?

It's definitely not because I have been lazy - I have literally been shooting almost every single weekday, while also having weddings on the weekends. I'm almost 6 months pregnant and have a very active 2 1/2 year old!

The good news is that I have been able to stay somewhat up to date on my photography facebook page, so be sure to check it out so you can stay up to date with what I've been working on, as well as get notified when I run any specials.

Here are a few sneak peeks at my last few weddings this month...

This was a beautiful and intimate elopement at the San Ysidro Ranch. I'm pretty sure this is #1 on my location list of favorites right now! This was my first time shooting an elopement and it was such a special experience to be a part of. I even got to be the couple's witness on their marriage license since it was just myself and the judge there performing their ceremony outside of their cottage.

We took this wonderful couple's photos at the Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills. Such a unique location!

I got married at this very same location over 4 years ago and it was such a treat getting to experience a wedding there again! SBCC's Winslow Maxwell Overlook is a secret little gem of Santa Barbara.

I always love photographing at the beautiful Alice Keck Park in downtown Santa Barbara. I'm especially proud of this wedding because we literally had maybe 20-25 minutes to photograph the entire 30+ member bridal party AND the bride and groom. Beautiful!

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - My 2 year Old & A Puppy!

2011-06-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

Does it get much cuter than a sweet little girl and an adorably cute puppy!? I don't think so! My in-laws were visiting and they have the cutest little 4 month old puppy (jack russel/long haired chihuahua mix). Camille is IN LOVE with "Chino" and talks about him every single day. She actually refers to him as "My Chino."

I got this dress on sale and she was quickly outgrowing it, so I thought it was a perfect time for a photoshoot since it had been a while since our last one.

Santa Barbara Photographer - Mission & Beach Engagement Session - Matt & Jessica

2011-06-24T13:57:00.001-07:00

All I can say is WOW! These two were meant to be in front of the camera! I had so much fun with them looking for new spots around the Santa Barbara Mission and then heading to the beach in the thick fog during sunset. I just photographed their wedding this weekend and I am so excited to share their images within the next week or so!

Enjoy the cuteness :)

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - June Mini Session

2011-06-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have been so lucky and have gotten the best little clients for all of my mini sessions this year!

Mini sessions are $99 + tax and you get your own 20 minute time slot. It is such a good deal if you are looking to get updated photos of your kids every couple of months!

I never know what kind of mood the kids will be in when they show up, but I honestly couldn't have asked for happier kids on this day! I spent the afternoon giggling and making funny noises and they loved every minute of it :)

Calamigos Ranch Wedding - Penny & Morgan

2011-06-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

This might have been the most magical wedding I have ever photographed! I could photograph at the beautifully breathtaking Calamigos Ranch every single day for the rest of my life and never get tired of it. You feel like you're in a wonderland with streaming twinkle lights cascading down from almost every tree on the property. We walked around looking for one more spot to photograph at before we headed into the reception and I almost dropped my camera in excitement when we walked up and saw a pool table randomly placed in the middle of the grounds with a gorgeous chandelier hanging from a tree right above it. How fun!

Morgan & Penny, along with the help from their wonderful families and vendors put on a wedding I will never forget!

Flowers: Yamaguchi Nursery/Flowers
DJ: Matt Gudis at Who's That DJ
Lighting: The Lighter Side Inc.
Cake: For Heavens Cakes
Hair:Sarah Sataloff at Rejuvenation Salon
Make-up: Lesa Duff
Videographer: John Vogt
2nd Photographer: Jeff Shipley

Santa Barbara Photographer - Montecito Estate Engagement Session

2011-06-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

It's always fun when you get to photograph at a new location. Ernie had a connection to a beautiful private Montecito Estate and it was amazing! They are just so darn cute together and really knew how to work the camera. I can't wait for their wedding in a couple months!

Santa Barbara Maternity Photographer - Elings Park Beauty

2011-05-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

I always forget about this amazing spot up at Elings Park and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful evening for these belly photos! My beautiful friend is awaiting the arrival of her second baby boy any day now, so I'm glad we were able to squeeze in a quick session.

Santa Barbara Newborn Photographer - Anja Jasmine Firestone - US Weekly

2011-05-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

I woke up awaiting the big text from Andrew and Ivana Firestone letting me know the exciting news if they had welcomed a baby boy or a girl into this world. To my surprise, it was a girl!!! Anja Jasmine Firestone was born April 15th, 2011. I was so excited and went straight to the baby store to find the cutest little pink dress I could find.

You never really know how the first sibling is going to react to the new addition to the family. I was pleasantly surprised to see Brooks, who is now 2, welcome his new baby sister with open arms. While I was at the hospital visiting them, Brooks kept repeating her name over and over again with the biggest smile, while giving her lots of little kisses. They were now one big happy family!

I think this family was born to be in front of the camera. Anja, who was under 2 weeks old for our shoot, was already the perfect model. She slept soundly through most of the shoot and when she decided to wake up she just opened her eyes and gave me the sweetest little grin.

I give the Firestones credit for this series of photos. Brooks played along with it perfectly :)

Picture perfect!

And I'm super excited that US Weekly decided to use my photos in this week's issue

Santa Barbara Wedding Photographer - Christy & Niklas - Chase Palm Park

2011-05-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

I am so behind on my blogging and have been dying to get this beautiful wedding up! When most brides would have been freaking out about the super gloomy/misty weather, Christy was excited for the nice diffused lighting we were guaranteed for the day. That's my kind of bride! :)

The day was absolutely perfect and I love that even though we were at one location, it looks like we went to about 10! Their wedding took place at Chase Palm Park and we even lucked out with the train schedule and got a cool shot of them in front of the passing train.

I was super lucky and brought up an awesome photographer from LA, Emily to be my 2nd photographer for the day.

I wish I could post more photos from the rest of the day, but there are just so many cute ones of the 2 of them, I'd rather share those :)

Christy & Nik had such a great team of vendors/friends help make their wedding into a beautiful event:

Ceremony: Chase Palm Park
Reception: Cabrillo Arts Pavilion
Catering: Laurel Lyle
Music: DJ Bennet
Videographer: Harmony Agh
Rentals: Tent Merchant

Christy & Nik opted to see each other before the ceremony started so we could spend more time taking photos and so they could hang out with their guests during the cocktail hour. The "first look" is always one of my favorite times of the day!

These little guys were some of my 1st clients when I was first starting out 7 years ago! It was so fun to see them in the wedding

Nik worked so hard on the place cards and matched up the different bottles of wine with each customized card - very impress Nik :)

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - Eliana Turns 2!

2011-05-06T14:01:00.001-07:00

Most of you probably remember when I have previously posted about sweet little Ellie and her fight with brain cancer. Well, believe it or not, she is TWO today!!! I didn't even know until recently that her Mother Samantha was told that she probably wouldn't even make it through the helicopter ride down to LA when they realized she had a brain tumor. That was 1 year and 8 months ago!!!

As soon as Eliana could talk, she has been asking to ride a horse. Well, I wanted to help make this wish come true, so I contacted one of my clients that has a couple horses on her property. She was more than happy to help us out!

I was sure Ellie would get a little scared as soon as she got in front of the large horse, but she just hopped up on the saddle like it was nothing. She instantly knew what to do and held on tight and smiled from ear to ear! I couldn't believe it!

It seriously took my breath away to see this sweet little child so brave and confident atop this giant horse. It was a true testament to her character!

I am so blessed to have little Ellie and her Mama Samantha in my life and so happy to call them friends!

To view more of Eliana's story and her fight that she is winning against brain cancer, check out her website here:

"High five mama! I did it!"

This photo melts my heart into a million pieces! She absolutely adores her mama!

WINNER of 3rd annual Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!

2011-05-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce the winner of the 3rd annual "Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!"

Like all the other years, I absolutely love being able to offer this to one deserving Mom, but it is so hard to choose just one, since I truly believe every Mother deserves this!

The winner of the 2011 Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway is: Marisa Knupp

She was nominated by my wonderful friend Samantha McVee... Marisa is a Mother of 3. Her youngest son, Nathan, was diagnosed with a brain tumor when he was about 7 months old. He had surgery that has left him with multiple long term deficits. He went through 18 months of chemotherapy and has had many scary moments along the way. He and his mom (Marisa) do multiple therapy sessions each week, including but not limited to; speech, physical, occupational, etc.

Marisa will receive a FREE photoshoot, along with a 16x24" canvas and 3 mini accordion books.

Congratulations Marisa! I can't wait to meet you and your family!

3rd Annual Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!

2011-04-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce the 3rd Annual Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!!!

In honor of Mother's Day and to celebrate all of those wonderful Mommies out there, I would love to offer one deserving Mom the following:
1) 1-2 hour photoshoot for their entire family
2) 3 mini accordion books with her favorite images
3) A beautiful 16x24" canvas from our session that she can enjoy for many years to come!

Over a $600 VALUE!

Here are the rules:
1. Leave a comment hear on the blog including the name of the person you would like to nominate and then email me at info@kaciejean.com with 1-3 paragraphs of why you feel you, your Mom, or a Mom you know, deserves a free photoshoot (please include THEIR full name, email address in the email)
2. You can either nominate yourself or another deserving Mom
3. The photoshoot must take place in Santa Barbara
4. The photoshoot has to take place within the months of May-July

I will make my decision of the most deserving Mom by 9am Tuesday May 3rd...
At that time, I will mail you the beautiful gift certificate that you can gift to the lucky Mom for Mother's Day.

Good luck and I can't wait to hear about all of the fabulous Mom's out there!!!

Santa Barbara Newborn Photographer - Baby "J"

2011-04-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful late afternoon at one of my favorite local parks - Alice Keck. Little baby "J" was 11 days old and a perfectly sleepy little guy for his newborn session. They are the sweetest family and it was so adorable seeing how cute his big brother was with him.

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - Baby "C" Turns One!

2011-04-18T20:52:00.000-07:00

I have had so many random connections lately with my clients. It turns out that the Mom had heard about me from a random friend and booked me. Then her husband realized I was the same photographer that had helped book him for a benefit concert for little Eliana back in 2009. He is in an awesome band that was started here in SB called The Little Heroes. You have seriously got to check them out! I have been listening to them all night while I've been editing.

Since I am now going into my 7th year as a professional photographer in the same town, you can imagine how bored I must get photographing in the same locations. So it forces me to find hidden spots or search deeper into spots that I have been to a million times. I probably come to play at this park at least once a week, but never really explored deeper into the trees. It turned out to be a fantastic location and it's so convenient to get to. Ok - onto the photos...

Could this little sweetie be any cuter!? She was totally striking a pose for this first shot :)

Santa Barbara Newborn Photographer - Baby "E"

2011-04-17T15:18:00.000-07:00

This little guy was such a dream to photograph. It turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year so far, so we took him outside in a basket and he didn't even flinch. The lighting and surroundings in front of their house was a perfect backdrop!

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - Hammonds Beach

2011-04-16T15:03:00.001-07:00

How is it even possible that I've lived in Santa Barbara for over 12 years now and last month was the first time I had ever been to Hammonds Beach in Montecito!? It is amazing! I found so many cute little spots to photograph in. I think it's definitely up there as one of my favorite spots now!

I guess it also didn't hurt that I had some of the cutest little babies/toddlers to photograph there during a few of my mini sessions last month.

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - "T" is two!

2011-04-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

This kid is only 2 and already can do a drop kick with his soccer ball! Awesome!

Santa Barbara Maternity Photographer - Sunset Beauty

2011-04-01T23:16:00.000-07:00

It was a gorgeous sunset setting for this beautiful mama and her cute little family! Isn't she just stunning! Only a couple weeks left to go before I get to photograph the new addition to their family too :)

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - Manning Park

2011-03-31T22:45:00.000-07:00

I had such a fun time photographing this little guy's one year old photos this week. I always forget how much I love doing shoots at Manning Park in Montecito. It was absolutely gorgeous with the most perfect lighting!

Lake Tahoe Mountain Wedding - Shannon & Wes

2011-03-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends Shannon just got married this last weekend up on a mountain top overlooking North Lake Tahoe. I knew going into this that we would have quite a few adventures in store for us since life with Shannon never has a dull moment! And boy was I right!

We started off the morning with a fun snowmobiling trip up to the spot where they got engaged. We were almost there and a few of the others decided to go off the path and ride through the powder. Unfortunately, one of the Dads didn't see the big 8-10 foot hole in the middle of the meadow and tumbled down. Miraculously he was not even hurt, but his snowmobile was lodged under some tree branches and submerged in the water. What turned into a 90 minute excursion, turned into a 4 hour adventure.

It seemed impossible that they would ever get the snowmobile out since it turned out that he landed in a 5 foot pond as well. Luckily they have some resourceful friends and they were able to cut some trees down and pack some snow and make their way out. To our surprise, the snowmobile even started and they used it a few hours later to take us up to the ceremony site.

By the time we got back to the condo, we had 2 hours to relax and get ready for the wedding. I didn't know how I was going to make it since I'm not used to the high altitude and riding a snowmobile for 4 hours before shooting a wedding!

Well, I did and it was amazing! The weather was perfect and it was such an intimate time that was shared with Shannon and Wes' closest family and friends. We stayed up there for a few hours until the cold set in and the sun was starting to go down.

I was so happy to be a part of this special day and can't wait to see what adventures are in store for their life together as husband & wife!

Here I am with the girls. Of course when I hand off the camera to someone else to get a shot of me in the picture, it's out of focus :)

When Shannon opened the box with their wedding cake the night before, she realized they spelled Wes' name "West!" Of course that was the joke the whole next day and everyone referred to him as West :)

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - Wildflower Kono Twins

2011-03-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends in town has the cutest little 9 month old twins Poppy & James. We have been trying to get together for a quick session in months!

The weather has been beautiful and they live right down the street from my new favorite spot, so we made a quick trip to the wildflowers. Can you believe all of these adorable little faces were done in under 20 minutes! Love them!

Santa Barbara Pregnancy Photographer - Sweet big sister!

2011-03-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

I have had a few photoshoots with sweet little Z over the last 1-2 years and she has always been such a sweetheart. As soon as I saw how loving she was to her little sister in her mamas belly, I knew she would be an amazing big sister when she arrives in a couple short months. I'm also really excited since all of our friends are having boys and this is one of the only ones adding a girl to the group :)

This mama has one of the best smiles!

Santa Barbara Pregnancy Photographer - Beautiful Mommy!

2011-03-03T13:29:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when this mama said she had no problem showing off her bare belly for our session. I know some people don't enjoy being pregnant and having a big belly, but I honestly feel like this is one of the most beautiful times in a Mother's life. I can only wish that I look this amazing for my 2nd pregnancy!

It had been a while since I had done a maternity session, but after this day with 3 beautiful woman sharing their bellies with me, I remembered just how much I love to photograph maternity sessions. There is just something so pure and natural about this state and I am so glad this beautiful Mommy has allowed me to share these images with you.

Santa Barbara Pregnancy Photographer - Happy Little Family!

2011-03-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

It seems like everyone around me is pregnant right now! I am so excited for this family to bring another wonderful child into this world. They are so much fun and I swear this little guy could be Camille's twin brother!

I just discovered this new location which I have been to a million times, but never realized how fabulous it was until I explored it a little more!

I can't wait to meet baby #2!

I have a few more pregnancy shoots to post- I can't wait to share!

I just love this one of the little guy serenading his parents for the photo :)

US WEEKLY - Andrew Firestone, Ivana, Brooks & Baby #2

2011-02-28T13:58:00.000-08:00

It's always so exciting when I get one of my images published in a magazine! You can check out this week's issue of US Weekly to see my cute photo of Andrew Firestone, Ivana, Brooks & Baby #2.

Andrew and his college buddies just opened a super cool bar/restaurant, The Lincoln Room, down in San Diego and they did a little story on it in the magazine.

I love this photo of all of them!

Santa Barbara Newborn Photographer - Bien Nacido Baby

2011-02-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

This little guy was such a joy to photograph! I have never seen so many smiles from a newborn only 1 week old. He was born into a family of wine lovers. His Dad's family owns the beautiful Bien Nacido Vineyards in Santa Maria. So it was only fitting that we put him in a wine box and surround him with wine. Who would have thought a wine box could look so comfortable :)

He is so excited for his first family portrait! Such a cutie!

His parents met each other while they attended Bowdoin College and they had the cutest little jersey for him.

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - 1st Mini Session of the Year!

2011-02-22T07:55:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love offering my mini sessions! It's such an affordable option when you are trying to capture your child at this exact moment in time. We all know how quickly babies change, so it's a great way for you to be able to get photos of them every few months. I offer these sessions a couple times a month. Be sure to contact me to see when the next session is scheduled.

I was in baby heaven for this session! The ages ranged from 4 months to 15 months and they were all sweet little angels for me...

Sad day...

2011-02-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

Today I have a heavy heart...

Back in May of 2010 I was contacted by one of my past brides wanting to gift an engagement session to one of her best friends. 7 months prior, he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He had undergone surgery and treatment and things were looking good. Mark & Marie were planning on getting married the following year, but decided to move the wedding to August of 2010. Sadly I was already booked for their wedding, so I just had a chance to do their engagement session.

A few weeks ago, Mark was brought home from the hospital to hospice care. There was nothing left that they could do...

Mark passed away peacefully at home in Long Beach last night at 11:25pm after a 16 month battle with brain cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends, candles, and music. Mark wanted to make sure everyone came to his party and waited for his best friend (my past bride) as the last one. He took his last breath just after she arrived, kissed his forehead goodbye, and Marie told him she loved him.

The day I found out Mark had been brought home from the hospital, I called my amazing canvas company to have this image printed out for him so he could enjoy it with Marie while they still had time together.

They were such a sweet couple and my thoughts and prayers are with Mark's family and friends...

Santa Barbara Engagement Photographer - Jessica & Hunter

2011-02-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

The lighting has just been amazing at the Douglas Preserve lately, so I have been having a bunch of shoots there! Hunter and Jessica were so much fun and I was in photographer heaven with all of these oak trees with the gorgeous lighting shining through! And yes...at one point during our session I believe I sang "Hunter & Jessica, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!" I can't wait for their wedding on 11-11-11!

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a couple days late on this post because I was out of town, but I still wanted to wish everyone a very happy Valentine's Day! Camille and one of her favorite buddies Brooks Firestone had a little playdate to celebrate Valentine's Day together :)

We met at the back entrance to the beautiful Los Carneros Lake for a quick shoot with the kids. And boy did we realize how much work it is to get two toddlers together for a shoot! I think we had a total of maybe 3-5 minutes of quality shooting time with them together. I had so many props I was planning on using, but you can't really force a 2 year old to do something for the sake of a really cute photo...

Even though we only got a few good minutes out of the kids, I am just in love with their cute little expressions on these photos!

Enjoy!

Here I think Brooks is still contemplating if he wants to give his rose to Camille...

This one if my favorite!

"Awww...thanks Brooks!"

I love Brooks' expression in this one! "Ewww...roses are for girls!"

"He loves me...he loves me not..."

Whodidily Birthday Party... My baby is 2!

2011-02-10T14:38:00.001-08:00

We had the BEST time at Whodidily Cupcakes! They just opened up a new location in the Paseo Nuevo Mall in Santa Barbara. It was the perfect spot for a bunch of little 2 year olds to run around dancing, singing and eating lots of yummy treats! The nicest young man was working when we were there and he even put on some Birthday music for Camille. She was in absolute heaven! Even though I am allergic to most of the ingredients in cupcakes, we will definitely be going back there for more visits since it was so much fun and such a magical atmosphere.

I cannot believe that we are celebrating my little girls 2nd Birthday today! I feel like I always hear other parents commenting on how fast time flies, but it is totally tripping me out how fast it really does fly! We will be celebrating her Birthday with family at Disneyland, but I thought it would be fun to celebrate with some of her little buddies too on her actual Birthday...

Santa Barbara Baby Photographer - Baby "W" is 5 months old

2011-02-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

Little baby "W" was so much fun to photograph. He just sat there and smiled the entire time! I took him to The Douglas Family Preserve, which is one of my all-time favorites spots in town. This time of year it is so overgrown with lush green vegetation.

Just look at this little cutie pie and his deep blue eyes!!!

Isla Vista Engagement Session - Nick & Rebecca

2011-02-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

I just want to start out by saying... This was by far one of the most entertaining photoshoots I have ever had! Nick & Rebecca met in Isla Vista about 7 years ago and although they now live down in Newport Beach and are getting married in Mexico, they really wanted to have their engagement session where they met and fell in love...

To be honest, I kinda felt like a rockstar roaming the streets surrounded by college kids with my big professional lens/camera in hand. We were asked by a homeless man to take a photo, we were taunted by drunk party goers in their front yards playing beer pong, we were mooned by an entire ocean front party...the list goes on and on!

The best thing I heard yelled at us was "IV relationships never last longer than 3 months! You will be broken up by the time your photos are developed!" Haha! Little did they know the story behind these two :)

I met Rebecca back when I was going to school and we both worked at Goleta Valley Athletic Club. It was fun getting back in touch with her after all of these years and experiencing a mild dose of what I use to live with for 4 years while I lived in Isla Vista so many years ago. (I still can't believe I lasted that long there!)

Santa Barbara Portraits - Couture To Cure SMA

2011-02-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

Most of you will remember little Gwendolyn that I have photographed a couple of times and who suffers from the leading genetic killer of infants, Spinal Muscular Atrophy. While most babies/children suffering from SMA don't live to see their 2nd Birthday, Gwendolyn already reached her 3rd Birthday back in October!

I try to participate in any fundraisers the Strong family has going on or that benefit SMA. Last week I saw these adorable hair clips that were being made by another Mom who also has a child with SMA. It was perfect timing since we had pretty much lost all of Camille's cute little clips.

Along with this adorable yellow clip that we got, her cute yellow sweater I bought her a year ago, finally fit her, so it was time to schedule a photoshoot :)

If you are in need of some adorable hair clips and would also like to help benefit SMA research, please check out the website!

Santa Barbara Engagement - Ellwood Bluffs

2011-02-02T07:33:00.000-08:00

When I first met Curtis and Nikki a few weeks ago, we instantly clicked! They were best buds with one of my other 2011 brides and knew right off the bat that they wanted to hire me for their wedding! I can't wait for their fall wedding which is taking place at the beautiful Santa Margarita Ranch.

A couple days before we met, Nikki got offered a job in Arizona, so we only had a couple days to plan out an engagement session for them.

The flowers in Santa Barbara started blooming much earlier than normal this season, so I thought it would perfect to find a location that showed off the gorgeous yellow flowers (which I think might be considered a weed, but who cares, they still look great in photographs!) and I also wanted them to get a few beach shots since they were moving to AZ.

One of my favorite spots has always been the Ellwood Bluffs. Not only because my husband proposed to me in this spot 4-5 years ago, but because there are just so many different looks you can get from this one place.

Is this not the cutest little pup you've ever seen!?

Seriously...how gorgeous are these two together!!!?

Nikki's eyes are out of this world!

Ahhhh - I love fields of wildflowers!!! If you live in Santa Barbara, you know these don't exist everywhere. Amongst the miles of bluffs, there was just this small patch, but I was able to make it look like they were all around us :)

BUILD's 10th Anniversary Celebration

2011-01-29T09:54:00.001-08:00

Last week I donated my services to a wonderful organization - BUILD.

There were over 300 guests that attended the 10th Anniversary celebration and fund raising event and over $800,000 was raised to help the organization! A few of the attendees you may recognize, are Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and founder of Square; MC Hammer and Jed York, owner of the San Francisco 49ers.

BUILD was founded in 1999, by Stanford Law student, Suzanne McKechnie Klahr. It is perfectly stated on their website, "BUILD runs the nation’s largest youth incubators with the mission to use entrepreneurship to excite and propel disengaged, low-income students through high school to college success. We believe that the power of student ideas in action drives youth to reach their fullest potential in school and beyond."

If you would like to help out this fabulous organization by becoming a mentor or donating your time or money, please visit their website.

I would also like to give a big thanks to my 2nd photographer, Gary Sexton, who also donated his time to help me photograph this event. A few of the photos below were captured by him. Thank you Gary!!!

Myself and the guests were all serenaded by the super talented group, Overtone! They are out of this world! You may recognize their music from the movie, Invictus.

Here is Jack Dorsey posing with a few of the students

And MC Hammer!

Here is my amazingly fabulous sister who works for BUILD and the reason I wanted to help out for this event. Also with her is my assistant for the night, Valerie.

Just a few of the kids that got to participate at the event

Here are just a few of the student's businesses they started with the help and guidance from BUILD.

Founder, Suzanne McKechnie Klahr

Such an amazing turnout!

Let the awards begin!

One of the founding supporters of BUILD, Franklin "Pitch" Johnson

Awarding Jack Dorsey with the first honorary "Pitch" award

Jack Dorsey giving a speech

The start of the auction! This was so fun to experience. I was running around the room as fast as the announcer could talk trying to snap quick shots of everyone throwing their paddles up. What a rush!

Ashton Kutcher even made an "appearance" at the event. He was supposed to be there, but the date conflicted with the opening day of his new movie. He pre-taped a little something to share with everyone and even donated his time for the auction.

Here they are putting Jack Dorsey's product, Square to good use. If you don't know what Square is, it's a little device that allows you to scan credit cards onto your portable device (phone, ipad etc)

Here's 49er owner, Jed York having a great time!

Founder, Suzanne McKechnie Klahr sitting with MC Hammer and Jack Dorsey

The student presentations were extremely emotional and touched all of us. You would be amazed at what these kids have had to go through to get to where they are today. So inspiring!

The Knot Best of Weddings 2011 Pick!!!

2011-01-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to announce that Kacie Jean Photography was rated by local Southern California brides and voted "The Knot Best of Weddings 2011 Pick!"

If you need help with ideas and resources for your wedding, be sure to check out The Knot on the Wedding Channel...

I had an amazing year of weddings and can't thank all of my fabulous brides enough for thinking so highly of me!

Here are some of my favorite images from my 2010 weddings...

Dorian & Carp - Hadsten House in Santa Ynez, CA

Corina & Jeff - El Mirador Estate in Montecito, CA

Jennifer & Kyle - Seascape Golf Club in Aptos, CA

Janet & Geoff - El Presidio in Santa Barbara, CA

Caitlin & Shawn - The Grand Tetons in Jackson Hole, WY

Dianne & Mike - Orella Ranch in Santa Barbara, CA

Stefanie & Nate - Firestone Vineyard in Santa Ynez, CA

Kathy & Larry - Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez, CA

Rana & Brian - Greek Orthodox Church in Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara Newborn Photographer - Baby "D"

2011-01-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

Baby "D" decided to surprise his parents early with his arrival the night before Christmas... Such a sweet gift for them! He is such a handsome little fella who didn't want to miss out on any of the excitement during our shoot, so he decided to stay awake the whole time :)

His parents were the lucky recipients of a beautiful gift certificate for a newborn session from their co-worker, which they really appreciated. So just a reminder...if you can't figure out what to get someone for their baby shower, the most personal and special gift you could give them, is photos of their new little angel!

I think this one is my favorite! I'm still not sure how we got a few of him with his eyes closed :)

I would also like to mention that this cute matching hat/diaper cover is something I own and bring along to my shoots. So you are welcome to borrow it if you want to schedule a session. I also have a set for girls!

In honor of being a Christmas Eve baby, we had to take some in his Santa hat. I think he was feeling a little like Elvis in this one...

Santa Barbara Portraits - Morning on the Ellwood Bluffs

2011-01-13T14:48:00.000-08:00

For Santa Barbara, we have been having quite the chilly weather lately! We finally woke up to a beautiful warm day with sunshine, so we knew it would be a perfect day to take our little Camille to the Ellwood Bluffs for a "hike."

She had so much fun exploring in the trees and searching for rocks on the beach!

Also, because I have been so busy these last few months, I have completely neglected posting anything personal on my blog - I promise to keep up with photos of my little girl and all the fun things we're doing together as a family. (next month is our first trip to Disneyland together!)

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - THE BEST PHOTO(S) OF 2010

2011-01-07T07:51:00.000-08:00

Well it sure was close! It was actually too close and I couldn't just pick one winner since it was literally a matter of a few votes. I could tell some people were having troubles voting and didn't understand that it may take a few minutes for their comment to show up, so they left more than one one. I made sure those extra votes were not counted...

Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to scroll through so many of my photos and leave a nice comment about their favorite one. I had so much fun going through all of the fabulous comments! It got me even more excited for 2011 and I can't wait to create breathtaking images for all of my clients in the coming year!

Here are the winners! Congrats to these two beautiful families, they will both be awarded a beautiful 16x24" canvas of either their winning photo, or any other photo from our session! xoxo

Image #5.

Image #4.

As a Thank you to everyone that either voted or got people to vote on their favorite image, I would like to offer a 30% discount on canvases from now until next Friday January 14th. If you've never seen a professional canvas before - it will blow your mind! Your image is printed on a durable canvas material and then wrapped around a 1.5" deep wood frame. Once you receive it, it is ready to hang with all of the necessary hardware and coated with a UV protectant that ensures your canvas will last. They are virtually water proof and can be hung in any room of the house, including the bathroom. It is such a beautiful way to showcase your favorite images and help you feel like you have an expensive piece of art hanging on your wall. My house is filled with them :)

Email me at info@kaciejean.com to get a list of the sale prices

Lastly, I am so excited to announce I will be offering Baby Mini Sessions every couple of weeks for the next few months, so if you want to document how fast your little ones are growing and changing, please let me know and we'll set a session up for you!

Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - Vote for your FAVORITE portrait from 2010!

2011-01-03T22:26:00.000-08:00

If you were a portrait client of mine in 2010, here's your chance to win a beautiful 16x24" canvas of an image from our shoot together.

RULES:
1) Send my blog link www.kaciejean.blogspot.com to all of your family & friends to help win you or someone you know a beautiful canvas. You are more than welcome to post the link on facebook.

2) You must leave a comment below with your favorite image # and why (any comments left on facebook will not count)

3) ONE COMMENT ALLOWED PER PERSON (PLEASE honor this rule and help make this a fair contest..if I feel the voting gets a little fishy, I will end the contest)

4) Voting ends Thursday January 6th at 11:59pm. The image with the most votes will be announced on Friday, January 7th by noon. The winner will receive a beautiful 16x24" canvas from our session. The image on the canvas can be any image from our shoot and doesn't have to be the one I posted here for the contest.

Enjoy scrolling through my favorite images from 2010 and good luck to all of my fabulous clients!!! xoxo

(The image is below its image #)

P.S. TO POST A COMMENT, YOU NEED TO SCROLL TO THE VERY BOTTOM, RIGHT BELOW THE LAST PHOTO AND CLICK ON THE LINK THAT SAYS HOW MANY COMMENTS THERE ARE- THAT WILL THEN TAKE YOU TO THE COMMENT BOX

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Santa Barbara Portrait Photographer - Baby Mini Sessions

2011-01-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

Baby Mini Sessions are a great and cost effective way for you to document how fast your little ones are growing and changing every single day. Most people like to get their baby's photos taken every 3 months to help show the new milestones they are going through (tummy time, sitting up, crawling, standing, walking etc)

Here's the scoop for the mini sessions:

Sessions are just for the babies/kids and do not include parents or other family members. If you have more than one kid, you can include them in the one session.

Sessions last 20 minutes and we will take as many photos as we can in that amount of time.

* Cost: $99 + tax (regular portrait packages start at $250 + tax)

* You will receive 2 jpg images that will be emailed to you that can be used for whatever you'd like (printing, uploading online etc)

* You are guaranteed at least 10-20 beautiful portraits of your child.

* All ages are welcome!

Please email me to confirm yourself a spot info@kaciejean.com

(you can either just email me to sign up for a session and we'll choose a date and invite others, or you can find 3-4 other friends that want to join in on a 60-90 minute session that you will all share)

Biltmore Santa Barbara - Firestone Family Photos

2010-12-21T11:24:00.000-08:00

I was so excited for my annual family photos with the Firestones because they are now expecting their 2nd baby! Little Brooks is going to be such a wonderful older brother! We chose The Four Seasons Biltmore in Santa Barbara because it is such a magical location and also so Andrew could just sneak away from work for a few minutes to jump into some of the shots. I could seriously photograph them all day long with their big beautiful smiles :)

Holiday Mini Sessions

2010-11-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

Email me to reserve yourself a spot! info@kaciejean.com

If you still have not gotten your annual Holiday Family Portrait done for your Holiday card and would love a few portraits to give away as gifts, this is a perfect chance to do so without having to pay for a full 1-2 hr session.

Here's the scoop for these mini sessions:
Sessions last 20 minutes and we will take as many photos as we can in that amount of time. We can get family shots, shots of just the kids, kids together etc...

1. Cost: $99 + tax (regular portrait packages start at $250)

* You will receive 3 jpg images that will be emailed to you that can be used for your own holiday cards or printed on your own.

* You are guaranteed at least 10 beautiful portraits of your kids and family

* A disk of all of the images taken of your family can be purchased for an additional $125 + tax

2. Times: 2:00, 2:20, 2:40, 3:00, 3:20, 3:40

3. Date: Sunday December 5th

4. Location: Alice Keck Park

Please email me to confirm yourself a spot info@kaciejean.com

Bridlewood Winery Engagement Photos - Liz & Johnny

2010-10-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Liz & Johnny live out in Santa Ynez, so I jumped at the chance to do their engagement session out there since it's always nice to get away for the day. I had seen a recent commercial for the Bridelwood Winery and fell in love with their location so I suggested we do their shoot there and boy am I glad we did! After arriving there, I instantly knew this would be my new favorite locations. There are a million different spots to shoot at and we probably only went to half of the property! I highly suggest taking the 35-40 minute drive out there to spend the day at the winery. If you become a wine member, you even get access to their cute little lake and picnic area which is also on the property.

They brought along their little munchkin for a few photos as well. I could photograph this cutie all day!!!

Calamigos Ranch Engagement Session - Penny & Morgan

2010-10-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I got the call letting me know that Penny & Morgan wanted me to be their wedding photographer! They were guests at a wedding of mine a week before and got engaged the day after the wedding. I was even more excited when they told me the location of their wedding.

They are getting married at the beautiful Calamigos Ranch in Malibu.

When I arrived at the Ranch on Wednesday for their engagement shoot, my heart filled with utter excitement! This place was amazing!!!

I'll let the photos do the talking! I can't wait for their wedding!!!

Santa Barbara Family Portraits - Stow House

2010-10-09T23:26:00.000-07:00

I was so happy that the cold gloomy weather we had earlier in the week went away just in time for this newborn session at the Stow House in Goleta. Surprisingly enough, this was the first time a client of mine let me do their entire newborn session outside! It was beautiful and hopefully my other clients will see just how beautiful the natural light can be for their session.

This little one was such a trooper and even gave us a glimpse of her cute little dimples.

I am in love with these next two. Mama and baby are having such a sweet connection...

Santa Barbara Family Portraits - Chase Palm Park

2010-10-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

With the holidays just around the corner, I am officially entering my crazy holiday portrait season! I will be doing family portraits 5 out of the 7 days a week for the next 3 months... With that being said, I need to come up with some fresh ideas to make each shoot different from the next. It is so easy to just take the same kind of photo for each family and make it easy on myself. That is what I want to avoid. I am officially challenging myself to get the most unique and beautiful photos for each family that I photograph over the next few months.

I am constantly collecting ideas and visions for different things I want to try out for my family shoots. It may be as simple as including this little suitcase, or to incorporate an entire theme into the shoot. I can't wait to share when all of my visions come to life over the next few months!

I have envisioned these first two photos for some time now and thought this would be a perfect opportunity to try it out with these two little cutie pies. It turned out more magical than I could have ever imagined. Everything about it just makes me smile! Chase Palm Park always gives me the best light for my photos!

Orella Ranch Wedding - Dianne & Mike

2010-09-30T13:12:00.000-07:00

Dianne & Mike had an amazing wedding! As the day unfolded, I couldn't help but realize, Dianne & I have a lot of the same taste! My wedding 3 years ago was almost identical to hers! Her colors were the same, the groom/groomsmen wore the exact same suits & ties. Even our first dance song was the same and it was totally random -Frankie Valli "Can't Take My Eyes Off You"

This was my first time photographing a wedding at the Orella Ranch, which overlooks Gaviota Beach. The breathtaking views and endless spots to shoot at all over the property, instantly won over my heart!

This day was all about having a good time with family and friends! I can't thank all of the other vendors enough for making this such a perfect day and such a wonderful event to photograph!!!

Location: Orella Ranch
Coordinator: Donya Diamond w/ Custom Events For You
Flowers: Bree Tate
Caterer: Secret Ingredient
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Videographer: You're The Star

And a big thanks to my wonderful 2nd photographer, Andrejka who was finally in town long enough to shoot a wedding with me again! She got some of the images below...

I loved Dianne's comfy white Vans for her wedding shoes!

Their "First Look" before the wedding started. We were able to get so many photos at all of the different locations because they opted to see each other before the ceremony. That's definitely something you want to think about if you're getting married at an amazing location with lots of places to shoot at!

This was a cool "shuttle stop" that was down in the parking area. Guests park at the bottom and are shuttled up to the top of the hill.

Look at this view from the ceremony spot!!!

We cruised down to the beach to meet the wedding party for a few photos too

Dianne's Dad giving her away...

It was super hot, but the boys came prepared with coolers of beer. I wanted to sneak a cold one so bad! :)

I loved this one! It reminds me of those cute Corona commercials

Beautiful sunset!

This was exactly how my first dance ended up... My husband just flung me around the dance floor and I was going along for the ride :)

I just want to add that I climbed up a 20' ladder to get this shot!

Nina's Perfect Day at the Zoo!

2010-09-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I found out through a friend about another sweet little girl in town that got diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Nina was 1-2 weeks shy of starting her first day of Kindergarten when she found out. I spent the next hour reading through Nina's Mother's blog describing what they were all going through. My heart sank as I sat there in tears reading about a family that I didn't even know. All I could think about was how heartbreaking this must be and how they will be cherishing every moment they have with their sweet little Nina. Besides my prayers, I had nothing to offer to this family except the one gift I was given that could hopefully bring some bright smiles to their faces at such a rough time in their lives. I instantly sent an email to the contact listed on their blog. I offered a photoshoot to the family...

As it turned out, they were actually planning a big party for Nina with all of her family & friends. This would be a perfect chance for me to get some wonderful photographs for the family! This was an opportunity for everyone to get together and just have a wonderful time - And that they did! Over 300 people showed up to the zoo for Nina that day. There was yummy treats, games, face painting and lots of hugs going around. I have never been surrounded by so many happy smiling faces before.

I was happy to be a part of this special day! If you'd like to see the slideshow highlighting the whole day, check it out here

To read more about Nina and her journey, please visit her Mother Rosy's blog: http://prayingfornina.blogspot.com/

And if this story has touched your heart, as it did mine, please visit here to see what you can do to help: http://friendsofthefredeens.blogspot.com

The beautiful Fredeen Family

Nina was so excited to see one of her best friends

These big hugs just melted my heart!

I love this next series of photos. This little one was so determined to get the frog into the lily pad :)

How sweet that the fox started to lick Nina!

Holiday Portrait Specials!

2010-09-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

That's right... It's that time of year again! I tend to book up months in advance for holiday portraits, so my specials will be running September - December.

I only have 5 weekend spots left through December, so if you know you are only available on a weekend, please contact me soon to reserve yourself a spot. I am a lot more flexible if you are open to a weekday for your session though.

I also offer beautiful gift certificates for photoshoots, so if you're looking for the perfect gift for a friend or loved one, please contact me for details

info@kaciejean.com

Happy Holidays! :)

Firestone Vineyard Wedding - Stefanie & Nate

2010-08-31T22:22:00.000-07:00

I have seriously been giddy about this wedding all week! Stefanie & Nate were married at the beautiful Firestone Vineyard in Los Olivos. I have never seen a couple more in love and so sweet to one another. They left me tearing up even well after the ceremony ended... I truly believe throughout the day, they completely forgot I was even there taking photos of them. They were just so lost in each others eyes and so caught up in the moment.

I loved everything about their wedding! And the best part, is that THEY did it ALL themselves! I have never photographed a wedding with this color scheme before, but Stefanie blew me away with how she incorporated it into the whole event. Nate is an amazing artist and designed their invites, menus, programs etc. And Stefanie, along with the help of her family and friends put everything together.

Of course they had some help putting on this extraordinary wedding from their talented vendors listed below. I think this was my first time working with Camille from Modern Day Design and I couldn't believe how gorgeous the flowers turned out! They were all so unique and such a perfect blend of Stefanie's colors.

Vendors...
Hotel: Wine Valley Inn
Hair & make-up: Luna Bella
Flowers: Camille from Modern Day Design
Catering: Seasons Catering
DJ: Coastal Entertainment
Lighting: Bellavista Designs
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Desserts: Jana's Creative Cakes

I also had help from one of my dear friends Whitby, who came all the way from Hawaii to be my 2nd shooter! xoxo

This was my first time photographing at the Wine Valley Inn and it may just be one of my new favorites! If you are getting married in the Valley, you HAVE to get ready here!

I mean seriously... look how perfect all the colors match!

This was the most unique garter I have ever seen! The best part about it, is that it is pieced together from heirlooms from both sides of their families.

Stefanie had this custom designed nest made for their rings with the wedding date on it

Stefanie - you're gorgeous!

Look at these flowers!!!

The handsome groom

I have been so lucky this year and most of my couples have opted to see each other before the wedding. We always start out with an intimate "first look" with just the two of them. All of my couples have said how much they loved their first look and it completely calmed all of their nerves before they walked down the aisle. It was also nice to get some extra alone time with just the two of them.

Nate's expression was priceless. It was so hard for him to hold back the tears, which then lead Stefanie to tear up... which then led me to tear up!

This might be one of the most romantic settings ever!!! Who knew a barrel room could be so beautiful!

Here are the handmade programs they put together themselves. If you can see close enough, Nate drew pictures telling their "love story" throughout the program. They are just the cutest!

Besides the flowers, Stefanie and her family built this chuppah from a tree in her Mother's backyard.

Their beautiful wedding party

I LOVE this one!!!

Can you say ROMANTIC!!!

Such a remarkable evening...

Teton Wedding Sneak Peek - Cait & Shawn

2010-08-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

I still have so many photos to go through from my amazing trip to the Tetons in Wyoming, but I just wanted to share a few of my favorites from Cait & Shawn's wedding!

How breathtaking is this ceremony site!?

This might just be one of my favorites! We found this old outhouse in the middle of nowhere and we HAD to take a photo in it! :)

If you've never been out to Jackson Hole before, it is quite the scene for Buffalo (I guess these are actually Bison, but I like Buffalo better) Almost daily I would get caught driving through a heard of 100 buffalo just making their way through the road or open fields. After the wedding, Cait, Shawn and I were on a buffalo mission to try to get some photos with them in the background. Although it seems fun, you really need to be careful because they can charge you at any moment. When we saw a herd, we would park the car and leave all of our doors open with the car running. We would run out for a few shots and then jump back in the car.

I got this shot from my car window. There's no way I was getting out of the car to get this one so close!

Santa Barbara Engagement - Rana & Brian

2010-08-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, this gloomy summer we've been having has been getting me down a bit. Until the sun peaks through and gives me the gorgeous yummy light we got for Rana & Brian's engagement session last night! Seriously, this light just gives me the chills :) This might be some of the best light I have ever gotten... Rana & Brian have been together for just about 7 years and are finally taking the leap to get married in October. You can tell from the photos how in love with one another they are!

Rana - you're beautiful!!!

We snuck in to get some shots with the duckies :)

One of my favorite times, is right before a couple is about to kiss!

We were headed to get some shots on the tracks and we heard the train coming - I was frantically trying to get everything set up and was hoping to switch lenses to get a wider shot, but I didn't want to miss our opportunity. I still love how it turned out though!

Seriously! Look at this gorgeous light!!!

Santa Barbara Baby Portraits - Mini Session

2010-08-07T23:16:00.000-07:00

Each month I host a few "Baby Mini Portrait Sessions." These sessions are an affordable option for people to get few beautiful portraits of their babies every few months since they seem to grow up so incredibly fast! All you have to do is contact me to let me know you are interested in doing a mini session and I will either add you to a session I already have scheduled, or you can pick a date and get a few other babies to join you to make your own session.

Here is my most recent session. These were taken at the beautiful Stow House off of Los Carneros. I love this location since it's such a unique place with so many different spots to shoot at. Not many people realize that there is even a "lake" behind the main house area too!

Just look at these cuties!!!

Santa Barbara Family Portraits - Gorgeous Light!

2010-07-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post this photoshoot a long time ago, but like I mentioned before, I have been swamped and am just now getting to it.

These little cuties were a joy to photograph! The lighting was amazing and just look at their adorable little tu-tus! (note to parents: I LOVE tu-tu's!!! You can never go wrong with them if you have a little girl and want cute photos)

Santa Cruz Wedding - Jennifer & Kyle

2010-07-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

So I have to apologize that it has officially been one whole month since I last posted anything on my blog! In my defense, we just went through a big move to a new house and I have been swamped trying to get everything organized. Also, now that we live in an actual house, we finally have room for out of town guests and we've had them every weekend since we moved in. I have been enjoying all of the much needed quality time with my closest family & friends. And just because I haven't posted anything in a month, does not mean I haven't been super busy shooting! I have a TON to post, but will have to get to it when I can.

Anyways, on to Jen & Kyle's beautiful wedding...
This wedding was special for me because my wonderful sister who has been volunteering in Ecuador for the last year, cut her trip a month or so short, just so she could be a bridesmaid in Jen's wedding. So one day after my sister returned from her trip, we made the drive to Santa Cruz for Jen's wedding. It was an amazingly gorgeous day - not only with the weather, but everything Jen put together for her big day. I LOVED the color of the bridesmaid dresses and her hot pink shoes!

I also wanted to thank my 2nd photographer, Stephen Dela Cruz for helping me out. He is always my go-to guy when I have a Santa Cruz wedding! He got a couple of the cool shots posted below.

I have a ton of gorgeous photos to share, so I will let the photos do all the talking...

Their wedding took place at the beautiful Seascape Golf Club in Aptos.

Here's Kyle's adorable little girl giggling as Jen puts on her wedding dress

Here's my fabulous sister helping with the finishing touches of the dress

Work it Jen!!!

I asked my 2nd shooter Stephen to get this shot for me while I finished up with Jen & Kyle

I just adore this shot Stephen got for me. I love it mostly because my sister is radiating from her big beautiful smile, but also because it shows just how similar Jen & her little sister look, just like my sister and I do too :)

I have to give credit to Jen & Kyle for this shot! They were the ones that had the idea and I was definitely down for it. So fun!

LOVE the shoes! Jen is a smart girl and brought along these awesome shoes just for photos. She wore comfy shoes the rest of the day.

Those crazy Branham High teachers sure know how to party!!!

I was out on the golf course trying to get the last shot of this post and this cute couple was having a nice romantic moment on the balcony.

Little Eliana Turns One!!!

2010-06-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Some of you may remember when I posted photos last year from Eliana's benefit concert that we put on to help raise money for her family. At only 4 months of age she was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor. She has been a fighter ever since! She is now over 13 months old and doing so well! She endures weekly chemo treatments and other procedures and it doesn't seem to faze her spirit one bit. I can honestly say that she was one of the happiest babies I have ever photographed. She was practically falling to the ground laughing the whole time! I can only guess that her sweet mama Samantha has something to do with that. She is an amazingly strong woman who would do anything for her baby girl. I know they spend most of their days singing and laughing together! This was a special shoot just for little Ellie and her Mama...

Santa Barbara Family Portraits - The Strong Family

2010-06-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

It's always an honor when another professional photographer asks you to do portraits for them. It's actually one of the fabulous bonuses of being a photographer, because you can always do trades for one another! I was so excited for Mary Jane's family shoot with her little cutie patootie 3 month old! They are the most adorable little family!

Santa Barbara Family Portraits - Herlihy Family

2010-06-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

I felt so honored when the Herlihy family contacted me from Northern California wanting to do family portraits. I wasn't planning on taking a trip up north for a while, so instead, they decided to spend a fun weekend in Santa Barbara so they could get their portraits done. It was a foggy day, but the sun seemed to clear just for us in our little park and as soon as we finished the fog rolled back in. Sometimes I wonder how I get so lucky!

Their little boy was full of big smiles the whole time and we were able to get so many adorable shots of him!

Newborn Photography - Kellen James

2010-06-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

This photoshoot was extra special for me since it was photos of my best friend's baby! It was so wonderful seeing how natural being a Mommy came to her when Kellen was only a few days old. I love you guys and can't wait to see you again soon!

Montecito Wedding - Corina & Jeff

2010-06-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO MY NEW BLOG!!!

I have been holding off on posting Corina & Jeff's amazing wedding until I had my new blog design all ready to go. So here it is! I'm so excited! I want to thank Brian Hancock for the beautifully custom designed blog he created for me.

Now onto the wedding... From the day I met Corina, I knew this would be an amazing event with well thought out details. She had a beautiful image of what she wanted her big day to look like, and she planned it out to the smallest of details.

The ceremony took place at one of the most beautiful churches in town - Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Corina & Jeff work for the Police & Fire Dept, so she was able to get her hands an old police car and fire truck that she had parked out in front of the church. So cool!

The reception was just around the corner at the El Mirador Estate. I feel like I can't even put into words how unique and breathtaking this Estate is. It sits on 24 acres of land and is filled with trees, flowers, koi fish ponds, bridges, caves, stone columns etc... I wish we had more time for photos because I could have spent an entire day there photographing them!

I want to send out a huge thanks to all of the wonderful vendors that made this day so perfect for Corina & Jeff and such a phenomenal event to photograph!

Rentals/Coordinating: The biggest most important shout out goes to Heidi Whitcomb, owner of Ventura Party Rentals
Designer: Greg Finnerty, Premier Event Design
Awesome band: Mini-driver
Flowers: floral designs by roni jordan
Catering: Lorraine Lim Catering
Lighting: Bella Vista
Videographer: Nick Bowser, Crafthouse Productions
Bar: Attitude Adjustments
Valet: Signature Parking
cake: LaStarr Bakery
And a huge thanks to my 2nd photographer for the day who got some of these wonderful photos below: Katie Moos

Could she be any hotter!?

Here's the handsome fireman :)

I adore this one of Corina!!!

The Kono Twins - Sneak Peak!

2010-05-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

My very dear friends Sarah and Konrad just gave birth to twins exactly one week ago... A perfect pair - a boy & a girl!

We wanted to get a few quick photos for them before they get too big. I swear they are already twice the size they were when I went to visit them in the hospital only a few days ago! Here's just a sneak peak of some of my favorites. More to come later next week...

Santa Barbara Engagement - Stefanie & Nate

2010-05-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

These two were total troopers! We arrived at our first location for pictures and it turned out there were 2 weddings taking place, so we had to think fast and change spots. The closest alternate spot was the Douglas Preserve. (which was definitely fine with me since it's one of my favorites) I mentioned to Stefanie that she might want to bring some alternate shoes to walk in and then put her hot red heels on when we take the photos. She opted to wear the heels the whole time! Let me just say... if you've never been there before, we probably walked almost a mile through dirt, plants, and pot holes and she never even slowed down or stumbled. This girl rocks!

Then the other obstacle we faced was the incredible winds that just kept getting worse. It didn't faze Stefanie & Nate. They just came prepared and brought some fun pinwheels, bubbles and a kite. Unfortunately it was just way too windy for the kite, but I'm so happy with how the photos turned out because you can barely even tell there were almost hurricane winds blowing the whole time!

I am so excited for their wedding at the Firestone Vineyard in a couple months. I already know it's going to be a super fun day! :)

Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway Winner Photos!

2010-05-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

Alex was the wonderful Mother chosen for my 2nd annual "Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway".
We took pictures of her cute little family last night at the Santa Barbara Mission and I had so much fun. Little Gus is an absolute cutie! Alex has also joined my Stroller Boot Camp class so I get to hang out with them every couple of days :)

Santa Barbara Engagement - Mark & Marie

2010-05-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

I had the most beautiful engagement session last night at my one and only favorite spot to shoot - The Douglas Preserve... Mark & Marie are such a sweet couple and you can definitely feel their love just by looking at their photos.

I will start off with one of my favorites from the day. It's simply magical!!!

WINNER of Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!

2010-05-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce the winner of the 2nd annual "Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway."

I've got to tell you - I absolutely love being able to offer this to one deserving Mom, but it is so hard to choose just one, since I truly believe every Mother deserves this!

Some wonderfully amazing Mother's were nominated and I would like to honor them by offering them a "runner's up" $75 discount on any photo session with me.

The winner of the 2010 Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway is: Alexandra Beach Shadle

Alexandra is a new Mother to a 6 week old baby boy and was nominated by her sweet Mother. Her Mother had nothing but wonderful things to say about her and shared all of the thoughtful things she has done for others - even all the way up to the last couple weeks of pregnancy...

Alexandra will receive a FREE photoshoot, along with a $100 print credit that can be used towards beautiful professional prints.

Congratulations Alexandra and happy 1st Mother's Day!!!

Baby Mini Session - 5 little friends!

2010-05-02T08:19:00.000-07:00

I am hosting another weekend full of mini sessions. Is it crazy to think that by this evening I will have photographed just about 22 babies in 36 hours!? I can't wait to post the photos from my first "mommy mini session" with all of the beautiful mamas with their children, but I will have to wait until after Mother's Day since some of them will be giving the photos as gift to their own Mothers...

These 5 little friends below are all around the same age and either just turned 1 or are just about to. They were so adorable! We probably should have tried to get their "group shot" towards the beginning, because once it was time to make them all squeeze into the wagon, they were ready to go home. It was quite an adventure :)

Santa Barbara Engagement - Ashley & Jamie

2010-04-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

So I always give my clients a little guidance as to what to wear to a photoshoot and I never know what they're actually going to show up wearing. I just have to say I was so excited when I saw cute little Ashley struttin' her stuff towards me in this hot little dress and heels! You go girl!

We started out at the Santa Barbara Courthouse because that's where Jamie proposed to Ashley and then we headed to Elings Park because they wanted a location that had lots of Oak trees and beautiful flowers. It was gorgeous!

I am so excited for their wedding, which isn't until 2011. It's at the beautiful Alisal Ranch and Resort in Solvang. If you haven't been there before, you have got to check it out!!!

This is one of my favorites from the day!

I LOVE these flowers!

Santa Ynez Wedding - Dorian & Stefan

2010-04-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday was the official kick off to my fun wedding season of 2010. I seriously could not have asked for a more amazing wedding to start off the with! The weather was absolutely perfect and the scenic background was so unique and unlike anything I had ever photographed before here in Santa Barbara. I always forget how beautiful it is in the Santa Ynez Valley and that it is only a short 25-30 minute drive from where I live in SB. I really need to get out there and shoot more often!

If you listen to country music and live in the area, you may know Stefan as "Carp". He is the early morning DJ on 105.9 Krazy Country. I am a huge country fan, so it's been fun listening to him in the mornings leading up to this big day!

Their ceremony took place at the beautiful Greek Orthodox Church and our original plan was to drive up the 154 to their reception and stop for photos along the way. Dorian had a super cool spot all picked out and we were going to hop a fence to a big open field with a few oak trees. Unfortunately, once we got there, we realized there was no way Dorian would be able to get over the barbed wire fence in her wedding dress. I definitely did not want to attempt it! I think it was for the best though because we ended up photographing the last bit of their photos at their new home they just moved into a month ago. It was so cute with a white fence and pretty arch at the end of their walkway. He even got to carry her across the threshold!

Their day was perfectly put together with help from all of these other fabulous vendors...
Coordinator: Kerry Lee Dickey of Santa Barbara Wine Country Weddings & Events
Flowers: Passion Flowers in Ventura
Cake: Montecito Confections
Reception: Hadsten House Inn & Spa in Solvang
Videographer: Frank of Shamrock Video
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
I also had help from a great photographer friend Brion Hopkins who got some of the shots below. I love seeing the different perspective that Brion gets from the shots I set up. He used his cool tilt shift lens for this first shot of the Church. I may just have to get myself one of these lenses!

p.s. I had the hardest time narrowing down the images to share, so it is total photo overload below!!!

Dorian is absolutely breathtaking!!!

I LOVE Greek weddings!

Look at this sweet ride! Love it!

Dorian had the sexiest shoes! She never even complained about them once and ended up wearing them ALL night! You rock girl!

I love this shot!

Maternity Photos - Two Beautiful Bellies!

2010-04-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

I cannot tell you how excited I am for these babies to be born! These are my two dearest friends and they are both due within a couple weeks of each other. April's due date was actually a couple days ago and Sarah will be having her twins in the next few weeks.

I feel like they are even more beautiful now that they are pregnant. People always mention the "pregnancy glow" but these to beauties take it to a whole new level.

I honestly cried while I was editing their photos. They are both going to make the most amazing parents and have already been wonderful "Aunties" to my own sweet Camille.

I go to sleep every night excited like a little girl going to Disneyland in the morning -just waiting for the "we're heading to the hospital" text message :)

I love you girls and can't wait for your little angels to join us!

The first photos are of Sarah. She is such a trooper and is pregnant with twins!
A perfect pair - a boy and a girl!
Doesn't she look amazing!? I also have to add that this was probably the most action she has gotten in months! She had to stop working at only 20+ weeks and hasn't really been able to leave the house from being on moderate bed rest.

I also want to add that this session was done within only 5 minutes believe it or not! There were a ton of yellow wild flowers blooming right around the corner from her house, but of course they were all cut down the day we were getting together to take photos. So these were all taken 2 steps from our car on an overgrown lot that was for sale. I'm pretty proud of how they turned out because of what we were working with!

And here is my gorgeous friend April. She is one of my oldest friends and dearest friends. We go all the way back to Jr. High. Is it just a coincidence that her name is April, she was born in April, her wedding anniversary is in April, and now her first born is due in April!? It was like it was all meant to be :)

I have been going crazy during this whole pregnancy because they have decided to wait to find out what the sex is. I told her that she should just have the Dr. write down what it is and mail it to me so I could at least know. They are so strong for waiting to find out. I don't think I could ever do it!

My favorite part about these photos are the expressions on her hubby's face. Melts my little heart! Ahhhh I just love you guys so much!!!

I am one of those people that find pregnancy a very beautiful time in a woman's life and they deserves to feel sexy! April is definitely one hot mama and I'm so happy she trusted me enough to photograph her like this (and also post it for the world to see)

2nd Annual Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!

2010-04-21T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce the 2nd Annual Mother's Day Photoshoot Giveaway!!!

In honor of Mother's Day and to celebrate all of those wonderful Mommies out there, I would love to offer one deserving Mom a free photoshoot and $100 print credit for her & her family!

$275 VALUE!

Here are the rules:
1. Email info@kaciejean.com 1-3 paragraphs of why you feel you, your Mom, or a Mom you know, deserves a free photoshoot (please include their full name, email address and home address so I can mail them the beautiful gift certificate and a photo if possible)
2. You can either nominate yourself or another deserving Mom
3. The photoshoot must take place in Santa Barbara
4. The photoshoot has to take place within the the months of May-June
5. The deserving Mom has to be a new client to Kacie Jean Photography

I will make my decision of the most deserving Mom by 9am Tuesday May 4th...
At that time, I will mail you (or them) a beautiful gift certificate notifying them of their deserving photoshoot!

Good luck and I can't wait to hear about all of the fabulous Mom's out there!!!

Santa Barbara Portraits - Mommy "Mini Sessions"

2010-04-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

***EDIT*** LAST MINUTE OPENING FOR 6:00-6:15pm

There is nothing sweeter then the amazing bond between a mother and her children. In honor of Mother's Day this year, I will be hosting one day of "Mommy Mini Sessions"

These sessions are just for Mommies WITH their children. Whether you have a new baby, or your baby is all grown up, this is your chance to get some beautiful portraits done at a very reasonable rate. ***Mommies - this is also your chance to give the Father of your children a beautiful gift for Father's Day!

DETAILS
Sessions will be booked in 15 minute increments. (That will be plenty of time to get a bunch of wonderful shots)
Cost: $30
Date: Saturday June 5th
Location: Alice Keck Park
Available spots: 6:00pm

Here are some photos honoring a bunch of beautiful Mamas with their children :)

Santa Barbara Portraits - Mini Portrait Session

2010-04-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

I had my 2nd mini portrait session last night and I am officially in love with them! We headed out to the Ellwood bluffs and I was so excited when I saw all of the yellow flowers! I have shot there many times before, but it's usually during winter for holiday portraits so I have always missed these flowers. Is it seriously possible that my clients really do have the cutest babies in the world!?

This 1st one might just be one of my all time favorites!

Santa Barbara Portraits - 1st Round of Photo Mini Sessions

2010-04-11T15:55:00.001-07:00

This Saturday was the kick off to the new "Baby Photo Mini Sessions" I am now offering. We had such a wonderful time with 5 adorable babies! The lighting was perfect and the babies were ready to smile for the camera - what more could I have asked for :)

I don't think I could have asked for more cuter babies! I LOVE them!

Santa Barbara Portraits - Jorge & Tanner

2010-04-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

These boys and I go way back! Jorge used to be roommates with my husband before we were married. Tanner was probably only a year old when Jason first moved in with them. We have seriously been trying to do portraits for the two of them for the last 6 years! It was only appropriate that we do their portraits at the beautiful Santa Barbara City College since Jorge has been coaching there with my husband all of these years.

Jorge is incredibly sweet with Tanner and is such a good role model for a father-son relationship :)

INTRODUCING MINI PORTRAIT SESSIONS FOR BABIES!

2010-04-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

Email me to reserve yourself a spot!

I know how everyone would love portraits of their baby every few months since they seem to grow up so fast, but not everyone can afford a full portrait session that often. This is your chance to get a few wonderful portraits done of your baby at only a fraction of the cost.

Here's the scoop for these mini sessions:
I will need to have at least 3 people that would also like portraits done at the same time. You can either gather a bunch of your friends or just add yourself to my list of others that are interested. These portraits are only of babies and not for family portraits.

1. Cost: $75 + tax (regular portrait packages start at $250)

You will receive a $30 product credit that can either be redeemed for professional prints, products, or jpg images. You are guaranteed at least 10-25 beautiful portraits of your baby.
A disk of all of the images taken of your baby can be purchased for an additional $100 + tax (normally $300)

2. Time: Usually after 5:30pm

Your baby will get 60-90 minutes of photography that will be split between them and the other babies

3. Date: Now offering them monthly!

4. Location: TBD

Please email me to find out when the next session is and to reserve your spot today! info@kaciejean.com

Here are some portraits from the last mini session I did

Saratoga Engagement Photos - Jen & Kyle

2010-04-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

I grew up in Northern California, but haven't lived there in almost 11 years. I always seem to forget just how beautiful the scenery is. I am photographing Jen & Kyle's wedding in June in Aptos, but they wanted to do their engagement session at the Savannah Chanelle Winery in Saratoga since it's where they got engaged. Of course I was excited to shoot there again since it seems to be a Nor Cal favorite of all of my clients. This time, I ventured a little deeper into the woods that are located just below the winery and boy am I glad I did! This place is breathtaking!!!

LOVE LOVE LOVE these trees!

Could this backdrop be any more beautiful!?

Featured on the Pictage Blog!

2010-03-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by the fabulous folks over at Pictage asking if I can write a blog post to share with other photographers about Children's Portraiture. I jumped at the chance because I love helping others and I feel I have some pretty great tricks that seem to work pretty well when it comes to getting kids to cooperate during our shoots. Check out the entire post HERE

I list a few of my "Tips & Tricks for a successful Children's Portrait Session" Check it out!

Santa Barbara Portraits - Levi at 8 months

2010-03-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

I have been in heaven with all of the adorable babies I have been photographing lately! Levi is definitely up there as one of the cutest! Usually it takes a couple minutes for a baby to warm up and start smiling, but the second we put him down, he started grinning from ear to ear and laughing at all the silly things we were doing to entertain him. It definitely helps when the parents find no shame in jumping up and down making loud high pitch noises with me :)

Be sure to check out Levi's parent's running shoe store too: SB RUNNING -It's definitely one of the best stores in town to find the most perfect pair of shoes!