Santiago Oaks Multi-Generational Family Photoshoot
One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon is when I’m doing a family photoshoot. After a long morning of sending proposals, answering emails, and calling people — there is no better way to refresh than being outdoors and having fun with a family.
Well, this one was a multi-generational family. Meet the Keiths! They wanted to get their family portraits updated and to make sure that grandma was in it. Then the dogs were there too and I’m just a sucker for dogs anyway.
Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange, California is a great spot for family portraits for those looking for that nature-vibe. Old Towne Orange is also just a few miles away so going to dinner with the whole family after the photoshoot shouldn’t be so hard to arrange!
As we were walking to another location, I got some shots of Adam and his daughters. How adorable are they!
A huge thank you again to the Keith Family for trusting in me and having me spend an afternoon with them. Now, time to get their prints delivered!
If you live in Central Orange County, I highly recommend a family photoshoot at Santiago Oaks Regional Park. If you want to arrange a photoshoot like this one, let me know and I’d be very happy to help!
Best Coast Improv - Hogwash May 2018
Jessica and I have never been to an intimate show like the very lively one that The Wayward Artist and Orange County's Best Coast Improv put on this Cinco de Mayo. Cleverly titled "Hogwash" following the pre-lude, "Fantastic Scenes & Where to Find Them," the show was held at the Grand Central Art Center in historic downtown Santa Ana, California.
One of the performers happens to be an old friend from college. We've been meaning to see his shows but due to scheduling conflicts, we couldn't find the time for a while. Then, Cinco de Mayo 2018 came and we had one of the most entertaining and laughter filled nights we've ever had.
The group of lads and the lovely gal were on top of their game. As Harry Potter fans, we appreciated every minute of the show. The show centered around Harry Potter themes including casting ridiculously named spells to possibly one of them "eating" Hagrid's dog, Fang. I know, I know -- A little morbid but trust me, you had to be there!
Anyway, here are more photos from my trusty street photography camera.
For more information about this awesome troupe visit Best Coast Improv's website. Truly a great night out experience. Hope you get to catch them next time!
Favorite Street Photography Places in Orange County
I've made many street photographs in Southern California and Orange County is one of the hardest places to do street photography. Not that it's not beautiful here because it absolutely is but Orange County is a "need-a-car" kind of place. Not many people walk in the streets and we do not have many downtown areas.
However if you want to do some street photography here, check out these places:
I've made many street photographs in Southern California and Orange County is one of the hardest places to do street photography. Not that it's not beautiful here because it absolutely is; but Orange County is a "need-a-car" kind of place. Not many people walk in the streets and we do not have many downtown areas where you could find interesting subjects.
However if you want to do some street photography here in Orange County, California–check out these places:
#1. Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach, CA. 2017. © Ron Mariano. See more "Life in Color" Street Photography.
Surf City as they call it. Downtown Huntington Beach has a lot of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes that you will surely find many people walking about. Also, don't forget about the beach scene. You will surely find interesting subjects here.
#2. Fullerton, California
Fullerton, California. © Ron Mariano.
Downtown Fullerton exemplifies a modern "Main Street U.S.A." It is very lovely in the weekends as you'll see many people walking about. There are also a lot of bars and cafes and if you want to do night street photography, it is not a bad place at all to make some good photographs. Although, I have to warn you that there are a lot of intoxicated people in the weekends due to the number of bars in the area. Be careful!
#3. Balboa Island, Newport Beach, California
Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, California. © Ron Mariano.
Another beach town but definitely Orange County. So many Mexican restaurants that serve margaritas and beer. The families over at the Balboa Fun Zone are fun to watch too. If you want to make pictures of boats, sunsets, palm trees, and the such--I definitely suggest coming to Balboa Island. It can get a bit crowded and the busy areas might have narrow streets but you'll have a great time!
#4. Orange, California
Old town Orange is one of the most charming places I've ever explored. There are countless ice cream parlors, diners, boutiques, bars, restaurants, and parks to go to. If downtown Fullerton is more of a "Modern Main Street U.S.A.," then Old-Town Orange is definitely "Classic Main Street U.S.A."
By the way, these places are good for any kind of photoshoots too: dance photography, portrait, editorial, and etc.
#5. Anaheim, California
Anaheim is a little more spread out. The downtown area needs to be revitalized a little bit more. You also need a car to get around everywhere here. But you can find good subjects at the Anaheim Packing District, Downtown Disney, Harbor Blvd, and Disneyland. You just really have to be patient.
What do you think of my list? Are you from Orange County and do you have any other suggestions? Am I missing.... Laguna Beach? Well, I haven't really done street photography there but I will soon and I'll let you know about it!
Santa Monica Dance Photography: Jestoni Dagdag
Jestoni Dagdag is a dance artist based in Los Angeles, California. A graduate from the University of California Irvine, Jestoni seeks to draw from experience and inspire artists of all backgrounds. He has performed with many reputable and innovative dance companies across the United States.
Jestoni Dagdag
Dancer/Choreographer/Artist. Los Angeles, California.
Jestoni Dagdag is a dance artist based in Los Angeles, California. A graduate from the University of California Irvine, Jestoni seeks to draw from his academic training and experience in the performing arts to inspire artists of all backgrounds and generations. He has also performed with many reputable and innovative dance companies across the United States. To follow his work, visit @dagdag_dance on Instagram.
Photo credit: © Ron Mariano. 2017. Like Ron's page on Facebook for more updates and photos!