Los Angeles Wedding Photographer - Polka Photos Photo Blog: Wedding Photography, Photojournalism, candid photos

Church Wedding

Lomita, California

Claudia and Tony were married at the beautiful St. Mary Margaret Church. Here the beaming bride is surrounded by a bustle of activity around her.

Claudia's mom gives her the blessing.

As I waited with the bride, Michael took these photos of the cute flowergirls and handsome ringbearer walking down the aisle.

Claudia's mom and brother walk her down the aisle.

I love this photo of Claudia.

The flowergirls sit quietly next to the maid of honor.

Claudia and Tony had a traditional full Catholic mass which included readings,

the gospel, and homily.

Then came the vows.

Tony looks so serious...

as does his new brother-in-law.

The rings...

and the curious ringbearer.

The lighting of the unity candle

The lazo

The priest blesses the wine for the Eucharist.

Everyone held hands during the Lord's Prayer.

Tony's mom gives him a big hug during the Sign of Peace.

The priest gives communion.

Claudia says a prayer to the Virgin Mary after presenting her with flowers.

Then all the guests pray for the couple.

The kiss

The newlyweds walk joyously down the aisle in a photo taken by Michael.

Tony looks like he's sighing with relief.

The Happy Couple

Congratulations!!!

Labels: church, wedding

Like Father Like Son

Lomita, California

Don't let the face fool you - the bride is already inside. Tony asked me to take a posed photo of him in front of the church doors. He has a photo of his father with the same pose on his wedding day. I couldn't resist a little bit of a vintage twist with the coloring.

Labels: wedding

Going to the Chapel...

Lomita, California

Claudia is a picture of calm as she gets ready for the big day.

Lauren, the bride's awesome maid of honor, pins Claudia's hair in place.

Claudia's brother peeks in as she, Lauren and the mother of the bride adjust the veil.

One last touch...

Tony and Claudia love to surprise each other. This card is one of many thoughtful gifts the couple exchanged.

Claudia's mom buttons up the bride's gown.

These shoes are equally at home on the catwalk as down the aisle.

Ready...

Set...

Go!

Labels: wedding

Tying the Knot

Los Angeles, California

Michael shot these photos of Tony getting ready at his parent's house. I love Tony's serious gaze as his dad proudly helps adjust his collar.

Who says style is only reserved for the bride?

Tony shows off his cool cufflinks and watch.

Tony's mom gives her blessing.

It's said that love comes from the heart, but you can really see it in the eyes.

Labels: Los Angeles, wedding

Congratulations Claudia & Tony!

San Pedro, California

I feel so lucky to have met Claudia and Tony. They are both so warm and kind. We saw each other a few times before the wedding so when their big day came it was more like shooting a friend's wedding.

Photos are very important to this couple. I shot their newlywed portraits in the time between the ceremony and reception. We were running a little bit behind and I mentioned to Tony that I had a few more quick ideas but I didn't want them to be late. Tony gave me the answer that photographers dream of... He said that the photos are really important to Claudia and that he wants to make his wife happy. And with that he gave me the go ahead to keep shooting.

Here's one of those photos.

The photos session turned into a real cliffhanger... Stay tuned for more photos!

Labels: San Pedro, wedding

Caution: Non-Human spotted in Hollywood

Hollywood, California

There are aliens among us. If you see this being, help return him to District 9.

Please put this emergency number in your speed dial.

866-666-6001

It can save your life.

Fun With Villains

Los Angeles, California

Remember my post about Cirque Berzerk? I forgot to mention the awesome band Vaud & the Villains that performed after every show. I went back on Friday to see them again.

If you haven't seen Vaud or his Villains, they are more than a band. They are storytellers regaling with tales of fast women and the men who try to catch them...

and musicians...

and singers...

and dancers...

and Peaches Mahoney...

and lots of fun!!!

Labels: Los Angeles

Rockin' Reception

Avila Beach, California

Melissa and Ryan's reception was held in a big tent at Avila Beach Resort. One of their unique wedding touches was this signature life ring instead of the traditional guest book.