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Day of Gratitude

As the leaves fall and the crisp air of November rolls in, we welcome the season of gratitude. Every year I am reminded of all of my blessings.

I am fortunate to be a working photographer. Thank you dearest clients for believing in me, for trusting me with your most precious of memories. It is never easy, and it’s a lot of work, but I am inspired by you to give my best.

A big thanks to my mom, who has no idea why I sometimes lie down to take photos, yet who insists on assisting me during Chicago portrait sessions.

Thank you to my dear husband for shooting by my side during weddings, not complaining when I stay up all night editing, and picking up lots of take-out dinners.

And many thanks to our doggy Ollie for keeping me company as I edit and reminding me when I need to go for a walk.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by those you love!

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FL&R

Brittney Hannon - I love how dogs are our little editing buddies! Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! =)

Aleks Bienkowska - Thank you Brittney! It was wonderful, thank you. Hope you had an awesome Turkey Day, too!!!

Victoria - A great reminder to all of us to be thankful for the little things, we so easily forget about!

Kristine Marie - My dogs remind me when it’s time for a walk too! How lucky we are. 🙂

Aleks Bienkowska - Yes we are Kristine!

Encore! Love’s Reflection

I’m drawn to this bride’s smile in the mirror, with the word leap reflected back at her. Her handsome groom, now husband, stands silhouetted looking upon her.

This photo didn’t make my original edit for Susan and Josh’s wedding blog post, but I love it all the same. Perfect for my weekly Encore! series.

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FL&R

Encore! Leaf the Rings

I love the colors of fall. Growing up in Chicago, every autumn was a majestic explosion of yellows, oranges and reds.

Fall in Los Angeles is more subdued, hidden. But it’s still here if you look for it.

I knew I wanted to incorporate an element from this gorgeous season when photographing Roseanne and John’s wedding in Griffith Park last November. I was happy to find a yellow leaf for their ring shots. What do you think?

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FL&R

Karen D - Fall-colored leaves are such a rare and unique find in LA, love it!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Karen! There weren’t too many so I was happy to find one in decent shape.

Coral Majesty Wedding | The Plaza At Cabrillo Marina

Marquel and Darnell held their elegant wedding at the Plaza at Cabrillo Marina. They said their vows underneath a centuries-old tree, surrounded by their family and friends.

Event Coordinator: Whitney of Forever After Wedding
Event Design: Jenice Broomfield
Getting Ready: Double Tree Hotel by Hilton
Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Plaza At Cabrillo Marina
Flowers: Boulevard Florist

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Congratulations Marquel and Darnell!!!

FL&R

Brittney Hannon - Beautiful images!! I love that shot of her shoes and the groomsmen with their superhero shirts! Great job!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Brittney!

Karen D - Lovely images! I love your vivid editing style. My favorite is the last image–she looks so happy!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Karen! She was very happy!

Thomas - Love the superheroes! Great job!

Corey Morgan - So sharp and vibrant! Wonderful images!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Thomas!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Corey!

abbey - gorgeous!! love all the colors! great job!!

Aleks Bienkowska - Thanks Abbey!

Lee - Photos are beautiful as is the bride! I’m in love with the shoes, but can’t read the brand. Hoping to find them for my wedding, too!

Nilajah Manley - Love the suites