Jessica Galeazzi Photography | San Francisco Bay Area Photographer

In the New Year (Hello 2011!)

2010-12-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

There isn't anything better than the promise of a new year. I know I've been missing a bit from this little blog of mine. With the freshness of 2011, I've thought a bit about how I want this coming year to go. My plan for 2011 is to be small. I know that sounds kind of weird. It's true though. As I think about my goals for 2011 and my expectations for myself, it makes sense for me to run this children and family photography business as teeny-tiny. It's what makes me happiest and enables me to put my best self out there, from my clients to my family.

Great, Jessica, we're happy for you, but what does that mean? Not a whole lot, really, but a couple of changes.

Up first, this blog. I know there are a million reasons I should continue to keep posting here, but quite honestly, maintaining this blog takes more time than I am willing to spend. Don't worry, I'll still have sneak peeks and any big announcements on my Facebook page. In fact, for better or worse, Facebook will be replacing my blog. You can view my latest work, specials and any other little tidbits of information. From a client perspective, the only difference is you will be driven to Facebook for your teaser, rather than the option of the blog or Facebook.

Second, I will be limiting the number of sessions I take each month. If you check out my rates page on my website, you will see two new session types: the mini session and the family session. The mini session is a short session that focuses on one child. It is perfect for milestones or when you maybe realize one child maybe isn't quite as photographed as the rest. These sessions are very limited and available once a month. The family session is my regular session we've had over the years - no changes there. I'm still available for extended family, engagements and small events. Please email me for more information.

I think that is a nice start to changes for 2011. And to prove my point, here is a share from one of my last sessions of the year that I had on my 'to blog' list. They may be my most photographed family - I've captured many events for them and I'm happy to close out my blog with their pictures.

Wishing you and yours much happiness this year!

Gorgeous Greens | Danville Family and Child Photographer

2010-11-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

Admittedly, the landscape this time of year (which ironically is the busiest) is not my favorite. Starting in September, the fields nearby look tired and overgrown. Or worse, mowed down. I begin daydreaming of January and February when the fields will be fresh green and the mustard flowers will start popping up. So, when I came upon this spot, with loads of greens and specks of browns, I didn't care that it was maintained or in the middle of a business park. It was green and fresh and loads of fun for the kids to explore.

This family, I pretty much adore. I've been taking their family pictures for a few years now and they always make it easy on me. They let me do my thing and simply go with the flow. I can't believe little miss was 3 months old when we first met. This last time, in a sweet little voice, she told me my shoes were pretty. A girl after my own heart.

Contagious Laughter | San Ramon Family Photographer

2010-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

So, as far as good-natured kids go, I had the easiest session a few weeks ago. The kids pretty much couldn't stop laughing. Seriously, I barely would say anything and the giggles would start. And before I knew it, I was giggling, too. I never had a session before where I was trying to think of ways to make the kids look more serious. Don't get me wrong - I love a smiling face, but I also like to capture those little in between moments, which don't always have smiles included.

Anyway, I knew that we had laughed quite a lot during the shoot, but I didn't expect to start giggling again as I looked through the loaded images. I think Mom and Dad have a little ensemble of comedians on their hands. Or maybe there was just something in the air that day... Either way, I had a fabulous time capturing the laughter.

It's all about Trust | San Ramon Valley Child and Family Photographer

2010-10-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

Photographing people (for me, anyway) is primarily about figuring out how to make a connection, resulting in them relaxing and trusting me and my camera. Last year, I spent most of our session trying to unlock this little one. Admittedly, I was a tad nervous that this year might be a repeat. It wasn't. She managed to steal the show with camera time (little sisters tend to do that, don't they?) Still, the shot I got of big sister was my very favorite. What can I say? I'm a sucker for freckles.

Confessions of a Family Photographer

2010-10-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

Our last family photo was in 2007. My son was still a baby and my daughter had the remnants of toddler chub. It's true. I am a family photographer without current family photos. At least, I was...

Being a family and child photographer, I am lucky enough to know other local bay area photographers who also are in need of updating their family photos. So, my good friend and wonderful photographer Stephanie Morgan and I set up a trade. It was the first time I had photographed someone who was in the business and I had a blast - in front of the camera and behind. I will admit to being more nervous being photographed. I may or may not have gone through a checklist with my husband of things to not do during the shoot. And the best part? I am no longer a family photographer without current family photos. Thank you, Stephanie for the amazing photos! You can check them out on Stephanie's blog.

And, for my part, some of my favorites from Stephanie's session. Thank you, Stephanie, for being one part of a great family to capture!

My Sister | Los Angeles Area Portrait Photographer

2010-10-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is my younger sister. (Isn't she beautiful? I have always been jealous of her curly hair.)

She isn't to be confused with my older sister, or youngest sister (yes, there are four girls in all). This younger sister of mine, well, she's a complicated one. Where I like to follow directions and meet expectations - you know, follow a known path. She jumps around, stops in the middle, goes backwards and then disappears altogether. And yet, we always manage to meet back up on that path again.

Last February, I woke up to a text from her that said "We just got married!" Like I said, she follows her own path. To be honest, it wasn't a complete surprise. The two lovebirds had been together for over 7 years and were engaged. They're a perfect fit, in my opinion. Just as he grounds her, she helps him to cut loose a little. Most importantly, I know that she is happiest with him in her life.

Recently, she asked if I would take pictures of them back at the bridge where he proposed. It's a gorgeous old bridge in Pasadena. From a photographer's perspective, it was tough. Cars constantly screamed by, the bridge itself was narrow and long. And also, there's this little nugget: I'm a people photographer. I love buildings and bridges (after all, my intended career path was in architecture and design). But there is a reason I'm not a landscape photographer. Try as I might, I can't ever capture the outdoors as beautifully as I feel when I'm standing in it. And the more beautiful and amazing a place is, the more I choke on capturing the whole of it. So, I did what I do best, I captured my sister and her husband. The bridge is there, they know it's there, you can see bits and pieces of it. But, they are the focus, not the bridge. And I think that's how it should be.

Final note, this last shot I love. It's more of an outtake than a portrait, but I tend to love life's outtakes anyway. Congratulations, you two!

Autumn Sunlight | San Ramon Valley Family and Children Photographer

2010-10-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

I know it's a little crazy, but I love the sun setting a bit earlier this time of year. It means little ones are still awake and able to soak up that gorgeous evening sunlight. We had a last minute location change, but I think even that worked out just perfect. If you have followed my blog for awhile, you'll recognize these girls. It's been a joy to capture them over the years. The twins are at my favorite age - a little chatty, pretty goofy and ready to show off. It's such fun to see all three girls laughing together. I know it's not like that all the time, but it's these little moments that count.

This one is so completely different from the rest, I almost didn't include it, but I love this shot. After the initial excitement had died down, she was quiet and thoughtful - the perfect opportunity to get in close. Welcome Autumn...

Simply Perfect | Palo Alto Senior Photographer

2010-09-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

Recently, I got to spend the evening with a Senior, a new kitten and a few chickens. Yes, I said chickens - and they were awesome. Thanks, Ysabel, for a fabulous, easy-going session!

One Year Later | Danville Family Photographer

2010-09-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

There are several families that I capture every year and I am delighted when the end of summer rolls around and I start to hear from each one. When it's time for our session, I can't wait to see how much the kids have grown. It's been a year; of course, they look different. The roundness of a baby face might be gone, or some teeth are missing - or are back. But even more, I love to chat with them and see how their personalities have bloomed a little more.

This family is the first of my Fall returns. Big brother has become so very grown up and little sister, well, she continues to steal the show. She constantly made us all smile with her funny faces, hands on her hips or a curious little peek into the lens. Thank you for having me capture your family each year. Enjoy your sneak peek, and Grandma, try not to cry!

Hello Summer, where have you been? | East Bay Child Photographer

2010-09-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

The summer that never happened is suddenly in full swing. You see, we've had our share of 60 degree days over the last few months. Now - just in time for school - we have that uncomfortable, don't want to cook, do laundry or go outside unless it's near a pool 90+ degree days. At least it's Labor Day Weekend and this type of heat is rather required for holiday weekends like these, don't you think?

Wishing you a long weekend filled with staying cool, good food and great company!

Little | San Ramon Child Photographer

2010-08-17T14:28:00.000-07:00

This little one is so tiny and petite, it's absolutely perfect that she is the youngest - the adored baby of the family. Don't let her size fool you though, her personality is big and getting bigger every day. Her mom contacted me for a session after she realized (as often happens with bigger families) that her littlest had not been photographed nearly as much as her older siblings. So, we set up a special session, for just her.

If you have a little one that needs a special catch-up session - just for him or her - contact me for a special rate.

The Belly | San Ramon Maternity Photographer

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

I was spoiled this weekend: I started my Saturday morning out with a maternity session. I haven't done too many of these, but what a treat to photograph someone without worrying that I missed the shot because they ran away! I've been capturing this gorgeous mama's family since I started out and I'm so excited for her to have another baby. When she contacted me for maternity pictures, I knew we'd have a lot of fun pulling something together that she would like. I didn't know that I'd end up with something that I would love (the last shot. striped dress. my new favorite). Enjoy!

Together Again | Walnut Creek Extended Family Photographer

2010-08-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

Extended family sessions are a whole different ballgame. There is generally lots of chatting and excitement, because chances are many years have gone by since everyone has been together. Extended family sessions, to me, are like the weddings of family photography - there is a lot going on and a lot that needs to be captured. And, you generally have one shot, because Aunts, Uncles and cousins are most likely heading back to their home, far away. And as crazy as extended family sessions can be, I love capturing these memories for families. These are just a few of my favorites.

And we spent a little extra time on the eldest grandchild, to celebrate her sweet sixteen.

Baby, Beach, Lollipop | Santa Barbara Family Lifestyle Photographer

2010-07-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

In my mind, there are few vacations better than a road trip. Last week, we packed up and headed south, visiting both the beach and the desert and watching the landscape change dramatically all while we stayed in the same state. And lucky me, along the way an old friend was itching for family pictures at the beach.

So, we did a whirlwind session halfway through our trip and we captured her family doing what they do best: enjoying life at the beach. I'm so glad we pulled this off, I only wish I had more time to catch up!

a case of the giggles | Danville Children Photographer

2010-06-29T14:57:00.000-07:00

What can I say? These sisters made my job so easy! (Of course, I think Dad's antics behind me *may* have helped). Honestly, I have so many giggling, laughing -- flat-out cracking up pictures, the challenge was to take a few of the girls with a little more of a serious side. We managed to pull a few quiet moments out between the giggles and I love them all!

Worlds Collide | San Ramon Valley Child Photographer

2010-06-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

A part of having a small business that I truly enjoy is the sense of community, whether it is by meeting other small business owners or doing a little something to help support this city of ours. This year, we had a child in Elementary School for the first time and so, this became the first year my photography business donated a special package for the school's auction. I recently had the pleasure of meeting up with the auction winner and, well, I'm so glad they won. Not only was their daughter at my favorite toddling age, but their son happened to be a newly minted first grader. And just like that, my world became a tiny bit smaller.

My Summer Newsletter went out today! Sign up for the mailing list to hear about our specials.

Sleepyhead | Alameda Newborn Photographer

2010-06-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

I don't think it's a secret how much I enjoy photographing this family. They are dear friends and thanks to the expectation and arrival of their third child, it has become nearly routine for me to capture their family life over the last several months. Their youngest, a sweet little girl, fit the description of third children: easygoing, sleepy, going with the flow. (Of course, I'm a little biased with that description, being a third child myself)! I am going to miss having an excuse to come by with my camera...

Family of Five | Danville Family and Newborn Photographer

2010-05-26T07:13:00.000-07:00

You know a session is going well when one of the kids gives you a hug and tells you he loves you. These boys were simply wonderful, even though their little lives had been turned upside down with the arrival of their little sister. Mom and Dad were at ease with everything, even though they'd only contacted me a few days prior. I'm beginning to think having a third wouldn't be so overwhelming; or maybe this family knows a secret. Either way, I felt lucky to spend my morning capturing their life a few days into becoming a family of five.

Do you remember this look? That sleepy, you are my world, but I'm a little exhausted being a newborn look? It kills me every time - I love it.

Those Cheeks! | San Ramon Valley Family Photographer

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I remember the first time I captured this little guy as a wonderfully chubby baby. The pictures from that session remain some of my favorites. I've continued to meet up with him and his parents every year for family pictures, resulting in an incredibly easy-going session where we catch up on life, swap stories on parenting and capture a little of their family love.

Mom and Dad, I will look forward to any chance to capture your family and will cry hard when those cheeks of his are completely gone.

That's all for now folks!

Being a Mother

2010-05-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this back in the cold of winter. The title alone kills me because I have always wanted to write letters to my children expressing my love for them, but anything I write just doesn't seem to be enough. So, I read others words and borrow them, because honestly, why try to recreate what others have done so beautifully? Thank you Katherine Center for putting words to what so many mothers feel, but don't know how to say.

What I would tell her (if I knew what to say)

You are a miracle.

And I have to love you this fiercely - so that you can feel it even after you leave for school, or even while you are asleep, or even after your childhood becomes a memory. You'll forget all this when you grow up, but it's ok. Being a mother means having your heart broken. And it means loving and losing and falling apart and coming back together. And it's the best there is.

And also, sometimes the worst. Sometimes you won't have anyone to talk to. Sometimes you'll wonder if you've forgotten who you are. But you must remember this: What you're doing matters. And you have to be brave with your life so that others can be brave with theirs.

The truth is being a woman is a gift. Tenderness is a gift. Intimacy is a gift. And nurturing the good in this world is nothing short of a privilege.

That's why I have to love you this way. So I can give what I have to you.

So that you can carry it in your body and pass it on. I have watched you sleep. I've kissed you a million times. And I know something that you don't yet - you are writing the story of your only life every single minute of every day. And my greatest hope for you, sweet child, is that I can teach you how to write a good one.

Wishing you a fabulous Mother's Day!

Where is the Park? | East Bay Family Photographer

2010-05-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's hard to reason with kids. Believe me, I get that. And truly, I apologize when I giggle at your three year old's persistence regarding the whereabouts of the park. You know, that one you told him you were going to? No, not this one with the big fields, huge trees and trail for miles. Where is that one with the slides?

For better or worse, I think this little guy might be slightly disappointed at the next 'park' he goes to - unless it has a stream and rocks.

One of my favorites...

and we'll finish with a little brotherly love.

Happiness | Alameda Family Lifestyle Photographer

2010-04-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have been capturing this family, since the little guy was a newborn. I adore these kids and lucky me, they seem to like me pretty well, too. I hit the jackpot this past weekend as both kids would literally crack up at the sound of my shutter. It doesn't get better than this... wait, actually it does. I get to come back in six weeks to meet baby sister.

As always, it was a joy to spend time with you guys and I can not wait to meet your newest addition!

The Easter Tie | East Bay Toddler Photographer

2010-04-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

My son has (finally) started dressing himself.

As we left for school the other day, he was adamant about his outfit: zebra vans, cargo pants, dinosaur shirt and the crowning touch? His Easter tie. For him, it was the perfect touch to an otherwise ordinary outfit. And I think I may have to agree with him.

it's all about family | San Ramon Valley Family Photography

2010-03-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

I love working with families. Yes, with little ones, they run all over the place...

And tend to get a little sidetracked with pretty things...

But when you let them be, eventually, you're in the right place at the right time.

And they start to take a little interest in this black box I keep looking through...

And then they all come together for a little fun.

It was an absolute joy to capture these friends of mine. I simply had to stop editing and get these on the blog for their delight.

little smiles | San Ramon Child Photographer

2010-03-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

I adored this little girl's shyness when we chatted. And even though she seemed a little apprehensive with the camera, her smile was always sweet, genuine and present. Honestly, as I went through all the images, I'm not sure if there is one without her little smile.

The gentleness and comfort between this Mother and daughter is a dream for any photographer. I have many more of the two of them, but these are two of my personal favorites...