Shannon Stellmacher Photography » Uncategorized

$99 Wedding Photography Special. Check it out!

Shannon — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 16:25:40 +0000

Funniest and most clever Blog Post ever from Traina Photography…….. I had to share and pass on the laughs!

Springtime in Napa

Shannon — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:07:43 +0000

While recently scouting out locations for upcoming bridal and engagement sessions, I couldn’t help but stop and take a few photos!

The Del Dotto Estate in St. Helena is stunning. I didn’t have time to venture inside, but I will be back for sure! The caves are lined with italian marble and ancient tiles. Had I gone in, I may have never left. I hear the Venetian chandeliers and marble floors are spectacular.

I have some fabulous clients coming out from New York for an August wedding at Tra Vigne in St. Helena. This one is for you!

Domaine Chandon Winery in Yountville was bustling with happy people enjoying the gorgeous day and sparkling wine. I loved the cement mushrooms…….

Nickel & Nickel Vineyards. Loved it!

Dreaming of Santorini Greece

Shannon — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:00:08 +0000

They say a blog post is better with a photo……..sadly, I have none. If you’re a bride planning a destination wedding in Santorini Greece….. Call me!

Four Seasons Silicon Valley ~ Urban Style Wedding Photography

Shannon — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 20:31:29 +0000

I couldn’t wait to post this uber cool urban wedding at The Four Season Silicon Valley. The yummy treats were simply divine. Thanks to Kim with Mill Cottage Photography for having me along! Kudos to the catering staff at the Four Seasons for the most delicious blueberry tart ever.

Laugh!

Shannon — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 07:07:33 +0000

Weddings are full of emotion. Many moments of joy, excitment, tears, and sheer laughter to capture!!

Something Sultry….

Shannon — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:24:29 +0000

Nestldown Wedding Photography ~ Los Gatos

Shannon — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 06:47:50 +0000

Nestldown in Los Gatos is a spectacular wedding venue! Nestled in the redwoods and surrounded by flowers and orchards, it is truly a magical place. I had a wonderful time shooting with fellow photographer and friend, Kim of Mill Cottage Photography. These gorgeous florals were just the splash of color I needed to brighten my day!

Adorn Bridal Boutique Los Gatos

Shannon — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 07:27:44 +0000

If you’re a bride in love with all things vintage, Adorn Bridal Boutique is a must see. Located in the heart of adorable downtown Los Gatos, this shop is the place to go for funky finds and rockin vintage accessories. Oh, and don’t forget to try on a dress or two!

Need a Vacation?

Shannon — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:54:08 +0000

I’m longing for the smell of the sea, sand castles, and beach sunsets. So, it’s decided……..another San Diego road trip is in order very soon!!

Anne Appleman ~ Florist

Shannon — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 19:58:40 +0000

While on a shoot in Sonoma, I noticed Anne Appleman’s Studio nearby. I had shot at that location several times before, but never noticed it. Having worked with Anne at a recent Atwood Ranch wedding, I was excited to take a peek inside. The Studio is warm and welcoming, with the sweet smell of flowers in the air. I kind of felt like Ferdinand the Bull as I took it all in. They were kind enough to allow me to take a few shots, and sent me on my way with a cheery bouquet of yellow tulips. A lovely start to a nice day in Sonoma.

PPGBA ~ Ask the Divas….

Shannon — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:09:42 +0000

Yikes! I’ve been asked to speak on a panel with a group of fellow “Divas” for PPGBA’s (Professional Photographers of the Greater Bay Area) monthly meeting in February. I am not one for public speaking…. Until now, my unofficial mantra has been that “I could never” teach, as I would just be to nervous. Fortunately, I will be up there with a group of talented ladies, so the pressure shouldn’t be to bad…

Each of us has been selected to talk about a particular area of strength within our business. You can read more about The Diva’s Panel on PPGBA’s website.

If you’re one of my 2009 clients, and would like to offer your feedback , I would love to hear from you! stellmacherphotography@yahoo.com

Wish me luck!

Mission San Jaun Capistrano

Shannon — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:46:08 +0000

During a recent trip to San Diego, I was determined to find the time to stop in San Jaun Capistrano to see the Mission. I have been wanting to shoot a couture bridal session there, and have imagined how I would strategically place the bride and groom amongst the ruins for some wicked shots. Well, I didn’t have my imaginary couple, just my son and my husband. So, we played tourist and ran around taking photographs.

Jake was happy as a clam with his Canon PowerShot in tow. You can’t see the huge smile on his face behind the camera, but believe me…it’s there! He had to show me every cool shot he took. As long as he has his camera, I can drag him along with me to scout out locations. I didn’t get him a camera for his 6th birthday just because he wanted one!

Favorite Wedding Shoes

Shannon — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:44:21 +0000

It’s your wedding. You can wear whatever color wedding shoes you want! They should match the colors of your wedding, bouquet, or tie into the bridesmaid’s dresses. But ultimately, this is a time to express your style and have fun with it! I LOVED both pairs featured here!

Napa Wedding Cakes | Sweeties Pies Bakery

Shannon — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:21:31 +0000

Sweetie Pies in Napa is the place to go for gorgeous….not to mention yummy wedding cakes and pie! I was fortunate to work with them often in 2009. It’s always a treat (pun intended) to photograph a lovely cake. To see the darling cake topper they put together (last minute) for Cyndie and George’s Sonoma elopement, take a peek here.

If you’re in town planning a wine country wedding, be sure to stop by for some tasty treats. Sweetie Pies is conveniently located in Downtown Napa on Main Street. The cafe is small but quaint, with a lunch menu that doesn’t disappoint. If you’re lucky, you might get to try their Napa Grape Pie made with Cabernet Grapes for dessert!!

Writing Your Own Wedding Vows

Shannon — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 09:47:19 +0000

There is so much to love about being a wedding photographer. I especially love the ceremony because it is so rich with anticipation and emotion. When couples write their own vows, it is especially powerful. It gives me a deeper insight into the history of their relationship, and an understanding of what drew them together.

Here are a few quick tips to get started in writing your own wedding vows:

1. Relax! You don’t have to be a professional writer to pull this off. Your wedding vows should come from the heart so just be yourself and write what you feel. Writing down what you appreciate most about your fiancé, or how you have grown during the relationship, will help guide your thoughts.

2. Once you tap into your feelings, write everything down. You can make sense of it later…… right now, just make sure that you are writing down everything that comes to you! Humor is always appreciated! It’s wonderful to mix a little laughter in with the tears! (It also makes for great photographs)

3. After a few days, you will probably have pages filled with notes. Now you need to sit down and organize your thoughts. You may have some thoughts that you want to keep personal, and others that you’ll want to share with your guests. Get them prioritized and into meaningful sentences.

4. Some couples may want to keep their vows private, and share it with their other half on the big day. Other couples will want to be on the same page, and have a mutual idea of what will be said. Only you can know what works best for you!

5. Practice, practice, practice. You will be excited and nervous on your wedding day, so being prepared is good! Practice your vows until they become second nature. Your ceremony will be an emotional time, and adequate preparation will help you stay focused!

6. Remember to wear waterproof mascara!!!

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!!! I look forward to seeing you there!

One Little Pic……….

Shannon — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:29:12 +0000

Here is one of my favorites from a recent session with Lorrie! I adore Mac lashes! I use these lashes when I do the bridal make up on the wedding day too. They are simply fabulous! Thanks Lorrie!

Bridal Bouquet | Valley Flora Napa

Shannon — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 02:38:33 +0000

Another gorgeous creation from Polly at Valley Flora! It was wonderful to work with them at so many weddings this season, and to photograph such amazing arrangements! I’m looking forward to seeing their 2010 creations!

Wedding | Jovi and Justin!

Shannon — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:02:42 +0000

Jovi and Justin came up from Los Angeles to be married in her hometown of Gilroy………….and wow is it hot in those parts! Everyone was fabulous even in the heat. They were married at the same church that Jovi attended pre school, and it was really quite wonderful to photograph their wedding in a place that had such meaning to the family. Thank you Jovi and Justin for having me along to share in your day. Happiness to you always!

Brenna and Wayne|Married| Green Valley Country Club Fairfield

Shannon — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 22:29:40 +0000

I had been looking forward to photographing Brenna and Wayne’s wedding since they booked me about a year ago. I’ve enjoyed getting to know them, and just like I knew it would be, their wedding day was simply gorgeous. Thank you for allowing me to document your beautiful day! They were married at the Green Valley Country Club in Fairfield. Lisa Hegdahl with Tender Loving Care Weddings did an amazing job coordinating the event. I look forward to working with her again! Thank you Lisa for all your hard work. As you can see, Brenna was a simply stunning bride! Wedding day make up by Dianne Gendel.

Something Old…….Something New

Shannon — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:54:28 +0000

I often come across “old” images that never made it to my website or blog, and “discover” them all over again from a completely new perspective. I’ve decided to do a regular “Something Old……..Something New” post as a fun way to pull up older images from my hard drives. This image was captured at Old Saint Hilary’s Church in Tiburon.

Winery Wedding| Murrieta’s Well Livermore | Meghan and Patrick

Shannon — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 06:44:40 +0000

Meghan and Patrick celebrated their wedding at the adorable Murrieta’s Well, a quaint little winery in Livermore that really couldn’t have been more perfect for them! You may remember Meghan and Patrick from their engagement session earlier this year. I have enjoyed working with them so much, and it was wonderful to be part of their wedding day. Congratulations to both of you!

Wedding | Sandy and Gary | Los Angeles

Shannon — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:21:48 +0000

San Francisco Zoo

Shannon — Tue, 05 May 2009 04:52:26 +0000

I am crazy busy processing weddings right now…….but just had to post this image of Ms. Giraffe. Isn’t she pretty??!!

This image was shot at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Never go there during spring break! It was very crowded, and to be honest I can’t believe I captured this image without someone’s head in the frame!

More Zeeni

Shannon — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 01:56:05 +0000

Beautiful!

Shannon — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:29:13 +0000

I had the most amazing session with Zeenie! More images coming soon………….

Smokin!

Shannon — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:04:05 +0000

Children’s Lifestyle Photography

Shannon — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:50:13 +0000

Little sandy toes sure make a rainy day a bit brighter! I can’t wait until summer!

Viansa Sonoma

Shannon — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:09:56 +0000

A few weeks ago, while at Viansa Winery in Sonoma, I couldn’t help but take a few shots. The grounds are beautiful! More to come later………….

I kind of like this one processed vintage style.

November Wedding

Shannon — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:00:12 +0000

Ok, so it took me a while to post this one……….It was a cold and rainy day (the only storm we had in November). The ceremony had to be moved inside at the last minute and the room turned around quickly after the ceremony for the reception. Wedding coordinator Melissa Franco with Dream It Events did a fabulous job of ensuring that the transition went smoothly and quickly! This was the first time I had worked with Melissa, and I would definitely recommend her to any of my clients in need of a coordinator! The bride did a fabulous job with the details too!

Your Wedding Day Photography Timeline

Shannon — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 06:51:34 +0000

The wedding day by nature is bound to have a few unexpected happenings. To help things run as smoothly as possible, it is imperative to have a wedding day timeline. Although a photojournalistic approach is taken during much of the wedding day, adequate time needs to be set aside to photograph the details, portraits, wedding party, family groups, and romantics of the bride and groom. (to name a few)

Another important aspect in planning your timeline, is an awareness of the light! In other words……..what time is sunset? Some important questions to ask yourself are: How does the sunset time correlate with your ceremony time? How much time will you have post ceremony before you lose the light? How much time do you want to spend post ceremony on photography before heading off to enjoy your reception? Are you (the couple) willing to see each other before the ceremony for photographs?

All of this in more can be discussed during the planning process, as a well thought out timeline will help you and your photographer to stay focused on your priorities and create beautiful images!

The “getting ready” phase of your wedding day.

Shannon — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:39:30 +0000

Probably the most exciting part of the wedding day for me is when I first arrive to photograph the event. The bride is surrounded by her dearest friends and family……….and there is a contagious excitement in the air. I love the images I capture at this final stage of preparation, and I feel it’s a really important part of the wedding day. When I see my client during this emotional time, I am reminded why I love doing this so much!

Give your groom what he wants on Valentine’s Day!

Shannon — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:00:09 +0000

I’m so excited to offer this fun collection to all my 2009 brides! Of course, this special will be available to all clients beyond Valentine’s Day! First we’ll start off with a professional make up application. We can do as many different outfit changes/ looks and locations as time allows. I’m flexible with the look of each shoot, so let’s have some fun! Bring your lingerie, fun shoes, funky hats, a few evening gowns……….and even your wedding dress for some fun Bridal Fashion shots!

Call The Studio to schedule your appointment! 707-631-0569

StellmacherPhotography@yahoo.com

Wilson Creek and South Coast Wineries

Shannon — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:39:08 +0000

My husband and I rang in the New Year wine tasting at Wilson Creek and South Coast Wineries in Temecula. It was an absolutely gorgeous day, and I just couldn’t resist bringing along my camera. If you’re planning a wedding in the area, both are beautiful venues.

Wilson Creek was having a New Years Party!

San Diego in December

Shannon — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:36:11 +0000

My son Jake and I LOVE Windansea Beach in San Diego. We recently spent 3 consecutive days hanging out there, as Jake was determined to jump off sand mountains, collect shells, and play on the rocks. The air was a bit chilly, but it still felt good in the sun. He made it quite clear that he wanted to live ON the beach. Wouldn’t that be nice??!! I must admit, I could just drive around the Windansea neighborhood all day, gawk at the gorgeous homes, and curse the people that live there! On the third day, just as I was getting ready to take a few more shots of him, a crazy fog came rolling in and completely blocked the sun. Darn! My light was gone………..but what an amazing sight it was to see a wall of fog rolling in from the ocean. Within seconds it seemed, the beach was enveloped by it.

This fog was the cause of many cancelled flights!

Fashion Inspired Couture

Shannon — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 07:19:00 +0000

I’ve worked with Tiffany before……..so when the opportunity to shoot at a totally cool, run down, yet historic location presented itself, I knew she would be perfect! Tiffany exudes glamour with a bit of an edge, so I applied a dramatic make up with equal emphasis on her eyes and lips. Tiff was a blast to work with, and happy to run around in the dust (and stand in dark places) for the sake of creating art. Here are a few of my favorites!

Napa Valley Florist ~ Valley Flora

Shannon — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:22:00 +0000

Two weeks ago, I shot the most amazing Wedding at the historic Sonoma Mission. ( A post on that wedding will be coming soon!)

I couldn’t help but notice how unique and amazing the bride’s fower arrangement was. When we arrived at Estate for the reception, I was truly impressed with how the wedding’s theme was carried out in every floral arrangement. Just stunning! The bride worked closely with Polly Harrington of Valley Flora, who according to my client “was a dream to work with”.

Lauren and Nic

Shannon — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 17:20:00 +0000

Here’s a few from Lauren and Nic’s wedding! They were married at Bridges Golf Club in San Ramon. It was reallly amazing and somewhat surreal to photograph their wedding, because I’ve known Lauren since she was 5 years old. Needless to say, I was really excited when they hired me to capture their special day!

Shannon — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 07:25:00 +0000

One of my favorite weddings from 2007 was just featured in Wedding Vow Magazine. The wedding was held at the gorgeous Green Valley Country Club in Fairfield CA. You’ve seen Sarah and Jeramy on my website, but here’s a look at the article!