Indica Photography San Diego Photographer

My last post

2011-11-11T12:47:00.001-08:00

Hi all! This is not a sad post by any means, but a great one. I have decided to re-brand myself and do business under my own name. I'll keep this blog up for the next 6 months to a year, as a lot of people find me through this. As for my website, it'll be gone at the end of this month.

I bid this blog farewell, and say hello to the new me Julia Sponsel ! Please be sure to click on over to see me and all the new goodies.

See you soon!

www.JuliaSponsel.com

Keeping you in the loop!

2011-11-09T19:11:00.000-08:00

Hi all....I was going to reveal my big news today, but changed my mind and decided to push it till Friday. So, please check back then (I'm so super-duper excited, I can hardly contain myself)!

You may have noticed, I've been cleaning up this blog, I removed over 125 posts!!!
I'll tell you why on Friday! See ya'll then!

Meet the Monis Family!

2011-11-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

Such fun, Such fun!
Should I start this post with how much I loved this shoot? The M family drove to Temecula all the way from the desert to shoot with me!!
We got so many beautiful photos, not to mention some fun ones....they made my job so easy!
Meet the Monis'....

Loving the sisterly love, there is nothing like the bond between sisters.

No words. Just pure sweetness.

I love kids, it doesn't take much to make them happy & keep them entertained. So I brought along some fun little goodies. The girls LOVED these and I had a blast capturing the fun, goofy moments! What's a shoot without a funny face, or two?

So, I had some leftover glitter and naturally we had to use it...what girl doesn't like glitter?!
oh! and Ella got me real good.....I was covered in glitter!

And this my friends is the Family photo they are using for their holiday cards, don't you just love it!?

Thank you M family for driving out to meet me, I had such a great time with ya'll.
I hope to see you next year, I'd love to come out to you....so many ideas!!

Happy Halloween!!!!

2011-10-31T17:30:00.000-07:00

Wishing ya'll a safe & Happy Halloween from my family to yours.

My little Monkey.

Opimus Prime. Autobots....Roll out!

This absolutely cracked me up.

Halloween Mini's

2011-10-31T14:03:00.000-07:00

Meet Wonder Woman, Strawberry Shortcake & little Lamb!

These are just a few from our Halloween Mini sessions....

I had the theme song from WW in my head all day....♪ ♫Wonder Woman♪ ♫!

I love the funnies!

The sweetest little Lamb you'll ever see.

I am definitely doing these next year...oh the ideas!!!
Have a wonderful Halloween.

J & S Sneak Peek

2011-10-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

I don't wan't to share any more than one for now, as this is for the holidays.

This was such a fun shoot, can't wait to share with ya'll!
More to come soon!

Halloween Mini's

2011-10-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

Some Halloween fun, just a little peek!

Be sure to check back in the next few days to see the full post of Opitmus Prime, Wonder Woman, Strawberry Shortcake & little Lamb!

Crayon Art

2011-10-20T19:22:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do this ever since I spotted it on Pinterest. Today was the day!
I headed out to Michaels, got the canvas (it's a 26x30), then went to Target to get the box of crayons.

I got this big ol box and another 48 box....didn't use all of them though. We did however, pick out some yummy colors!

We lined them up the way we wanted to place them on the canvas.

Coen was a stellar little helper and handed me the colors to glue on, a few out of order, but that's to be expected with a 4 year old!

On to the fun part!! Melting the crayons.....with a hair dryer.
If you do this as a project, be sure to put down paper or towels, the crayons splatter a bit when first starting to melt.

This was at the half way point. Notice the tips of the crayons? We still had some melting to do.

Finished...on the wall!

From start to finish (we took a break in between, Coen needed a nap) it took about two hours. This was so fun, so easy and a great addition to our walls!

Monis Family Sneak Peek

2011-10-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

Sneak a peek at the beautiful Monis family! We had lots of fun today...you'll see just how much when I blog the full post.

Awww, loving these little girls!

Check back soon to see the full post!

Senior Addie's Sneak Peek

2011-10-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

Take a peek at sweet Addie, just a peek....lots of greats to come!

Be sure to check back soon!!
Cheers!

Senior Cassidy / Great Oak High School

2011-10-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

Can I start by saying....I LOVED this shoot! I know, I love all my shoots, it's true...but my word, this shoot was a blast! Cassidy made it so easy, the camera absolutely loves her, she knows what to do and just about every photo I took, came out perfectly.

it just so happened that Cass did the Miss Greater San Diego Teen pageant the day before our shoot...and won!!! It was her very first one, ever! I'm sure it won't be the last. I loved the story about the pageant, she never expected to win and when she did she was so shocked. I watched the video of her winning, it's the cutest thing. Her reaction was genuine, it looked like she wanted to cry and laugh at the same time!
You can see photos and video on the Miss Greater SD Facebook page.

Cassidy is a smart, beautiful, sweet, good hearted person. I was asking her what she wants to do after HS, she's applying to a few school and majoring in dance. I was telling her she needs to head to LA and meet with some agents. Someone fabulous is sure to represent her!!

Meet Miss Cassidy aka Miss Greater San Diego teen 2012!!

Cass even looks perfect jumping! Perfect form...and smile!

Her first crown!!

I call these 'wishes'!

That's a wrap!

Cassidy! It was such an absolute pleasure to work with you, you are truly a star! I can't wait to see where life takes you!

Thank you to the ABSOLUTELY AWESOME Julia & Sarah for make up and hair!
Cassidy's session is the 'supermodel session', that includes hair and makeup.
Hair by Sarah @ Secreto Salon

Make up by Julia Frye @ Make up by Jules

If you are interested in getting your Senior portraits done, please CONTACT ME here!

Senior Brandie / Mission Hills High School

2011-10-12T15:15:00.000-07:00

Meet Brandie! She is SO uber talented and someday you'll be hearing her on the radio, I have no doubt! When I first met B, I thought she was in college so you can imagine my excitement when I found out she was going to be a Senior! I blurted out "I have to do your Senior Photos" and lucky me, I did just that...a few months later!

She is a musician, she's a singer, sweet as can be and not to mention, beautiful! Over the summer she tried out for AI, didn't make it this time..but not to worry, there's always next year! You'll notice, she's got photos with three different instruments, all of which she plays! I wish I had just a itsybitsyteenyweeny bit of her talent.
She wants to go on to college and do something with music (go figure)!

My favorites are the ones with the guitar, not sure what it is but I am drawn to them (you'll see when you scroll)!

Brandie's Mom and big bro, B-Rad came along to do what brothers to best! Help carry things & make fun a little! I always like to snap a pic of whoever happens to come along, I think it's fun and just about everyone tried to fight me on it! Although, not B-Rad, he jumped right in there!
Just look at the family resemblance.

You know I love the real moments and I love this one of B!

One of my faves!

Brandie! I had such a great time with you and your family on our shoot. You are such a talented girl and I can't wait to buy your first album!!

Thank you to the AMAZING Julia & Sarah...you two are stars!!
Brandie's session is the 'supermodel session', that includes hair and makeup.
Hair by Sarah @ Secreto Salon

Make up by Julia Frye @ Make up by Jules

If you are interested in getting your Senior portraits done, please contact me here!

2011 Holiday Session special!

2011-10-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Click Here to book your session!

Mowlavi Family / Maternity / OC Photographer

2011-10-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

Meet the Mowlavi family! If you follow my blog then you'll remember Sarv from a maternity shoot with her sister from about two years ago. Whew! time flies and here come more babies! Even her sis is expecting #3!!

There we so many from this shoot that I loved, seems to always be the case with me! We started at a little park by their house and finished up on the beach in Laguna.
Little Arman is at the age where all he wants to do is explore and could care less about looking at me or my camera. That's ok, I'm used to it, we still managed to get some cute ones!
Ari, aka Dr. Laguna is a fabulous plastic surgeon. If you are needing a little pick me up or tuck me in, you can find him here.

This is the last baby for the Mowlavi's, so I am honored to have been a part of this maternity shoot. Enjoy all the belly love!

Even Grandma came along for the fun!

Loving this one of Ari and Arman.

Beautiful Mommy!

Congrats Mowlavis! I can't wait to meet the newest bundle of joy!!

2011 Holiday Sessions

2011-09-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Click Here to book your session!

Before & After

2011-09-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

You've got to have a eye for it...and get it right in camera first. If your settings aren't right to start with, trying to get them back in PS usually doesn't work.

I shoot in Manual...Always!

I shoot in Natural light and because of that, never pop my flash.

I try to keep my work simple and clean. Although, that was not the case when I first started. I was an 'action junkie'....Oh my! I look back at all my old stuff and wonder what the heck I was thinking and wonder why no one told me!?

Here is a photo of my son Carter a few days ago. The 'straight out of camera' and what I did to 'enhance'.

Happy Friday!

2011-09-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

Wishing you a happy Friday!! Carter is now 5 months old and getting cuter by the day!!

Of course big brother had to get in on one!

Have a great weekend ya'll!

Senior Alex / Mission Hills High School

2011-09-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

I could never quite figure out who she reminded me of, then going through her photos, I realized who it was, Emma Stone!!

Alex is such a sweet person and we had a great time during our shoot. She has such a sweet demeanor about her, kind and caring.
I always tell my seniors to bring along something that represents them, something they're involved in. She brought her Flute and letterman jacket...LOVE IT!! She's 'in the band' and also in cross country.

When she graduates she will onto college here in San Diego to become a teacher. Any kid will be lucky to have her and know her in their classroom.
Meet Alex....

Love this photo!

Alex, it's a pleasure to know you and work with you!! I wish you all the best life has to offer. Hugs!!!

Thank you to Julia & Sarah for the fabulous Make up and hair...You two are the best!
Alex's session is the 'supermodel session', that includes hair and makeup.
Hair by Sarah @ Secreto Salon

Make up by Julia Frye @ Make up by Jules

If you are interested in getting your Senior portraits done, please contact me here!

Senior Cassidy's Sneak Peek!

2011-09-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

O.M.G! Just about EVERY photo from this shoot is stunning. Her full post just may have 50 photos. Here is a little sneak of Cassidy, I can't wait to share them all with you!!

Check back soon for the full post!

I'll never forget...

2011-09-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

The day was September 11, 2001. I was off of work, still sound asleep when my roommate came running in my room, phone to her ear saying "wake up, wake up, we're being attacked". I tossed off my covers, ran to our living room and the rest of the day was pretty much a blur. I remember being glued to the TV, I remember crying.....a lot. Calling my parents, a few friends, my ex and being glued to the TV, that was a surreal time. It was as though nothing could pull anyone away from the images, the stories, and the absolute heartache.

We will never forget. The heroes that ran into the towers looking for life, only to give up their own. The brave souls that charged the cockpit, only to give themselves wings. And those whose lives were lost at he pentagon. We will never forget.

People magazine just featured the children of 9/11. It just so happened picked up the mag on the day San Diego went dark. I read it once the boys were in bed by flashlight. Many stories I couldn't read, as they break my heart. There I was reading these stories, crying in the dark with a flashlight!

I can't believe it's been 10 years...it's gone so fast in many ways. Life goes on, we move forward. I know, in 60 years...when I'm 93 I'll be sharing the story with my Great grandchildren. I can only hope it is the worst of the stories I have to tell.

Until then, I will never forget, We will never Forget. The memories feel like yesterday. The sadness is still raw in my heart and yet I know there are many angels that keep our beautiful nation protected. God bless America. God bless us all.

Meet Tyson!

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Tyson. He and Carter are going to be great friends and will surely get into some mischief together.

We were quite lucky we were able to squeeze in this shoot, as his Dad was only in town for a few days. We did a quick mini session in about 30 minutes! Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do sometimes. I don't want to ramble on too much, cause there is so much cuteness to be seen.

Meet Tyson....

A little love from Dad.

'The Bird' in color!

Mom & Dad are both UCLA alum, so of course this shirt is only appropriate!

My absolute Favorite. So sweet with Big sister!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Mikaela / Linfield High School Senior

2011-08-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

Meet Mikaela! She is a Senior at Linfield High School in beautiful Temecula. She is a stunning 6 feet tall and legs that go on for days! I think it's awesome when girls that are as tall as M is, still wear platforms. Love it!!!

Mikaela is not only into horse back riding and sports, she is also a model. When we did her shoot, she had just met with Ford, Elite and I believe it was Wilhelmina modeling agencies in LA to get signed. I'm pretty sure Elite in fact picked her up (M, correct me if I'm wrong).

When she graduates Mikaela will either be moving to NYC to pursue modeling and go to school OR she'll find her way to the big state of Texas to become a Sports broadcaster. Either way, I'm pretty sure we'll be seeing her in front of the camera, as it loves her!

Enough of my storytelling, here is Mikaela and her beautiful senior pics.....

I don't know what it is about the laying down shot, but I've always got to get it....this is why!!!

And what's a post without some 'real moments'!?

How awesome is this hair!?

Mikaela, it was so much fun to work with you and I hope to see you in the pages of all the fashion mags...if not then I know you'll be giving us our sports updates!!

SPECIAL THANKS TO SARAH & JULIA, you girls were fabulous as always!!!!

Hair by Sarah @ Secreto Salon

Make up by Julia Frye @ Make up by Jules

Cali in California!

2011-08-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Meet Cali!! She is going to be a Junior in HS this year in Tampa, FL. She was our fantabulous babysitter and oh how we miss her!! She lived just two doors down and she used to sit for us about twice a week! We were very blessed to have found her. I never had to worry with Cali, she is so hands on, so helpful and absolutely love kids!!

We were excited to have her out this summer for a visit and Coen was beyond...of course! Hopefully we can see her every summer...heck maybe she'll want to be our nanny (wishful thinking), but a girl can dream right?

So we had to do a little mini shoot while she was here. These are my faves from the shoot....

Cali's Beautiful eyes

2011-08-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

I am entering this photo into this weeks IHF beautiful eyes challenge. Cali has some of the more beautiful eyes I've seen, hopefully you'll think so too!

Check back later this week to see Cali's full post. And be sure to click the camera to see all the other entries!
We're number 797!!

Alting Indiana Wedding

2011-08-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful friends Erik & Kari were married a few weeks back in Indiana. David and E grew up together and there was no way we were missing this union of this awesome couple! It was our first, second wedding. It happens, but there is nothing better than love, being in love and being loved! They are now a family of 6 (fingers crossed that someday it'll be 7)!!

It was SO humid this eve of the wedding, as it had just rained. Humid of not, everyone involved had nothing less than a great time! It was a beautiful backyard wedding with karaoke, dancing, twinkling lights and lots of laughter...really? What more could you ask for?

Here are some of the photos I wanted to share from the night.
Meet the Love birds...

It's official!

Congrats Altings! We are so happy for you and your families. Glad we were able to be a part of the day.

NDSS winning photo 2011

2011-08-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

I snapped this photo of sweet little Lilly back in May, she was just as cute as can be at Coen's fourth birthday party. I emailed it over to her Mom and of course she loved it! Not too long after she asked if she could submit the photo into a contest, of course I said yes and that was that. I forgot about it and time moved on.

Last week Lilly's mom was notified that my photo won! Naturally, I love that it is my photo, but more than anything I am so excited for Lilly and her family....she's a star!!!

Her perfect little face will be up in Times Square in NYC on the MTV plasma screen!!!
The National Down Syndrome Society buddy walk will start at 10:15 on September 24, 2011.

I am honored to know this little love bug and love that she is already a big star!!

Congratulations Lilly!!!

Ava!

2011-08-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

Just look at those big beautiful baby blues, the boys are going to be knocking down her door someday! It's a good thing she's got two big brothers!
Sweet little Ava is 5 months old here. Love her sweet little face.

Senior Mikaela's Sneak Peek.

2011-08-05T22:05:00.000-07:00

OH the gorgeousness! This is just a sneak, and I had the hardest time picking my 'sneaks', literally...every photo is that good!
The camera loves this beauty!

OMGosh! One of my faves...ever!

Check back soon for the full post.
Cheers all!!!

Carter - 9 Days New!

2011-06-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

This is the last of the photos from the three shoots. Carter is 9 days new in these and he was nothing but pure sweetness....still is. These are pretty much just pure and simple...my favorite kind.

I found this box and HAD to have it....WESTCOAST baby!!!

I'm sure to post lots of more of this sweet little guy. Check back soon to watch him grow!

Karley / 12 days New

2011-06-18T15:09:00.001-07:00

Sweet little Karley is just 12 days new and as loveable as can be! I was so excited to meet her and of course see her beautiful Mommy for a period of time. As luck would have it, Karley was AWAKE for the ENTIRE shoot! She hated being nakibuns and wouldn't you know it, as soon as her Mom dressed her...she passed out!

Even so, we still got lots of cute ones and her announcements came out so super cute!

The last photo of the day before she passed out! All warm and fully clothed.

I had to share what her announcements turned out like, I loved designing these and her Parents love them (me too)!

Carter - 8 days new

2011-06-09T12:30:00.000-07:00

Finally getting around to posting the sweet little buggins (thats now his pet name) Carters 2nd post. If you've seen his room and all the decor, then you know it's all about Owls. That being said, of course I had to get a Owl beanie. I came across this one (LOVE IT) on Maddie Lou Beanies Etsy page. It was just what I'd been searching for and it is Perfect!

Carter was 8 days new here. He was quite the sleeper during this entire shoot...which was great for me, I got to get all the ones I wanted.

I just love this one!

This one too..

Woke up for a big yawn

....and of course I had to do one for Daddy and our family in Indy...GO COLTS!!

I'll be posting more soon...I am just so in love!!!

The many faces of Carter

2011-06-08T10:47:00.001-07:00

I just can't help but laugh when I see these photos, so I had to share with you!
Carter is quite the smiler, just like his big bro. He was such a little cutie today (and everyday) just long enough for me to run and grab my camera to catch a few!
I mean really!! Can he be any cuter!?

Of course Coen had to get in on one!

Brotherly Love

2011-06-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Carter is now 6 weeks old (I can't believe how fast it goes the 2nd time around). I did three, yes 3, did I say THREE newborn shoots with him over the course of three days. I had to in order to get everything I wanted. It's tough shooting your own newborn, between setting up the shoot, being in the right light, stopping to feed, changing diapers, cuddle, making sure my other son is entertained and being tried! Whew...that's a lot just writing it.

These are the first few that I wanted to share with you of baby Carter, He is 10 days old in these.
Here are my two sweet little guys in their first shoot together.....

I love Carter's face in this one..

And this was the photo I put on the front of our birth announcements..

Crazy to see this one. Coen looks so pale next to Carter. He was jaundice, but not as bad as he looks.

More to come of just Carter, check back soon!
As always, THANK YOU for takin the time to stop by.

Michelle's Baby Bump / San Diego Maternity Photographer

2011-05-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I have known each other since we were younglings! 7 years old to be exact...wow, that's a long time.
Last year I was on the fabulous Facebook and noticed someone posted something on her wall...I was reading between the lines and I myself was newly pregnant, so I sent her a little message asking if she was expecting #2. She immediately called me and said "Why do you ask"? I then told her about the Facebook comment and she then told me, YES! She was expecting, but they had just found out, literally the day before!

I was SO SUPER EXCITED to say the least. We were moving from FL back to CA and now I find out my friend is just three weeks behind me!

Once I was back, we worked out a date to shoot. I was HUGE and she is a cute as can be. I mean seriously...she is wearing her regular jeans still at 8 months! I brought along my sister, Leslie from Leslie Anne Photofinish for a few reasons. She's known Michelle as long as I have and well, I was huge, so there is only so much I could do. Not to mention we have fun shooting together! So, click on over to her site to see some of her funtabulous photos as well.

We had a great time, and took our time. We had to do some family photos too...of course! Look at this family, just beautiful! I don't think they could take a bad photo, even if they tried.

I can't wait to meet little Karley, she's sure to be PERFECT!

Michelle and her perfect belly!

My Sister's Engagment!!

2011-04-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

How many people can say they got to witness their siblings engagement? Not too many (I assume), but I DID!!

My soon to be brother in law, Jamie let me witness the magic and now I get to share it all with you.

Their very first date was three years ago, where they met and had lunch for the first time. It was the start of a beautiful relationship. Jamie had it all planned out, had her bosses in on it, told her he was booked with clients all day and I was there. He and I met about an hour prior to them being there, so I could see where he was going to park and where I would hide out.

The place is Tip Top Meats in Carlsbad. And the story is sweet. After their first date, he had flowers for her...in a cooler in the back of his truck. Why were they in a cooler? So they wouldn't wilt! Seriously, so thoughtful.

So he popped the question three years after that first initial date.
Just after they had lunch, opened the back of his truck and pulled out a bouquet of sunflowers, her absolute most fave flower.
This bouquet was a little different from the first, this one had lots of sparkle on it!

So without saying another word,as the rest is theirs to tell.
Here they are the newly engaged Jamie & Leslie!

Look at that sparkle! So beautiful.

The Proposal...

She said yes!

This is when he told her I was there too, she was shocked (I just had a baby 5 days ago) But there was no way I was missing this.

I love this one.

The HAPPY couple!

Thank you for letting me capture this special day. CONGRATULATIONS again, I love you both!
Now let the planning begin!!!

Courtney's Sprinkle / Temecula Photographer

2011-04-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

So my bestie, Courtney is having a baby...a boy! She's due 6 weeks after me and in less than two weeks she is moving to D.C. (insert sad face) for 18 months.

We did her Sprinkle / Girls luncheon at the fabulous South Coast Winery in Temecula. I really only got a few images before everyone arrived, detail shots and one of sweet lil' Chloe!

Here is all the fabulousness....

Carter's Room with love from Etsy!

2011-03-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

So to say that I absolutely love Etsy is an understatement. Everything I bought for Carter's room, I got from Etsy with the exception of the furniture.

I really wanted something different, I knew what I wanted but hadn't seen what I wanted anywhere. So I turned to, well, you know! I'm not one to paint rooms in colors, Instead...I decorate!

I wanted to go with Owl accents and the I found this shop for the
Owl Pillow. I based everything around this little guy!

I decided I wanted the bedding to be orange and blue, bright fun colors!
I found Isla Corinne for the baby bedding. She even made the sheets!

For my first son, I did the custom letters of his name on the wall. This time I wanted to do something different, but what? and especially for a boy?
Not sure how I found this shop, but I am so glad I did. They are handmade wooden
blocks. I sent Jeri Jo an email letting her know what colors I wanted and the theme of his room. I didn't have anything specific that I wanted other than an Owl and a bunny (it's the year of the rabbit). I trusted her based off all her work. I was thrilled when I got the box a few weeks later...

Ahhh, and the mobile! I was at a girlfriends house and she had the cutest bird mobile, handmade. I had completely forgotten about the mobile, but I had to find a
owl mobile. This is the one I found.

This is what it all looks like when you walk in the room!
How awesome is the tree decal!? I love it. What is so awesome about this shop is you can customize everything! I even had the lowest branch moved up 6 inches.

A friend of mine made these and I just adore it!

and I think this is the custest little candle (and it smells so yummy) I had to share.

Just for fun... Owl meaning: Insightful, wise, protective, mystical.

Fix it Friday

2011-02-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

I love this weeks photo fix! This little girl is just so stinkin cute! Such a real moment captured.

Here's what I did:
Levels adjust.
TRA Awesome B&W
Lightened up her face 30%
Cropped
Sharpened eyes 40%
Save for web

Be sure to click the camera to see more edits.
Thanks to Rachel for this weeks photo!

Arshadi Family / San Diego Family Photographer

2011-02-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

I clearly have 'pregnancy brain'! I just realized I never posted the full Arshadi Family post and that's why you are seeing Christmas trees in Feb!

Mehr and I have been friends since the first day of 8th great. We were instant friends and pretty much joined at the hip for the next 5 years. Best friends.
And now, 20 years! OMG, 20 years later we are still great friends. Just wish we lived closer so we could spend more time together.

Ok, enough about she and I. This is about Mehr and her fabulous family. Meet the wonderful men in her life...Pasha (her hubby) and boys Kiyan and Dastan. We shot this at the St. Regis in Dana Point. It was insanely bright that morning with the marine layer hovering above our heads, regardless, we got some greats! Even her FIL got in on a few photos.
Meet the family...

Handsome Grandpa!

They're sure to be life long friends!

LOOK at this Beautiful Mama!!

Sweet kisses for his Mom, too cute!

A house is just a house until it becomes a....

2011-01-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

I know I have so been slacking on give some love to my blog as of late. And if anyone is reading this, well I can explain and show you what's been taking up much of my time.

As you know, we recently moved back to CA from FL. We bought a home, here's a funny little tidbit for you...We bought it without me ever stepping foot in the house. I know, I know, it sounds crazy to so many. How can you buy a house you've never seen in person? What if you don't like it? But my favorite reaction was "Wow, you really trust your husband". Well,yes I do and not to mention my husband and I have exactly the same taste. We knew where we wanted to live (same area we did three years ago) and what we were looking for in a home. We had a 'vision' for this house to make it ours.

So, as we do, we obsessed with finding a place. David got in touch with our fabulous agent, George at Team Schweer and hoped on a plane for a whirlwind weekend of house hunting. After that, it was narrowed down to three homes. He was back in FL after a crazy two day trip and we picked our house. Funny thing is, I had seen this house online and went right past it because it was decorated, how should I say this, not to my taste. Flooring was a nightmare, walls were nutty looking..needed a lot of love for a 9 year old house. BUT! then I looked at it again and we talked about what we could make of it and it did have a pool with a view.
Then, before you knew it, I was in love. I'd already moved in. Started decorating, planning and we hadn't even made an offer yet! So we offered, they countered, we countered and they accepted.

Everything from that point on seems like such a blur to me. We moved six weeks later. Shipped our cars, packed up our home in FL and filled up some PODS and away we went.
We lived in a hotel just a few days shy of a month (that was fun with a 3 year old and a dog), while we had all the flooring in the house ripped out and installed hardwoods. Repainted EVERYTHING inside the house. Then it was livable while we did the rest.
The backyard is good size, but not huge and the previous owners put in a pond, in addition to it already having a pool. The pond had to go...just not my thing. We need as much outdoor living space as we can get, so we filled it in and had it repaved!

We moved in mid October and I am happy to say we are three steps away from being done! Two days before Christmas the granite went into the kitchen, two days before family came into town for the holiday. Ahhhh, can you feel the pressure!? All this while pregant!

This is our fourth home that we have owned and with this home I've learned something. It actually took me leaving CA, moving away from everything and everyone I've ever known and then coming back to really understand that it doesn't matter where you live. It's truely what we make of it, and a house can be a home anywhere. Well, so long as we are together as a family.

So here it is, our home.

Before (online photo, Kitchen)
After. (Still need to do backsplash)

Before(desk area in Kitchen)
After. (We made it into a bar/beverage station)

Before (Entry way)
After

Before (Living Room)

After (Fireplace has not been refaced yet)

Before (Family Room)
After ( We're still decorating this room)

Before (Backyard)
After
The View.
The Pool.

Before (Loft)
After

Before (Kids Room)
After

Before (Upstairs Bathroom)
After (Kids Bathroom)

Home, Sweet Home.

BIG THANK YOU to the following contractors that helped make our home look so amazing...

Painter: Gary baker of RB Painting

Prayers for Lilly

2011-01-20T19:02:00.000-08:00

Many of you may recognize this sweet little face and if you're stopping by for the first time...then Meet Lilly!!
She might possibly be the sweetest little love I have ever met. She is just 4.5 months old and tomorrow she is having heart surgery, as she was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Take a moment to add little Lilly to your prayers and thoughts today and over the next few weeks.
Tomorrow she will endure a 5 hour surgery and remain in the NICU for the next two weeks.
She is such a amazing little girl and I have no doubt that she is going to amaze us with all she does in life.

To see more of Lilly's story & follow her daily progress, click Little Lilly

Fix it Friday!

2011-01-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

A fun little fix this week that really didn't need too much fixing. Just a little enhancing!

Here is the original (SOOC)

And this is my fix, as well as the fix recipe.

Levels adj.
Curves adj.
Vibrance +11
Unsharp Mask 20%, Radius 30.4, Threshold 2
New Layer
High Pass 1.2
Flatten
PW 'Sharpen This' tool 50% (Sharpened eyes)
Flatten
Flipped horizontal
Save for Web.
POST!

Thank you to Rachel Durik for this weeks Fix and allowing us to play.

Click the camera to see more of this weeks fix.

Danee / San Diego Portrait Photographer

2010-10-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Here she is, Miss America!!! Well, at least that was the little ditty I was singing to her at one point during the shoot.
We shot D just about a year ago and all I remember were four things...she's super funny, her eyes are AMAZING, those legs are to die for and it was super bright!!!
This shoot was a little more on the edgy side with just a few exceptions of course.
So gaze into those baby blues and envy the limbs....they really are something to marvel at.

And THIS is my absolute FAVE from the shoot! I almost want to scream it to the world..that's how much I love this one. Reminds me of a Guess ad.

Love this one too.

The 'T' Family / San Diego Family Photographer

2010-10-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

Finally! I've got my computer back and I am able to post the family shoots I did in Tampa before the big move. This is the 'T' family, great friends of ours. Kyle and David (my hubby) are both from the same place in Indiana, and were linked up when we first moved to Florida a few years ago. They were instant friends, as were Jess and I when we finally met!
We shot this session down on bayshore and then a wonderful woman who lives on an amazing property asked if we wanted to do some photos on her property...we jumped on that. The ones of Sammie are at her house. Though we're not living in the same place, I know you guys are never far and we'll see you soon.
Now! here they are, the 'T' family....

There's something about this picture that I just love!

The 'C' Family

2010-09-15T06:26:00.000-07:00

Meet Tammy, Treon, Cali and Cade! They are such a fun family and our friends! Not only that, Cali has been our babysitter for the past two years....we're going to miss her, miss you all.
Tammy has been telling me for the last 9 months that she wanted to get family photos done and wouldn't you know it! We finally go around to doing them a week before moving. The whole family is so photogenic and I am pretty much posting every single pic that I love from this session. Enjoy looking at this beautiful family....

Who does Cali look like?

Seriously?! How sweet.

The sky couldn't have been more amazing.

And last, but not least. What good would a family post be, without a little family fun?

Delanie / Class of 2011

2010-09-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

So Delanie's Mom and I had been in touch for a while of shooting dates, we finally settled on one and I know we were all looking forward to it.
The day arrives, it's beautiful...until about 4:30, then the clouds start moving in. I hop in my car anyway hoping this storm will pass and we can shoot. By the time we get to our first location to shoot, it is DARK and then it begins to pour and pou and pour. There was no end in site. We snapped a few (with flash, which I hate) and rescheduled for the following day.

Good times...

So day two if our shoot was absolutely beautiful and perfect for the occasion.
We shot in four locations and had a great time. Delanie is the youngest of four girls. She seems to think that she isn't photogenic, but as you can tell from the photos...she is! She plans to become a Surgeon and plans to attend USF in 2012 then transfer to Johns Hopkins Med School.

So here they are...some greats from our perfectly weathered shoot!

Had to get one with Mom!

Melodia / Class of 2011

2010-08-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

Melodia is a fun girl, and I have a feeling, anyone that meets her, loves her! We shot her entire Senior session in Ybor and boy oh boy..was it HOT! I think towards the end I'd sweat off 10lbs {seriously}. I'm really going to miss Ybor, its got everything you need for a shoot.

This was such a great shoot, we {ok, not we, but Mel} climbed, sat on a tractor and sat with a budda...kinda. She brought along a friend too, so of course I had her jump in on a photo or two. She was Mel's personal stylist for the morning.
I have a feeling that no matter what Melodia decides to be in life, she will be quite successful!
So, without further ado....

LOVED this wall!

She's a photog too!!!

Lizz / San Diego Portrait Photographer

2010-07-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

Lizz is a beauiful 15 year old....the 15 year olds didn't look like this when I was 15. Lizz is as sweet as can be, has a killer physique, beautiful eyes and a personality that doesn't quit.
We did a lot of photos to build her portfolio and lots of fun ones too! Her Boyfriend got in on a few and her best girls (that post will be up later).

I am pretty much posting ALL OF MY FAVES, because there are just so many and of course! I have to share....Enjoy!

HOTTTTTT Shoes!(Had to, you know my love of shoes)

I am so loving this one, I think it's my fave!

And her beautiful Mom, YES! Mom. I had to get her in just one. They hear it ALL the time, they look like sisters.

Meet Lindsey!!

2010-07-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

Lindsay is such a strong girl and has quite the story for only being 17. She and her Mom moved to Florida from So Cal last fall. And it's such a small world, that she actually went to high school for a bit in CA with my youngest sister, crazzzzy!
Anyway, I will call Linds and her Mom, 'Team S', because it sounds to me like they are a great team and always will be!
Lindsey is extremely outgoing, fun and full of life. She has a love for butterflys and she is known as the 'Turtle saver' in her community. She's been a dancer for years and has been a part of the Dance team @ her HS.

Her fave place to shop is: Forever 21
And she is going to be: An Anastegiologist

And here she is...Talk about Fantastic eyes. WOW!!

Meet Erika! / San Diego Senior Photographer

2010-07-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Erika is a part of the SMS graduating class of 2011!
She is quite an impressive girl and has such a bright future ahead of her, I can't wait to see where the road of life takes her.
She is a Varsity Cheerleader, involved in NHS, Exchangettes, DECA, Fishing club, and she'll be the Senior Class Secretary! Whew, she's a busy girl and on top of ALL that, she is a lifegaurd at the YMCA and maintains a 5.1 GPA! Seriously! Give her a high five(or just leave a comment,*hint.hint*)....cause that's AWESOME!
She is so much fun and we had a great time shooting.

Fave place to shop: Forever 21

Fave Band: BrandNew

What she wants to be: CRNA

Here she is....

A goofy moment!

If you know me, you know I LOVE FABULOUS SHOES....and these are FAB!

Good times!

Meet Brea! / San Diego Senior Photographer

2010-07-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

This is Brea! She is one of my Class of '11 Senior Reps. and is so much fun!

We shot this on her property (she lives on 18 acres) and I was eaten by many Mosquitoes within the first 10 minutes, then Brea came to my resue with Bugoff! Regardless, it was worth every bite!

So! To tell you a little about Brea....she is the Cheer Captain @ her school, involved in the Senior Class Representative Club, Vice President of Future Educators of America, Secretary of Hockey club and NHS. Busy girl!

Fave Shop : Rave

Fave Band : Format

What she wants to be: Teacher

Had to get one with her dog Simon

HUGE web & spidey in her yard, but what do you expect?

Blaire's Urban-esque Shoot / San Diego Portrait Photographer

2010-06-23T04:45:00.000-07:00

So this is a part deux to Blaires photoshoot. To add to her portfolio we did a more Urban shoot in Ybor. She brought along her boyfriend TJ, so of course I had to get a few of them together...and they are Super cute together! Another addition to the shoot was my sister, Leslie, who is a photographer back home as well! We all had a great time and of course got some greats!
Wait till you see what's in store for Blaire in the Fall! It's going to be incredible.

Welcome Baby Ashlee! / San Diego Newborn Photographer

2010-06-22T05:43:00.000-07:00

Here she is! Just three days old for her shoot and she is perfection! A closet full of pink and a fabulous little tutu I hope to see her in for a future shoot!
Ashlee's mom really likes the Anne Geddes type photos, so we put our own little spin on it.
Her grandparents were there as well, all the way from Australia...so I snapped a few of them as well.
I'm pretty sure, it's safe to say that Everyone is in love! Including me, I tried getting out the door with her, but I wasn't fast enough!
And now, without further adieu....

And how sweet are the proud Grandparents? Yes! Grandparents!

A Pirate Party!

2010-06-02T05:04:00.000-07:00

Arrrrrrgggggg Mateys!
My son turned three over the weekend and we had a Pirate Party, he LOVES pirates. It was a perfect day and all of Coens fave little friends came to celebrate with him! We got a Bounce house, ending up using the hose to mist off the kids when they got nasty sweaty! Pizza was served for lunch, perfect for any pirate if you ask me.
I made his cake and cupcakes with Cherrybrook Cake mix which is Peanut & Egg free!
And seriously? how cute are the toppers on the cupcakes? I got them from a shop on Etsy, Clineffs Confections
So after walking the plank and bouncing around the ship everyone left with their own bag of pirate treasure!
And just 15 min after our last guests left the sky grew dark and it poured rain (great timing for a little nap).

Welcome Baby Jonah / Tampa Newborn Photographer

2010-05-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

Meet baby Jonah! He's just 5 days old and completely perfect! Dad is a HUGE Jets fan and both Mom and Dad went to Oregon and are HUGE Ducks fans as well. So of course it is only fitting to plop little J into the team helmets, where he was quite comfy!
He is as sweet as sweet can be, if I could take him for my own, I would!
I'm posting most of my faves in this post. I'm sure you'll enjoy them as much as I do....especially the last one!

AND A SMILE!!!!

Tampa Class of 2011 Senior Representative Search

2010-05-18T12:27:00.001-07:00

SO! What is a Senior Class Rep? It's basically a spokesperson for Indica Photography.
A SCR is outgoing, fun, personable, stylish, and willing to encourage your friends to book a session with Indica Photography. Oh and you must loving being photographed!

And what's in it for YOU?

~ NO session fee.
~ 50 Free rep cards to hand out to friends
~ 5-10 watermarked photos to share on your social networking sites. Facebook, Myspace ect.
~ 10% off all print orders

Referral Bonuses:

~ For each referral booked and paid, you recieve $20 print credit
~ Get 5 people to book and get $150 print credit and 11x14
~ Get 10 people to book and get $300 print credit, 11x14, 2-8x10 and 3-5x7

So, if this sounds like you and you want to be a rep, please email me @
Julia@IndicaPhotography.com

Please include your
Name
Age
Phone Number
HS Activities
Recent photo of yourself
and tell me why you think you should rep for me. Now is your chance to sell yourself!

All submissions must be recieved by July 15,2010

Kiss.. with a leg up!

2010-02-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

This picture just makes me laugh every time I look at it, so when I ♥ Faces announced their kissing photo challenge for this week, this is what I thought of.

Fall ~ What to wear

2009-11-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

So here are my Fall fashion suggestions to hopefully help alleviate a little stress as you and your family plan what to wear for your session.
Parents, wear colors that coordinate well with the kids.

Death of an Icon

2009-06-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was much younger, saying....You know you're old when Michael Jackson and Madonna pass away. So does this mean I am old? Clearly not. MJ went far too young. Say what you may about the man, either way, he was a Legend. An amazing entertainer. He will live on forever in our cars, ipods and druken stupers as we attempt what he mastered...the Moonwalk.

Long live Captain E-O!