Doing a beach photoshoot in the Bay Area means it’s almost a guarantee that there will be clouds. Carl the Fog, as us locals affectionately call him, likes to hang out at the coast of course. But as a family photographer, I love me some overcast days. Think of the clouds as a big giant filter in the sky blessing us with even light in all directions.

Baby girl Sonali recently turned one year old and Mama Monisha wanted to celebrate the occasion with a at home smash cake and multi generational family photo session. Grandma and Grandpa’s flower filled backyard was the perfect location for the kiddos to play and for everyone to be at ease.

The vintage Nikon camera Javier brought was a thing of beauty (and I’m not just saying that because I shoot Nikon too) but what was even more beautiful was the family that he has created. Javier and his beautiful partner Adina were so connected and natural with each other, it was super easy to see their love. And together the created one of the CUTEST babies ever! I loved her gorgeous brown eyes and little smile so much!

All your life,

You were only waiting for this moment to arrive.

The Beatles (Blackbird)

It was so good to catch up with my longtime homie and his beautiful family. They suggested Filoli Gardens located in Woodside, and I’m so happy they did because it was a such a majestic place to explore. It was 16 acres of garden magic with gorgeous plantings, rose gardens, and formal landscaping—every couple feet there was another gorgeous photo op.

And the happiest baby of the year award goes to little miss Lyra! She was in such a good mood and it is probably because she knows she is so loved by so many. Just look at the way her awesome parents and sweet grandparents look at her! She is one lucky girl indeed.