The Prosch's

It was one of those days. As I woke up that morning, I realized I had some kind of allergic reaction to something and started sneezing away. I then went to burn a disc for a client and when I was already running late, realized that I bought DVD's instead of CD's. Finally, when I got to the beach a bit early, ready for the shoot, I went out to test the lighting. As I looked back, I saw a grown man coming out of the water from a surf session walk over to where I left my sandals sitting on a rock and take them. What?? Why would a man steal my ladies reef sandals? So, that is how my day was going before the Prosch's arrived.

However, as soon as I saw them coming down the old wooden staircase to the beach, my day turned around. Katharine's smile is infectious. Hans' cool collective attitude instantly soothed me and watching their 3 year old Gavin run around with joy at the mere sight of the ocean, gave me a reality check of why I was here in the first place! Because I love what I do! 

Gavin was a great kid, and the way he looks at his parents is the sweetest thing. He is all about his mom and dad. To him, they are HIS. He stakes his claim on them in so many of the pictures, with pride simply oozing from his face. This family really made me forget that I was not there to hang out with them, but to work! As our session went on, and I looked through my lens, I forgot all my worries of the busy day, and felt a calmness. This session was amazing in so many ways, and I hope that they had just as much fun as I did! Thank you Prosch family! Have a great Thanksgiving in Las Vegas!

Weekend in Encinitas

As the sun was going down, I sharpened the focus on my lens in awe. As it slowly sunk into the endless ocean, it appeared to melt at the touch of the water, like wax to a flame. With a deep breath I clicked away, thinking about how amazing it was that I was standing here watching such beauty.

One of the many things I love about southern California are our sunsets. This weekend I was in Encinitas for a shoot, and came up a couple of days early to relax and hang out with my brother and his girlfriend. Sunsets, board games, wine and an adorable family shoot. Overall a perfect weekend. I had a great time and thought I would share some pics of my time in North County! The pictures from my session with the fantastic family, The Prasuhns, are to come! Until then, enjoy!

The Rockin' Gmuers!

I have recently made the decision to work half the time in San Diego, half the time in Los Angeles/Ventura County. Yes, I know it is quite the trek, however, soo worth it! I was born and raised as a valley girl. Simi Valley particularly. However, my heart belongs to San Diego. So... I have decided that for this next year or so, I am going to spend my time between the two, and eventually, make my way to north county San Diego! One of the families that I have had the pleasure of spending time with was the Gmuer's.

They are such an amazing family! So relaxed and go with the flow. Their kids are not only super well behaved and polite, but they are hilarious! The little guy was giving me the stink face early on, which only meant he liked me. ha! And Their daughter was such a ball! Typical little girl, talking about everything she could think of under the sun. I adored them! Thank you so much Gina and Jim! You two are so lucky to have such a gorgeous, warm and loving family! I can't wait until the next time! Here are a few pictures from our session!

The Morales Family

I can not believe how awesome this family is. Well, part of me can because they are related to me, so I have always known their "cooolness". If that is even a word. But seriously folks, they are chic, stylish, gorgeous and laid back. And if that were not enough, they are FUN! 

While Danielle has this sweet, go with the flow attitude, her hubby is making his kids laugh by being goofy and lifting the boys up and getting smiles from them.  To top it off, the kids are just as awesome! Diego at a mere 3 years old was giving us a concert on top of a picnic table singing the best rendition of Billie Jean I have heard since, well, ever! And Brando was the sweetest baby just laughing at his Dad and brother while hanging with his mom watching the show.

I absolutely LOVED being able to capture these moments for a family as great as this! If you are in the San Diego area, and are looking for a family session, please contact me at nicolekandrews@gmail.com  Have a fantastic Friday everyone!

FUNNIEST. PICTURE. EVER.

Encinitas Watch Out!!

This past weekend I went down to Encinitas, which is located in north county San Diego. I absolutely love love love this town and basically all of San Diego as a whole! It is my town to the tee. I love the feel I get as soon as I get there. I feel happier, less stress and motivated. Is it weird that a city can actually motivate me? Ha! Anyhoo, I am working in both L.A. and San Diego right now, and while I went down on this trip I had three different sessions.  

This session was with Ryan and Tara. I LOVE LOVE LOVE them. Not only because they are exactly what San Diego means to me (easy going, happy, up for anything, cool, spiritual, loving etc) but because Ryan is my brother and Tara is his AMAZING girlfriend! Seriously I couldn't have lucked out any more with an awesome chick! 

I was so happy that I was able to shoot them and we had so much fun with it! Running around downtown Encinitas, stopping in front of random cool doors and shops, hopping into deserted tractors, using the hood of someone's car (thanks mister!), climbing into closed lifeguard stations, you name it! Hope you enjoy a few of the pictures, more to come!