Lifetime Achievement Award, Stanford Faculty Headshot

I recently had the honor of photographing a Stanford professor emeritus, Robert Dutton who was receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award—a well-deserved recognition for decades of dedication to teaching, research, and shaping the minds of future generations.

A great headshot isn’t just about looking professional; it’s about telling a story. For this session, I wanted to create a portrait that felt authentic, warm, and powerful—something that truly reflected Robert’s legacy.

We chose a backdrop that subtly nodded to their academic journey, using natural light to highlight their presence in a way that felt effortless and true to them.

For this session, I focused on:
✔️ Expression – Balancing confidence with approachability.
✔️ Lighting – Soft, natural light to enhance their features while keeping the image timeless.
✔️ Composition – Framing that conveys both strength and warmth - —ideal for press releases, academic profiles, and professional announcements.

Getting to be part of this moment was truly an honor. It reminded me why I love what I do—helping people see themselves at their very best and celebrating their stories through photography.

“Milton Friedman” book AUTHOR PHOTO, Jennifer Burns

Crafting an Image That Speaks

Every writer has a unique voice. A fiction author might want an image that hints at the tone of their storytelling—moody and dramatic for thrillers, warm and inviting for contemporary literature, or creative and whimsical for fantasy. A business or self-help author may prefer a polished, confident look that conveys authority and approachability.

Lighting, background, and expression all play a role in shaping the message of an author’s photo. A bright, natural setting can evoke openness and authenticity, while a darker, more dramatic backdrop can add depth and mystery.

The Experience Behind the Lens

A successful author photo session is about comfort and connection. Many writers are more accustomed to being behind the scenes than in front of the camera, so I strive to create a relaxed atmosphere that allows their true personality to shine through.

The goal is to create a timeless image—one that authors will be proud to use for years to come, whether for book jackets, interviews, or professional branding.

Your Story, Your Portrait

If you're an author looking for a portrait that truly represents you and your work, let's collaborate. Together, we’ll create an image that feels both personal and professional—one that connects with your readers.

Family photoshoot at Pulgas Water Temple

Pulgas Water Temple, with its classical architecture and a serene reflecting pool, is a hidden gem in the San Francisco Peninsula. Though often overshadowed by the more famous Filoli Gardens next door, this historic site provides a stunning and elegant backdrop for family photoshoots—perfect for those seeking a timeless aesthetic.

Nestled among lush greenery, Pulgas Water Temple boasts intricate columns, a tranquil reflecting pool, and an air of old-world charm. The symmetry and grandeur of the temple create a setting reminiscent of Slim Aarons' iconic photography—where effortless luxury meets natural beauty. For this holiday session, the family wanted a refined, polished look to match their dressy outfits, making this location an ideal choice.

This session was all about blending sophistication with warmth. The family opted for coordinated attire in rich, perfectly complementing the architectural elegance of the temple. With golden hour lighting casting a soft glow over the scene, the photos captured the balance between timeless grace and genuine family connection.

We started with posed portraits by the columns, using the temple’s symmetry to frame the family beautifully. The reflection in the water added depth and a dreamy quality to the images. As the session progressed, we moved to more candid moments—kids running along the pathway, parents sharing laughter, and playful interactions.

If you're looking for a location that exudes classic beauty without the crowds of more well-known sites, Pulgas Water Temple is a great choice.

Professional Portraits at Stanford University

Whether for LinkedIn, business websites, or personal branding, a fresh, high-quality portrait can make all the difference. That’s exactly why my recent client, Catherine, reached out—she wanted to update her outdated professional headshots with something modern, refined, and true to who she is today.

And what better place for a sophisticated portrait session than the stunning Stanford University, with its elegant architecture, warm tones, and timeless beauty, Stanford provided the perfect setting for a mix of classic and contemporary professional portraits.

During our session, we focused on creating portraits that felt confident, approachable, and polished, while still allowing Catherine’s personality to shine through. We selected locations with clean backgrounds, soft natural light, and a touch of Stanford’s iconic quad arcades to create images that balance professionalism with authenticity.

To ensure a modern and polished look, Catherine chose outfits that were both elegant and timeless. Simple, well-fitted pieces in neutral and classic tones worked beautifully against Stanford’s sandstone details. Small details—like natural yet polished hair and makeup, relaxed but confident posing, and a hint of personality in each shot—made the difference in creating portraits that felt fresh and current.

Since professional photos can be used for a variety of platforms, we captured a range of images—some more formal for corporate use, others more relaxed for personal branding or social media. A mix of standing and seated poses, candid smiles, and poised expressions ensured she had plenty of options to choose from, no matter the occasion.

If your professional photos are feeling outdated, I’d love to help you create modern, polished, and natural portraits that represent you at your best. Let’s connect and plan your session!

Stanford SENIOR Grad Photos - Class of 2024!

There’s something truly special about capturing college senior portraits at Stanford University—the history, the stunning campus architecture, and of course, the incredible graduates who have worked so hard to get to this moment. This Class of 2024 session was no exception!

Stanford’s campus offers a variety of breathtaking locations that make for the perfect graduation photo backdrop. From the grand Main Quad, with its stunning sandstone arches, to the iconic Palm Drive. For this session, we explored some of Stanford’s most beloved spots to create a mix of elegant, fun, and timeless portraits.

Photographing Stanford graduates is an inspiring experience. There’s something about the combination of the historic beauty of the campus and the bright energy of the graduates that makes each session truly magical. To the Class of 2024—congratulations! Your hard work has led you to this incredible milestone, and I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.

Thinking about booking your own graduation photoshoot? Let’s capture this exciting time in a way that reflects your unique personality and achievements! Reach out to schedule your session today.

Family Photo SESSION at Portola Valley Town Center

San Francisco CRISSY FIELD, Family Photo Session

Crissy Field in San Francisco offers a picturesque setting for family photo sessions, combining natural beauty with iconic landmarks. Nestled within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this former military airfield has transformed into a beloved public space featuring restored tidal marshes, beaches, and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

During our recent family photo session at Crissy Field, we embraced the area's diverse backdrops—from the serene shoreline to the vibrant greenery. The family's playful interactions and genuine connections were beautifully highlighted against the stunning scenery.

For families seeking a dynamic and scenic backdrop for their portraits, Crissy Field stands out as a top choice, offering both natural beauty and a touch of San Francisco's iconic charm.​

Golden Hour Family Photos at Arastradero Preserve

There’s something magical about a family photo session at Arastradero Preserve in Palo Alto. The rolling golden hills, the soft glow of the setting sun, and the peaceful nature trails create the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. This recent session was a dream—filled with laughter, love, and the kind of genuine moments that make family photography so special.

Nestled in the foothills of Palo Alto, Arastradero Preserve is one of my favorite locations for outdoor family photos. The landscape changes beautifully throughout the year, offering lush greens in spring and golden, sun-kissed fields in late summer and fall. The open space, winding trails, and stunning oak trees make it a perfect place for little ones to explore and for families to relax and be themselves in front of the camera.

One of the best times for a photoshoot at Arastradero Preserve is golden hour, just before sunset. The soft, warm light added a dreamy glow to each shot, highlighting the love and connection within the family. Whether it was the little boy twirling in the field or a quiet, intimate moment between the parents, every frame felt like a little piece of magic.

While I always take a few classic posed shots, my favorite images are the candid ones—a laugh, the wind in the hair, the way the family looks at each other. These are the moments that truly capture the essence of a family, and they are the ones that will be cherished for years to come.

If you’re looking for a beautiful outdoor setting for your next family photoshoot, Arastradero Preserve is an great choice. Whether it’s a playful session with young kids or a more intimate shoot capturing deep family bonds, this location offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxed vibes.

Fall Family Photo Session at Legion of Honor

Perched atop the dramatic headlands of San Francisco, the Legion of Honor stands as one of the city’s most breathtaking landmarks. With its grand neoclassical architecture, sweeping colonnades, and panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, it offers an unparalleled setting for elegant and timeless family photography.

During this autumn family session, we explored both the open spaces and the hidden alcoves behind the museum’s columns. The family’s carefully coordinated attire created a sophisticated contrast against the luminous white stone of the Roman-inspired pillars. As golden sunlight filtered through the archways, their authentic connection and warmth shone through, bringing a natural beauty to each frame.

Beyond its visual grandeur, the Legion of Honor is steeped in cultural significance. Home to an impressive collection of European art, including works by Monet, Rodin, and Rembrandt, it serves as both a sanctuary of history and a testament to classical design. Its serene courtyards and elegant corridors evoke a sense of old-world charm, making it not only a desired destination for art lovers but also a perfect backdrop for capturing cherished family moments.

If you’re dreaming of a family photoshoot at the Legion of Honor, I’d love to help you create timeless portraits in this iconic location. Get in touch to start planning your session today!

Playing by San Francisquito Creek

Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a playful, lighthearted photoshoot at San Francisquito Creek, a hidden gem in the Palo Alto area. The combination of dappled sunlight and the soft murmur of the flowing water made for a session filled with pure magic.

Nestled between lush greenery and shaded by towering trees, San Francisquito Creek offers an intimate, natural setting for family photography. It’s the perfect place for kids to splash, explore, and simply be themselves,.The soft, earthy tones of the rocks and water, combined with the golden sunlight filtering through the trees, make for a dreamy, storybook-like backdrop.

These are just a few photos from a family session that capture the joy with which the little girl enjoyed playing at the creek. Instead of posing, I led J lead the way—jumping across rocks, dipping their toes in the water, and discovering little treasures along the creek bed.

As J tossed pebbles into the water and chased each other along the banks, I focused on capturing her natural expressions—the laughs and the fleeting, quiet moments. These are the kinds of images that families look back on and instantly feel transported to that time in their child’s life.

One of my favorite things about outdoor, nature-based photoshoots is how they allow families to be fully present with each other. Without distractions, it’s just them, the fresh air, and the simple joy of the moment. The rustling leaves, the sparkle of the water, and the soft afternoon light all work together to create a setting that feels peaceful, warm, and full of life.

Author Portrait Photoshoot – Capturing the Face Behind the Words

These photos are from a recent portrait photoshoot in Menlo Park. Emily Levine is a professor of European history at Stanford University and is about to publish her second book called “Allies and Rivals: German-American Exchange and the Rise of the Modern Research University”.

Every book tells a story, and so does the author behind it. A compelling author portrait is more than just a headshot—it’s a visual representation of the writer’s voice and personality. I recently had the pleasure of photographing Emily an incredible author who needed a professional portrait for her upcoming book that would feel timeless, warm, and reflective of her personality.

For this author portrait, we chose a location with soft, natural light and a backdrop that complemented her writing style and persona. We experimented with different angles, expressions, and natural poses, ensuring a variety of options that could work for her book cover, website, and future press features.

An author’s portrait should feel genuine and approachable, yet polished and professional. For this session, we focused on:

  • Soft, natural lighting to create a warm, inviting feel

  • Classic, neutral-toned wardrobe choices that wouldn’t distract from her expression

  • A mix of serious and relaxed expressions to capture different aspects of her personality

We captured both traditional headshots and more lifestyle-oriented portraits, giving her a selection of images that would work across book promotions, interviews, and social media.

A book’s cover may draw readers in, but an author’s portrait helps create a deeper connection. It adds a personal touch, making the writer more relatable to their audience. Whether it’s for the back of a book, a website, or press materials, a well-crafted portrait is an essential part of an author’s brand.

It was an honor to capture Emily’s journey as an author through photography.




Portrait Photoshoot

These are some of my favorite photos from the Feb 2020 member profile photoshoot for the San Francisco based Golden Gate Mothers Magazine. Sarah is a Stanford’s Children’s Hospital pediatric chaplain, a political activist and a Mom of three.

What to wear for a family photoshoot?

Are you wondering what to wear for your family photoshoot?

1. Wear What You Love

Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Whether your style is casual, festive, or eclectic, your photos should reflect your personality.

2. Avoid Logos and Busy Graphics

Steer clear of clothing with logos, characters, or large text—unless it’s something meaningful that you’ll want to see in your photos for years to come.

3. Consider the Setting

Think about where your shoot will take place. Do you want to contrast with your surroundings—like wearing a glamorous gown by the ocean? Or would you prefer to blend in with an outdoorsy, natural look?

4. Keep the Purpose in Mind

If your photos are for a holiday card or a special occasion, consider whether you want to incorporate seasonal elements, like winter accessories or festive colors.

5. Coordinate Without Matching

Outfits in the same color family—especially neutrals—tend to photograph well. This creates a polished, cohesive look without appearing overly staged, making it great for formal or holiday portraits.

6. Have Fun with Matching (If You Want!)

If you love the idea of matching outfits, go for it! But do it for fun, not because you feel it’s a "photoshoot rule." If matching makes you uncomfortable, coordinated outfits are a great alternative.

7. Let Kids Shine

To make children stand out visually, dress the adults in neutral tones and let the kids wear bright colors or fun patterns. This adds a playful, dynamic touch to your photos.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure that your family photos feel timeless, natural, and uniquely you!

Homeless Prenatal Program, San Francisco

The Homeless Prenatal Program (HPP) is more than a resource center—it’s a beacon of hope for homeless and low-income families in San Francisco. Through holistic, trauma-informed services, HPP empowers parents—especially mothers motivated by pregnancy and parenthood—to find strength, stability, and self-sufficiency. Serving over 3,500 families each year, this incredible organization provides vital support in areas such as housing assistance, wellness programs, mental health services, and job training to help families break the cycle of poverty.

HPP reached out to me with a special request—to capture fresh images of their space that would be used to update their showcase materials for supporters and investors. These images will serve as a helpful tool for HPP, helping them visually communicate their impact to donors, grantmakers, and community partners. By seeing the space where families find stability, investors and supporters can better connect with the mission, understand the scope of services, and feel inspired to contribute to the cause.

Newborn AT HOME family photoshoot

This photoshoot was with a wonderful Turkish-American family whose son was born only two months ago. It was so lovely to see how much they enjoyed each other's company.

There’s something truly magical about the early days of being a parent— tiny fingers wrapped around yours, and the overwhelming love that fills a home. Capturing these fleeting moments is one of the greatest joys of family photography, and this recent session was no exception.

From the first click of the camera, it was clear this family shared a strong bond. Their little boy lit up every frame with his bright eyes and sweet smile. The session was a perfect blend of candid and posed moments— kisses on tiny cheeks, soft embraces, and the laughter. The soft lighting and neutral tones kept the focus on what truly matters: the connection between this family.

Time moves so quickly, and before you know it, these little hands will grow, and these tiny toes will take their first steps. That’s why preserving these moments is so wonderful—so that years from now, they can look back and relive the love, the joy and the craziness of this beautiful chapter in their lives.