Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Great Spots For Photography In Orange County

Orange County is home to hundreds of scenic and popular locales, from Disneyland and its California Adventure park to its variety of beaches and water sports venues. But it also houses many hidden gems for your photography pleasures. I’ve listed below some of the most picture-friendly areas in the O.C.

The LAB

A lot of long-time O.C. residents call this the “anti-mall” as it lies unobtrusively behind a grove tree, and you’ve to follow a shader path if you’re to enter the marketplace. Here you’ll find quaint restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. There are regular events and festivals devoted to poetry and the visual arts. If you’ve managed to find yourself in the LAB, take photos in the ARTery, which features artwork placed in shipping containers.

Image source: visitanaheim.org

Great Park Balloon

These hot balloons are awesome subjects for photography. They can individually hold two to three people at a time, and it’s simply amazing to see an entire fleet of them soaring into the sky. From the balloons themselves, you can take generous, 360-degree photos of the gorgeous landscape.

The Blind Rabbit

Located in Anaheim, this nondescript restaurant is famed for its speakeasy atmosphere. The service is great, and the toned-down ambiance is perfect for shots that capture that old-world and artistic allure. But make sure to reserve first, as it’s often only available for first come, first served seating between two and four in the afternoon.


My name is Douglas Grady, and I’m an Orange County-based event planner. Though my job can get hectic at times, this is where my passion lies. Outside of work, I’m into travel and photography. Hit up this link for similar tips.






Wednesday, July 25, 2018

The Simple Guide To Becoming a Great Wedding Photographer

It’s hardly possible to imagine a wedding without a wedding photographer. This doesn’t mean that weddings would be meaningless without pictures. However, wedding photography has become a part of every nuptial, be it a civil or church wedding. The union of two individuals is captured and immortalized by talented photographers that give story to each frame. 

Image source: pexels.com

Be clear with what you’re offering as a photographer. When a client asks for your services, let them know of your available equipment, your team (if you have any), and show them your previous work. If large family photos won’t be something you will be offering, provide alternatives like smaller group photos. Pre-plan your shoots so as to not miss important shots. Wedding photography isn’t spontaneous like street photography. Scout for locations, and if your clients have places in mind, check them and see how you’ll be able to work with the lighting and other conditions of the place. 

It’s important to ask the couple what they want their shoot to be like. Ask them who the VIPs are in their wedding. Make sure to capture moments with them. On the day of the wedding, make sure you know what will transpire. Know the ones involved in the program. 

While it’s great to capture spontaneous moments during the wedding and reception, don’t be afraid of directing your subjects. With a few directions here and there, you’ll be boosting the confidence of the subjects, allowing them to relax when being photographed. Follow the smiles. Knowing the most expressive guests will provide you with the best subjects. 


Image source: pexels.com

Douglas Grady, event and wedding planner at your service. My business is based in Orange County, California. I am passionate about travel and photography. Subscribe to my blog to get more photography tips.

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Some Travel Photography Tips For Taking Those Gorgeous Photos

Photography is one of the best complementary hobbies to traveling. It has become the norm for people visiting various scenic and historic places in the world to be toting a good camera. Of course, if you are serious about travel photography, it could also be a lucrative career option. Whatever the case, here are some tips on ensuring that you capture those gorgeous scenes and moments in photos.

Image source: epicureandculture.com

Firstly, don’t go traveling blindly. Read official sites for the area if any, as well as blogs and guidebooks about your destination. Scouting is vital in knowing the best places for taking great photos, as well as what pictures genuinely capture the area’s essence and spirit. You can check Google Maps for markers on the most important places and form your shot list based on these.

Pay attention to the small things. For example, what day is there low tourist traffic? What is the weather forecast for the whole week? Which time of the day would offer the best light? Doing a bit more research is key to ensuring that the conditions for the shoot are ideal. 

Of course, if you are not just doing travel photography as a matter of circumstance, you should before anything else be certain about why a particular place is where you want to go. Go to those that best interest you and, based on your research, hold most opportunities for stunning photography: whether it’s the countryside, mountains, the pristine beaches, or the delicacies in a nation’s bustling city markets. Finally, be one with the locals; totally immerse yourself in the culture. 

Image source: momentier.com

My name is Douglas Grady event planner and travel and photography enthusiast. I studied communication and public relations at the University of Washington. For more on my work, pay this page.