behind the lens

My “Why”

Growing up, I was the quiet one out of my four siblings. So when it came to expressing myself, I used art as an outlet. Out of the different artistic mediums- canvas painting, graffiti art, airbrushing, photography has been the one thing that I was always attracted to. It’s no mystery as to why. I was always exposed to cameras and even received my first Fisher Price film camera on my 7th birthday. My mom would always take pictures of us in our makeshift studio and record nostalgic home videos on an old Sony hi-8 camera. I wanted to do what my mom did, which was to create memories to look back on. I was so fascinated by the idea of this and throughout high school and college, my passion for capturing memories had kept growing. After shooting and delivering my first wedding of a friend, it was a feeling that felt truly fulfilling which to this day, I still urge for.

My Approach & beliefs

I focus on capturing those real, in-between moments—the ones that tell the true story of your day. But in order to do this, trust is the foundation of my work. I want to ensure that my couples are past a certain level of comfort with me, as if I am one of their groomsmen/bridesmaids. This is why I make communication a priority before and after bookings. My goal as a photographer is to capture the real you, so when you look back on your photos, you can relive the emotions of those moments.

My style & inspiration

My style is timeless and true-to-color. I draw my inspiration from editorials and documentary styles. I try to go for soft, yet crispy tones, that are almost film-like.

I like nice greens, back light, and pastel colors. My style is not exactly light and airy and this because I like preserving some detail. I value these ideas and styles because I want my couples to experience the day how it was when they take a glance at their photos 50 years later… I love the thought of this so much.

A shot from my first Fisher Price camera in the year 2000!

FAQ

How did you get into wedding and engagement photography?

In 2016 a couple of my friends noticed my photography on my Instagram and asked if I could do their engagement photos. I’m not afraid to admit that I copied some poses from images I have seen online, but the outcome was amazing. Later I found that poses are just guidelines and I can direct by what’s happening at the moment- Things that I loved capturing. From there on, I grew on to do weddings and never looked back.

What got you into photography from the start?

My mom was always into photography. We had a studio in my garage when I was very young and would use it to take family pictures! I would borrow her cameras and photograph my friends skating in high school. I was ( and still am!) very fascinated how I was able to capture all those fun and real moments.

What gear do you like to use?

For work, I primarily use Canon cameras, both film and digital, and sometimes Fuji. But when traveling or doing photowalks around the city, I carry a Leica. Here’s what’s in my bag!

Where are you based out of?

I am a Filipino-American residing in San Francisco. I currently shoot everywhere in the NATION and am always passport ready.

Favorite hobbies?

When I’m not doing anything photography related, I am an avid traveler, I love lifting, camping, and simple home improvement projects.

Favorite foods?

I will never stop loving Japanese food. I am a complete SUCKER for fresh fish. Let’s get some after our session, yeah??

Do you have any pets?

I still consider my families fur baby, Annie, my dog even after moving out hehe. She is a rescue pit bull and the absolute sweetest girl! If you plan on having a session with your fur baby, I AM ALL IN.

Introvert or extrovert?

I am primarily an introvert but I when I comes to weddings and photography, I turn into an extrovert. I absolutely love interacting and meeting people!