I was really excited when Orange County- based photographer, Nick Joseph contacted me to do a photo shoot on film. It is a medium that is becoming more unusual since digital photography has become more and more accessible. I really enjoyed this shoot because Nick, as a photographer, is kind and gives great feedback, but also because of the challenge, and the naturally vintage style the images take on.

Digital cameras and and lenses nowadays make taking beautiful pictures a breeze since cameras can store thousands of images at a time, and one has the liberty to “make mistakes,” like the wrong shutter speed or improper lighting. Flubs won’t cost so much in terms of time and money, you can just snap away until you get it right.

With film, the photographer has to be more discriminate with the images he chooses to capture, as well as being precise with composition and lighting, because there are a limited number of photos per roll. Then there is the wait (and anticipation) for the film to be processed; you won’t know what your images look like until you receive them in your hands. There is a significant amount of time and money on the line, so “screwing up” is a serious concern. Because when the shoot is done, it’s done. The moment is gone, and there is no do-over. All one can hope for is that the images look as you intended.

As a model, shooting on film can also be difficult. You have to have your pose locked in, your expression just right, and don’t forget: You can’t blink! Lest you waste your photog’s film.

Thankfully, Nick has a lot of experience shooting on film, so I took his direction, and chose an unfussy wardrobe and makeup style. Then we set off on a hot summer evening to seek out locations that inspired us.

We found a fabulous location at the top of the parking garage of Binion’s Gambling Hall. Not only are there flashing neon lights, but also a gorgeous view of the horizon. If you catch it at the right time, the you can see the sky glow orange and purple as the sun sets on the Mojave desert.

I hope you enjoy this photo series as much as I did working on it.

Please visit Nick Joseph’s Instagram page by clicking here.

I love visiting Mexico, and thankfully, I was able to work with top photographer, Dennis Rosenberg while I was there.

I have visited a few wineries in Valle de Guadalupe, but I had not yet been to Cuatro Cuatros. It is a stunning location with a bar that looks over the Pacific Ocean at sunset. It worked out great for our lifestyle shoot.

While we were there working, we witnessed at least three couples get engaged. That’s how romantic this place is! Just be sure to get there well before sunset, as there is limited seating.

Dennis lives and works in Ensenada, Baja California, so be sure to check out his beautiful work on his web site, or follow him on Instagram.

Who would have known that a flood wash in the Southwest part of Las Vegas could be a great location for a photo shoot? Thankfully, veteran photographer Matt Wong has insight on all the cool spots in town.

Working with Matt will be a highlight of 2018 for me. Right off the bat, we were able to connect via our ideas. I expressed that I was interested in shooting swimwear, with a specific mood and look in mind. More than anything, I had a list of looks and moods that I wanted to *avoid* and he understood my point of view, precisely. (Thank goodness! LOL)

I’m very proud of these photos. The result, I believe, is due to Matt and I having lots of communication. We both were clear about what our expectations were, and we listened to each other. I can’t express how important this is in any line of work, but when you’re shooting photos, a give and take is essential to getting pictures you’re happy with.

Enjoy.