Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:10 AM
I am so excited to share this little bit of yumminess with you today! Meet Jai, she is a fabulous actress out of Los Angeles that our friend Autumn introduced us to. And I'm sooo glad she did. Thanks Autumn! We shot Jai in Palm Springs last week and I am just so stoked about these frames. Chris and I concepted the shoot around capturing Jai's fun, playful freedom of spirit. I love this girl. I'm pretty sure we were best friends in a past life.  Jai has never done Myers Briggs temperament test, but I'm pretty positive she has to be an ENFP, because I have never met an ENFP I didn't fall in love with ;)

I have to give a huge shout out to the very talented make up artist, Kimberly Bragalone, who worked with us on this shoot. This whole team was just "locked-in" for this shoot. The moment the four of us (Jai, Kim, Chris and me) were together, the energy in the room just felt incredible and I knew it was going to be a killer shoot. I cannot stress the importance of working with people that you have a good compatibility with. That is sooo HUGE for us. Having someone on set with a good attitude changes the entire day. I think it is pretty safe to say that all of us walked away from this shoot feeling a nice little hop in our step and dorky grins glued to our faces.

I will post the underwater portion of our shoot with Jai later this week and I'll share a little more about that when I post it :) And to our faithful blog readers, I've been a bit off on my post-a-day track record, but alas, life is getting ahead of me! I'm going to do my best this week. I've got a lot more goodness coming your way.

Makeup/Hair: Kimberly Bragalone
Concept/Styling & Photography: Chris & Sarah Rhoads



Thoughts
Add a Comment View Comments (30)
mike larson says: Sunday, July 11, 2010, 04:08 AM

Love this shoot, I just realized I forgot to post after I spend an hour going through the 1st 10 pages of archives, but i guess I edit fast and was looking at as much as I could as fast as I could. Nice work. All of it.

Kat says: Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 04:53 PM

These photos are so gorgeous. I love your site!

KyleBarnes says: Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 11:06 AM

Some of the best work ive seen from you guys.. I love THIS you (picture me in my studio clapping for you, slow at first then faster and louder till everyone joins in).

Kayla says: Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 09:43 AM

Gorgeous! SO fun!!!

Patrick says: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 01:31 PM

Sarah + Chris, your lifestyle images are DOPE!

Gahhh...! =P

Nancy says: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 01:06 PM

OMG, I am just in love. Seriously, I want a photo shoot with you... I'm in LA.

This has to be the ACE Hotel in Palm Springs, how lovely, just lovely!

millie holloman says: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 09:40 AM

Sarah & Chris - I LOVE this shoot, everything about it. You rocked it out... you should be proud!

LisaK says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:13 PM

gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous!

anda says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 04:58 PM

every photo shoot you post becomes my new favorite shoot from you. i guess that's the way it should be! keep wowing me ... i know you will.

Patty Dover says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 04:36 PM

Beautiful styling and great energy!

Hannah Taylor says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 03:15 PM

OOOOOooooo! I love the green and orange! And the black and white of Jai sitting by the window is so awesome! Great job!

Jenn Best says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 12:38 PM

These are Super Fun Sarah! Glad you had a wonderful time in Palm Springs :)

Kara Mercer says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 12:11 PM

Such a fun shoot!! Awesome job!! I totally am an ENFP too!!!

lesley says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 11:36 AM

Super super cute!! :D

leonie says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 11:33 AM

how i love that first photo on the sofa! and the b/w is stunning.

and i so want a sofa like that!!!

Kevin Wrenn Photography says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 10:07 AM

So many awesome frames! Love the photo booth, love the orange door shot, love the green sofa shots!!! Another well done photoshoot!

Melina Wallisch says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 09:15 AM

looks like fun! could see them in a mag, love the one in the bikini leaning against the ice cream truck.

paula Leme says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 09:08 AM

awesome shoot! she's gorgeous :)

Alex Rubin says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 08:58 AM

Love the energy you captured and created. You had a great creative team for this shoot!

Mirelis Sanchez says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 08:20 AM

Fantastic work. She's such a beautiful girl and you captured her so simple and fresh. Love it!

Christophe D says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 08:11 AM

Great Shots !!
Energy and happiness are flowing down these ones !! Make me feel good !

Aaron Snow says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:49 AM

BEAUTIFUL!

italida says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:48 AM

Impressive! no words... *_*

taryn kent says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:46 AM

what a fun shoot! palm springs is the best... can't wait to see the underwater ones! these are amazing as always! ;)

Mel McLellan says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:38 AM

These images are de-lish! You guys executed the concept perfectly!

Megan Eckers says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:31 AM

awesome. awesome. awesome. period.

mikhail says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:27 AM

wonderful shots!

Feuza says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:21 AM

I Heart it! love the concepts and looks

alec vanderboom says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:20 AM

great stuff! that ice cream truck is awesome. the first green couch one is my favorite.

alec vanderboom says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 07:19 AM

great stuff! that ice cream truck is awesome. the first green couch one is my favorite.

Thursday, April 22, 2010, 12:42 PM
Life has been a whirlwind lately. It's hard to believe that Chris turned a quarter of a century yesterday... that makes him sound almost archaic doesn't it? ;). We've had a lot of fun exploring the dessert here in Palm Springs, dreaming together and talking about life's beautiful moments of clarity and peace, and also talking about the not-so-beautiful moments that may seem less than perfect to most but to me they are just as beautiful.

I've personally been thinking a lot about the beauty in imperfections. There is a japanese principle called wabi-sabi which values character and uniqueness over a shiny facade. It encourages embracing the scratches and dust and finding beauty in the real and authentic. I've been thinking about my personal work and the "poetry" that resides within it. Leonard Koren, the author of a book on wabi-sabi gives this advice, "pare down to the essence, but don't remove the poetry. Keep things clean and unencumbered but don't sterilize." I love that and it really spoke to me. There is a poetry in what each of us create as artists.... for me it is important for me to remember to leave the poetry there.... when something becomes too symmetrical, too polished, too perfect, it looses it's soul... it loses the poetry. 

My work is filled with imperfection. Filled with technically "incorrect" compositions. Filled with photos that never make the cut. Filled with dust and scratches.... but at this point in my journey I am learning that there is a real beauty in those seeming imperfect moments. I'm learning that there is a perfect poetry to the imperfection and it is important to leave room for the poetry.

Off to a shoot where I'm going to try something I have never done before.... excited about this one, we'll see how it goes... I'm going to do my best to remember wabi-sabi :)



Thoughts
Add a Comment View Comments (12)
mike larson says: Sunday, July 11, 2010, 04:10 AM

WOW, crazy, the Robert Geller Sunglasses, I love that you guys have those, I shot his wedding in Brazil 2 years ago. HE is a really cool guy. Rock on.

Brooke says: Monday, April 26, 2010, 06:19 AM

your hair is amazing! (oh, + i dig your pictures too!)

Lara Beck says: Sunday, April 25, 2010, 08:00 PM

*Sigh* Love it!!
If you look closely at a tree you'll notice it's knots and dead branches, just like our bodies. What we learn is that beauty and imperfection go together wonderfully.
"Matthew Fox"
Great last shot Sarah!! My Favourite :-)

arenda says: Friday, April 23, 2010, 03:35 PM

lol, great last photo - perfect depth of field + great emotion! :)

Katie says: Friday, April 23, 2010, 02:42 PM

What a great concept. As photographers we tell stories, and stories are real, and real life is full of imperfections, with the occasional moment of pure, remarkable perfection in amongst it. Thanks for sharing. :)

Jenny GG says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 10:05 PM

awesome read lady. i tried a few things i hadn't done before this past weekend at a wedding and i must say it was tough. i thought 'only 998 more times to go'.

HannahTaylor says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 04:54 PM

Yes, I have really had to learn the wabi-sabi concept the hard way. Life is so much more enjoyable. :)

James Moes says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 02:49 PM

I'm a big fan of the concept of wabi-sabi.

Sasha says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 12:59 PM

Last photo is awesome! :)

Vizcara says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 12:53 PM

Ahhh..... You will do well "Grasshopper" (I knew that is chinese not japanese) But you will do well due to your desire to embrace the Japanese culture and beliefs.. I have always embrased their culture and beliefs since I was a kid. I grew up with many japanese and really love them as a people. My stepson grandfather is Japanese. I respect him a lot and we are very close. The lessons you can learn from them and the Wabi-Sabi thoughts are in measurable.. Also the "Yin & Yang" Its nice to see others are embracing it as well or recognize its value.. Love the crazy hair shot was that 220? or 110? plug in? LoL. Either that or you need to put a bounce sheet in your dryer every now and then.... LoL.

Harmony Loves says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 12:51 PM

I love this! I love you (not in a weird psycho-stalker way)! You know how to say exactly what I am thinking or want to say. I know I am imperfect, my images are imperfect... but it is me and they are me.
Here's to wabi-sabi!

Kristine Neeley says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 12:48 PM

Brilliant. Thanks for sharing this.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 07:35 AM
Today is a very special day :)

It is the day that my sweet man was born. My heart feels overtaken with love when I think about how much my husband means to me. He loves me unconditionally, he laughs at my stupid jokes, he pushes me to be a better woman than I could ever imagine, and even after seven years together he can still make my heart flutter. So today, I just wanted to do a post to honor him on his Birthday.... To my soul mate and my very best friend, I wouldn't be anywhere without you. Thank you for loving me even when it's hard and I am stubborn and difficult. Thank you for always listening and for sharing your nook with me. I love your nook. It's my favorite place in the world. I'm looking forward to celebrating many more birthdays together and opening cheesy homemade cards even when our eyes are so old they cannot see what is directly in front of them. 

This birthday Chris and I took a surprise trip to Palm Springs. We're spending a few days just being together and celebrating life.

Happy Birthday to you love!

and post script for any photo geeks out there that are curious these frames were shot with our Leica M6 and are straight out of camera... film = muy yummy.


Thoughts
Add a Comment View Comments (21)
forget.me.knot.weddings says: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 08:13 PM

Sarah! We just missed you. My husband Chris's b-day was 4/15 and we went to the Ace to celebrate! I love all your shoots! Your work is so rad! I tried taking a photo at the bar and mine for sure did not come out as well as yours, haha!
megan

Abby {Super Burbs} says: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 09:11 AM

This is so stunning! I am in LOVE with your work!

cameron clark| cameron + kelly studio says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 07:51 PM

I want a Leica. 25 seems like forever ago and I'm only 33. live it up now before the mini me's come along.

Sacha says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 05:40 PM

pitter patter for love that keeps growing - happy birthday Chris.

Kelly Beane says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 10:46 AM

What a sweet post! Happy birthday Chris!

Linny says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 06:23 PM

Chris, may you have awesome abundantly and blessed Birthday!!!

fer juaristi says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 05:06 PM

happy bday dude, cheers from MX

Meredith Amadee says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 03:03 PM

Mmm love how photos turn out with rangefinders! These are perfect in b&w!

shannon sewell says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 01:55 PM

happy birthday sir... have a great one ;)

~S

Kara Mercer says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 11:27 AM

Happy Birthday, Chris!! I hope it is the best one yet!! You two take a breather and enjoy eachother in Palm Springs!!

Jill says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 10:49 AM

Happy Birthday, Chris. It's my birthday, too, today. Have a great time in Palm Springs.

diane says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 10:32 AM

happy birthday chris! hope you're having a fabulous day and i can't wait for you guys to visit us in may!

Calie says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 10:13 AM

GORGEOUS words Sarah!! You guys are such an inspiration!! May God keep your marriage and friendship with each other firmly in his hands forever!!! You are both so truly blessed to have each other!!

sean mclean says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 09:33 AM

so old and wise

anda says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 09:10 AM

happy birthday, chris! you are awesome.

Adele Cabanillas says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:56 AM

Happy Birthday Chris!! Hope you guys have a great time Palm Springs!! :)

ken says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:52 AM

happy birthday chris!

Jeff & Debra says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:47 AM

Happy Birthday to our #1 son. We love you both very much!

Jon says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:46 AM

You two are such an awesome couple. Happy Birthday Chris and such lovely words Sarah!

alexandra says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:34 AM

happy birthday to chris!!!

scott + cristen chester says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 08:21 AM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHRIS!!!

Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 06:38 AM
Meet Marissa & Andrew and their two little fuzzy-headed-friends, Dundee and Jackie-O. These four are so much fun. Marissa's laugh and joy lights up a room. Marissa is a 5' 2'' little one with a big personality and a lot of love to give. Andrew is solid, he's grounded, smart and witty. Andrew proposed to Marissa on their two year anniversary weekend. He's one of those romantics that pulls out all the stops. He surprised Marissa with a Seaplane ride from Seattle over to Roche Harbor, they spent the day walking around and stumbled upon a beautiful meadow that spread out for miles... and that's where Andrew proposed, right there in that glorious little meadow of love :) I love it when guys do thoughtful things to propose... nothing makes a girl feel more special. I think the thing that is most endearing about these two is their mutual love and respect for one another. They are more than just soul mates they are best friends. 

Hair/Makeup for Marissa: Tiffany Lowry

I leave with my best friend today for a surprise trip to Palm Springs, CA! It's Chris's Birthday tomorrow so I planned a secret get away behind his back. Don't worry, he knows now and we're about to hop on a plane. I've heard such great things about The Ace in Palm Springs and I cannot wait to just cuddle up with my boo and spend a few days exploring a new landscape together. 


Thoughts
Add a Comment View Comments (17)
Kevin Wrenn Photography says: Saturday, April 24, 2010, 07:15 PM

Another beautiful set!!! I especially love the last shot. It really seals the entire portfolio and captures the loving energy very nicely!

Audrey says: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 11:05 PM

LOVE the Rottie. a Mini Rottie.... so cute

Frances says: Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 09:06 AM

OMG that and great and I heart them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Alex Rubin says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 10:55 PM

Love the emotion you captured.

galaxie says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 09:36 PM

there is so much movement and emotional substance in these images. you guys just keep getting better at making that happen. wow.

Marissa says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 07:22 PM

My Dearest Team Rhoads - thank you are two words with a massive meaning. In all honesty, I don't have fancy enough words in my vocab that properly relay how much joy excitement appreciate and gratitude these images bring to us. THANK YOU is all I've got for now. Fingers crossed in 6 mths I'll have more ;) Happy Birthday CR!

Jason Domingues says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 05:30 PM

Sarah I LOVE this session!!!!!!

Vizcara says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 03:05 PM

Okay the 4th photo of the dog in your "Face" on the grass rocks.. I love that one.. But more than anything the 2nd to the last with couple in front of the tree is the most solid image. Because it represents "Strength, Roots, Something that stands the test of time" all that is said in that image which is a great thing to see when a couple is joining in a life long adventure such as "Marriage" ...

Mel McLellan says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 01:21 PM

These are awesome! They look like a blast!

julie says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 12:39 PM

Marissa!!! you look so beautiful! these are such great photos!

Geoff says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 10:59 AM

Love the movement in these shots!

Emily says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 10:48 AM

Love, love, love! What a fun engagement shoot! I can almost hear Marissa's laugh in some of them! And I love how the kiddos were included!

Marissa Rodriguez says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 09:36 AM

Whoa! I was trippin' out reading this post! First, my name is also Marissa. I'm 5' 1" and my husband also proposed on our two year anniversary! So weird! haha! Anyway, gorgeous photos, the last one is amazing!

Carrie says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 09:12 AM

These two are adorbs to the tenth power! Love this series. I can't wait to find a guy, fall in love and have you take our pictures. Seriously.
xox

paula Leme says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 07:14 AM

these are too cool!!! i'm in love with these dogs, they are adorable... and the 3th frame e AWESOME :) :)

Lindsey Shea says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 06:59 AM

Great session....love the movement in some of them! Sweet couple!

Julian Beattie says: Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 06:49 AM

Awesome stuff, Sarah. I love the B&W conversions -- Raised blacks rock! Great set :)