Author Archives: Candace

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Play in the Snow

Now that we’re all starting to adjust, I think it’s safe to say that we’re excited about the time change.

Growing up in the Midwest, “springing forward” always meant warm weather was around the corner. The longer days only added to the excitement. But without fail, there was always one more winter storm that would blow into town and remind us that it was still March. And still winter.

If you find yourself in that last dreaded winter storm, here’s a little date idea to help you make the most of it. Soon enough you’ll be in flip flops and splashing in a pool, but until then, enjoy what little winter you have left. I can just hear my mom now – this coming from the girl who lives in California where the average temperature is 60 degrees. I get it!

But nonetheless, if snow arrived on my doorstep today, I’d grab Vitaliy and go outside for a good ol’ fashioned snow ball fight. I suggest you do the same. It just might be your last chance of the season.

Couple playing in the snowGuy wearing a black coat making a snowball. Editorial photographySnowball fight - romantic date ideaEngagement photography. Couple laughing and throwing snow above their headsPlay in the snow date ideaThrowing snowball toward the camera. Editorial photographyCute girl wearing a red coat in the snow making a snowball. Editorial engagement photographyGirl throwing snowball at a guy. Fun date idea for winter and snow.
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Rediscovering Quinoa Eating Well

I’m going to start today by giving you a little piece of advice for your relationship. Feel free to take notes.

If you would like one small yet practical way to improve your relationship, I’ve got it! When an opportunity arises for you to praise your spouse in public, don’t pass it up. Whether you’re complimenting their appearance, their character, or praising them for an accomplishment – go for it! Always speak highly of each other and never ever tear each other down in the presence of others. It’s such a small thing for you to do, but I guarantee it will be huge for the person receiving the praise. You words will be a reminder for them that they are loved and respected by you.

Today I’m going to practice what I preach. I’ve always told my husband that he’s my favorite photographer in the whole world. I’m amazed at what he sees through the camera and how he is able to connect with his subject. I think he often has a hard time believing me just like I sometimes have a hard time believing him when he says nice things about me. Oh, you’re just saying that to be nice!

Two years ago, Sergio Nunez de Arco, a close friend and founder of Andean Naturals, had a vision. He wanted to connect the consumer of quinoa with the farmer who helps bring the miracle grain to their table. It was a beautiful idea! And I am thrilled that my husband was able to tell the story through his pictures. Andean Naturals accounts for a third of the quinoa sold in the United States so it’s likely that you’ve enjoyed their quinoa at some point.

Vitaliy, now that you’re work has been published in print, I hope that you’ll trust me when I tell you what a talented photographer you are. I remember being scared for you to go to Bolivia for this project, but I’m so happy that you did. I’m confident the experience stretched you not only as a photographer, but also as a person. The more that I get to know you, the more I seem to admire you. I’m excited, and terrified, to see where God takes you with that camera of yours, but I promise to do my best to get out of His way. The last thing I would ever want to do as your wife is hold you back. I love you.

If you’d like to learn more about quinoa and find a few new recipes, the article is called Rediscovering Quinoa and can be found in the April issue of Eating Well. We found the magazine at our local Whole Foods store.

On location Photography in Bolivia. International photojournalist Vitaliy ProkopetsRecipes by Patricia Green and Carolyn Hemming, Location Photography by Vitaliy Prokopets, Food photography by Andrew ScrivaniDocumentary on location photography Bolivia - Vitaliy ProkopetsDocumentary people photography in Bolivia
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Anthony+Nicole
Engaged

When asked what he loved about Nicole upon first meeting her, Anthony answered, she’s Greek! To which I replied, Opa!

Though being Greek was a factor that brought the two together, one look at Nicole’s smile and you know there was more to the attraction. The first time Anthony saw that beautiful smile he was playing guitar at an event Nicole was attending. By the time he was finished playing and worked up the courage to approach her, Nicole had already left for the evening. With mutual friends, he was confident he’d get another chance.

In fact, Nicole made sure he’d have another chance. Finding out that Anthony would be playing at a local New Year’s Eve party, Nicole made sure to make an appearance. The two finally met, exchanged information, and kept in touch over MySpace. Three months later they had an official first date.

Anthony and Nicole, thank you for choosing us to be your wedding photographers. Since the very first email exchange, it has been a pleasure getting to know you both. Whether we’re talking over email or in person, you make us laugh. Thank you for being kind, thoughtful, and sincere. You guys are seriously adorable together! We can’t wait to photograph your wedding this August. Congratulations to you both! With love – V & C

Anthony proposed to Nicole in a seaplane off the coast of Sausalito. Thanks to Seaplane Adventures for letting celebrate the moment by allowing us to photograph on their dock.

Also, a big thank you to Sophia Callas and Nicole Tott-Berger for making Nicole even more beautiful than she already is.

Hair: Sophia Callas at Sorry I Broke Your Heart

Makeup: Nicole Tott-Berger at the Social Beauty Company

Engaged couple sitting on the dock in front of a seaplaneEngagement photos in front of the Golden Gate Bridge.Engaged couple huggin in front of the Golden Gate BridgeCouple holding hands in front of the Golden Gate Bridge.Anthony kissing Nicole on the cheek.Nicole laughingPortrait of engaged couple holding a dog togetherEngagement photos in front of the Seaplane Adventures plane in Sausalito, CAGuy standing underneath a seaplane with his arm on the wingPortrait of a girl smiling with beautiful light in the backgroundCouple cuddling in front of Golden Gate BridgeCouple standing underneath the wing of a seaplane in Sausalito.
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