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Blog

Explore the moments captured through my lens, from photo sessions with clients to editing tips. Join me as I share the stories and emotions that inspire my photography.

Matthew Dea Matthew Dea

A Sweet First Mother’s Day at the Murphy Windmill

On a peaceful Mother’s Day morning, I joined a sweet new family of three at the Murphy Windmill in Golden Gate Park. With their 10-week-old baby boy in their arms, Mom and Dad soaked in the quiet beauty of their first Mother’s Day — a morning filled with soft light, fresh blooms, and the kind of love that only grows deeper with each passing day.

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A December Wedding At The Legion of Honor

After their heartfelt ceremony, this December wedding continued with a portrait session at the couple’s first date spot—Blue Bottle Coffee in the Fillmore District—followed by golden hour photos at Alta Vista Park. The celebration wrapped with an elegant reception at San Francisco’s iconic Legion of Honor, complete with cocktail hour in the galleries, dinner in the café, and an unforgettable night of dancing led by Desi Offbeats. A joyful, art-filled evening honoring love, heritage, and meaningful beginnings.

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Washington DC: A Journey Through History, Food, and Hidden Corners

From mimosas at the Jefferson Hotel to standing on the “I Have a Dream” step at the Lincoln Memorial, our trip through Washington DC was filled with the kind of moments that quietly stay with you — a mix of deep history, vibrant food, and the everyday beauty of walking through a city with someone you love.

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A Day in Fairfax: Good Food, Sweet Treats, and Local Art

Join us on a day trip to Fairfax, CA, where we enjoyed a cozy French lunch at Amélie, indulged in handmade ice cream at Fairfax Scoop, and explored the vibrant art and history at The Ranch. A perfect blend of food, community, and creativity.

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A Joyful & Sacred Celebration: Capturing a Beautiful Hindu Wedding

Hindu weddings are a breathtaking blend of tradition, love, and family, and capturing this special day was truly an unforgettable experience. From the joyful welcome rituals to the sacred vows around the holy fire, every moment was filled with meaning and beauty. This blog takes you through the highlights of the ceremony, including the Garland Exchange, Kanyadaan, Mangalsutra, and Saptapadi, as the couple embarked on their journey together. Join me in reliving this incredible celebration of love, culture, and timeless traditions!

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A Perfect Afternoon at Olompali State Park: Hiking, Views, and Stunning Scenery

On a beautiful, sun-soaked afternoon, my wife and I explored the stunning trails of Olompali State Park. The vibrant greens of the grass and trees, paired with perfect golden lighting, made for a breathtaking experience. Hiking the Loop Trail led us to panoramic views, where we captured some incredible photos—this park is truly a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers alike. If you're looking for a peaceful escape with picture-perfect scenery, Olompali is a must-visit!

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Celebrating Life and Tradition: A Red Egg and Ginger Party in San Francisco’s Chinatown

This Lunar New Year, I captured something truly special: a Red Egg and Ginger Party at the historic Far East Café in Chinatown, SF. Surrounded by family, friends, and the festive vibes of the Year of the Snake, it was a celebration filled with love, tradition, and amazing food.

From the bright red eggs symbolizing luck to the heartwarming toasts around the table, every moment was pure joy. Events like this remind me why I love what I do—capturing memories that bring people together.

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An Escape to Seattle: Five Days of Food, Art, and Adventure

Seattle swept us off our feet with its vibrant markets, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking views. Over five unforgettable days, my wife and I indulged in everything this iconic city has to offer—from savoring king crab at Pike Place Market and exploring the magical Chihuly Glass Exhibit to sipping wine atop the Space Needle and strolling through snowy streets in Fremont. Whether it was jazz-filled dinners, underground adventures, or cozy cafes, each moment was a celebration of romance, discovery, and the unique charm of the Pacific Northwest. This trip wasn’t just a getaway—it was a love letter to the Emerald City.

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A Day Trip to Jack London State Park: Exploring Nature, History, and Local Charm

Just a short drive from San Francisco, Jack London State Historic Park offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation. From a picnic lunch under the trees to exploring Jack London’s home and hiking the serene Lake Trail, our visit was a journey into the life of one of America’s most iconic writers. With a dinner at Sonoma Square to wrap up the day, it was the ideal day trip away from San Francisco. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with a touch of literary charm, this park is a must-visit!

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A Merry San Francisco Tradition: Exploring the City and Sebastopol for the Holidays

Every holiday season, my wife and I celebrate with a magical mix of city sparkle and small-town charm. This year, we explored the festive streets of San Francisco, from Union Square to Chinatown, savoring Irish Coffee at the historic Buena Vista Café and admiring Ghirardelli Square’s holiday lights. We ended with a day in Sebastopol, enjoying local flavors at The Barlow and a cozy drink at Crooked Goat Brewery. Join us as we share our favorite traditions, festive sights, and delicious stops!

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A Stroll Through Time: The Great Dickens Christmas Fair's 40th Anniversary

Step into Victorian London at The Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco! Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this festive event transported us to a bygone era of carolers, cobblestone streets, and immersive adventures. From savoring afternoon tea at Two English Ladies to solving a thrilling Sherlock Holmes mystery, every moment was packed with holiday cheer. Discover unique treasures, enjoy live performances, and taste classic British fare. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind holiday tradition!

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Year-End Reflections: 2024 in Photos and Memories

As 2024 comes to a close, I’m reflecting on a year filled with creativity, connection, and gratitude. From capturing beautiful weddings and family milestones to traveling to Japan for inspiration, this year has been unforgettable. Check out my favorite highlights and moments from the past year in my latest blog post!

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Exploring Kyoto: Temples, Bamboo Forests, and Culinary Delights

In this post, we dive into the beauty and culture of Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. From exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to visiting iconic temples like Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto offers a perfect blend of tradition and tranquility. Join us as we discover the must-see sights, unique experiences, and hidden gems of Kyoto, including a special day trip to Nara and an unforgettable whiskey tour.

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Lake Kawaguchi: A Tranquil Getaway with Stunning Mount Fuji Views

Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Lake Kawaguchi. From artisan markets and the Fuji-Kawaguchiko Fall Leaves Festival to private onsen relaxation and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, our two-day stay at this peaceful lakeside destination was the perfect way to recharge and connect with nature.

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Sunny Morning Mini-Session at Sutro Baths

Experience the magic of a sunny morning family mini-session at Sutro Baths! With the mom and her 3-year-old daughter in matching red dresses and the dad in a stylish blue shirt, this session was a perfect blend of vibrant colors and coastal charm. The backdrop of ocean views and rugged cliffs, paired with the family’s love and laughter, made for timeless photos.

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