JACKRATANA PHOTOGRAPHY

New Blog Site for JACKRATANA Photographers

2009-09-08T16:52:00.001-07:00

JACK RATANA Orange County Wedding Portraits Photographer

NEW BLOG SITE COMING

2009-03-16T22:39:00.000-07:00

STAY TUNED!

Here's a sneak preview http://www.jackratana.com/blog/?cat=4

The Lajoies

2009-01-25T23:06:00.000-08:00

Thank You!

2009-01-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

"Hey Jack,

Just wanted to let you know that we got our package and are completely overjoyed by the quality of your work. We had lots of fun doing the shoot with you. We didn't feel like we were "posing" and the shots all look very natural. Thanks for a great day. We gladly recommend Jack Ratana for great family portraits! - the Walton Family -"

The Waltons

2008-12-29T20:44:00.000-08:00

A Thank You Note from Renee....

2008-12-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

"Jack,

Thank You once again for providing Steven and I with such wonderful memories of our wedding day.

Ours was not a ‘standard” wedding for sure. Although I suspect there is no such thing as the average wedding. But with Steven’s accident and time in the hospital we were making changes to plans till the very last minute. And throughout it all you were absolutely so accommodating. I never once worried that we’d have the ceremony beautifully captured—whether it was in the hospital bed, the hospital chapel, or at the country club. With everything else on my mind that weekend the one thing I did not have to worry about was the photographer! Thank You for giving me that extra piece of mind.

More important than the logistics of the event are the actual photographs. And I simply could not be more delighted. You captured the essence of the happiness that day. People who see the pictures remark on how beautifully you captured the “feeling” of the ceremony and reception. The loving looks in eyes, the big smiles, the tender moments of handholding, and the joy in the faces of friends and family. I was amazed to see the photos because I actually don’t remember “seeing” you much at the wedding! Somehow you found a way to be invisible and yet captured all the moments, big and small. That made the day so special.

As you know, I wasn’t looking for a “traditional” photographer. I wanted someone to spend less time on the posed photos and more time on the energy, excitement, joy, and love surrounding Steven and I that day. You did that perfectly!!!

You were there to take our first photos as a couple, to take the final pictures of our wonderful kitty before he left us, and now for the most special of days, our wedding. And I look forward to having you capture many more of our life moments as time goes by.

Thanks again!

Renee"

Steven & Jennifer 12.12.08

2008-12-12T00:42:00.001-08:00

Renee & Steven - COTO

2008-12-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

I just got back from Coto de Caza the wedding of Renee and Steven. So, so, so glad that Steven was okay from his bike accident on Friday. We didn't know if he was going to make it today, so lots of prayers and hope went into this day; and was so stoked that he'd made it.

The sun was about to set on this beautiful scenery backdrop. This country club sits where the golf club is, and was so beautiful and intimate. Right where they did their vow is a beautiful waterfall. So symbolic of their love, fluid, strong and effortless. I was really blessed to be a part of their day.

I've been to a lot of weddings, hear all the good DJ's, Wedding singers, band, and instrumentalist. However, tonight was such a treat. This is Pete Goslow, an all around cool dude and guitar genius. His guitar playing style is phenomenal. His repertoire was from Bach to John Mayer. If you love good music, you need to check him out, and his new CD just came out.

3rd & Fairfax

2008-12-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

This is how i see it.....

Dane Drop Bombs....(in a good way)

2008-12-05T21:21:00.000-08:00

I love hanging out with Dane Sanders of Fast Track Photographer. Seems that we have been friends and colleagues for years on end but, the funny thing is that we just met this year. There is true inspiration in Dane Sanders, the passion that drives him, the motivation that demonstrates, the depth and clarity that is truly noteworthy. I can assure you that this is not a man crush (I am comfortable with that I think) nor a mad cult leader with his PR talking, but a relational peer to peer appreciation. Any who, we met with a great group of guys and gal (Vu Bui, David from SDOhana, John Loyola, Lisa from ElleGPhoto, and Gavin Wade ) tonight over some cuban food in Orange. The plan was to get together for a photo shoot but turned into the hour of power....

All I have to say is, WPPI (Wedding & Portraits Photographers International) will be the place to be next year at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas February 14-19 2009. I witness a passion from Dane tonight that can fuel all of traffic lights in Las Vegas, Nevada and all of Orange County combined. His plan with Vu Bui is innovative and inviting. I think it will take the wedding and portraits photography world in to another level....please hang loose for more information on that later......

I can't wait....

persona |pərˈsōnə|

2008-12-02T20:06:00.000-08:00

persona |pərˈsōnə| the aspect of someone's character that is presented to or perceived by others.

December is here, and I can't believe it's cold. Orange County's December is not the same as East Coast December (not that I know any better, never been to the East Coast yet....but I've heard that it's cold there?) must keep warm...that's what I says. I find my self reflecting, couldn't help it because the weather is the cause of my deepness....any who, I was just thinking about the word persona. As you can see and read from the above definition.....what it means to me is, what I "put out" and what others "put in". The two "Ps" me = presented and you = perceived. Now let's look at these four pictures of my daughter presented. I wonder if she thinks of what you are thinking now? does it matter of how she is being perceived as you scroll down this page and as your thoughts flutters, words flies, emotions?

Just being her cute little self is....presented, perceived. In her little 13 months old mind, she is, and that's it.

Thanks.

2008-11-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

Something about the rain that brings the raw emotions, the introspective out of me. Or maybe that I can't go anywhere so the meditative is more pensive than ever. Anywho, I feel and know that I am totally BLESSED. This is not the "rain" talking and no, there is no funny stuff in my diet Mountain Dew. I really do know that I am blessed and am thankful. There is lots of stuff that could really get me down right now, but why think about that? When I am surrounded with blessings and people who are a blessing. Sure, there are those folks who are not such a blessing, but there will be the reminder of how I appreciate my friends and family who are a blessings. Even the trials and the hard time, they also remind me of the good times and the joy.

warmth...

2008-11-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

Leaves fallen as the air diminished
my feet are above ground from this coldness
these hands are like bullet, firing away...at nothing
but a gentle breeze resides as you come along to whisper
that the coldness is nice and that; heat rises
as it get colder but so does the warmth, if we stay together.

i am thankful...

(c) jackratana 2008

Today with her aunty Cheryl from Australia...

2008-11-22T18:48:00.000-08:00

She makes me smiles....

2008-11-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

I love this face, both of them. The very reason(s) why I go to work, and work hard to make a life for this face(s). She makes my day, I look forward to coming home and seeing these face(s). She is my biggest fan, laughs at all of my jokes (thus far), eat my food (well what her mom makes), smiles at, starting to kiss me, hugs me (when she is tired and I'm holding her), she plays with me, she is the face that reminds me of her beautiful mother and how blessed I am. We will face the future together, the happy time, the sad time and hopefully we will face each other when I walk her down the aisle and as I bless her with the biggest daddy's kiss. She will face her future and hopefully some day, faces a face like this of her own and be so blessed as I am today.

This picture is to remind her to "Think Different" don't follow, be a leader.

Things are always looking up, one step at a time.

At the Montage Laguna with Bill Patterson

2008-11-06T22:54:00.000-08:00

Today was such a good day...I love it when I can shoot at the Montage Hotel in Laguna Beach, either for wedding, or corporate. Today was for Mazda North American Operations. Bill Patterson art was being presented to the new Dealer Council. Bill is a great artist, we were able to hang out and stroll the scenery and had lunch together. After the presentation today he was on his way to Arizona to do another corporate event and I am heading back to the Montage again for more corporate shoot. I am really blessed.

My Crazy FTP peeps...I love them.

2008-11-05T20:22:00.001-08:00

FTP2, originally uploaded by JACKRATANA.PHOTOGRAPHY.

Nick & Katie

2008-11-02T20:59:00.001-08:00

I am so blessed to have good friends period. But extra blessed to have talented friends who are photographers that can come shoot weddings with me. Yesterday was Nick and Katie's big day. It was a long day but oh so sweet. Katie was so gorgeous with her beautiful dress, and also her bride's maid add to this perfect day.

These two shots are courtesy of my good friend Christine Bentley, she is so talented and we were blessed to have her shoot with us.
This picture is my gift to Nick & Katie,
it made my day when Katie first saw it
and started to cry. It's all about connecting with people

These two shots are courtesy of my good friend Katie Noelle Photo

Katie was like the stealth bomber. She was quiet but very alert and had great suggestion just like Christine; she brought it and her images showed.

These two shots are courtesy of my good friend Christine Bentley

These two shots are courtesy of my good friend Katie Noelle Photo

The Meridth Family

2008-10-25T22:52:00.000-07:00

Hair in placed

2008-10-23T21:31:00.000-07:00

I count my blessing daily. I feel really blessed to have a great family, a beautiful wife, and the cutest daughter.

One of Sharon's friend totally blessed Hannah with these beautiful hair clip last week. And it so appropriate because my daughter is so hip already. At the old age of 13 months she is so fashionable and now sporting these clips, she is golden....and the girls around the block totally green envy for her hair clips.

It's HOT....in Palm Desert.

2008-10-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

We went to Palm Desert for the weekend for some R&R. Commonly, on a regular weekend I would have been at a wedding capturing images for other people, but this weekend, the pictures are closer to my heart.

My wife really captured it. This is super special to me.

These eyes, when they are looking at you...everything kinda stop.
And what matters most become true reality.

This was a perfect directional light, I love, love this face.

The best smiles on the planet.

This is her first time in the pool.

This is got to be two of my favorites, but off-course I have tons of favorites.
When she smiles or not

My two best girls.

I got this from my friend Mike Meyer (not Shrek or the actor), what a great way to start the week with...let me know what you think.

1.. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk,
smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a
lock if you have to.
3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following
statement, 'My purpose is to __________ today.'
4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less
food that is manufactured in plants.
5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries,
wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli , almonds & walnuts.
6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy
vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things
you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the
positive present moment.
8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner
like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
9. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does..
12. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
14. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea
what their journey is all about.
15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In
five years, will this matter?'
17. Forgive everyone for everything.
18. What other people think of you is none of your business.
19. GOD heals everything.
20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your
friends will. Stay in touch!!!
22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following
statements: I am thankful for __________.
Today I accomplished _________.
24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
25. Please share this with everyone you care about.

The Croteaus

2008-10-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

This is Joao, Claudia and Thia's birthday party.

NEW WEB SITE!!! WooHoo!

2008-10-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, first of all; all of you who follow my blog, you guys ROCK! and now.....I am so bless to present my web site. http://www.JackRatana.com

Also, want to say thank you to Dave Everdez at Everdez Web Design for a great job with this site. If you are looking to get a website, this guy is your man. Tell him JackRatana sends ya.

Please check it out and let me know what you think k. THANK YOU SO MUCH, I so appreciate YOU.

Sunday morning with Baby Jordan and family, Part 2

2008-09-30T22:58:00.001-07:00

H = 1

2008-09-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

A year ago on this day at 11:09am; our daughter Hannah came into our world and into our family. It was an emotional time because we've waited a long time for her. We were watching the video from her birth and tears filled our eyes as all of what we were feeling that time, flooded back.
Today is a bittersweet day as we realize she is growing up but also that we love all that she is and slowly becoming independent as each day goes by. We are thankful for her, more so, thankful for the God who gave her to us. She is a gift that God bestowed on us. We remember that God was, is, and will forever be faithful to us in everything. Hannah sums it best in her latest increasing vocabulary where she says "Jesus!" Oh how sweet that little voice that speaks volumes of truth and reminds us as parents that everything should be given to Jesus, especially Hannah..

So, Happy 1st Birthday to our sweetest gift of a baby girl......
Mom and Dad

These are her friends

Sunday morning with Baby Jordan and family, Part 1

2008-09-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

Have you guys ever had this happen to you? When you just got done doing something fun but it was "work" and it's like part 1 of your adventure, and part 2 of your excitement is to get to your destination to complete the task?

Well, it happened to me today. I was at a photo shoot this morning at a beautiful destination, for a beautiful baby and her family. We had a little waiting period at the beginning but the whole session only took a total of 30 minutes and from that 30 minutes over four hundred shots was the fruit of our morning session. Here are 8 for starters. Come back later to check out Part 2 of our lake session.

I keep looking at my camera screen and was so stoked by this beautiful baby and her family.

After the session, I was on my way home to upload to my Mac, but during my travel I felt this excitement and was so stoked to see how it turned out...

Shannon Quintana shines like the Son....at Sonshine.

2008-09-19T22:45:00.000-07:00

We just got back from Sonshine bookstore & coffee shop,
where Shannon Quintana sang her heart out.
Starlin got the brightest smile

I just have to say that Jessie is a full-on STUD
and such an example to me of how a good husband is

The setting was warm with families and friends
as Shannon took us through her life through songs.

Her voice reminds me of comfort, she tells her stories well.

The pattern of her strums, the ranges of her voice, the narrative of her integrity,
we all met Shannon Quintana with open arms and hearts,
and to the Son that she serves.

Check out her website www.ShannonQuintana.com

Saturates

2008-09-17T21:53:00.000-07:00

We went for a walk today in the late afternoon, and I couldn't help but feel absorbed, steep, imbue, infused, pervaded, permeate with saturation.

purple glides supply
as green gloom with fresh perfumes

blue follows as their feet thrust and push away

as lonely, as hollow, as wide
the hand tics

by this shadows of my heart

stand by this point that pierces...

this way, through the drops I follow...

ADRIENNE.KRISTIN.ERICA.JILLIAN - Beach Session

2008-09-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

I really love what I do....Photography is in my DNA and I can not help but get inspired by my clients. I was so blessed this afternoon to do a shoot with Adrienne, Kristin, Erica and Jillian.

These sisters are so beautiful that made my job so easy and flawlessly executed. At first we were stuck in a long line of photographers at this spot on this beautiful and famous beach. But at the same time, I love that I have the freedom to explore and think out of the box, and not be subjective to a "spot" where everyone is at; especially when I have such a beautiful canvas to paint on.

I'm so stoked for Erica for her trip to Europe. Have fun a take lots of pictures.

This one is my favorite!

Catching up....

2008-09-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Time flies......and we know it. Seems like "lost" time is inevitable no matter what you do or don't do. Your friends, colleagues, and family that were once close can sometime be distant through the age of space and time. However, when the collective are met from a long separation; it's on, and it's all good.

I am blessed to be friends with Pat, Kevin, and Scott. We all went to College together in the 90's and have become good friends through good fellowship, good food, and lots of; good fun.
We got together last night for the first time in a long time, the recipes for our reunion never changed. It was just like riding a bike, everyone was rolling; "literally"

We met at the Golden Pig in Buena Park, and grinds like royalty. During the feast, Pat told a story of his "massage" session where his tulips were open without his consent, and with force that were unstoppably freakishly awkward. I don't know if it were sweat or tears rolling out of me but my eyes shed water like a swimming pool. All I could say was "WOW".

The host starts us off with pan full of Kimchi, then mushrooms, meat and rice. We ate till they rolled us out.

This is Seth, he is the awesomest baby boy there. Scott and Stef are so blessed. It's in the talk about some arranged marriage between him and Hannah, but we'll leave it to the kids for the final decisions.

SETH

Scott, Stefanie, Pat, Kevin, Tammie = Fun, Food, Fellowship, Full of good times.

In the quiet...

2008-09-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

Stillness I know....silence's calling
It beckons me to wallow....there
there I swell to shelter to be sheltered
calmness rules my heart and my hands
my eyes with the dryness it's brittle to dust
just like the shelves there it sit
in waiting to get un-dust
but not by swiffer nor dust mites
but by wind, calm, illusive, shivers
down my spines...to that stillness; I know of...
very well.
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Listening to: "The Stand" "United We Stand"

Reading: Revelation 9, Ezekiel 22-24
--------------------------------------------

I don't know about you but sometime, you get stuck in a place;
a place of uncomfortableness. A place of rash, epidemic of melancholically. It's hard to be strong, sometime. Sometime, you want to be weak and push away to a place of solitude where no souls are allow. Nor comfort words that are shallow just to place there to leave a mark. Or a spot of facile superficialness. It's hard to be genuine and sincere especially when you really don't know what to say or do. In my opinion, you really don't have to say much....I think being there without a word speaks volumes. Your action is outweighed the shallowness of your words. Words are letters that are put together to give a meaning. Actions are deeds put together to backup the meaning of your words.

The Lajoies takes Refuge

2008-09-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach was glowing with the light of Refuge courtyard concert. Yves, Jean-Luc and Isabelle Lajoies brought their French Canadian hearts to our very own backyard. My wife and I have been a big fan since the the beginning of the group and was so stoked that they were coming to our church. I sat through the concert with much delight, at the same time were so captivated by their hearts being poured out as a love offering.; sweet, so sweet.

I happen to pan to these hands
which were dynamically sprung out of truth and Spirit.
"Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom"

Surrendered heart amplify out loud into an outward gesture

My pastor is a champion. I sat right behind him and with this unplanned symbolic gesture, it assured me that I stand behind the right man for the right reason.

At the Getty...

2008-08-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

We went to the Getty LA yesterday, and oh it was so much fun. I've ask my friend Jonathan to meet me there and bust out his new Cannon40D to capture the day with me, and the pictures were stellar.

We were also so blessed to have our friend Helen with us, we had soooooo much fun and took so much pictures there. August Sanders a German photographer who photographed subjects from all walks of life and created a typological catalogue of more than six hundred photographs of the German people. Although the Nazis banned the portraits in the 1930s because the subjects did not adhere to the ideal Aryan type, Sander continued to make photographs. Helen pointed out that there were several Jewish portraits photo for passports displayed there. I wonder how many of the ones photographed made it out, but for sure it got me thinking.

I captured this, while the sun was going down and got some flares and made Helen shine with framing glows.

Helen is an incredible human being and a great friend to us. We totally love her and I told her yesterday that when she gets married, I want to photograph them at the Getty lawn. She will make one man very blessed and lucky some day....more blessed than luck fo-sho.

and this girl? what's up with her? look at the lady behind her laughing...she's funny.

and this is her hot mama....

Her papa is pretty cool in this picture, don't you think?

Plumerias for your Wednesday

2008-08-26T23:38:00.000-07:00

I don't care much about flowers but these one are from my yard...and I totally LOVE them. The fragrance, the colors, the symbolism....

Oh and this girl...I like her.

My good friends; The Croteau

2008-08-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

We love these guys, please pray for their youngest daughter Theia, she is not feeling well.

Sweet Leilani.....

2008-08-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

My girl.....can't help it.
She's sitting white, Plumeria glows
as she wade towards
her toes

She looks aside
and sees the beauty that God made
sanctuary strawberry-ade
as she sigh...

and sees her dad...without a flash
she glows as the Plumeria
so sweet by the hours
oh sweet
heavenly.......flower

My Ukuleles gently weep...

2008-08-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

I got some sleep last night, again from a long week and loo-oog nights of baby girl being fussy. It's a good thing that we don't have any photo shoot this weekend.
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I just update my linkedin this morning, come and join my network or networks.
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Hey, did you hear? They have captured Bigfoot! but later found to be bogus.
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One of the best thing about Saturday morning for me is....ready....wait for it.....Hawaiian Coffee. The last time I was in Hawaii, we bought tons of Kona Coffee from Lions coffee (which is da best bra!)

and with that I am listening to Daniel Ho and Herb Ohta, Jr. on the Ukuleles....ahh....can't get any better than that.
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My best girl is in the kitchen making the best breakfast and baby han-han is in her "Playstation" eating a plastic bowl for breakfast.

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We are growing Plumerias in our yard....how jealous are you?.....hummm...just like our yards in Makiki

Today 8.9.08 is better than 8.8.08 for the Magallanes' fam.

2008-08-09T13:30:00.000-07:00

Terry Magallanes is successful in everything that he touches. We have been friends for a while now, and just today that I really see the real Terry Mag. He is a good father, husband and a friend.

I remember when Emma was just born, seems like yesterday. Her personality is just like Terry, very outgoing, very easy to connect with and definitely got the look from her mom, Dori.

08.08.08

2008-08-08T09:43:00.001-07:00

I feel blessed, don't you?

Everything seems healthy, baby girl finally stop crying (after a week of tears) and now feeling better, got good food to eat, places to go, working, family, and overall I am really looking forward to where I am going in life. Not just in general, but with all the spontaneities in every situation I am in. I thank God Almighty that I am not stuck in creating (capturing images, painting, writing or in music) cause in every photo shoot, poem, painting, or playing instruments I can use whatever that is around me for motivations, inspirations, and illustrations. Thus, makes everything fresh and new for everything that I do. We can be at the same place, with the same people or even close to the same time taking the same pictures; but, it will never be the same. There will be variables that changes from one to another....

Have you stepped out side today? breathe in the fresh air? jump up and spin around? take your shoes off and walk on fresh cut grass? look up at the vast blue skies? look out side your windows and see the birds? all of these things will remind you, why? and why not? and if you haven't done these things, I encouraged you to go to a place where you can do this. It will make your weekend last a little longer than normal and your life a little fuller than 7am this morning. The present is not the present anymore, it's now the past, all we have.....is ........now.

Think about that.....

Selah.........................

Freedom to ......

2008-08-07T13:24:00.001-07:00

Can you fill in the blank from the title? well I can. Last night I was at a cool gathering for photographer, wedding photographer to be specific at the Sheraton LAX . David Jay and the lovely Jasmine Star "Free to Succeed Tour" I was so amped and got there quite early, early enough to sit in the second row (I want to sit in the front but didn't want to get picked on for modeling, just shy that way...he he) any how, eh hem. It was ALL good, know what I mean? you don't? well...those two are like the coolest kids on the block. David talked about the business, pricing, work flow, keeping it F.I.T (ask me later what it means) Jasmine broke it down like a break dancer, I loved it when she said "Fake the Funk" (ask me that later) where she came from and what she is doing now. Oh boy, the four hours was like 15 min at the movies. It was entertaining, educating, and very practical.

So I just want to give DJ and J* props for kicking butts on the bus all over the US making people (photographers) stoked for what they do, and having more Freedom to.......well you fill in the blanks now.

Also, I want to shout out to Christopher Wren, Katie Akamine, and Troy Grover...cause you guys kept it real...

Double Whammy...

2008-08-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Wow, I think we have just hit the jackpot. We struck gold with 2 of the most painful growth spurt for babies; one is teething and the other is ear infection.

It started yesterday with baby girl having 103 temperature and had to go to the emergency room. The doctor gave her antibiotics and a kiss on the forehead and told us to go home. At the hospital she was waving at everybody smiling at the nurses, blowing kisses to the onlooker, until....until she got home and the wailing begin. She would not let Sharon out of her sight and cries on the hour every hour. We usually can handle her crying but last night was like a haunted pitch of a wailing felines lamenting. Lamenting to Mama, Papa, where are you? and why can't you stop this hurts? and where are my pain pills?(jk)

My heart breaks....I felt like it was being pull out and slosh unto a gargantuan germination of infants pain. The double whammy of superlative traumas. I would gladly have taken her place and rescued my little girl from her first torment and discomfort.

Sharon stayed home with her today and try so very hard to get her to drink and eat but she only consumed the very few that we try to give her. Frustration has set in for the both of us, no-doubt from the lack of sleep and the undeniable pain that we feel as mom and dad. The feeling of helplessness has crippled us, all we can do is pray and try to give her medicines prescribes by the physicians. At length, we are still a little reluctant to give her the doses continually from all the countless horrors stories.

Good times of being mom and dad
"it a wrong day to stop sniffing glue" (a quote from Airplanes)

This is baby girl on a happier time...I think?

Baby Christopher

2008-08-03T20:24:00.000-07:00

We woke up early this morning to take part in a baby dedication at my church; baby Christopher. He is so adorable and already taken after the handsomeness of his big bro Josiah. We love this family mucho.

Jonathan and Adrienne have been such a great friends to us and such a blessing to Refuge body of Christ. They will be heading to Africa next year for a long term mission trip and I am planning to do a short term mission to support them. Hopefully, will bring back lots of picture for you guys. Make sure to check back for posting on that. GBY

Pursuit

2008-08-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

I am in pursuit of this perfect light,
guided by this instant
I am changed in this moment
As my passion grow for it, love for it
As I yearned for the upcoming
For me to know the time and date is not so
But then sustained, retain…. here until

August 2 Baby Proofing Day

2008-08-02T12:31:00.000-07:00

Well hello there, sorry haven't written for a week. Seems like it gets busier and busier each month here in Orange County. Lately, people seems to be driving faster and faster, careless and unaware of other people around them. I guess the accident really affected me and how I look at my surrounding nowadays. Now that my baby will be a year old in Sept, I am very afraid of how she will adapt to her surrounding. The whole nature versus nurture theory that I've studied in college did a hula-hoop and came back to remembrance that no matter how you have raised her at home, she is well to adapt to her life outside of home. Today my wife and I will go though the house and baby proof everything, including our strategies in raising her.

I was at the mall the other day and couldn't help seeing groups of teenagers just doing what teenagers do, shop, being silly and very audible in everything that they do. My attention wasn't at them but couldn't help noticing that these behaviors hasn't really change or anything new was being done. The things that amplified was that the girls seems to think that wearing bathing suit is acceptable at a public mall but, who am I to judge when everything is being taught in school that everything is acceptable and "do as you feel"

The first thing I saw this morning was my baby looking at my face, again with her cutest overtone "da-da, da-da" my heart must have jumped and double the beat from her calling. I love that, I love everything about being a dad. I know it's not the easiest thing but it is the "natural" thing. She will see me at my worst and at my best. I know she will always be looking (just like every Saturday mornings) at me for directions and suggestions. So, how do I raise this child who is now beautiful, cute, intelligent and I think already loves to shop? (and she is only 10 months old - this is not a good thing please see http://www.storyofstuff.com/index.html) I have a tough path ahead of me, lots of work to be done, lots of patience's and endurance to convinced her that God is love. He is good, all the time not only the "good" times but also the bad time and that He has a plan for her (and that plan is good - Jer 29:11).

I want to teach her that our nature is sinful (never had to teach her to be bad) but we have choices to make between the good and the bad. Everything that we do can bless someone or can tear that person down. Our words matters, our actions matters and we are accountable to every actions and words.

I want to tell her that she matters; her opinion counts and that she is important. I want to tell her that RESPECT is number one and honor is as important.

Wow, baby proofing day is hard, but here we come...

Date of Birth

2008-07-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just woke up from a long night of dreams. I dream SEISMIC dreams, big dreams I think, but don't remember what I've dreamt about but I know I dream big. Big enough to cause my physical to ache and mind to run amuck. One of the sign that I know I dream big is when I woke up tired than usual, usually it takes me about 30 min to wake up and I would jump in the shower to rinse the sleep away; the past 6 to 8 hours of perhaps wanted or unwanted dreams.

I want today (the date of birth) to be a day of reflection.

Reflect of "the what" in my life, "the why" do I do these things, and "the when" will I do them or continue to do them. Most people on their birthday have a party, go to eat, play golf, surf or just kick it. For me, I like to think. Think about the past year(s) think about tomorrow, think about the "what" "why" and "when". It hasn't always been this way every year. I think it started when I turned thirty and felt that life is more than just being happy; it's about having joy.

I'm a doer and also a dreamer, another word I don't sit around dreaming about life and don't do anything about it. My dreams are not of the nice big house in Lanai or driving a mini cooper around Kauai top down; it simply just to have joy, shared joy and lived the joy out.

Being happy is momentary but joy keeps you going. Going when the going gets tough, going when you can't go anymore. Joy is objective and only sees the destination and not the present. Happy is subjective, it changes with your situation, mood, the color of your hair, weather, okay you're catching what I'm saying.

Joy comes from knowing who you are and who God is. My motive in life is just to love GOD and love His people.

Now to the "what, Why, and When"

The what is,
What can I improve to better my relationship with Jesus and to serve Him better?
What am I doing to better my self and my family, to make them the best loved?
What am I doing to be a better husband to my wife after 12 years of marriage?
What am I doing to be the best dad to my little girl?
What inspires me, to be a better photographer, artist, worship leader, musician?
What is important?
What do I need to trim out of my life?
What is it? that I spend most of my time doing?

Why?
Why do the above "what"
Why do what I do? everything from the day to day, weekend, and tomorrow.
Why love, give, care, forgive, embraced,
Why think of these things(jk) why?

I know after answering the What and the Whys the next step is to answer the question of When?

When do I do the what, from the whys?

Hummm, ponder, pondering, still pondering, coffee break, nap, wash socks, eat poke, more coffee, I'm thinking...thinking......

and now selah....(this is when I go off line)

a day is like vapor

2008-07-24T22:41:00.000-07:00

I gave my wife and baby the biggest kiss and hugs tonight, cause our days are like vapors. My hearts goes out to Chris' family and friends. His wife is pregnant and due in Nov. Please pray for her and the baby.

Ado(Red) = Adorable

2008-07-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

I hope you are not surprised to see another pic of the han-han, but she sure is adorable. I have no shame, just all love for this little girl that I can't stop taking picture of.

She has so much personality, and is already so funny with her imitations of her mother. She is a quick learner, and copy everything that we do...oh boy...or should we say oh girl...

Chocolate Cake for Breakfast

2008-07-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Man, I woke up this morning and I think I've just hit the Jackpot! It was so surreal, like a painting, like a poem, a great movie on a cold night, a beach day, well, anyway I think you got the picture. My wife made sugar free chocolate cake with banana cream cheese toping for breakfast...and that's all I have to say. Oh, and this girl.

Ho'olaulea = Hawaiian Festival

2008-07-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Nothing like waking up to two most beautiful ladies in the world....one is 9 months old and the other is Mrs. Ratana.

Today is the HO'olalea at Alondra Park by Gardena. We try to go to this festival every year due to the nature that is all Hawaiian. Most of these people are families from Hawaii who have lived in Hawaii and now here. We missed Hawaii period. If we have the chance to move back we would do it in a heart beat. Although, there are some conditions that needs to be met first, like schooling and money. At this festival there will be lots of "Hawaiian" food, lots of stuff from Hawaii, Hula dancers and competitions through out the weekend. Even though, my neck and back is still bothering me I want to be there. May be I'll just lay down under a tree eating shaved-ice and lau lau, wearing my Kamehameha school gym shirt. What a day to spend with my peeps and my two best girls. You should come...Just google Alondra Park in Lawndale and you can't miss it. The festival is both today and tomorrow.

Frustration mandate

2008-07-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes from a day like today, I feel like jumping out of this costume of flesh and into something more suiting. Something, cool, with a hint of minty fresh. My body still aches from the accident, my mind is relentless of that jerk I spoke to on the phone today. My spirit yearns for a new, a refresh, a top-off, a cool-off.

Sometimes, I don't know what to do, all I can do is just be. Be quiet, Be mad, Be snap-ing, Be in this flesh, Be annoyed.

I hold on steadfast and continue with this channel of perpetual frustration. However, when feelings are written out, somehow, i feel that this frustration is being flushed away. Away into the oblivious of the internet, the zeros and ones, the spam blocker blogged-out, twitter-rific yahoos. Be gone, I say to you and yours. I really could use a good weekend without you (frustration) feeling of being annoyed, that feeling of inherent coil abstract chaos that I can't explain in spoken word or speech.

On the other hand, in written words I can pile it up so high, taller and taller until it reach the heavens. To the Lord of heavens, to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He can take care of it; that's what He does, you know? He takes it away, away from me, the muddy, the pops, unnecessary twitch, the busy wacky tacky. All of that, all of it. How much is all?

I frustrate no more.

Insurance Company from Hell

2008-07-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

Just got a call from an Insurance company from hell (from the lady that hit me on Wednesday) and I think my blood pressure just hit the boiling point RED, then some. (which is pretty rare, comparing to my normal self which is at easy going green) This guy on the phone was very smooth, he ask questions that is tricky and made it sound like it was my fault that I was driving straight and his client crossed over two lanes and hit me. Hummm, lets see? when is crossing over two lanes from one side to the other became the normal traffic gesture in Irvine? Never. I got so mad I told him that if I ended up paying for this, a lawsuit will be in the works and he better tell his client that California law is still illegal to go from a left turn lane to right just because she wanted to, and by sending her shady insurance representative to do the intimidation, she'd messed with the wrong Jack! :o)

Will keep you updated...stay tune.

The heart tree

2008-07-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

I painted this mural for my baby girl when she was born to remind her of all the love that she has in this world. This tree bear hearts, each heart has the name of each person in her life. The tree is not merely a painting on the wall. It symbolizes the foundation of which my wife and I are praying that she will have for her life. Just like in Psalms 1, this tree is strong. The foundation which we pray that she will hold on to and be the deep deep root that will never be upheaval no matter what turmoil or storm that may come.

Accidents Happen

2008-07-16T20:46:00.000-07:00

I am a good driver. No tickets for the last 20 years, no past accidents, crash, or hit and run. However, today accident happened. I was coming off the 133north exit on Gateway (Barranca) in Irvine and then....BAM, I felt my car spinning like I was on a skateboard doing 360, 720, 1080. While I was spinning I maneuver away from hitting two cars, 2 street lights but found my self and my poor car in the middle of the intersection intersected. A lady in her brand new Lexus decided to move from her left turn lane and crossed over two lanes in front of another car to go the opposite way (illegally) and just gassed it from her destination until she reached; mine. She seems stunned but acknowledged that it is her fault and was very apologetic for the accident.

I know accidents will happen and should accept it as a part of this mystery call life. I can't help but think that, accepting what comes your way will some how, relived you of the burden that will bog you down. I was bogged down but now I BLOGGED down; and feeling better (not my neck or back) just better and not bitter.

On a Sunday Afternoon

2008-07-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

-WARNING-

If you are looking for the traditional family portraits at Sears, you have come to the wrong website; we, on the other hand, are just plain crazy. Real images depicted here, no posing or studio lighting involved. Just lots of good music, good food, good friends and lots of love and a side of craziness. :o)

Some may say that this is a brave picture to post because it shows the vulnerability of the family. It is not the traditional picture perfect studio commercial. That, is what I love about these guys they are not hiding anything. This is the real thing, real people, real family no pose or trying to replicate another family time; it's them and they were nice enough to share it with us.

I LOVE WHAT I DO.

I love that they weren't looking at the camera (mine) there is so much personalities and bond between all four of them that makes this picture so special and timeless.

The Quintanas (1)

2008-07-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful Saturday morning, the weather was perfect; southern California skies with a slight off shore wind . The Quintanas drove up from south county to our beautiful destination.

Their two girls were such a blessing and full of personality that made the photo-shoot so much fun.

Jessie and Shannon have the same kindred spirit as me with low-key Hawaiian style that reminds me of home and old friends. We talked about living simplistically away from the rat-race returning to the sandy beaches and family owned grocery stores. Wow, how life as we know it has changed; but this family has not.

Can you guys tell me about that one special picture that means so much to you after all these years? Albeit if you take a look at it again, the same feelings that you had will come back, the smell of the beach, the rocks, the "puka" shells, the people, the hot weather, but overall; you will remember the bond, the love, and the emotions that you’ve felt…..This, no one can take that away from you, will never go away, thus, will make this picture timeless and yours.

My church

2008-07-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

refuge |ˈrefˌyoōj; -ˌyoō zh |

a condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or trouble

Sometime...

2008-07-09T20:27:00.001-07:00

I feel like yelling but my daughter will do it for me.

Sunday July 6 Thai Town

2008-07-06T16:01:00.001-07:00

Had a photo shoot in Hollywood and found this girl waving.
She seems weird.

And found this guy standing around asking for money,
looking pretty mischievous with his dark glasses and highlights.

5th of July is overrated?

2008-07-05T23:13:00.001-07:00

I hung out with two most beautiful girls in the world; not overrated at all.

July Babes

2008-07-01T23:18:00.000-07:00

Wow, July is here. Seems like time is fly n by. Hannah is going on 9 months and these are all of her friends.

Geoff & Sarah Part I

2008-06-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

These guys were so photogenic, very cool couple.

Craig & Natalie Part I

2008-06-25T23:02:00.000-07:00

These guys are so cool, we ate some shabu shabu together and it was delicious just like their relationship. It was awesome to meet both of them.

Hayley & Travis Part 1

2008-06-24T23:28:00.000-07:00

Our Street Scene Session, we had so much fun.

I just can't stop taking picture of this girl.

2008-06-23T22:48:00.001-07:00

Just last Thursday night, we had to take her in to Urgent Care cause she broke out in hives. Sharon fed her some Kung Pao Chicken (jk, just some garlic powder in her mash potatoes) and two hours later she was scratching and crying. Thank God it was nothing serious and all we had to do was have some antihistamine around incase she broke out again.

This smile is from Saturday morning. She makes me so proud.

Saturday morning with Daddy.

2008-06-21T13:15:00.000-07:00

Seems like every Saturday morning my camera is getting a good workout, I set it on manual mode, the white balance is set to Kelvin 3000, my shutter speed is at 1/15 and I'm shooting away. Shooting away at my best model, she is siting pretty and so active yelling her baby discourse semi gibberish but oh so cute. Then, I challenge her with the noise of my shutters a familiar sound that she hears a lot, especially on Saturday mornings.

Fathers

2008-06-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Father's day. I really don't know what or how to act because the sentiment is a special one to me. This will be my first Father's day with my baby girl, and today maybe we were just hearing things, but after saying I love you to her, she simply reply with the cutest baby voice "I love you"

I know that she has no idea of what the day represents or that she needed to go to the nearest Longs Drugs to get me a card. But, what it does means to me is that I want to be a father to her; period. I haven't read some cool manuals or books with DVDs for the instruction. My intuition is to make her the best loved, best hugged, best kissed, best taken care of.

The way that she smiles at me every morning, the laughters, the "da da, da da, dadddy", the hugs, the feeding, the dirty diapers, and the way that she holds on to me when I hold her is enough to remind me that I need to be the best father to this little girl. She's my little girl, my baby, my precious gift from God that my wife and I are accountable for, and that makes this Father's day a special one. Anyone can have sex and produce a baby, but to be a father to that baby separates him from the crowds of boys; and can proudly say to himself "this is truly my day, and Happy Father's Day"

Michael & Tynisia's Wedding

2008-05-31T23:05:00.001-07:00

A beautiful Southern California sky, the aquamarine color fills the city with the best May weather can offer. Time seemed to fly by at Tynisia and Michael's wedding. It was such a fun wedding to be a part of; the bride and groom were at ease and were ready to become husband and wife. Their calmness exemplifies readiness to take on the marriage journey. I also wanted to say thanks to J3N for helping me on this beautiful day. Watch out for her she is the up and coming Photog from OC.

The couples' first dance took away the breaths of their guests and it did mine.

Steven, Renee, Gregory, Tuni and Woody.

2008-05-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

I was able to be a part of a shoot today for Steven and Renee. Steven's cat Woody is 17th years young and so photogenic that he walks around like a model, prancing on his catwalk bed . A gentle cat that's full of energy and tenacity, no-doubt there are many years ahead of him yet.

On the other hand, the two dogs Tuni and Gregory are so gentle and docile, they are so well behaved that made my dogs look like wild dogs on crack.

I am honored to be Steven and Renee's photographer now and in December...wink wink.

Tommy & Quynh

2008-05-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

It was a scorching hot day but Tommy and Quynh were the best sports.

Enduring the heat = 90 degree,

Enduring the smell of sauerkraut = wanting a hotdog

Going through three wardrobe changes without a bathroom = uncomfortable (for Tommy)

Walk around old German people makes you want to get a Dachshund = Free dogs from Jack

Putting up with a goofy photography = priceless

Getting great pictures from Jack Ratana was worth it. (smile, smile)

A beautiful beach day with Tynisia and Michael

2008-05-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

A beautiful beach day in May, it wasn't too hot, nor crowded, the wind was offshore seemingly perfect for what we were doing.Tynisia and Michael is no stranger to the beach. It appears that they got engage about a year ago at the beach. He propose to her just as the sun was about to set, and today, we were there just as the sun was about to set.

The Yorba Linda couple will tie the knot the end of this month and I am honor to be there photographer, I am also honor just to be their friend. Michael loves Thai food and Tynishia loves Mexican food but most of all they love sushi, and Sharon and I love Sushi. It's on for the four of us for some future sushi dinner after they get back from their Hawaiian honeymoon.