{santa barbara weekend :part 1: justin and mayumi}

This past weekend I headed up to Santa Barbara to visit friends and do a few photo shoots I have been conceptualizing and thinking about for a while. I absolutely love shooting weddings but when it comes down to it, there is always an important schedule to follow. This is what makes it different from a commercial shoot where I can direct the whole thing according to my shots.

Last summer I shot the wedding of Justin and Mayumi in Carpinteria, California. Justin and I already knew each other and I quickly discovered how sweet and perfect for Justin his fiance Mayumi was. The reception was held at their family’s home on an avocado grove overlooking the ocean. I was completely amazed by the beauty of the area and since we didn’t have time to shoot around the property I already knew I wanted to go back to do another shoot with the couple. Some people call it a “trash the dress shoot”…I am not sure about that name but I absolutely love doing post-wedding photos. These are some of my favorite images from the day!








Planning your own photos? Lets chat!

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I’ve been a photographer in North County San Diego for over 20 years, and I still get excited about every session. No two families are ever the same. I’d love to learn what makes yours unique—let’s chat.
People often tell me they’re nervous about photos. That’s okay—I guide you every step of the way, so all you have to do is show up. Curious about the process? Send me a quick message.
Your story deserves to be remembered—not just on a screen, but as artwork you can hold, frame, and pass down. That’s why I do what I do. If you’d like portraits that last, let’s start planning.
Over the years, I’ve watched families grow up in front of my camera. From toddlers to teenagers, from couples to grandparents—it’s the most meaningful part of what I do. If you’d like to start that journey with me, I’d love to hear from you.
My sessions are filled with laughter, hugs, and real connection—because that’s what makes the portraits feel alive. Want to know more about how it all works? Reach out and I’ll walk you through it.
After two decades in photography, I’ve learned that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and cared for. That’s my job. If you’d like that experience for your family, let’s talk about it.

 

Vallentyne Photography is a portrait studio in Oceanside, CA, with a newborn studio in Carlsbad, CA, serving North County and San Diego. With 20 years of experience, we specialize in natural, timeless portraits for families, maternity, newborns, and seniors—capturing genuine moments on location or in our beautiful portrait studio.

We’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable. Let’s start with a quick chat about what matters most to you. We’d be honored to create portraits you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

I’ve been a photographer in North County San Diego for over 20 years, and I still get excited about every session. No two families are ever the same. I’d love to learn what makes yours unique—let’s chat.
People often tell me they’re nervous about photos. That’s okay—I guide you every step of the way, so all you have to do is show up. Curious about the process? Send me a quick message.
Your story deserves to be remembered—not just on a screen, but as artwork you can hold, frame, and pass down. That’s why I do what I do. If you’d like portraits that last, let’s start planning.
Over the years, I’ve watched families grow up in front of my camera. From toddlers to teenagers, from couples to grandparents—it’s the most meaningful part of what I do. If you’d like to start that journey with me, I’d love to hear from you.
My sessions are filled with laughter, hugs, and real connection—because that’s what makes the portraits feel alive. Want to know more about how it all works? Reach out and I’ll walk you through it.
After two decades in photography, I’ve learned that the best photos happen when you feel comfortable and cared for. That’s my job. If you’d like that experience for your family, let’s talk about it.

email directly:

heather@vallentynephotography.com

760-672-2416

located in oceanside, california