Moshe B Zusman - Weddings & Events Lifestyle photojournalist - Washington DC

West River, Maryland. Some Colorful Snowy Day!

2009-03-18T00:54:00.004-04:00

Here's another photo I took the same day as the last snowy view photo. This one was post processed in a little different way, a more colorful way, called "Lomo" effect.

Houston Brings Down the House

2009-03-13T12:51:00.004-04:00

Fashion was definitely in the house last night at Josephine for DC Modern Luxury’s party with the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The name may deceive you, but these guys from Texas really know how to party. The night featured the latest collections from designers including Project Runway’s own Chloe Dao - Lot 8 Boutique, Annebet Duvall, Cesar Galindo, Kelly Hamilton of Hamilton Shirts, Elaine Turner of Delicious Cocktails, raffles and hot beats from resident DJ, Ash.

Food for the Soul with Chef Art Smith

2009-03-12T00:24:00.003-04:00

Last Saturday, Hadar and I went down to the Liaison Capitol Hill Hotel and photographed a new Baby Food campaign called “Food For The Soul.” The food is all organic and prepared by celebrity chef, Art Smith. I’ll update this link soon with more information about the initiative and the event that’s taking place on March 21st, but in the meantime, here are a few photos we took of the five gorgeous baby models that participated.

Special thanks to Hadar Goren of Hadar Goren Photography for the team work!

Canvas Print in 48 hours!

2009-03-12T00:00:00.007-04:00

While I was at WPPI, I visited the Canvas On Demand Pro booth and picked up a gift code for a free canvas print. I used it on one of my recent photos I took in West River, MD and placed the order two days ago. Today, the Canvas Gallery Wrap was already delivered! In a few minutes I quietly hung it on the wall (trying not to wake up the neighbors), and voila!

Thank you, Canvas On Demand Pro-- the quality is great! And the texture of the canvas is really nice and the gallery wrap is really easy and convenient. The inside wood frame is about an inch deep, giving the photo a really nice look.

I'm very pleased with the quality--what do you think?

Kim and Matthew's wedding invitation!

2009-03-10T22:44:00.005-04:00

Very soon I am photographing Kim and Matthew's wedding in DC. This is going to be so much fun and I am very excited for it! Just wanted to share with you their unique wedding invitation, created by animators and designed especially for them.

Yum-O

2009-03-07T17:28:00.004-05:00

Today I took a trip to the Art & Soul Restaurant at the Liason Capitol Hill Hotel for a few food shots prepared by celeb chef Art Smith. Today’s delights – chickens and waffles, and babycakes – which by the way are unreal! I love working with the Liason, and today’s shoot was a really fun way to spend my Saturday morning. Thanks again to Heather and Gina for coordinating and to Hadar Goren for shooting with me.

Frozen!

2009-03-06T19:11:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday (which was my birthday too!), I drove to Annapolis to photograph an outdoor commercial project for a client then down to West River, MD. On the way down to West River, as I am driving south on route 468, I spotted on my right an amazing view of a snowy pond and snow-white trees. I stopped and took a few photos, here are a couple of them.
I used my new Canon EOS 5D Mark II and a 24mm TS-E lens, a specialty lens used for landscape and architectural photography.

Pick your color!

2009-03-06T16:07:00.002-05:00

No more CD’s or DVD’s with your digital images! Now I’ll be giving all of my customers beautifully designed memory flash keys, complete with all of your photos! The flash keys fit easily on your key chain and are readable by PC’s or Macs, and can actually be viewed by plugging them into most TV’s, DVD’s, Wii players and other USB compatible devices. So you can literally view your photos in a flash!

Here’s a little about the product from Pexagon Technologies, Inc. Last month I met Brian Campbell, the President of Pexagon Technologies, Inc at WPPI, and immediately loved his products! Pexagon makes a variety of memory flash drives, thumb drives and other storage products. They offer personalized logos on their products and a nice selection of colors.

You can check them out at their Web site, http://www.photoflashdrive.com/

Here are a few samples of my new products. Stay tuned, there are more to come!

New name, same Moshe

2009-03-01T22:12:00.002-05:00

If you haven’t yet gotten the memo, I’ve switched my domain name and email address from carish1.com to moshezusman.com. I’ve had the carish1 for a long time now, but in an effort to maintain some consistent branding, I’ve made some changes!

Vapiano Chinatown – The Opening Party

2009-02-25T00:24:00.004-05:00

Vapiano kicked off the opening of its fourth DC location with a huge blowout party complete with decadent food, cocktails and music. The Chinatown restaurant will be the flagship location for the German-based Italian chain. The gals at Hisaoka Communications pulled together an exceptional grand opening celebration, as they always do!

To view the entire role of images from the party and order prints, click HERE

Saloni and Kyle's Album

2009-02-23T10:42:00.006-05:00

Saloni and Kyle's wedding last year in Red Bank, New Jersey was a 48 hour party. I photographed this wedding as an associate photographer for Hadar Goren and the album design is by Grace Chou Designs. The first day was a traditional Indian wedding, and the second day was the traditional American wedding. I had Grace incorporate both days into the album.

Here's the album:

Amanda and Timothy - what a special day!

2009-02-22T02:00:00.009-05:00

And that afternoon, Amanda and Tim (aka James Bond) got married at the beautiful Sequoia in Georgetown, Washington DC. The wedding was a blast and I really enjoyed photographing this couple! I'm posting this preview especially quickly so that Amanda and Tim can enjoy the photos before taking off on their honeymoon in just a few hours! Congratulations guys -- you were gorgeous today! (P.S. Yes, I was wearing a purple shirt. And Yes, a purple tie too).

Special thanks to my great second shooter Pedro Alicea!

Giin and Sean's album

2009-02-21T23:59:00.003-05:00

I wanted to make a very special album of a very beautiful couple that I photographed last year. I am really excited about it since it will also be one of my sample albums. The album (a 10x10 leather album with 20 panorama spreads) will be delivered in a few weeks, and I can't wait!!!

Save the date guys! Julie and Chris

2009-02-21T23:48:00.002-05:00

I can already tell that this couple will be a lot of fun! Julie, Chris and I went out for a quick “Save the date” photo shoot today and Chris took us inside the Capitol. It was my first time there so it was especially exciting for me! Later in the spring we’ll do the real engagement session, but today it was just too cold to be outside. Julie and Chris are getting married at the soon-to-open W Hotel in Washington DC. Congratulations guys!

So here are a few shots that were inspired by my own wedding photographer - Master Photographer Doug Gordon. I also used sloppy borders by Kevin Kubota and others too.

WPPI: Never a Dull Moment!

2009-02-20T22:49:00.003-05:00

So I’m recovering from serious jet-lag and sleepiness after spending 6 nights in Sin City. WPPI was amazing this year! I really enjoyed the day-and-a-half Business Institute classes, and took in the inspiring platforms by Yervant, Mitche Graf, Tony Hewitt, Michelle Celentano, Skip Cohen and Doug Box – completely worth the extra trip time.

On the second night of the Trade show, Nikon threw an amazing party at the MGM Grand arena with awesome tunes by Blues Traveler. It was a really fun night, but nothing compared to what happened to me the next day. I was chilling in the hotel lobby, minding my own business and hanging out with my Canon Mark III, when two guys I met the day before ran up to me and said, “Hey, you won a D700 from Nikon!” I thought these guys had one too many margaritas since I never, and I mean never, win anything. I laughed, but they insisted that it was true.

I took a chance and popped by the Nikon booth on the expo floor the next day, and much to my surprise, I was the grand prize winner of a Nikon D700 outfit raffle, complete with a 24-120 millimeter VR lens, and an SB900 flash. It was seriously a nice prize package and who would have thought that I’d go to Vegas and come home a winner? Thanks Nikon for the fabulous gift and can’t wait for WPPI 2010!

Moshe Zusman Photography receives industry recognition

2009-02-14T23:30:00.001-05:00

From the press release: ( I am proud! )

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced that Moshe Zusman Photography has won the 2009 Bride’s Choice Awards™!

In its inaugural year, the Bride’s Choice Awards recognizes and honors vendors from the WeddingWire Network that demonstrate excellent quality of service, responsiveness, professionalism, value of cost and flexibility. This year’s recipients represent the top three percent of WeddingWire’s vendor community, which includes over 100,000 wedding vendors from across the US. That means Moshe Zusman Photography is one of the very best Wedding & Portrait Photographers

Unlike other awards in which winners are selected by the company, the Bride’s Choice Awards are determined exclusively by recent newlyweds through surveys and reviews.

“We are excited to launch this annual award program to honor high-performing vendors based solely on the experiences of our WeddingWire community,” according to Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “This year’s recipients have set the bar high, exhibiting excellent service and expertise in the wedding industry.”

Moshe Zusman Photography would like to thank his past clients for recognizing his talent and professionalism, earning him the 2009 Bride’s Choice Award.

WPPI 2009 - The biggest thing for us photographers!

2009-02-14T23:23:00.003-05:00

All year long, I am all about my great clients, family and work. For one week a year, I attend WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) in Las Vegas, NV. Listening to the best photographers in the world, getting inspired by the most amazing artists, is what enables me to come back to DC, fully charged and inspired and let it reflect on my photos .So, this week is about me, reminding myself how much I love what I do, and how lucky I am to enjoy what I do, each and every day.

Hadar and I are staying at the MGM Grand, though it’s a beautiful Hotel and the weather in Las Vegas is amazing, we’ll never get to enjoy it as we’re either in classes all day, or just meeting so many people, eating, laughing, listening, networking, a bit of gambling and trying to sleep... Some of the time we spend watching and listing to the judges critiquing submitted photos to competitions in various categories - one of the most educating experiences!

Here are a few selected photos of a few of those amazing people I met today, most of them not for the first time and it’s always hypnotizing just listening to them, passing the best of what they do, to us the photographers.

In the photos below are André Amyot, Doug Box, Hadar Goren, Kenny Kim, Laura Novak, Mitche Graf, Skip Cohen, Tony Hewitt, Yervant and Michele Celentano

Day one - registration

Opening Reception

The great view and what we simply have no time to experience...

About to enter the Class, Hadar chatting with California Wedding photographer Wayne

Kenny Kim with his bazzoka

First class - Yervant, introduced by WPPI President, Skip Cohen

Yervan, solo

Money comes, money goes...

Mitche Graf introducing Michelle Celentano

Hadar, Michelle Celentano and Myself

Doug Box

Andre Amyot

Judges inspecing focus p and close at the wedding photography competition

Kenny Kim does what he does best!

Hadar, Mitche and myself

Australian Master Photographer, Tony Hewitt

Don't ask me why he's handing a rose to this guy

Meet Sadie!

2009-02-11T16:11:00.004-05:00

Today on one of my "routine photo shoots"(a corporate session), I saw cute Sadie again ( a beautiful Chesapeake Bay Retriever) , just waiting to be photographed. So with my favorite piece of glass, my 85mm lens, we took a few of her at her "office".

Austin's Bar Mitzvah!

2009-02-09T18:19:00.006-05:00

I photographed Austin’s Bar Mitzvah this past Saturday, and let me tell you - these people know how to throw a party! Austin’s parents, Dr. Phil and Michelle, looked like a million dollar each, Austin and Alexa both were gorgeous. Michele of Michele Hodges Events did an amazing job - just look at the decor - amazing! Howie the MC of NYX Entertainment blasted us with great music and the Hilton Rockville, well, simply rocked!

Congratulations to Austin and the family!

Special thanks to Hadar Goren of www.GorenPhoto.com for the great help.

Please click PLAY and be patient while photos and music are loading - the slideshow is on its way!

Ron's Book Cover Photo

2009-01-30T14:11:00.008-05:00

I've been working with Ron on the photography for his upcoming martial arts book for the past year and a half. Today we took the last photo, which potentially will be the cover shot, down in the new park in Georgetown, right by the water. It was a frigid cold day, so we wore our warm coats until the photo was taken and we successfully captured the look we wanted!
Below are some of the older shots we took in the studio for the book.

Inauguration Ball at the French Ambassador's Residence

2009-01-24T12:08:00.003-05:00

Living in Washington, DC provides me with many opportunities to photograph at some really cool events with some pretty prestigious people. Last Sunday, photographing at the French Embassy's Inaugural Ball, was no exception. The French Embassy put on quite a bash at the Ambassador's house, complete with actors dressed in French period garb! The guest list included senators, Washington's movers and shakers, and even Jeffrey Wright from the James Bond movies! It was a really fun evening, and it even gave me some Halloween costume ideas!

Sareh and Ali

2009-01-17T20:21:00.001-05:00

While most people had their eyes on the future president this weekend at the Inauguration, I was focused on a beautiful bride and groom at their wedding. I ventured over to Pentagon City, VA to co-photograph with my friend and master photographer Len DePas and photographer Daniel Schwartz at Sareh and Ali’s wedding at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The couple was beautiful and really fun to work with, and since the bride herself is an amateur photographer, was patient with us as we snapped some really unique shots. Best wishes to this couple, and enjoy the photos below.

Coming soon on my website - Q&A and FAQ page

2009-01-13T00:32:00.002-05:00

Currently I am working on a new addition to my website - the FAQ page. During 2008 I encountered many reoccurring questions by clients and potential clients. I decided to gather all the common questions and reply with information that may just help you make better decisions when picking your wedding photographer. Questions like "Do you use film or digital" or "Do we get to keep the photos" are very common and deserve answers from the get-go.

Eitan's Aliyah - Old School style!

2009-01-08T10:39:00.006-05:00

Today I photographed Eitan's Bar Mitzvah aliyah (the word aliyah means "ascending" and refers to the act of going up to read from the Torah). The shoot took place at the orthodox Chabad-Lubavitch synagogue in Potomac, MD, which won’t allow photography taken on the Bima (the raised platform where the Torah is read) for religious reasons. So instead, I took some shots of Eitan participating in many of the beautiful rituals that he’s now allowed to participate in as a Bar Mitzvah. Mazel Tov to Eitan and family!

Ringing in the new year with a bang!

2009-01-02T17:26:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I wanted to thank all of my clients, friends and family that helped make 2008 the wonderful year that it was. Here’s a look back at the engagement sessions from this past year – in photos, of course. And while last year was a huge success, I’m really excited about all of the upcoming weddings in 2009 and all of the new surprises, features and ideas that I’m cooking up! Please ask me for more details!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-28T12:50:00.005-05:00

It’s not very often that I get the opportunity to take photographs for fun, but I used my family vacation to South Florida as an excuse to snap some shots. I didnt take all my gear with me, just one body, 2 lens and if I knew i would be at those locations, most likely i would take a bigger zoom lens and extenders. but oh well, even a 70-200mm lens does it, right?

Our first visit was to the Green Cay Wetlands and Nature Center where I got to snap some photos of birds, turtles and crocodiles in their natural habitat. The birds were like models and stayed still for me long enough for me to get some really cool shots. We then headed to an Everglades hoverboat tour, which was beautiful and relaxing, but unfortunately, pretty devoid of crocodiles and other wildlife. Without getting bitten in the tush , I got as close as I could to those who were there. I did manage to take a few pics of some of the locals – mostly beautiful birds and a few crocs.

Happy Holidays to everyone and have a peaceful new year!

Vinifera at the Westin - Team work with Len DePas

2008-12-23T15:38:00.005-05:00

Another session with great help from Photographer Len DePas at Vinifera, over at Reston, VA.

We came back for more food shots, with the help of Bart the light man and Hadar the wine-poorer. I am switching to a new lighting technique that Len is teaching me and I love the results!

Happy New Years France!

2008-12-19T16:12:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, the French Embassy hosted a real nice holiday party, complete with a “Science On a Sphere” demo put on by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It was a really cool demo that combined 4 different computers and video projectors to create the animated effects. (To get the glow in the picture of the globe below, I combined a few exposures of the same photo into one. )

After a couple of speeches by the French and Czech Republic Ambassadors and Miss Alexandra Cousteau, the guests danced to rocking music provided by a great band and DJ, and munched on delicious food. Over all, it was a bonsoir.

To see the entire collection of images, CLICK HERE

Babaganoush's December Photo

2008-12-18T23:46:00.003-05:00

It's been a busy month but I did get to take a few of my cat. Here's my favorite!

Fashion Preview at Pangea - for a good cause!

2008-12-17T23:06:00.010-05:00

Earlier this evening I took a few photos at Pangea - an Artisan Market and Cafe. A jewelry and fashion showcase, devoted to supporting artisans from Africa, Asia, and Latin America whose livelihoods depend on being able to market their products.
The show took place at Pangea on Pennsylvania Ave - a store within the same building of the World Bank. The first image is from inside the world bank of the huge Christmas Tree and the decoration.

Hair styling by Simon Bechara of Salon Daniel in McLean, VA.

Here are the shots from the event and for the entire gallery, please visit THIS LINK

A Warm recommendation - May Flowers Inc

2008-12-17T00:34:00.005-05:00

A couple of months ago I photographed a special section for DC Magazine and one of the featured people in the article is May Bernhardt from MayFlowersInc.com

since then, may and I started working together and I can honestly say that I haven't had the pleasure of working on the same wedding with her yet but I am looking forward to it. I have seen her work both on weddings setups and corporate locations, her flowers settings are amazing and she's a truly wonderful person! If you're getting married and haven't gotten a florist yet, definitely give may a call. Her family owned business will take good care of you!

I took a ride to see May's new location in Lansdowne VA and it's beautiful. Her staff is extremely nice and once you're in, you feel so welcome and at home, it's just fun to be there.

Here's here website and on it you will find information and directions to her two locations in Reston and Lansdowne. http://www.mayflowersinc.com/
By the way, it's not may who's in the photos, it's one of her lovely associates!

I'm loving this team!

2008-12-10T00:14:00.002-05:00

I started working with Hisaoka Public Relations - what a great team of pros! Tonight, I photographed The JBG Companies - Ribbon Cutting Celebration for the grand opening of the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center expansion. Long name for a big production! The party had beautiful models, great food and drinks, and what a beautiful hotel. The event went so smooth and was beautifully organized, with plenty of photo ops. I even got to direct a little with the models and get some not-so-usual corporate event shots. The Joan Rivers impersonator was hilarious too, if you couldn’t tell from the photos!

You can see the entire gallery of 140 images from the event in THIS LINK - where guests can order prints as well.

Mommy, Daddy and Me

2008-12-06T19:58:00.003-05:00

Have I ever mentioned that I love taking family portraits—especially when that family includes 3 month old babies and Boston Terriers? Today I took some family shots of Taryn, Peter, Tora and Fred, who was obviously not camera shy. Everyone was fun to work with, especially baby Tora, who got wiped out from all the modeling and fell asleep in her mother's arms. Thanks again to the new parents and baby for a wonderful photo session.

WeddingWire.com - Another great review - Thank you Cacy and Ben!

2008-12-05T22:19:00.007-05:00

I am excited to read such great reviews from my past clients of one pf my most recent weddings from this post {LINK}
Cacy wrote this review but I also got a couple of emails from here that made me really love what I do even more. Knowing that my photos make people so excited and happy is really, everything for me.
Here is the great review and one more time, a photo from their wedding - my favorite photo. We took this one in the field, outside the church after the ceremony and after this shot we got in the cars and drove to Cacy's mother's house. 2 seconds after I got in the car, a storm came in and it was poring! Talk about timing...

Following up on www.yelp.com

2008-12-02T11:53:00.002-05:00

So I decided to email the "staff" at www.yelp.com both in the DC office and the headquarters in SF with a complaint on how they decide to remove reviews after 30 days so carelessly and automatically and all they can tell you is that it's probably spam or the reviewer removed their profile, which I can assure you that neither one of those happened with my clients. I emailed the staff with a CC to the Washington Post and will keep you posted on any outcome.

This used to show "7 Five Start Reviews" - I wonder what happened to them...

Yelp removed testimonials and reviews... What the.....?!?!

2008-11-26T22:03:00.003-05:00

So I noticed that testimonials on my YELP.COM business profile are suddenly disappearing. I have had so far about 10 happy clients who reviewed me with an average of 5 star rating, yet every 2 weeks a testimonial is being erased!
I contacted Yelp and got a very stupid careless reply from them that looks like a template, claiming they do not remove any testimonials except "junk" I would not want to have anyway... What is this????

I contact each and every one of my clients and asked them, they did not ever remove any testimonial. So I checked with other Yelp.com business owners and they said the same happened to them. So, I plan on not having clients review me on Yelp anymore. Switching to WeddingWire.com - at least for weddings...

Anyway, wanted to share!

If you see this guy in the streets, don't stop him!

2008-11-26T21:49:00.004-05:00

That's me, looking like you know what with my gear. Taken at the latest photographers get-together by my friend Rassi Borneo of TimeLine Media - great photographer! (not necessarily judged by this photo LOL!)
Kinda out of the blue but I had to share this funny one. I'll try adding more funny ones from the get-together, taken by the other photographers.

By the way, I promise to be shaved and properly attired at your wedding! :)

Cacy and Ben - The Slide show

2008-11-18T17:15:00.006-05:00

I've added this slide show to the top of their original post but here it is again, Cacy and Ben's photographer's favorites wedding photos, enjoy.

Heather and Matt - Out in the Wild

2008-11-17T18:54:00.004-05:00

Yesterday Hadar and I went with Heather and Matt to photograph their unique portraits for what's called "engagement session" but not as traditionally as expected. Hadar came up with this great idea of taking Heather and Matt to a mini camping trip where we hang out and oh by the way, took some photos of this great couple whom we've met 2 years ago, as Matt was a grooms man for another wedding we photographed. So we had a great time and we're looking forward to their July wedding!

Cacy and Ben

2008-11-16T01:19:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I drove up to Betterton Maryland to photograph the wedding of Cacy and Ben. The rain was chasing us literally but magically disappeared right on time for great shots outside the church. Then, we drove to Cacy’s family home for an amazing intimate reception with unbelievable food by Magnolia Catering. The wedding cake topped it all, it was the best I’ve had so far, and, my favorite – a tiramisu!
Cacy, Ben, thank you guys for an amazing day and a great opportunity to spend time with you, your family and close friends. A special thanks to my friend and photographer, Pedro Alicea for the great help today too.

Wedding Wire's first review

2008-11-14T01:24:00.002-05:00

So I never asked clients to review me on wedding wire ( www.weddingwire.com ), don't know why. I just started with my most recent wedding of Laura and Joel and I got a nice 5 Start review from this great couple - Thank you guys!

November Photographers Get-together at National Harbor (and other places)

2008-11-13T00:04:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Armin’s great initiative, today a bunch of us photogs met for our get-together. Lots of fun, funny shots and a beautiful model (one of Armin’s future brides). Here are a few from National Harbor by the recently relocated “Awakening”, followed by dinner at Fuddruckers (totally not my idea).

Learning from the best!

2008-11-12T11:07:00.003-05:00

As part of being a photographer who strives to create unique looks, moments and captures, learning new techniques and watching other professionals is what I enjoy most and how I learn best. A few weeks ago I met Len DePas of "The Photographer Gallery". A Washington based wedding and portrait photographer who kindly agreed to let me team up with him on photo-shoots, learn his amazing lighting techniques and I must say, his work is amazing! We went out on his back yard on this cold Monday morning and took a few shots of beautiful Iesha with assistance of Professional Photographer Bart Franz, also a Maryland Wedding and Portrait Photographer.
Here are shots I took of the photo shoot, followed by the photos Len himself took:

NYC

2008-11-12T11:01:00.003-05:00

So I took this photo back in July 2007 when I visited NYC with my wife Ashley. I just wanted to share this moment freeze photo with you, I love the colors and vividness of it.

Great Falls, Virginia, here's another first for me!

2008-11-09T18:55:00.002-05:00

I’m embarrassed to say that though I’ve lived in DC for nearly 5 years, I’ve never made it out to Great Falls National Park in VA. I was grateful to have a free Sunday and with my wife I took a drive past the amazing houses in Northern Virginia to the Park, and took some snaps of this natural beauty. Who knew waterfalls were only 20 minutes away from the city?

November Photo with Babaganoush - from the pussycat diaries

2008-11-06T11:53:00.003-05:00

Fresh out of the oven! I took this one with my point and shoot.

Barboursville Wine

2008-11-02T23:22:00.001-05:00

Today I decided that 6 days of work a week are just about right and enough. I packed a camera and drove for about two hours west on 66 with my wife to a great little town called Barbourville. We visited a vineyard called Barbourville Wine. It’s my first visit to a vineyard in the US. We had a nice experience tasting different wines, we got a couple of bottles of Merlot and Malvaxia to take home and after that, we had a small picnic just outside the vineyard. Thanks to my friend Marty for the recommendation.

that's after half a bottle... light weights

ok, can someone explain to me crosswalk cow?

Laura and Joel's special rainy day

2008-10-25T21:46:00.004-04:00

While Mother Nature was not on our side today, Laura and Joel’s wedding was truly beautiful. The couple exchanged vowels at Cameron United Methodist Church in Alexandria, and then headed over to Newton White Mansion (where the staff was great and helpful) to celebrate the nuptials with family and friends. The reception was beautiful –complete with African drummers and authentic food. Everyone was having a great time, regardless of the rain beating down outside of the windows. Congratulations to this wonderful couple!

Keeping my promise to Laura and Joel, I’m posting this teaser featuring a few of my favorite shots.
Oh, and at the very end you can find me with the cute couple + a bonus, my beautiful assistant for the day, Miss Canon, posing by the cake :)

Special thanks to my favorite second shooter, Pedro Alicea who was a huge help today.

Jim Hawes - Portrait of a designer.

2008-10-24T23:01:00.005-04:00

While working with DC Magazine on their Spotlight on Interior Designers I met Jim Hawes, a very high end interior designer and a very nice guy. Photo was taken at his home in McLean VA and silly me, I forgot his business card in my car tonight so tomorrow I'll update his Studio's name and website here so you can see his work.

Happy Halloween everyone!

2008-10-23T16:50:00.004-04:00

On Monday I photographed Senator Lugar, honored at The University Club DC - Excellence in International Leadership Award dinner. I got to tell you,I just love available light! (photographers term for natural light).

Too see all the photos from the event- click here

Art and Soul Opening with Celebrity Chef Art Smith

2008-10-17T11:19:00.007-04:00

Last night was so much fun. They had Celebrity Chef Art Smith at the opening of his new restaurant “Art and Soul”, in the Liaison Capitol Hill Hotel. The party was great. Amazing food, drinks, Great people, beautiful girls and live music. Even Oprah sent flowers!
I got to meet a lot of old friends, make new friends and most important – have great photos!
Special thanks to Katharine Hauschka from CDIA who took photos with me on such short notice. She did an awesome job!
Shortly I’ll add a slide show with sound to those photos, meanwhile, enjoy!

To see all the photos, order high quality prints and other cool items, click here

Some more additions to my website

2008-10-17T03:29:00.000-04:00

I just added Featured Wedding 1, 2 and 3 to my wedding website. Now you can see more wedding photos, 30 photos from each wedding.

Nordstrom Men Fashion Show Event - The Slides

2008-10-16T15:26:00.004-04:00

Went back and plugged this with one of my favorite sounds tracks - So, as always, make sure to turn your speakers on and high!

* To see the photos and order prints, visit my online store, CLICK HERE

They forgot, I forgive

2008-10-15T13:50:00.004-04:00

The Bisnow.com Web site forgot to credit me on this photo I took a few weeks ago for UIP Urban – Investment and Development. I’ve been working with them for a few weeks now and part of the project was to capture the team members with a cityscape backdrop. We decided to shoot on the roof of one of their project locations. This specific shot was caught at 8:30am. I personally like it a lot, especially with all of the wind blowing through everyone’s hair!

http://www.bisnow.com/washington_dc_commercial_real_estate_news_story.php?p=1634

On USA Today - my photo from Topaz Hotel

2008-10-14T23:50:00.005-04:00

A few months ago I worked on a project for Topaz Hotel, along with Sarah C. Horner - the director of PR for the Kimpton Hotels, in DC and photographed a trio of drinks, as part of the election themed campaign.
Here's the article http://www.usatoday.com/travel/hotels/2008-10-09-hotels-elections_N.htm
and here's the original photo. I haven't tried the drink but I hear it's sooo good!
Visit the Topaz in DC and enjoy the super chic boutique hotel. I love that place.

*

At the Ritz, with Seth and Michelle!

2008-10-13T22:56:00.004-04:00

Working with Hadar, again :), at Michelle and Seth's wedding. On Saturday we spent all day with this gorgeous couple. Started at noon at the bridal suite, we had lots of time to take some great "getting ready" shots, photos of the couple together away from everyone, a beautiful ceremony and a crazy happy reception. As usual, here's a slide show of my favorite 55 images and a few others...

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My amazing offer for 2009 - Free Destination Wedding Photography

2008-10-12T16:41:00.000-04:00

You may have seen this ad online or in a magazine but in case you didn't...
I am offering two weddings shots for two clients and for free, during 2009's wedding season.

A few clarifications, since I've gotten a lot of requests to shoot weddings in Montgomery County while the couple lives in Howard County. I hardly call that a destination wedding...

So here's how the promotion works:

1. This promotion is for the purpose of expanding my "Destination Wedding Photography" portfolio and not my regular work portfolio, so, if you know anyone or have a friend who's getting married in the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Australia or Mars, send them my way. West Coast weddings are welcome as well!

2. Client selection is at my discretion. The offer also depends on my availability and wedding location. For more information, visit my website www.carish1.com and contact me. I'll be happy to provide more information and schedule a consultation meeting, free of charge of course.

Giin and Sean Levy - Slideshow

2008-10-08T12:32:00.003-04:00

This couple was much fun that I just can't stop it!

Baba-jump!

2008-10-07T15:32:00.002-04:00

As part of the cat's diaries, here's one from last night. fraction of a second before jumping and making a mess on my coffee table...
Then while I try to work, she steals things off my desk!

Happy Birthday Bilal!

2008-10-06T22:32:00.001-04:00

Sometimes it’s the carefree kids parties that I enjoy photographing the most! This last Sunday, I photographed Bilal’s 7th birthday. The kids splashed around the pool, played with water guns and ate snow cones and cupcakes. It was a really fun day for the kids, and I have to admit, for me as well!

Taste of Bethesda

2008-10-06T21:58:00.000-04:00

I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather last Saturday and checked out the Taste of Bethesda. I didn’t eat any food, but got a few fun shots, including this one of this golden retriever who was too cool to take off his sunglasses.

I swear if it wasn't raining I'd stay for the whole game

2008-10-01T23:31:00.007-04:00

But I did not have any rain gear for my camera and lens so I bailed at half time from this great game between DC United and Cruz Azul (Mexico), at RFK Stadium.
The spots that look like haze are actually the heavy rain that that pored.
I've shot sports before, but it was my first time shooting a soccer game and i think it came out not so bad, eh?
Photographed for www.minute91.com

Teaser # 2 - Sean and Giin's wedding

2008-10-01T00:24:00.006-04:00

In the process of wrapping up all the post process work on Giin and Sean's wedding from last Saturday, I've decided to post a second "teaser" to my viewers and to the great couple.
Another 31 selected images out of hundreds. The cupcakes, the speeches, dancing, pre and post ceremony shots that were just so much fun to take, where I had to convince them to give me "just 5 more minutes!"...
It's so hard to choose since there are just so many great photos to choose from. So, enjoy!

Here she comes!

The Dogs...

I know you've seen this before in my posts but it's a classic and one of my favorite shots of all time in weddings.

Hadar's idea, I love it!

We are one!

The BEST cupcakes I've ever had. EVER.

In the back, Sean kicking ass in pong

Time to leave these two alone

Photographers get together at Gordon Biersch, hosted by Armin DeFiesta

2008-09-30T23:45:00.003-04:00

Just a couple of hours ago, about 22 photographers from the DC are (Armin DeFeiesta, Hadar Goren, Inbal More, Noah Hayes, Asim Soofi, Paul Price, Laura Kay, Sarah Hodzik and many more...) + Gene Higa who's in town from SF, all got together for good times ,food, drinks and networking.
I don't even know everyone's names but i am sure they'll all tag each other on FaceBook later. In any case, it was a lot of fun to see everyone, meet new friends and hear some tips from other pros.
And, we all took some silly photos, specially since the waitress thought we are working for Apple... and a group shot - a must.

The Big Day Has Arrived!

2008-09-28T14:20:00.003-04:00

I’ll make this one short on words but longer in photos. Last night I photographed with the help of Hadar and Alec (videographer) the beautiful wedding of the even more beautiful couple, Giin and Sean Levy. Their wedding ceremony took place at Meridian Hill Park in Washington, DC followed by a reception at Josephine Butler Parks Center. A combination of great times, yummy cupcakes, amazing Korean food and the kind of atmosphere couples only wish for, made this wedding one of my most beautiful ones yet.

Sneak preview - Success in the city - Photo shoot at Saks 5th Avenue

2008-09-25T23:46:00.005-04:00

In the last couple of weeks I've been shooting for a project with DC Magazine. We had three sessions at Saks Fifth Ave and with 23 successful women of all industries, a great 12 page piece will be in the October issue with my photos.
I've created a little presentation of the shoot and in a week you'll be able to see the actually piece on paper. DC Magazine - October Issue.

turn up the volume!

Here, try working with this yawning all day in front of you

2008-09-25T23:24:00.001-04:00

Red Bull Mash Up Party at Local 16

2008-09-25T12:55:00.006-04:00

Last night at Local 16, Red Bull had a Mash Up Party and the rooftop patio was packed! Teaming up with Abby Kirsch of Red Bull, I photographed some red and blue cans, good atmosphere and a great party.

Here are some of the shots and this is the link to view all the images and get prints
http://carish1.smugmug.com/gallery/6059249_MKPNb#379836009_D2nW5

Yank that zoom out baby!

Amarilys, under the bridge

2008-09-22T23:20:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite places for urban shots is under the bridge on K Street in Georgetown. The graffiti-filled brick wall was the perfect backdrop for my photo shoot with Amarilys, who needed some photos for her record label. We got lots of attention from the on-lookers, and one poor bicyclist nearly fell off of his bike while trying to take it all in. The photos turned out great, thanks to some good laughs, some good tunes, and Melissa, who used her modeling background to help with the afternoon shoot. We even had amarilys's fiance pose one for us at the very end, on the bridge.

A cat's moments

2008-09-17T23:18:00.003-04:00

Once a month I plan on publishing a cat's diary of photos. It's girlie, but so is sugar free vanilla lattes and I have those too.
First batch, Baba(ganoush) at her best.

Playing hide and seek (with herself)

Playing hide and seek with me

Doing Yoga

One of my latest creations - on Northern Virginia Magazine

2008-09-17T20:13:00.005-04:00

I was photographing some drink shots for my great friend Natalie Bovis-Nelsen (AKA: TheLiquidMuse.com) and took a shot of this very colorful and very tasty cocktail.
You can find more cocktail musings and recipes in Natalie's column in the Northern Virginia Magazine or on the web at:

http://www.northernvirginiamag.com/restaurants/dining_cocktails/pear/index.html

Off topic yet very entertaining

2008-09-16T18:25:00.003-04:00

I know it’s not “business related” but this is a must-be-posted post. I know you all see those diplomat cars cruising the city, not caring for anything or anyone, parking illegally, running over bikers or pedestrians on their way to shop or pick up their kid from piano lessons or whatever, with a cell phone in one hand and a latte in the other…
Now, I never enjoyed seeing the Parking Enforcement officers of DC performing their job as much as I did today when I saw this from across the street, right in front of the Zoo on CT Ave. Luckily I had my iPhone’s extreme 2MP camera and didn’t miss the opportunity to document this exciting moment.

Then I crossed to the other side of the street and saw TWO of those blue plates on the same tow truck. Double the entertainment!

the new website is up!

2008-09-10T22:21:00.003-04:00

Lots of thank yous to John McConnico for the design and creation of my website. John has been my designer for the past two years, working with me on several projects, sites and media products and I would definitely recommend him to anyone who's interested in media type work and web design.
The site still needs a few tweaks and minor copy changes but is fully functional and ready to roll!

Version 3.0 coming soon!

2008-09-09T01:35:00.003-04:00

OK, I am starting to feel like an iPhone or a USB port but my website is going through changes and the second round of face lifting is almost done and I am very excited.
Major changes include splitting the site to two sites, wedding/portrait site and a corporate site. Later to come a video section with video clips of me at work, slide shows made for clients and most important, new photos.

Here is a sneak preview of the new gateway.

I'm proud!

2008-09-07T01:33:00.004-04:00

OK, I know it's not the greatest quality of a photo but it's the photo within the photo that counts.I took the photo with my little point and shoot that I always keep in my pocket, just in case ,you know. Those are my prints (all four including the one on the wall on the left), photos I took in the past 3 years in DC, of the Capitol and other monuments. They are offered for sale at International Art Gallery in Downtown DC.
Those are my first pieces of art that are offered for sale at a gallery and I'm very excited about it.
Come visit Habib the owner of the gallery and at 1625 K Street, NW and be amazed with his artistic frames!

Indian Weddings Rock!

2008-09-04T18:05:00.007-04:00

Ok. I must say, Indian weddings (or to be politically correct, "South Asian" weddings), ROCK! Over the last weekend I photographed with Hadar of Hadar Goren Photography a beautiful wedding in NJ. Two days of amazing colors, tastes and scents with the beautiful couple, Saloni and Kyle.
On Saturday we photographed the traditional Indian wedding, ceremony, reception and the all inclusive package. On Monday we had a ceremony at the church and a second reception, hosted by the groom's parents.
We had a BLAST with Saloni and Kyle!
I don't know if it was luck or just how good I am (yeah, probably luck) but the photos came out so much better then I expected. The couple was so cool (yes, I use that word) and played along with my and Hadar's ideas, which allowed us to take great photos in no so traditional angles.
the hardest part for me was to select just a few to show here but soon I will post a slide show of more. So, meanwhile, enjoy those.

Give it to Hadar for staging this one!

Happy Birthday Clancy!

2008-08-26T19:12:00.008-04:00

Those are my friend's dogs, Clancy (3) and Chloe (2.5) - and those could easily be mistaken for their weight in lbs, but it's their ages. Clancy turned 3 and we had a great time at Sarah's BBQ this past Sunday, celebrating the event.

ZooZoo-ing with Paul

2008-08-23T14:43:00.005-04:00

On Friday I had a couple of hours of free time and I visited the National Zoo with my friend Paul (not shown in the photos). It was very hard to capture animals as they are almost NOT THERE. This zoo is being renovated for the past 40 years and it's hard to actually get some animals to pose for you there. But, we tried. This is what I got:

Audrey and Eva

2008-08-18T13:18:00.004-04:00

Beautiful day at Tudor Place, Georgetown, I took Audrey,(2.5) and Eva(1.5) to Tudor a beautiful place in Georgetown. Although we got together for a family portrait session, I couldn't help it and took a lot of individual shots of the beautiful girls. Two hours and 400 images later, here's a peek at the few of many great shots and poses I got from those two.

The last time I photographed this gorgeous family was over a year ago in a park near by and today was a great catch-up!

Video Slide Show - Engagement Sessions Captured by... Myself

2008-08-18T11:30:00.000-04:00

Soon I am about to make some changes to my website but here is one of them - adding a video section where there will be slide shows of my primary sessions, weddings and portraits. This is a beta version of my first collection - Engagements.

Engagement sessions are actually one of my most favorite photo sessions. I get to meet the couple, "break the ice" with them, get them ready for my not so clear sense of humor so when THE big day comes, we're not strangers anymore. We get to know each other in a very stress-free environment with no mother in-jaws around! (hey, it's one of my couples jokes). After all, we are going to spend a whole day together.
This session is not only fun and great for the couple, its also very important for me. I get to know the couples' reaction to my ideas and determine if they're going to smack me for some of them.

I've selected four recent couples and their great moments together.
Enjoy and I'm looking forward to getting feedback from you.

Oh, don't forget to pause at some point since it loops and I really don't want the music to freak anyone out. Later you'll stop visiting my blog and the next thing you know you start ignoring my emails... so... be kind, don't rewind.

This one is for Baba!

2008-08-18T01:09:00.004-04:00

My cat, Babaganoush decided to help me clean my gear. Needless to mention, she chose to NOT help and run a way with my blower and brush.
I was setting up my camera for a shoot on Saturday with my new lens, EF50mm, an amazing portrait lens which I can't wait to use on my next shoot.

The Three Musketeers

2008-08-17T21:30:00.001-04:00

Yesterday at our friend's birthday party, Hadar (my partner in crime) and his wife Marina posed for me with his cute little daughter, 4 months old Shailee.

Hotel Monaco, wow!

2008-08-16T01:22:00.004-04:00

Hey, I really went down to Hotel Monaco for a meeting. I couldn't help it and took my camera out. I swear, no flash, no heavy artillery, just my camera and one little lens. look at the magic! It's a beautiful hotel (just like any other Kimpton hotel I know) and it photographs even better.

Big Yellow Balls

2008-08-16T01:10:00.001-04:00

Music, drinks and pretty people – that’s all you need to have a great time on a beautiful Friday evening. At the Andre Wells house, a beautiful Legg Mason Tennis Classic Lawn Party, was all I needed, really. The party was hosted by my friends at DC Magazine and Vodka by Daniel Mahdavian of Surreal Vodka.
I guess there isn’t a lot more to say, just look at the photos:

Photopoluza!

2008-08-13T00:47:00.011-04:00

A bunch of us photographers, Armin DeFiesta, Julia MacInnis, Hadar Goren, Peter Bang, Noah Hayes, Shane Melenbacker and myself, – all got together at Carlyle in Shirlington for drinks, dinner and size comparison. Good times, really and so nice to meet everyone, most of them for the first time. Drinks, food, lenses and hoods and all the rest – a lot of fun! Hearing other’s advice, reviews and tips – good time!
Here are some photos from this evening.

Redbullers!

2008-08-12T20:53:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, before I met my photographers gang, My friend Daniel Mahdavian introduced me to Abby Kirsch and Eliza Bass of the Red Bull team of DC, and Christina Mohr from P.I.N.K for a happy hour and networking party. Great food and drinks at Hotel Helix outdoor lounge and great company, here are a few photos:

A Concierge White Extravaganza!

2008-08-12T00:02:00.012-04:00

Restaurant Aria Trattoria in the courtyard of the Ronald Reagen Building was the perfect place for the Washington Area Concierge Association (WACA) White Garden Party.
Amazing food and drinks (fine vodka by Surreal Vodka & Daniel Mahdavian), music and a fashion show by 4 local designers were the best combination for an awesome evening (Photo # 3, left to right: Ebong Eka, Mi Chiamo Eka Margie Troy, MTroy Designs Alexander Sozonov, Sasha
Jaja Nwokeabia, ugo seven ).

And, I've made a slide show with the photos from the party, enjoy that too.

They're towing Marty's car!

2008-08-07T23:23:00.006-04:00

Well, not really. But I thought it would make a funny title (at least to anyone like me who grew up on Back to the Future I, II, III and oh why not IV?).
Those shots were taken a couple of months ago at the America vs. Italy Polo Cup 2008, in Leesburg, VA. I went there to photograph the event for my friends at DC Magazine but it was a stormy day an the game got delayed. I actually didn't stay for the match, those are from the fantastic presentations that the Navy/Army demonstrated on the lawn.

Architecture - in the heart of DC

2008-08-04T14:36:00.003-04:00

I’ve been working with the University Club of Washington, DC for some time now, and last night took some evening shots of the historic 16th Street building. It was a perfect night for photos, as the streets were quiet with little commotion and the sky was a beautiful color of blue. I tried to take a variety of different angles, trying to capture the unique architecture and character of the building.

MidCity Life: Dog Days!

2008-08-04T00:35:00.005-04:00

So I had never heard about this event before, but it's a very cool sidewalk sale in the streets of DC, taking place around U Street and the vicinity. My wife suggested we check it out and so we did. Riding the bike with my wide angle, I stopped to take a few snap shots of a few corners and different viewpoints. This is something you don't see me doing every Sunday - actually relaxing and shooting for fun!

Take me out to the ball game

2008-08-01T22:21:00.005-04:00

I never thought I'd have the opportunity to step onto a professional-league ball field, but there I was on the grass at Nationals Stadium, photographing all of the action. I took some shots of the opening pitch, a few innings against the Philadelphia Phillies, adoring fans, and the Nationals Mascot -SCREECH. Special thanks to Steve Abramowitz, president of CEO Boardroom, who hosted an awesome event which I photographed at the Presidents Club at Nationals Stadium.

Above the Call; Beyond the Duty

2008-08-01T00:54:00.007-04:00

A day in the company of a great actor - Mr. James McEachin.
I had the huge honor of working with Mr. McEachin and Hazel Cox on the photography of his play,"Above the Call; Beyond the Duty" - at the John F. Kennedy Center.
From 4:30 pm, we spent around five hours together--photographing Mr. McEachin during rehearsal, getting ready, the reception, and in between, amazing conversations.
I was very pleased with the photos, and most of them were taken in an extreme dark theater with low lighting conditions. Yet, I am very pleased.
I recommend seeing his play to everyone--it's amazing!

Lauren and Geoff

2008-07-30T01:23:00.008-04:00

I hung out with Lauren and Geoff, who are my wife’s colleagues, at the Screen on the Green event and right at sunset we took a couple of shots. What an adorable couple!
It's amazing, what a great lens can do in low light condition, I mean, it was practically almost dark, even though it doesn't show in the photo.
Thanks Lauren and Geoff, for good times!

Summer Time and the Living’s Easy

2008-07-30T01:16:00.002-04:00

The hot weather took a hiatus yesterday, in time for one of the coolest events of the summer – Screen on the Green. Hundreds of Washingtonians headed to the National Mall once the sun goes down to catch a screening of a Hollywood classic (yesterday’s movie was Arsenic and Old Lace). The event was a perfect excuse to enjoy the summer weather, a free movie and to snap a few shots of Washington’s landmarks.
Here are some and the 3rd photo is actually featured in about.com !

Daffy

2008-07-29T09:55:00.004-04:00

Ok, I got a thing with ducks, did you know that? Saw this group of ducks yesterday at McPherson Square (probably landed for refueling and took off immediately).

Fun-day with Malinda and this dude, Hadar.

2008-07-27T16:35:00.009-04:00

Last Friday, Hadar , who's in photo # 4 & 6,(and getting his butt kicked),and I grabbed a couple of cameras and lenses, a pretty girl named Malinda (who’s an amazing make-up artist by the way), a few outfits, and went out on a fun photo shoot day in DC.
We started at Jack’s Boathouse in Georgetown, under the Key Bridge on K. Street. Special thanks to Anna Popov for letting us use her location.

The BabaG

2008-07-26T13:31:00.004-04:00

This little post is dedicated to my friend Marty who kindly cat-sat my Babaganoush while I was gone for our trip.
She's playing with his toy too! (Yes, I know, I need to have kids, I know that).
Thanks Marty!

Church of the Nativity

2008-07-21T21:49:00.004-04:00

During the trip I spent two days in Jerusalem, toured the four quarters. Jewish, Armenian, Christian and Muslim quarters. I also saw the Church of the Nativity, where according to the Christian tradition, is believed to be the place where Jesus was born.
I used a wide angle lens and captured the amazing architecture of the place.

I'm back!

2008-07-21T20:40:00.003-04:00

So, good to be back home, I made it back safely and back to work!
I actually found my little pocket camera today and got the photos of it, some were taken family and some by friends, I wanted to post those two of me and my beautiful wife, Ashley. Both are pretty rare moments as neither of us likes taking pictures. I guess that's why I am on the other side of the lens, right?
Anyway, the first one is in Rosh Hanikra and the second one is in Haifa, on the Carmel mountain behind Dan Panorama hotel with the beautiful view of the Golf of Haifa.

Rosh Hanikra - Israel - a second set

2008-07-21T07:25:00.003-04:00

Just a few more of one of my favorite place in Israel, Rosh Hanikra. The caves inside the white rocks are amazing both on the inside and the outside. I recommend visiting that location if you are in the neighborhood.