01Sep

The True Post-Production Process

By, September 01, 2023

To ensure your photos represent the “True” style, they (Best Photographers in San Diego) undergo hours of hands-on care and attention. Our post-production process starts with an amazing photograph. We then take that photograph and bring out the very best within the image. These refined techniques really showcase the art and style of each photo, ensuring that the images will remain timeless, with that extra oomph :) 

This post will walk you thru all the steps taken with the “best of the best” images. 

Step 1 – Image Selection
When new photos are ready to be worked on, we start with a Culling Process. This is where we help narrow down the images and remove any duplicates, eyes closed, eye blinks shots.  This involves a reviewing of every photo from your shoot, and deciding which ones best represent your day. You will still have access to every photograph taken, but there are certain shots from your photoshoot that are the clear standouts.

Members of our team, working hard on your photos. When making selections, we make sure to showcase a variety of poses, locations, and lighting. 

STEP 2 – Image Enhancement
Now that we have our  images narrowed down, it’s time to give them the True treatment. In this step, we adjust tones within each photo, correct temperature, and refine the color. We make a lot of small decisions that dictate how far to go, and when to stop.

For example, check out this image taken at Meaghan and Daniel’s wedding earlier this year:

The example above is the original image, right out of the camera. Isn’t it pretty? :) We intentionally exposed it this way, for the highlights, in order to preserve the detail. Had the image been exposed for the mid-tones, all the detail in the sky would be lost, and no amount of post-production would bring it back. 

Below are the steps if you have selected our upgrade Event Highlights, Enhancement and Retouch option. We identify the areas of the image that will require additional hands on enhancement.

To address these items, we add our “Secret Sauce.” This consists of applying our custom, painstakingly developed Photoshop presets, as well as expert manual adjustments. We balance the color temperature, bring out the shadows, and restore any lost detail in the highlights, resulting in the image below.

That’s looking better! This is the image after undergoing enhancement. We strive to create images that are bold, crisp and clean, while maintaining natural skin tones.

Step 3 – Image Retouching
With the image looking the way we want it, it’s now time for a little retouching. In this step, we use meticulous Photoshop techniques to remove skin blemishes, fly away hairs, and any other distractions in the image.

We identify areas of the image that will be retouched.

Step 4 – Image Delivery
After identifying the problem areas, and retouching the image, the result is a final product that we are proud to deliver to our clients. Check out the example below to see the results, after the retouch has been performed.

Compare this against the original image from before!

We hope you enjoyed this peek behind the scenes, with a glimpse into the hard work that goes into your finished photos.

 

14Jun

The Ultimate San Diego Wedding Photography Checklist: Don’t Miss These Shots

By, June 14, 2023

At True Photography we know that above all your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life. We understand how important it is to capture every moment, big and small, so that you can relive the magic of your wedding day for years to come. That’s why we have created the ultimate San Diego wedding photography checklist, so that you don’t miss any of the essential shots.

Getting Ready

Firstly, the getting ready stage of your wedding day is full of excitement and anticipation. It’s also essential to capture the emotions of this special moment. Here are some shots that you should include in your wedding photography checklist:

  • Bride’s dress hanging up
  • Bride and bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done
  • Bride putting on her wedding dress
  • Bride and bridesmaids putting on jewelry
  • Groom and groomsmen getting dressed
  • Groom tying his tie

Check out our getting ready gallery for more inspiration!

True Photography captures a shot from the Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist San Diego

Ceremony

Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, and because of this, it’s essential to capture every detail of this special moment. Here are some shots you should subsequently include in your wedding photography checklist:

  • Guests arriving before ceremony starts
  • Bridal party walking down the aisle
  • Groom’s reaction when he sees the bride for the first time
  • Bride walking down the aisle with her father
  • Exchanging of vows
  • Ring exchange
  • First kiss as a married couple
  • Signing the marriage license afterward

Take a look at our ceremony gallery for more images!

A shot from the Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist photographed by True Photography

Portraits

Your wedding portraits are the images that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Here are some shots that you should include in your wedding photography checklist:

  • Bride and groom alone
  • Bride and groom with the bridal party
  • Bride with bridesmaids
  • Groom with groomsmen
  • Bride and groom with their parents
  • Bride and groom with immediate family

Check out our couple portrait gallery for more inspiration!

Couple portrait in front of a living wall in San Diego photographed by True Photography

Reception

Lastly, your wedding reception is where the real party starts, and it’s essential to capture the fun and excitement of this special moment. Here are some shots to be sure you should include in your wedding photography checklist:

  • Reception venue overall decor
  • Bride and groom’s grand entrance
  • First dance
  • Parent dances
  • Toasts and speeches
  • Cutting of the cake
  • Bouquet and garter toss
  • Dancing and celebration

Browse through our reception gallery for more wedding inspiration!

The first dance from Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist photographed by True Photography

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and your wedding photos are the perfect way to preserve the memories of this special moment forever. Furthermore, at True Photography, we understand the importance of capturing every detail of your wedding day, which is why we have created this ultimate San Diego wedding photography checklist. By following this checklist, you’ll be sure not to miss any of the essential shots, and you’ll have beautiful images to treasure for a lifetime.

11Jun

Top San Diego Wineries for Your Wedding

By, June 11, 2023

At True Photography we’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings at some of the most beautiful wineries in the area. We’ve subsequently put together a list of the best wineries to have a wedding in San Diego.

1. Bernardo Winery

Located in San Diego, California Bernardo Winery, is an idyllic wedding venue with a rich history. As one of the oldest operating wineries in Southern California, it provides a charming and rustic atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding. The property boasts picturesque gardens, quaint shops, and several event spaces that can be customized to suit any wedding theme or style. Couples can exchange vows in a romantic outdoor ceremony or in the intimate barrel room. The winery’s on-site restaurant can provide catering and a customizable menu for the reception. Bernardo Winery’s unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a memorable and one-of-a-kind wedding venue. Check out our Bernardo Winery gallery for more inspiration!Top San Diego Winery Bernardo Winery photographed by True Photography

2. Orfila Vineyards & Winery

If you’re looking for a stunning wedding venue, Orfila Vineyards & Winery could be just what you need. Firstly, the venue is located in the heart of San Diego’s wine country. Additionally, the winery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hillsides and vineyards. With a spacious and luxurious event space, the venue can accommodate up to 250 guests. The event space features rustic chandeliers, wooden beams, and a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lastly, the winery offers a range of award-winning wines that are perfect for toasting to your new life together. Visit our Orfila Vinyards gallery for more wedding inspiration!Bride and Groom in Orfila Winery grape fields photographed by True Photography

3. Falkner Winery

Falkner Winery is a stunning venue for a wedding celebration. Firstly, the winery boasts a breathtaking view of Temecula Valley. Moreover, the venue provides a unique experience with its vineyards and award-winning wines. Couples can choose from various event spaces, including the Pinnacle Restaurant and the outdoor garden. Additionally, the winery offers packages for weddings with customizable options to fit any budget. The venue also provides wedding planning assistance and catering services to ensure a stress-free experience. Lastly, Falkner Winery’s team is dedicated to making the couple’s special day unforgettable. Overall, Falkner Winery is a remarkable option for a memorable and elegant wedding ceremony. Check out our Falkner Winery gallery for more inspiration!

4. Mount Palomar Winery

Mount Palomar Winery is an excellent wedding venue that offers beautiful views and a memorable experience for couples. The winery is located in a prime location with easy accessibility, making it perfect for hosting weddings. Additionally, the winery offers a range of packages that can be tailored to suit each couple’s preferences and budget. The venue features beautiful architecture, picturesque landscapes, and stunning views of the surrounding valley. The winery also provides excellent catering and wine options, ensuring that the guests have a great time. Overall, Mount Palomar Winery is a perfect wedding destination for couples looking for a beautiful and unforgettable experience. Visit our Mount Palomar Winery gallery for more wedding inspiration!Bride and Groom in a grape field at Mount Palomar Winery

At True Photography, we understand that choosing the right venue for your wedding is particularly essential to creating the perfect experience for you and your guests. We hope this list of the overall best wineries to have a wedding in San Diego has been helpful in your search for the perfect venue. As always, we’re here to help capture every moment of your special day, and we look forward to working with you soon.