Beaches of California

The California beaches are home for me. I’ve been to many beaches but the ones back home hit different. I grew up near some amazing places and went there often as a kid: Morro Bay, Los Osos, Pismo Beach, etc. Whenever I’m back visiting family, I try to get to some of my favorite spots.

San Diego

San Diego

On this last trip back in October/November, I got to visit numerous ones. I hadn’t been to San Diego in around 4 years, so it was fun to see some of those places again.

San Diego

San Diego

San Clemente

It had been a while since I’ve passed through or stayed in San Clemente. Though this stop was pretty short, I could see my cousin, see my favorite pier and capture a few photos.

San Clemente

San Clemente

San Clemente

San Clemente

Huntington Beach

I think that last time I walked along Huntington Beach pier was when Ruby’s Diner was at the end. This new place has some pretty cool colors though, loved the vibe.

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach

desert living // California

The California desert might be dry, the summers are hot, the winters can be pretty cold but it’s a beautiful place. I go from time to time to visit family and love exploring as many of the areas as I can. I came across this really cool old gas station turned store in Joshua Tree. They were still doing some work outside, but they said it was fine to walk around and grab some shots. I stopped by there again the day before leaving the desert to get some more photos of the cool orange car.

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree

Yucca Valley

There’s really a lot of cool places in this area. Besides Joshua Tree and Palm Springs, in the middle you have Yucca Valley, Desert Springs, and the cool Pioneertown.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is one of my favorite places to photograph when I’m in the desert. There are so many fun and vibrant colored buildings and signs. I enjoy exploring new areas but I also like stopping by my go to places as well. One of my spots is the Saguaro hotel. I love all the colors of the building. I hop out of the car and take a walk around the entire hotel, taking a new set of photos from the previous trips.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs

Palm Springs

Palm Springs

Disneyland // California

Disneyland might be full of people, lots of crowds almost every time I go, but it’s also one of my happy places. Disney always brings me so much joy when I’m walking around: the sites, the rides, unique food and the shops. It brings up fun memories of going all the time when I was a kid. Growing up on the Central Coast of California, we started going to Disneyland at a young age.

This trip I brought my Fujifilm camera and tried to get as many photos as I could, in between rides and eating. There are so many cool spots around each land, each one is different and unique.

I love walking down Main Street, I want to live there. The colors you find on this street are so bright and colorful. Some of my family were shopping so I decided to walk up and down the street, capturing all the little shops. I wanted to get images without people, so sometimes I had to wait a bit in between those passing by.

It would be cool to just spend a whole day or even half a day of just walking around the parks alone, photographing everything around me. Whenever I am at the parks, I try my best to take as many as I can in the time that I’m there.

The day I walked through Galaxy’s Edge for the first time, my jaw dropped and I wanted to move right in. This place is beyond magical. It feels like you are walking through a scene in a Star Wars movie. My family and I were talking over lunch while in the parks, asking each other which land would we ever want to work in. My first choice would definitely be Galaxy’s Edge.

DCA // California

Taking photos of trash cans is my thing from time to time but especially in Disneyland/DCA. Trash cans in the parks are just super cool, colorful and bright. I love how they are all unique to their land or area in the parks.

I hadn’t seen the new area of San Fransokyo Square until this trip. I loved all the new things added and the colors. They also had some amazing food in this area; some of use enjoy tacos and others some birria ramen.

Disneyland park is my favorite of the two, but it was fun to see the Avenger’s Campus over in DCA. We arrived just in time to see Spider-Man out and about, showing off some of his tricks.

I love walking around the parks and photographing things you don’t always notice or look at when you’re at Disney. I like getting the close up shots that could have been taken anywhere. The colors and tones at Disney are amazing and super photogenic, making it so easy to capture its beauty.

Photographing during the day is my favorite but Disney at night is a lot of fun with all the lights around. Strolling through Cars Land at night is my favorite spot.

The Black Sea Coast // Romania

Looks like paradise, right? This place can be magical. I remember when I first saw the Black Sea Coast in 2021. I was staying just a couple blocks away so I went down there as often as I could, which was a lot. For whatever reason (maybe because I wasn’t living as close) I didn’t venture down there as much as before. The times I found myself down there, whether it was for a quick walk, sitting and watching the waves or walking in the sand, it filled me with peace. The ocean, beach, the coast is one of my happy places.

Summertime in Constanta can be pretty busy on the beaches. Full of lounge chairs, umbrellas, bars, playgrounds, blow up bounce houses, volleyball courts and a lot of people. Every so often I was there right before the crowds arrived or at the end of summer when it was dying down. I really enjoyed both of those moments, when it was really busy or when it was more calm. I kind of enjoyed the chaos during the summertime. I would walk along the beach and watch all the interactions going on around me. There would be so many families or individuals lying in the sun, playing in the water, eating food and having fun.

This photo above was along the waters of Mamaia beach. It was in an area I would explore from time to time but didn’t go down by the water too often. The day was a bit overcast but I noticed these colorful and unique paddle boats, wanting to capture them up close. There were a few of these all lined up to rent and take out on the water. Not sure if this is the type of boat I would want to go on, but seems fun for kids. You paddle out, climb the ladder and slide right in the water.

Tomis Port // Constanta

Tomis port in Constanta was one I visited frequently. The bigger main port was on the other side of town but this one was more quaint and easy to get to. It’s located right next to Old Town, which I went to often, so I would walk down the steps and walk along the port some days. Some days I would notice boats that I saw from the previous years of traveling through this port.

I mainly went during the day but there was a time or two, along with friends, we walked around at night to see all the boats lit up. Seeing the boats at night was cool, but I enjoyed walking around during the day, especially if the sky was blue, filled with some clouds.

I remember spotting this little submarine back in 2022, possibly 2021 (can’t remember). It was at night, when I was walking around with a friend. My first thought was, that would be super creepy to venture out in that thing at night time. Even in the daytime it might be, as I have a hard time being in something inclosed underwater. It does photograph quite well though.

My favorite walk down the port though was this day, when I found this cute yellow boat. I couldn’t stop taking photos of it. Would love to have seen the inside, if it was as cute.

CT // RO

I first visited Constanta in 2021 for three months and fell in love with an amazing community there that have become like family. Each time I go there to work and visit my friends, I always love taking photo walks, trying to find new spots to photograph. Some days were spent going back to places that became my favorite over the years.

I walked by this spot multiple times during my stay, as I walked down to the Black Sea. This one day though the sun was shinning on it at just the right time, giving some cool shadows along the wall.

I love finding the unique spots, new spots, ordinary and different places as I travel. This building in the photo above was one of those new spots. It was in an area where I have explored before, but either I missed it before or it’s just a really new building. I loved the layers the building brought with the faux trees spread throughout each level.

This bright colored building was part of the huge store Hornbach (like a Home Depot or Lowes). A friend of mine needed to grab a few things and since I had my camera with me, I decided to just roam around the parking lot and capture this bright and colorful place.

One of the places I would explore as well is down by the large port, along the Black Sea Coast. I would sometimes start from the large port, walking along the coast and end up at the small port Tomis which is right next to Old Town.

Dresden // Germany

When Carey and I were in Prague, we decided to take a day trip to Dresden since it wasn’t very far. We left early one morning and took the train, which took around two and a half hours. As we traveled by train, it looked so gloomy and cold out. By the time we arrived in Dresden it was overcast and cool but at least it wasn’t raining.

On the way we were trying to find a nice place to have lunch while we were there. We had found one Mexican restaurant but it wasn’t going to open until dinner time. We knew we could just find something once we go there. We left the train station, heading towards the old town area, making stops along the way. Once we went around the corner, walking to old town there was a fall festival going on. We were so excited!!!

The square was filled with all types of booths. Some with food, handmade gifts, and more. Once we came across this festival, we knew we had to try some legit German food. Later in the day we had our fill of the best bratswurst i’ve ever had, a schnitzel and a chimney cake for dessert.

By the afternoon the sky cleared up some which was nice, especially for these fun photos of the ferris wheel. The colors of the wheel, the architecture of the buildings in the square and the clouds in the sky made it a perfect memory.

The old town area and its surroundings in Dresden wasn’t too big so we were able to see a lot during that day. We explored as much as we could, went to some cute shops, and saw all the tourists areas.

Budapest // Hungary

Going back to Budapest for the second time was thrilling. I fell in love with this city the fist time going, I knew this trip was going to be incredible as well.

One of the new spots I came across, thanks to one of my friends was District 13 (photo above and the two photos below). Taking photos walks always inspire me but even more so when venturing around unknown terrain. I walked up and down the streets, in awe of the stunning architecture I was finding.

I tried finding as many new places on this trip which wasn’t very hard with Budapest being so big. Some days I wanted to go see areas I’ve been before but it was exciting when I stumbled across something new. Those were the days when my excitement for photography increased a bit more.

The photo above and below was a happy accident. I was saying at a friends apartment and decided to take a walk to a mall nearby. I had been to this mall the previous year but it must have been at one of the other entrances because I would have remembered this brightly colored building next door. I think that my jaw practically dropped as I stood there, my eyes big and full of wonder, taking as many photos and videos as I could.

While I was in Budapest Harley Davidson had a big anniversary going on in town. I knew I wanted to out and explore the city that day, but was trying to stay away from the crowds. Of course the place I ended up being at was pretty much in the middle of everything. It ended up being really cool. I was able to be there for their Harley parade. It was real fun to watch and capture photos for them driving by. There were so many from all over the world. A lot of them had their countries flag on their bikes. After the parade I had to do more walking since some of the trams weren’t working right in the center and I captured this awesome classic car.

Budapest, until next time. I hope to explore even more new places again.

Selah // Coffeehouse

One of my favorite places I’ve visited and volunteered at in Budapest is at Selah. It’s part of YWAM Budapest, reaching out to the community. This was my second time working with the amazing staff.

Of course they have my favorite chai ever!!! And make it look so delicious. I never made the drinks (I don’t think they would turn out as beautiful) but kept busy with washing the dishes, being a food runner and making sandwiches.

Maple came in from time to time and always loved some snuggles.

Selah has a great community along with the coffee. I loved capturing photos of them as well as the coffee shop and drinks.

I loved working alongside these amazing women. In between customers we would chill on the ‘friends’ couch. I even helped them create a fun video of the coffeehouse for their social media. It was a fun way to get everyone involved.

On my off days I would bring in my laptop, grab a snack and work on my book. I hope to see you all again next year!!

Day trip to Bucharest

Back in May while in Constanta, two of my friends (Sarah and Kristina) and I took a train to Bucharest for the day. None of us had really explored the capital, so we thought it was time. It was just a two+ hour ride from Constanta.

We went to one museum that had a Sushi section which was amazing to see!!

Just two Americans in Bucharest.

This library became my favorite pretty easy. I didn’t look at a lot of books, I was trying to soak in all the beauty around me in this place.

I had driven through this city before but never had the opportunity to explore until this trip. I saw a lot, went up and down many streets but I know there is more to explore. Hopefully I will have another chance to go again.

The girls and I ended our day at a Mexican restaurant, eating good food and sipping on Jarritos. Thanks girls for a lovely day in Bucharest!! Until our next adventure.

Prague // Czech Republic

I had the privilege of spending my last week in Europe in Prague with my sister. She had been wanting to go back there for twenty years for a visit. She traveled traveled there with her church group three summers in a row, teaching English at a youth camp. It was my dream to see her in Europe and spend time with her and I loved seeing her excitement exploring Prague again.

We stayed in a quant airbnb not far from the center of town. It was just a quick 10-15 minute tram to see all the sites. She left the daily planning of the trip to me and which sites to see. I knew what she wanted to see on this trip, which were the same for me so that made it easy.

She saw many of the same places again and we both saw lots of new places (especially for me since it was my first time there). Those 8 days that we were there, we exceeded well over 15,000 steps of day seeing all that we could. One day we even got over 20,000 steps (on our day trip to Germany, for another blog).

The photo above and below was taken off the Charles Bridge. Carey remembered this same area that was flooded when she was there back in the day.

Of course I had to capture some of the amazing and cool trams of Prague. I love me some good tram photos.

It was still pretty warm most days we were there, especially mid day. Most of the time we got out to explore in the morning, went home over lunch time to rest and cool off, and head out to explore again by late afternoon through the evening.

My sister and I hope to take more of these trips together in the future. There are many places on our list so who knows where we will venture off to next time.

YWAM Constanta // girls group

One highlight from my time with YWAM Constanta is working with the girls group. I love being there in the summer with them, we get to take them on different excursions and adventures together. We meet with them once a week and can have between 6-10 girls each time. It’s a time to really invest into their lives, showing them the love of Jesus.

Even though I don’t work there full time, the girls still remember me and get excited when they see me each trip. Some remember my name, others remember me as the one who takes photos.

One of the weeks we took them to a large local park, City Park. There are multiple play grounds there with all kinds of slides, swings and climbing structures. The best was when all the girls could slide together on the enormous slide, filled with so much laughter. Me and some of the other workers couldn’t stop laughing as we watched them giggling as they slid down.

Another week we took them to the local mini zoo. Some of them had been before, but they were still filled with so much joy and laughter, looking at all the animals and creatures.

I think my favorite week was when we went near the beach and I led the group time sharing about photography. I shared about my experience with photography and how we can always find beautiful things around us, in all of our surroundings. We also divided up in small groups and went on a photo scavenger hunt, which they loved and had so much fun with.

The City of Budapest

Where to begin with this blog about Budapest. I spent two months living there, exploring so much of this city. These photos are just a small glimpse of what I took while there.

I knew that I was going to enjoy this city but I didn’t know I was going to fall in love with it. Maybe because there was just so much to see and do while I was there. I loved all the amazing architecture all over the city.

Of course I had to visit the fanciest McDonald’s I’ve ever seen in my life. I felt that I was super underdressed!!

Most days that I worked at the coffee house during the week, I would go out and explore for the afternoon. I never got tired or bored of this place. At the beginning I would walk around and find a new spot, capturing all the beauty. Later on, I had some favorite areas where I would go back to more often.

Some streets and districts of the city was filled with colorful buildings. My eyes were always looking around me as I walked up and down the streets.

I really hope to get back to this amazing city this summer, at least to visit my friends and my favorite spots.

the potter // golden days

This session was a favorite of mine. I love having the opportunity to collaborate with other artists. Hanna is an incredible potter and artist. When she told me about her pottery business, I knew I wanted to team up together.

These sessions make me happy. It’s so chill and I get to watch creatives at work in their environment and document it all. This time was filed with all kinds of creative artistry.

If you are in need of some pottery, go and check out her work!! https://www.instagram.com/gldn.dys/

Hanna, keep creating. You are an amazing artist and person.

timisoara // romania

I was finally able to get back to Timisoara in western Romania. I was there for a short time last year but was delighted to pass through for a second time. As I traveled with friends to Hungary for the gathering, we stopped by Timisoara to stay the night. We took time the following morning to explore the old city area.

Of course the area in the photos above was my favorite spot. I loved the center area with the colorful buildings lined with small cafes. Of course it reminded me something out of a Wes Anderson movie.

The umbrella alley was a gorgeous find as we were walking around. I could have stayed in this area all day. I loved the colors and shadows all over the ground and up the walls of the buildings.

Of course I had to get one of my signature gas station corner shots before we left Timisoara.

Laser Family

I had the privilege to photograph this beautiful family recently. I met them for the first time last year when I was here. I was able to be there for James’ first birthday party last year and Jenna’s baby shower this year.

We captured these shots at City Park here in Budapest. There are so many parks in this city and this one is pretty huge, so we had plenty of areas to capture some great images.

Thank you Laser’s for letting me photograph your family.

Almere / Netherlands

I got the chance to travel to Almere by train with one of my friends from school. I had seen photos of this place on social media and tried my best to make a visit. It was nice to have a travel buddy to go with as well.

We loved the vibe happening in Almere. It was a lot smaller than Amsterdam and had more of a relaxed feel and slower paced. We walked around the center filled with shops and came across some unique buildings.

There was one building we were very eager to find. We finally found it but were a bit disappointed as the outer area was all gated off, with no access to get into the center of these vibrant and colorful buildings. We decided to walk across the street to a small park and enjoy our pack lunch. As we were eating, I asked Christy, if she noticed the gate being opened now. We finished our lunch and went over and were able to walk through the center of these buildings. I felt that this trip was very much worth it, to have the chance to see these buildings blew our minds.

We were filled with excitement and wonder, walking around this area. We stayed for probably around thirty minutes, not really wanting to leave. I wanted to sit down and stay there, working on something creative. I felt so inspired by the artistry all around me.

Thank you, Christy for exploring with me! Where are we going to explore next?!

Amsterdam / Netherlands

I never imagined I would get the opportunity to travel to Amsterdam let alone have some of my studies there as well. The last module of my author’s school was held in this captivating nation. In between classes, working on my book, getting my final project done, I made sure I found that extra time to explore as much as I could.

I was constantly in awe of the architectural artistry I saw on many streets around Amsterdam. Of course I loved the old houses along the countless canals around the city but I the more modern buildings intrigued me so much more.

Every corner I would come around, wonder filled me as I gazed upwards, relishing in the beauty everywhere.

One Saturday morning I decided to go and explore the business area of Zuidas. It was just a twenty minute tram ride from the center of Amsterdam, but I decided to walk (a little over an hour), seeing more of the city. When I arrived in the downtown area of Zuidas, I was blown away by the buildings up and down the streets.

Right behind Central Station there were small ferry’s that were free to ride, taking you across the water to other parts of the city. I decided to venture off and ride on one of them, anticipating on finding more beauty. I found some of my favorite spots of the city while on that little morning adventure.

I loved chasing beauty all around Amsterdam as I finished my school. Maybe one day I’ll have the opportunity to visit this place again. Being such an artistic city, I was definitely inspired with more ideas for my book.

Old Town - Constanta

Besides walking along the shore of the Black Sea, my other favorite place is Old Town. I love exploring this area and all its beauty. The first time I walked through this area I was in love. It’s just so cute and quaint.

This trip I decided to explore more of the streets, going up and down as many as I could. I ended up finding some pretty cool buildings.

One afternoon as I ventured to Old Town, I came across a go cart competition. I stood there for a while watching the kids and taking some photos of them, wishing I was driving one!!

I think i traveled to Old Town just as often as going to the Black Sea. I love my beach time but I also love exploring the streets and architecture of this beautiful spot.