David Pascolla wedding photography

San Luis Obispo | Hotel Cerro Photo Shoot
Polk Insurance

Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo provided the perfect backdrop for a recent photo shoot I had with the Polk Insurance team. Against the backdrop of this boutique hotel’s chic interiors and elegant surroundings, the essence of professionalism and camaraderie came to life through my lens.

The team at Polk Insurance exuded confidence and unity, reflecting their commitment to excellence in the insurance industry. They were a so easy to work with and were full of life and brightness. Each headshot session was crafted to highlight not only the professional demeanor of each team member but also their approachable personalities, crucial in client-facing roles.

The hotel’s natural light provided a soft, flattering glow, enhancing every photograph with a touch of warmth and elegance. Whether in the hotel’s stylish meeting rooms or amidst the tranquil outdoor spaces, every frame captured the essence of teamwork and dedication.

As the session unfolded, the synergy between myself and the Polk team resulted in images that showcased their professionalism. The blend of modern architecture and natural beauty of San Luis Obispo served as an ideal setting, reinforcing the narrative of a forward-thinking team.

The photo shoot at Hotel Cerro for Polk Insurance was more than just capturing images; it was a celebration of professionalism, teamwork, and the scenic charm of San Luis Obispo. The resulting photographs stand as a testament to the dedication of the Polk Insurance team and the timeless elegance of Hotel Cerro, encapsulating a moment that speaks volumes about both business excellence and aesthetic harmony.

You can find more information including my pricing and detail information here and samples of headshot photography here.

Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo team photos

Professional headshots taken at the Hotel Cerro in San Luis Obispo

Paso Robles Multigenerational Family Portraits

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a wonderful family portrait session in the heart of Paso Robles that beautifully captured the essence of family love and connection. The family, comprising three generations gathered at a magical VRBO where they stayed for several days. A goal for the week was to honor their grandparents with not only time away but to capture their family ties with photographs. Each family member brought their own unique personality, yet it was their shared bonds and affection that truly shone through in every frame. From the playful laughter of the grandchildren to the serene smiles of the grandparents, every expression spoke volumes about their deep-rooted connections

Throughout the session, I aimed to not just capture posed portraits, but also candid moments that revealed the family’s dynamics and interactions. Whether it was the shared glances between siblings reminiscing about childhood adventures or the tender embrace between grandparents and grandchildren and cousins each image told a story of love and continuity.

The Paso Robles landscape added its own charm to the photographs, with its rustic beauty and sprawling vineyards lending a picturesque quality to the scenes. As the session drew to a close, the family gathered for a final group shot against the backdrop golden oaks and a warm Central Coast sunset. The hues of orange and pink painted the sky, mirroring the warmth and happiness radiating from the family members. It was a fitting conclusion to a day filled with laughter, shared memories, and the celebration of family ties.

In the end, this family portrait session was more than just capturing photographs; it was about freezing moments in time that the family will cherish for years to come. It was a privilege to witness and document their story, reminding me once again of the profound beauty found in the simple joys of family.

Family photo in front of a country home in paso robles

San Luis Obispo | Country Inspired Family Portraits

As a Central Coast family and portrait photographer I’ve had the privilege of photographing families coming together against some of the most picturesque backdrops California has to offer. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family amidst the rolling hills and fields of golden light of San Luis Obispo’s countryside. I photographed Bonnie and Beau’s wedding at the beautiful Tiber Canyon Ranch over 12 years ago. Ever since they had their first child I’ve been documenting their family every year. It’s a joy to capture all the love of the wedding day and even more of a satisfaction to be a part of the couples growing families along the way.

Each year Bonnie selects a different theme, setting, clothing options, and locations on the Central Coast. For this session we all decided on a charming ranch nestled on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo in the Edna Valley. The expansive fields, majestic oak trees, and even a ranch horse photo bombed our session.

For anyone planning a family portrait session on the Central Coast I believe Bonnie and Beau’s family exemplifies how to have a successful time. Over the years a few things stand out to me. First, they plan well in advance, securing their date and formulating a theme, location, and setting. They’re wonderfully purposeful and intentional, yet flexible and spontaneous for each of our sessions.

Bonnie is wonderful at ordering clothes that match the theme and setting. Even with the work of getting all the kiddos ready and showing up on time, it always proves to be a fun-filled time with a lot of laughter and connection. Interacting naturally and not having unrealistic expectations with children is essential to a successful session, and Bonnie and Beau’s family does this so well.

It’s photographing families like this that remind me why I love what I do. If your looking to document your family’s journey amidst the natural beauty of the Central Coast, I would be honored to capture your story. Contact me to discuss how we can created timeless photographs that reflect the essence of your family.

Rustic family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo

Whimsical family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo

Portrait of young boy taken in San Luis Obispo

Outdoor family portraits in San Luis Obispo

Rustic family portraits taken in San Luis Obispo

Family portraits at a ranch in San Luis Obispo

Young girl and her dog photographed in San Luis Obispo

Family portraits of horse with mother and daughter in San Luis Obispo

Horse by a creek on a ranch in San Luis Obispo

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Paso Robles Elopement | Halter Ranch Winery
David + Naomi

David and Naomi celebrated their love for one another with an intimate elopement wedding at Halter Ranch winery. The day started off with a wild winter storm along with hurricane force winds, heavy downpours, and several impassible roads with tree limbs scattered and downed power lines. Nevertheless, David and Naomi were the consummate troopers with incredible attitudes. They were determined to press through and celebrate their love for one another.

Their ceremony needed to be moved to Halter’s Victorian farmhouse at the last minute due to weather, which proved to be the perfect setting. Even though the rain never stoped we found fantastic locations in the Victorian garden, the underground wine caves, their historic barn, along with several other locations at this incredible Paso Robles winery.

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Central Coast wine country, Halter Ranch has everything you would ever want for a small intimate elopement, to a large 200+ guest wedding. It’s the perfect blend of rustic elegance and natural beauty. Even with the rain and wind David and Naomi knew just what they wanted.

Margaret, the coordinator at Halter Ranch officiated the ceremony and Timothy, a fun loving Halter Ranch staff member drove us around in a four wheel jeep throughout the oak covered hills and winery grounds. The stormy day unfolded to be an amazing elopement full of life and love with a wonderful couple.

For anyone interested in a private and intimate elopement ceremony Halter Ranch is one of my top choices on the Central Coast. Secluded with a setting ensuring a peaceful and personal experience. They even have an airstrip on the property for those flying in with the personal plane. In fact David and Naomi were going to take advantage of this with their plane, however, due to the crazy weather it didn’t work out. They still made the best of it all and I was honored to be a part of their special day.

Bride and Groom at Halter Ranch in Paso Robles

Bride and groom portraits at Halter Ranch in Paso Robles

Bride and groom portraits in a barn at Halter Ranch Winery

Halter Ranch Elopement portrait of bride and groom

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San Luis Obispo Urban Family Portraits
David Pascolla Photography

Ever since I photographed Bonnie and Beau’s Tiber Canyon wedding several years back, I’ve had the honor of photographing their growing family. This year they chose an urban theme in downtown San Luis Obispo. They were drawn towards the Railroad District and the adjacent Railroad Square building which was the perfect backdrop for what they had envisioned. The building in San Luis Obispo is a gem for urban portraits! Its architecture blends rustic charm with a touch of history, offering a variety of backdrops. The mix of brick walls, vintage signage, and the overall industrial vibe makes it a versatile spot for capturing both classic and contemporary urban looks. From there we moved on to the Jennifer Street bridge which is a stunning rust colored steel bridge the spans the railroad tracks. The bridge is always a favorite for family portraits since it lends itself to the contemporary urban feel of the railroad district with design element of ‘leading lines’ and the creative perspective that is created from the bridges construction.

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A Paso Robles Fall Portrait Session
Onyx Vineyard

I recently had the pleasure of photographing this precious family in one of the most picturesque locations Paso Robles has to offer—a beautiful vineyard at the height of the fall season. A Fall Portrait Session at a Paso Robles Vineyard truly captures the magic of the season. There’s something magical about capturing family moments amidst the rows of lush grapevines, with the warm California sun casting a golden glow over everything. This shoot was an incredible experience, blending the natural beauty of the vineyard with the joy and connection of family time. Since we met up in October, the vines and leaves were turning a wonderful array of gold and amber.

From the moment we arrived, the vineyard’s serene atmosphere set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable session. The gently rolling hills, neatly lined vines, and rustic charm created a perfect backdrop that effortlessly highlighted the family’s love and togetherness. As we explored different areas of the vineyard, from the sun-dappled paths to the vine-covered trellises, every spot offered a unique setting that added depth and variety to their portraits. A Fall Portrait Session at a Paso Robles Vineyard allows for such remarkable diversity in backgrounds.

The warm, natural lighting played a huge role in creating soft, flattering tones, enhancing each shot with a beautiful, timeless feel. The vineyard’s rich golds and rustic browns provided the ideal setting for a Fall Portrait Session at a Paso Robles Vineyard. A stunning contrast to the family’s coordinated outfits, adding an elegant touch to their portraits. We captured everything from candid moments of laughter to sweet, intimate poses that perfectly encapsulated their bond.

What made this shoot even more special was the personal connection I’ve had with this precious family over the years. I’ve had a chance to see their beautiful daughters grow throughout the year. Their connection to the space truly shined through in the photos, making the images not just beautiful but also filled with sentiment. Indeed, A Fall Portrait Session at a Paso Robles Vineyard can create a meaningful experience.

Photographing families in Paso Robles vineyards is always a rewarding experience. It’s more than just a photo session; it’s about creating memories in a place that feels special. I’m grateful to have been part of this family’s story, capturing their moments of joy in one of the most stunning locations Paso Robles has to offer.

Reach out for your own session and find out more about my service here.

Family photo shoot in the paso robles vineyards

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Capturing Joshua Tree

Nestled amidst the arid expanse of Southern California lies a landscape unlike any other—Joshua Tree National Park. Recently, I embarked on a photographic adventure to this breathtaking desert sanctuary, eager to capture its unique beauty through my lens.

From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the stark contrast of rugged rock formations against the clear blue sky. Joshua Tree is renowned for its iconic Joshua trees, which stand like sentinels across the desert floor. These peculiar trees, with their twisted limbs and bristled leaves, became the focal point of many of my photographs. Each one seemed to tell a story of resilience and adaptation in the harsh desert environment.

As the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the landscape, I found myself drawn to the mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The Joshua trees, silhouetted against the fiery sky, created a scene straight out of a painter’s dream. I captured these moments, aiming to convey not just the physical beauty of the park but also the emotional experience of witnessing such natural splendor.

Exploring deeper into the park, I encountered towering rock formations that seemed to defy gravity, their textured surfaces a testament to millions of years of geological evolution. I couldn’t resist photographing these ancient giants, each angle revealing a new perspective on their weathered faces.

One of the highlights of my journey was capturing the night sky ablaze with stars. Far from the city lights, Joshua Tree offers unparalleled views of the cosmos. I set up my camera to capture long exposures, revealing the intricate dance of stars against the velvety darkness—a reminder of the vastness of the universe and our place within it.

Reflecting on my time in Joshua Tree, I am reminded of the importance of preserving such natural wonders. Through photography, I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect these fragile ecosystems for future generations to enjoy. Joshua Tree National Park is not just a destination; it’s a timeless canvas waiting to be explored and immortalized through the art of photography.

My journey to Joshua Tree was not merely about capturing images; it was about capturing moments—moments of awe, wonder, and connection with the natural world. I look forward to returning one day, camera in hand, ready to discover new perspectives and create new memories in this desert oasis.

If you would like to purchase prints head on over to my online print store here.

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An Avila Beach Family Portrait Session

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful family portrait session at Avila Beach, a picturesque spot on California’s Central Coast known for its charming seaside views and golden sands. There’s something truly magical about Avila Beach—the gentle waves, the warm sunlight, and the vibrant pier all come together to create a perfect backdrop for family portraits. For any Central Coast portrait photographer, this location is a dream.

The session began in the early evening when the light was soft and golden, casting a warm glow over the beach. The family I photographed was full of energy and laughter, which made capturing authentic moments a breeze. We started near the iconic Avila Pier, where the kids played along the shoreline, and their joyful expressions were perfect for candid shots. I love incorporating the natural surroundings into my work, and the pier’s wooden structure added a classic coastal touch to the photos. Avila Beach family portraits always benefit from such a picturesque setting.

One of my favorite moments was when the family gathered near the water’s edge, holding hands and walking together as the waves gently lapped at their feet. It was a simple yet meaningful scene that captured the essence of their connection. The light breeze and the gentle sound of the ocean created a relaxed atmosphere, allowing the family to be themselves, and their genuine interactions shone through in every frame. These elements make Avila Beach a superb choice for family portraits.

As the sun began to set, the sky turned into a beautiful canvas of pastel pinks and oranges. I positioned the family against the stunning sunset, creating silhouettes that highlighted their closeness and love. These moments, set against the vibrant colors of the sky, added a dreamy feel to the session and provided some of the most memorable shots of the day. It’s no wonder that Avila Beach family portraits are cherished by so many.

Photographing at Avila Beach is always a delight, but this session was particularly special because of the genuine joy and love that radiated from the family. Capturing these moments is what I love most about photography—preserving memories that families can cherish forever. I left the beach that day with a full heart, knowing that we had created something beautiful together. Avila Beach, with its serene beauty and endless charm, once again proved to be the perfect setting for capturing unforgettable family moments. As a Central Coast portrait photographer, it’s always an honor to work in such a stunning location.