Last August, I had the awesome and unique experience of photographing for 3 full days in and around Santa Barbara, California, in organic tomato and corn farms, in dahlia-filled fields, farmers’ markets and in a private lemon orchard.

Organized by Kelly Oshiro of Santa Barbara Chic, we decided to collaborate on this farm to table shoot from long distance. I was in New York, having never visited SB before. But with phone calls and scout pics, we were able to produce something great from afar. Before I headed out west, I just knew it would be a stunning and busy weekend of shooting.

From the moment I got there, we captured Santa Barbara’s natural beauty. I shot the fresh fruits and vegetables at Santa Barbara’s Saturday market, while our friend Ashley of Duo Events who was guiding us, chose the ripest produce cook. The following day he concocted a beautiful and delicious meal for Kelly’s friends just north of SB. The friends had gotten together to celebrate Samantha + Todd’s recent engagement, in Todd’s family’s garden just north of SB. The dining table was set up outside, decorated with the local dahlias Kelly and I picked from a nearby farm.

Only in California can one plan this kind of party, without the fear or rain, cold or hurricane coming through! Instead we were guaranteed a beautiful and lengthy sunset, and a sky filled with stars while candle light enhanced the mood.

All of the above images were photographed on Fuji film. Wine provided by Cambria Estate Winery.

My film was developed, scanned and printed by the awesome Richard Photo Lab in LA.