Hi!

My name is Jonathan Mandel.

Why me?

What makes me different?

F-U-N

Over hundreds of weddings and portrait sessions, I've developed a session style that is playful, relaxed and creative. Think of working with
your own personal film director. That's me!
The results shine in our pictures.

 

More than candid photography

When photographers first start, they don't know much about how to make people look good. Instead they rely on luck and instinct. Over the course of my career, I've learned to direct people into relaxed, comfortable poses that look great. Posing isn't a bad word; stiff posing is!

 

A masterful eye for light

Over the years I've developed the ability to see and find beautiful light everywhere, and to create it where it doesn't exist. I didn't always have this. It came about through my personal work, an ongoing series of self-assignments.

 

A reliable network

No photography studio is just one person. Mine is a network of seasoned professionals and partner businesses, including labs, bookbinders, designers and assistants. This network allows me to create unique, truly heirloom products for your home and your family, consistently and fairly priced.

 

A ton of cool equipment

Just kidding! Still reading this?  Anyone can buy gear. I buy professional tools, love what I have, know how to use it, and have backups.

 

I've been providing authentic, artistic photography to Bay Area families and couples since 1999.

I love my work!

Whether I'm working with adults, children, pets or families, what I get to do all day is play. You look your best when you're relaxed and having fun. That's my job. Can you think of anything better?

This is serious business

I'm in the art and family heirloom business. I create those heart skipping, first-thing-you-grab-in-a-fire bubbles of delight that illuminate a life well lived.

Give me a call.
Let's talk about what you have in mind!

415-449-0494