THE TREE OF LIFE

The miracle of life is something that cannot be described or explained, it needs to be experienced. What better way to experience that miracle than through the beauty and innocence of children.  In this case, two young girls, both different yet curious in their own ways.  One by action, the other by dreaming.  Together though, their souls unite to form a bond that will forever be unbreakable as sisters.

I wanted to capture an impressionistic and visual story told through the eyes of my girls, Sylvie Rain and Estella Lake.  The story and video will never be finished.  I of course, want it to be perfect on all accounts, but it never will - life goes on, it evolves, changes, we learn, we grow, we love, we lose and of course, much much more that we'll never know.  Here is an attempt at showing briefly just how amazing life can be. I encourage you to listen to it loud.

Sylvie & Estella - The Tree of Life from Andrew Calof on Vimeo.

SANTA MONICA BEACH OF YESTERYEAR

It was a special weekend with Rachael Labofsky Hoffman in town, one of Amanda's longest and dearest friends. In fact, Rachael has known Amanda and I longer than Amanda and I have known each other...if that makes sense! A trip to Santa Monica Beach was definitely on the list of things to do, and I wanted to capture something nostalgic so I shot the whole day in a yesteryear aesthetic to try and evoke a timeless feeling.  Here it is, blow by blow, we were on the road by 1030am, straight shot to the beach where we confidently parked at the Annenberg Community Pool.  Great spot right off the walkway, front row sweats of the Pacific.  Sylvie built sand castles, while Amanda and Ral caught up on old times, Estella pretty much under the blanket.  We picked up lunch at the cafe and had a nice picnic on the beach.  We were spent by 230pm, dipped our toes in the water and headed to Montana Street for some shopping, followed by a mini tour of 20th Century Fox, Beverly Hills, and finally home.

We filled the evening with dinner at Angelini Osteria, a silly tourist stop (trap) at Grauman's Chinese Theater, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  It was a jam packed day, full of smiles and laughs.

Sad to see you go Ral.  Cannot thank you enough for making the trek west and spending time with us, it was a wonderful wonderful weekend.  Until we see you again, may the wind always be at your back and the sun upon your face.