Call us nerds, geeks, dweebs, whatever…we had a “photoguy” dinner the other night at LeChavelle in Oakland. Sam Hassas, Maurice Ramirez and Ed Pingol are three of the most talented photographers in the Bay Area. We got together to talk shop, kick ideas around, discuss the industry, and generally help each other to raise the bar!
Calamari was consumed, cameras and lenses were passed around, took pictures of Sushi girls walking by and laughed way too loud in a nice restaurant. As a wedding photographer I’ve found that my network has been the greatest source of blessing. Not just because of the referrals I get from friends or the opportunity to discuss photo related things, but the feeling of “bettering” the community through friendship and giving! What I like about this group is the fact that these guys “get it!”
I think one of the coolest things to come out of the collective was planning a shoot-out together. Four photographers, some assistants maybe, a few models and some funky fresh locations. We’ll shoot, edit, critique each other and have a ton of fun! I can’t wait. Here’s a few photos from our night! Take care and enjoy!

The far off look is creative vision in process folks, Maurice Ramirez.

I think Ed ordered this, it was soooo tasty. Yay for fried calamari.

Yay for fried calamari stuck in my teeth and Ed taking pictures!

Don’t hassle the Hassas, just don’t do it. Sam I am.

Ed Pingol did not switch to Nikon, but I’m sure he thought about it.