In November 2007, I received the sweetest email from a blog reader. She informed me that she had connections with a luxury hotel in Jakarta, and if I ever wanted to escape from life for a bit, she’d be my personal host in Bali. I was immediately struck with her forwardness, kindness, and sincerity, especially since I’ve had a childhood dream of visiting Bali ever since my mom subjected me to soundtrack of the musical, South Pacific. I stored her email and prayed that one day—someday—I’d be able to take her up on her offer.

A few months later, I received another email from her asking if I’d be able to photograph her while on holiday in the United States. In addition to being a classically trained chef, speaking five languages, and being an amazing aunt, Agnes is also a photographer. She claims to be a serious hobbyist, but there’s something more to the sparkle in her eyes when she speaks of her love for the art. She hopes to launch her business soon, and one of her first steps was to get a few photos of herself for her website and blog. I was SO incredibly happy to hear she wanted to start branding her business, but happier when she asked me to document her smile, humor, and the sparkle in her eyes.

Agnes, you rock. Thank you for allowing me the honor of freezing your laugh in time. I think you’re absolutely amazing and are destined to do amazing things in the Jakarta wedding photography industry!

One thing about Agnes is that after a few minutes, she's quirky, fun, and quick-witted…my kind of girl!

When Agnes first emailed me, she informed me that she's never without two cameras: a point&shoot, and a digital SLR. Here she is working the P&S like nobody's business…

We spent most of the shoot just laughing. I'm, however, not sure if Agnes was laughing with me, or at me. Either way, it doesn't really matter because she told me that part of the reason she booked me was because she thought I was a little crazy…and so is she! I'm sure we were a sight to be seen: Two crazy girls prancing down the streets of Orange County, looking for good light, talking about food, and laughing uncontrollably…

Toward the end of the shoot, she brought out her camera for a couple shots…