Springtime is here and we're in full gear for this year's wedding season! As you've probably seen already, flushmount albums are the most popular of all wedding albums produced today but something strange is afoot. Matted albums are becoming the most requested albums once again so we thought to feature one of the tried and true varieties and one of the most modern!

The Renaissance album is the first album we offered (over 8 years ago!!!) and we still make them today.

Let's start by calling this album the 'Traditional Traditional' album!

This detail shows the original 'book style' construction that is built to last for generations, in fact this is the wedding album we choose for our wedding 10 years ago. Notice the 'silver guilded edges' over black base pages. If you're looking for 'white base pages and mattes' then this album might not be the one for you unless you're looking for a 1960's style presentation!

Black leatherette is by far the most popular cover but the skies the limit when it comes to materials and colors.

This album comes in a square format (12x12) only. Our clients choose 24, 30 or 36 sides depending on the size of the wedding.

Mattes 'slip' into the album and can be configured with 1 to 4 photos per side. Custom matte layouts are not available for this particular line but there's plenty to choose from for a dynamic and complete feel for your wedding album.

This close-up shot shows matte detail around each opening and the smooth texture of each matte. We only wish that the Renaissance came in different sizes but other than that, this album has the traditional feel and appeal to pass on to generations to come!

Our second competitor in the shoot out will be referred to as the 'Traditional Modern' entry and this matted book design comes directly from Australia where album manufacturers have broken some barriers and created wedding albums for those looking for 'old world with a twist'!

This book bound album is shown with a photo cover that we send to Australia for some seriously professional binding and results. Black and white base pages are available.

Each matte has beveled edges on the perimeter and beveled edges on the inside of each opening for a totally finished and 'framed' feel. The matte texture is identical to the type of matte you would purchase from professional framers - very clean and very classy!

Although this album is based on the traditional manufacturing principles of wedding albums, it llooks and feels like something completely new. We been able to combine 'flushmount' and 'matted' sides to satisfy the demands of all of our clients. Each matte can contain between 1 to 4 openings and makes a fantastic portrait book in the vertical format! But don't forget about the horizontal style which is quickly becoming the most popular!

A close-up of the white beveled edges and 'gutter' detail on the lower right corner.

... and the winner is? Uhhh, well they both win this shoot out because everything about wedding albums comes down to personal preference.

The Jorgensen Art Book wins for 'outstanding quality, choice of book size and cover options' but costs a bit more to produce.

The 'Renaissance' album wins for 'best performance and longevity' with a lower price tag but with limited options on size.

We stopped playing favorites years ago so it's up to you - both books live up to their reputation!

Thanks for joining us once again! This New York couple decided to have their dream wedding at the 'Carmel Valley Ranch' and we could not think of a better way to begin their beautiful wedding story.

Taissia (pronounced 'Tie-ya) booked her wedding from afar and new that the Jane Morba studio was perfect for capturing the most important day of her life!

This Russian native now resides in New York but was looking forward to greeting all of her family after making the long journey from Moscow.

A proud mother and a very happy bride!

Taissia and Jordan decided to see each other before the wedding - they wanted to have some time to themselves after the ceremony and get to cocktail. We took care of most of the family portraits before the ceremony!

This shot on the way to South Carmel Beach: a Monterey Peninsula secret that you have to check out!

Picture yourself here...

Low tide beauty. The Pacific Ocean, rocks, sand, California, views!

One last shot before we head back to the Carmel Valley Resort - cool Carmel vista!

This is where most brides are deciding to have their wedding on the Carmel Valley Ranch property. Very private. Very exclusive. Very chic.

We took Jordan aside and grabbed a few moments just before the ceremony. He was one of our most sensitive grooms ever - not bad for a DA from Brooklyn!

Flower girls... musicians... everything you need for a memorable ceremony!

The great descent to the 19th green!

Our associate Kim took this awesome shot from behind - in our opinion, this tells the story.

It just happened so naturally and effortlessly.

A quick kiss and a beautiful breeze makes this marriage official!

After a few family portraits, Taissia's sister Masha requested some 'fun' shots! In case you were wondering about these totally gorgeous flowers, give Cynthia Fones a call. Check out our vendor list for details.

Oh, did we mention the 'Vera Wang' dress? Veils are hip these days.

Ok, so this is the 'Vera Wang' moment - once again, stunning!

Taissia and Jordan wanted to 'escape' for a while before heading back to the clubhouse.

Check out the entire 'Carmel Valley Ranch' site and trust us, you will not be disappointed!

Want to have the best party of your life for your closest 50 friends and family? Give Amy Byrd (Wedding Co-Ordinator extraordinaire!) a call. She'll make your destination wedding experience totally easy. Go to our preferred vendor list for details.

Just announced, Taissia and Jordan got straight to their Viennese waltz. It was only one year of rehearsal but no big deal.

First dance, no problem! Actually, they did a superb job. Gourmet food anyone?

A Russian toast.

More beautiful moments. Families travel from all over the world to experience weddings on the California coast - it's the perfect place to impress and entertain!

Some of the other unforgettable dances.

If you're looking for the best wedding band in the business, check out Ezzo Entertainment featured on our preferred vendor list. Can you see the happy people dancing?

Love really did come from Russia and is here to stay in the USA! This sunset moment brought to you by the Jane Morba Studio of photographers!

Congratulations to Taissia and Jordan for a wedding day well done - we can't wait to start working on your wedding album!

This Fresno couple came to us only recently and were looking for some professional photography for their Monterey Bay wedding- they lodged at the Pajaro Dunes Resort in Watsonville which hosts an incredible wedding site directly on the beach then held a beautiful reception at the Monterey Hyatt... perfect combination!

Our new associate Kim Kerr started off the shoot from high to low!

As you probably know by now we love to add some action to our photography with cool angles and walking shots. Jaclyn was absolutely stunning!

Although rain was forecast for their wedding day, we ended up with some cloudy skies and beautiful weather. This is the essence of the Monterey Bay and it shows!

We do close-up photography!

We sent the girls back to the lodge and met up with Marc - super nice guy! Let's meet up with the groomsmen and grab a few shots.

We wanted to create a wedding album that was really cool - nicely done boys!

As people started to arrive, we grabbed a some quick shots of the important people attending!

The processional begins - such a dramatic descent to the ceremony site.

This shot looking towards Monterey. The tent was put in place just in case!

Tensions are beginning to subside and the wedding bliss is starting to happen!

The families are firmly behind them.

This is one happy groom and now husband!!!

Beach portraits are always really ccol!

We sent all the guests back to Monterey for cocktail and had some quality time with Jaclyn and Marc and the wedding party.

The Monterey Grand Ballroom at The Monterey Hyatt is a beautiful spot for your wedding and reception and can accomodate big weddings! Talk to Amanda for details.

Jaclyn and Marc color co-ordinated everything including the up lighting! When it comes to ballrooms, we always encourage our clients to add some extra color and light especially for the photography!

We're totally happy now! It's official - uhhh, what's with the cap Marc? You guessed it, huge sports fans.

The festivities began and Jaclyn's sister had a few stories to tell.

They skipped most of the standard rituals and gave a new twist to the wedding reception!

Music, stories, toasting and whole lot of love.

Marc's Mom and Dad got up on the dance floor and shook it up!

End of the night - group hug anyone? It was really a special event and we're wishing Jaclyn and Marc a beautiful, loving life together!

Welcome back to our faithful fans and new visitors to the Jane Morba Photo Blog!

We've got so much to feature this year already but let's start with Carmel Valley Ranch and Jill and Bill's Wedding (or Jillo and Billo...that's OK too).

In great spirits, Jill has a smile on and a sense of humor to keep to everyone cool.

Carmel Valley Ranch is a premiere destination wedding place that should not be

overlooked. See how happy Jill is?

The rooms are exquisite and so are the views. We're all ready to get married.

This is Bill. Also very ready to get married. He works in Hollywood on a very popular television series - life in Carmel Valley is sweet!

Yah, I did pretty good today!

Some very close and loyal friends.

A loving father is never easy.

The brand new ceremony site at the 19th. You're gonna love the views!!!

Music and a getaway cart! It doesn't get better than this.

The women's locker room is the perfect place to get ready, chat and drink champagne before you get married!

The music starts, the procession begins and this is the most enchanting way to do it.

Kevin is at the alter ready to shoot as Jill and her Dad walk down the aisle - our fantastic photojournalist Kim takes this shot which is always the most popular1

The Kevin shot - holy cow these guys were having a 'really' good time!

Jill's brother brings some serious emotion and laughter.

It was the perfect mix of both!

This is exactly how it looks when you get married at Carmel Valley Ranch.

Jill and Bill got married.

Then they went straight to the getaway cart and celebrated with a kiss! Kim got this one perfectly!

We got really busy after the ceremony and did some family portraits...

... and then Jill wanted to take a walk with her best friends...

... then we added Bill back into the mix....

... and then we better get the wedding party!!!

Whew! Let's slow this thing down and get some quality time with Jill and Bill - they absolutely loved this part of their day.

Avid golfers, they wanted this shot.

It's definitely time for cocktail. Can you believe this beautiful backdrop? The clubhouse is the most contemporary and modern space for a reception on the Monterey Peninsula. You have to check it

out!

Our good friend Christine Cater came up with some incredible creativity!

'Layers' did the cake. Did we say incredible?

Jill and Bill wanted to be introduced and then go straight in for their first dance. Just a little last minute consultation - we're married! Uhhh, don't forget about the sweet table.

Sound in Motion provided the DJ services and made sure Jill and Bill had a captive audience!

Toasting, cheering, joyfulness, beauty, Jill and Bill!

No reception is proper without some serious toasting!

Ok so, somebody should let go here and get this party started.

Jill and Bill's pride and joy - The Photo Booth. A total hit and was visited allllll night long!

We love a bride who whips it up and keeps the party going... all night long!

A parting shot by our associate Kim Kerr. We cannot thank Jill and Bill enough for their enthusiasm and total cooperation - they made some excellent choices and it all started with Carmel Valley Ranch. Give Janice Twomey a call for more details - check out our vendor list for contact info.

This is only a very small window into the world of Scheid Vineyards which hosts a wine tasting room in Greenfield, CA just 45 minutes south of the Monterey Peninsula. This manufacturing facility is in the heart of the Salinas Central Valley where their vineyards flourish and the best wine is made in California!

This is a beautiful bottle of wine!

As one of the featured vendors for this event, Kim and Kevin arrived early and started documenting details. We had no idea how complete this wedding facility would be until we started to discover multiple locations on the property. Cocktails anyone?

Just a short walk to the wedding site, a solo guitarist serenaded everyone passing by. Very classy and very private!

As people arrived we noticed Amy Halter from Bernardus Lodge sporting her new arrival 'Eden'. Congratulations Amy!

So far so good.

Next stop: The wine barrel room where the reception happens.

This is a dinner experience like no other.

The wine is kicking in as the DNA Dj's start to spin!

The Scheid Wine staff? Extremely friendly and very happy people!

The other side of the wine barrel room: the lounge. This is the perfect place to relax after dinner with... a little more of the Sheid Pinot Noir!

Ok, now the party is getting started. If you're looking for an exclusive wedding venue straight from the heart in Monterey County then you've arrived at the right place. Talk to Stefani Cheney at Scheid for more info!

This incredible vineyard landscape comes to you straight from Bernardus Lodge in Carmel Valley, California. You might call this destination resort the ultimate place to get away and spend some quality time lodging, dining, drinking the best Savignon Blanc and oh yah, get married!

The grapes are just babies right now but you can count on the highest quality harvest when it comes to Bernardus wines.

This is the story of Erin and Luis from Miami, Florida. Once they got the taste of Carmel Valley the first time, they never looked back. This was the place to leave family behind and celebrate their first-time marriage in style.

Luis checking out some last minute details. He works in the medical profession.

While Luis headed to the ceremony site, Kevin shoots Erin making the very pretty journey to meet her fiance-soon-to-be husband! Bernardus Lodge has some of the most beautiful architectural backdrops in Carmel Valley!

We got right down to the ceremony and it was dramatic! We've always maintained the highest level of commitment when shooting weddings, no matter what the size!!!

It's official! Time to celebrate, you guessed it - in style!

Picture yourself here!

We had some fun and discovered multiple locations on the Bernardus property. Erin and Luis decided to go for the 2 hour elopement 'special' and have their important day documented properly without looking at the clock!

Alright, enough photography. Let's go and have some cake!

Erin and Luis staged their cake cutting at the 'Marinus' restaurant - the best restaurant anywhere!

As we were winding down, one last portrait.

I was already on my way out of the building when Erin flagged me and asked for a little more documentation of the Bernardus kitchen - no problem! What I didn't know was that they booked the dinner table located in the kitchen where you get front row seats and personalized service from the Bernardus Chef Cal Stamenov!

Celebrities dine here regularly and sign the back wall - Julia Child's dined here!!

Thanks again to Erin and Luis for bringing some 'Miami' culture to California and making this their ultimate destination getaway!

More featured weddings on the way, stay tuned!

This is Quail Lodge. If you're looking for the quiet contemporary lifestyle then go no further - your home away from home awaits you!

As it happened, Ingrid and Michael took some time out from their busy San Francisco beat and entertained special guests to an unforgettable experience on the Monterey Peninsula.

Let's take a tour together!

We arrived at Quail Lodge on April 18, 2009 around 12:30pm and greeted Ingrid and the girls. This scene unaltered... a beautiful thing.

Ingrid. Natural. Works for Adobe.

This shot introducing our new associate Kim Kerr. Also very talented and very precise. Welcome to the team Kim!!!

Our new associate Kim Kerr is a seasoned photojournalist born and raised on the Monterey Peninsula. We've been colleagues for a long time now and Kim knows the Jane Morba edge very, very well!

It's almost time to go. Kevin grabs this photo and then runs to meet Jane and Kim.

We've gotta get to the church before everyone else. Drive!

We meet up with the boys at 2:15pm. Right on time. Michael's in good spirits and on time too. Nice.

Best man.

Just like Jane, see Kevin work. This moment is scripted but looks very natural in the end.

Also scripted but priceless.

Last minute touches. Ingrid is nervous but ready.

So far so good. The Mission Church is usually booked one year in advance so... you get the idea!

I'm really doing this Mom and Dad. No, but seriously this is really real.

On this shoot, we had 3 photographers. As our weddings get bigger and bigger we need more help to get the job done. Don't forget to ask about our associate Kim Kerr to get the most complete coverage ever!

Catholic Mass. Full communion.

Celebration! But we need a witness before it's official.

We do church portraits.

Just outside the Mission church, a wedding party celebrates!

Picture your family here. Ingrid makes her family very, very proud.

Michael's Mom and Dad. Very proud too.

Skip over to Quail Lodge. Jane, Kevin and Kim work hard to capture details of the reception site and shoot cocktail.

Quail Lodge does not disappoint. Your cocktail hour overlooking the 18th with sunset views!

It wasn't long for the party to get started as these folks jumped up on the dance floor early.

The sweet table was a hit and the toasts were ever sweeter!

We bring lights, cameras and tons of action to make your wedding on the Monterey Peninsula a total success!

And of course some serious emotion. 'I'll never forget what you've done for me Dad'.

We wanted to give a shout out to the long line of incredible clients who referred us to Ingrid and Michael. At Jane Morba Photography our mission is give the most thoughtful and complete coverage for every wedding we do.

Hope you're having a nice time in Hawaii guys - congratulations!