Today it was all about “who you know, not what you know.” We were invited to the annual swim in the Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle State Park. The Neptune Pool is not open to the public and in fact it is way off limits for almost everyone. This was a super special event for employees of the castle and a few of their selected friends. Our friend Chuck works there and he invited us. Just think, thousands of people a day walk past this pool on their tour and just imagine swimming in the deep blue water…and, well, the water was about 70 degrees, the sun was shinning and smiles were out. Thanks Chuck for such an unusual and fun gift. The Central Coast is full of surprises.

This is Chuck.

Paul Dragomir invited me over to his studio to see his latest work. I was immediately and profoundly aware of his high level of craft. He makes his own paint from pigments that come from all over the world. Paul experiments with varnishes and resins of different sorts. He collects air brushes and loves cereal. He is passionate about his work and the process of it. The custom skateboard got my attention for sure. The last shot is crushed abalone. Paul is currently showing at The Vault Gallery in Cambria. The Central Coast is full of surprises.

This is the second installment from my recent trip to Nevada and a second equine encounter for my camera. I seem to find friends along the fence just as the sun is setting. There are so many shapes on a horse. I find myself exploring the unending lines. I feel like horses are really smart. One of these guys seemed to look right through me.

Horse

Jan and Clover stopped by while I was shooting the Petrini Family portraits. It’s pronounced “Yon” and he surfs good. I’ve been shooting his antics since we were kids, and now he has a kid. So cool. I love these. Clover looks exactly like both of her parents. It was great to see you guys. Talk soon, ~ JD

“Let’s paint!” A huge smile on her face as she says it. How can I resist. This morning we took a break and got into the paint. What a good idea. We had a great time and for me, watching the work develop is the best part. Well second best, actually…watching the light bulb go on in Jessie’s mind after every move was the best. Inspiring. Things got really interesting when she used her face as an element. It was like watching a kid in a candy store. Super fun. The Central Coast is full of surprises.

I’ve said it before…the Central Coast is full of surprises. Here’s another hidden gem in village of Cambria. I feel honored to make images in such places. Believe me when I say that no detail was spared. If you want to lounge in luxury while listening to the sea, watching sea otters play just off the back porch, then this place is for you. It’s the perfect hideaway slash getaway. If you want your own personal tour call Kellie Williams.

This is a sampling from the collection that was shot for marketing and media uses and will soon get some play time. These are just a few that caught my eye this evening. The Central Coast is full of surprises.

The Petrini Family are close friends of ours. I have known Billy forever. If you haven’t heard about it, here is the secret marinade for the real SB locals. We grew up surfing Campus with the rest of the Goleta crew. Now I get to shoot his family. What an honor. You guys are awesome. Thanks Mijo! Take care, ~ JD