San Francisco Bay Area Wedding + Lifestyle Photographer
From “Yes” to “I Do” and every beautiful chapter that follows
Every season of life deserves to be remembered
Explore the moments I love capturing most
Portfolio
About Athena
Photographer, Mother, visionary
Called to photography after teaching 5th grade, I find joy in meeting new people, creating experiences and going to different places.
I know how to make people look and feel their best in natural light, capturing moments that are real and beautiful — without the awkward poses or forced smiles. Inspired by stories, nature, and connection, I create images that you’ll treasure forever.
Testimonials
“She made us feel comfortable and natural, while still instructing us on how to pose and move.”
“We thank you infinitely for your kindness and attention to detail; for your wonderful dedication to take each photo, to capture every moment, every feeling, every detail of the ceremony. Without your extraordinary work we would not have all these beautiful memories recorded.”
“We couldn’t be happier with her work.”
DETAILS
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What do you want in your photos? What location would you like to meet at? I can suggest local places in the east bay area like Briones, Hidden Lakes, Lafayette Reservoir, or another open space like the redwoods. I can also meet you in your preferred area or some of my favorite locations in the San Francisco area like Baker Beach, Battery Alexander/Spencer in the Marin Headlands, the Palace of Fine Arts, Crissy Field or other stunning destinations like Montara State Beach, Lover’s Point in Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Sur. Do you prefer the beach or forest? My travel fee varies based on mileage.
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I hope to meet you generally one hour before sunset as that is the best lighting for photography! It is also known as golden hour. Let me know what date works for you by submitting a form and we can reserve that time via email correspondence. The next step is to send over a 30% retainer deposit toward your final session fee.
A one hour session is generally enough time for portrait photography. I take as many photos as we can with a variety of poses and candid portraits. You may choose to have outfit changes if you like within the hour session. We can also plan for more time if there are more locations and outfit changes!
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I will direct you so that we get both posed and candid-looking photos. I’ll ask what your “good side” is and anything else I should keep in mind as I’m taking photos. You’ll see a couple previews during our session in camera so I can get a feel of what is working and how to improve so that you love your photos. Little adjustments with hair placement, hands, etc. make a huge difference!
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After our session I go through all the photos and select the best photos out of the almost 500 to 1,000 photos I take! I'll edit and deliver at least 65 high resolution edits in either a "classic" look that has a warmer, but true to color look or with my signature preset. Tell me which collection you prefer to have!
Through an online photo sharing website I email you a link where you can view the photos and download the highest quality edits either to your computer or another online service like Google Drive. You can upload your images to a photo printing website or print from my high quality print shop. You’ll have about two weeks to download them after they are shared with you.
Capture your most cherished moments the way you want them remembered
Highlight your best features and feel beautiful.
FAQ
What is the process?
Contact me with your photo request via my contact form and if more info is needed let’s schedule a phone call!
Let’s go over the details of your session or wedding and arrange the date, time and location. Our session is one hour long and I will take whatever photos you want in that time frame. Candid. The traditional look. Details. Here’s what to expect for a typical wedding day as well.
After your session I edit all of the best photos from our time together. I won’t limit the number of photos I give you. I can usually get at least 65 great photos from our session. I do basic edits like removing awkward objects in the background, adjusting lighting, color and cropping images. I share these photos with you through an online photo sharing website so you can download the entire collection or just your favorites!
A 30% deposit is required for bookings.
What should I wear at the photoshoot?
What’s your style? Are you going for a BOHO look? Neat, clean and classy? Whatever it is, dress your best, get your makeup done, do your hair, whatever makes you feel great so you’ll be confident for taking pictures! I recommend wearing colors that flatter your skin tone and coordinating those colors with others who are in the photos with you. You are welcome to do an outfit change.
How do you take payment?
Venmo (as a friend), Cash, Paypal (as a friend), Zelle and when requested, credit card with a service fee.
Are RAW images shared upon request?
RAW images will not be share as they are unedited images from our session and do not represent Athena Galgiani Photography’s work. Please do not add any filters or presets on the images taken by me! :)
