Craig Merrill, Photographer:
Thanks for visiting our web site. As you can see, my style is fun and relaxed with an eye for something different. It can be traditional and very untraditional. My photography experience runs almost 30 years, everything from weddings, special events, families, children, and professional headshots (no toasters or linens!). As most visitors to our web site will soon be heading 'down the aisle', this is for you. It can be a daunting task putting together such an important and special day. Since we realize most people have not been down this road before, the exchange of ideas, thoughts and dialogue is extremely important. I share my ideas with the bride and groom and together we create pictures that express who you are, not just typical wedding faire. I believe this is what sets me apart. By taking the bride and groom away briefly and letting them be themselves to relax and open up, I find those captured natural moments are the shots that are cherished the most. We try to think 'outside the box' in many aspects of wedding photography but stay true to time honored traditions in others. We have an eye for detail and a skill for catching the unexpected. It is my job to capture the day as it unfolds, and to get those moments you may have missed and those that seem a blur. We use professional and dependable equipment plus the latest technology to capture all the nuances of the day and if necessary, have another 'set of eyes' (assistant) on the day. We set a fair price and above all, have a great day with everybody involved.

Weddings or special events begin at $2,500 or a small event can be priced by the hour. Email Craig.

Grace McHugh, Hair & Make-up / Assistant:
Thanks for checking us out or checking me out. Not to confuse, Craig and I collaborate, or work independently. I have 22 years experience in the beauty business, mainly working in the medium of photography. My wedding work began 13 years ago after a model that I had worked with on many occasions asked if I would do her Hair & Make-up on her wedding day. I found it to be exciting and special work, and still do to this day. I feel privileged to be trusted to do such an important task. I work with you each step of the way to achieve your look, everything from a clean fresh palette for a bright sunlit wedding day, to perhaps a little drama for an evening low light or candle lit wedding or vice-versa. It's your day! I go on location, whether it be home, hall, or hotel and when necessary have assistance for large wedding parties.

My second love is photography (I married a photographer!). In the past, I have only dappled in it but in the last few years have taken it more seriously. I assist Craig on large weddings, entrusted to capture the 'details', particularly the 'getting ready' shots where it might be uncomfortable to have a man about and on many occasions, I have worked in both capacities (hair & make-up and photo assistant). That's always exciting!

Wedding Day Hair & Make-up: Bride $275 / Attendants $125 or $75 one service. Email Grace.

CRAIG MERRILL PHOTOGRAPHY is located at 1205 Pacific Avenue, in Alameda, California, 94501. Both Craig and Grace can be reached at 510-865-3629 or via email.