Christina McNeill Photography

What 3 words describe your work? Fashion. Colorful. Artistic.

Tell us about your company name. I should thank my mom for naming me "Christina Diane". That's where "Christina Diane Weddings" derived.

Why should someone hire you? I should be hired because I'm honest, fun, easygoing and all about capturing amazing photography. I'm a "real" fun girl who loves photography and loves making people happy.

What drew you to this field/how did you get started? My grandfather was always taking photos of me when I was a child and I wanted to be like him because he's my hero. I started seriously getting into photography in high school and then moved to San Francisco after graduation to go to the Academy of Art University, where I dove in headfirst to learn everything I could about the wonderful medium. I'm constantly learning new things?that's why I love photography so much.

What are some sources of inspiration or influences on your work? Because I studied fashion photography, my inspiration for weddings comes from . I'm in love with late great photographers like Diane Arbus, Lisette Model, Nan Goldin—to name a few. My inspiration also comes from everyday life—from stories from my grandmother, from my 10-year old brother, from reading great non-fiction books, museums, and the wonderful city I live in, San Francisco.

Tell us about a favorite, unusual or most interesting moment at a wedding: Hands down, the most amazing and unusual moment I've ever experienced is the story of the eagle flying out of the tree. I was shooting a destination wedding in Bend, Oregon. I was in love with this tree—the venue nicknamed it the ghost tree. I had set up the bride and groom, backlit next to the tree when all of a sudden, an eagle flew onto the branch. As we stood there in shock and amazement I said to the bride and groom "point"; the second they pointed the eagle flew away and I got the shot. It's a true story and it's amazing?the epitome of serendipity.

What makes a wedding memorable for you? The best gifts that I ever receive are the thoughtful gifts. With that in mind, the most memorable weddings to me are the ones that are thoughtful—the ones where the bride and groom collaborate together to create the most amazing celebration. Where you, I or anyone can tell that much thought and time and love was put into every aspect and detail.

What have weddings taught you? Weddings have taught me that not everything can go according to plan and that being open and embracing plan B can change the mood of the moment and day. And, plan B could quite possibly be everything we ever wanted.

What is the best advice you give to a couple when planning their wedding? Be patient! Know your vendors—be picky, ask lots of questions so you can get exactly what you want. Enjoy the planning and enjoy your engagement. Just remember that everything always works itself out.

What are 3 words that describe your personality? Giving. Adventurous. Loving.

What's your favorite book/movie/work of art? Book: Eat, Pray, Love Movie: Almost Famous Art: The Kiss by Gustav Klimpt

What is your favorite quote? "The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles?" —Jack Kerouac

Extracurricular activities: I love soccer, traveling, practicing my Spanish speaking skills and I'm a devout museum lover.