ABOUT
Hi, I'm Derriel, a San Diego family photographer
Born and raised in San Diego. I've had a camera in my hand since I was a kid, and I've been photographing families for about 10 years.
How this started
About 10 years ago, a friend asked me to take photos at his niece's birthday party. Then someone at that party asked. Then their friend asked. I never really set out to start a business. Families kept passing my name along, and they still do. Most of the families I photograph today found me through someone I photographed before.
Why I do this
“My favorite part is when people see themselves for who they really are, and can finally appreciate their own beauty.”
Most of us are our own toughest critics. Then the gallery shows up, and you get to see what the people who love you see every day: the small moments you didn't notice while they were happening. A dad mid-laugh. A kid leaning into mom without being asked. That's what I'm looking for the whole session. Life with the people you love, the way it actually looks.
What a session with me feels like
My other job helps
During the week I'm a Physical Therapist Assistant. I spend my days helping people who are nervous or unsure feel comfortable. That carries straight into sessions: I can tell when someone's tense, and I know how to help them loosen up.
I scout before you arrive
I know where the light falls and where the kids can run before you get there, so we spend your time making photos, not figuring things out.
Direction, not poses
I'll tell you what to do (walk, whisper, chase the kids), never how to tilt your chin. Kids set the pace, and we take breaks when they need one.
“He is great with kids, our daughter loves Uncle D!”
That nickname stuck long before it was official. I recently became an uncle for real, and my nephew is now my favorite (and most photographed) subject.
Quick Facts
| Name |
Derriel Almario |
|---|---|
| Hometown |
Oceanside, CA |
| Photographing families |
About 10 years |
| Where I shoot |
All of San Diego County, from Oceanside to La Jolla to Balboa Park, plus Southern California travel |
| Sessions |
Families, extended families, kids, high school seniors, couples, maternity, headshots |
| Pricing |
Family sessions from $400 |
| Weekday job | Physical Therapist Assistant |
| Also | Sports photo and video at D Real Media |
I’d love to meet your family
Most families book 3 to 6 weeks out. Grab a free 15-minute call and we'll find a date and spot that works for your crew.