My Story

My journey behind the lens began at eight years old when I discovered my grandmother’s old film camera. What started as running around pretending to take photos quickly grew into a lifelong dedication. During my studies at El Camino College, I was deeply inspired by master legends of light and composition, most notably Edward Weston and Annie Leibovitz. Learning how they could turn the most simplistic surroundings into pure artistic creativity helped shape my own “mind’s eye.” Today, I am proud to have spent nearly 30 years shooting professionally on the shores of Manhattan Beach and throughout the South Bay community.

Twelve years ago, that creative passion led me to pioneer Santas in the Sand. I wanted to offer a stress-free, deeply personal alternative to chaotic mall photo lines—a unique experience combining a custom, real-bearded Santa visit with a professional family portrait session right under the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier. What began on our local shores as a single creative vision has since blossomed into a beloved holiday staple that has inspired similar beachside sessions across the United States and abroad.

When I am not busy with Santas in the Sand from October through December, I spend the rest of the year capturing weddings, maternity sessions, classic family portraits, and fine art through DeJohn Photography. Whether working against our beautiful coastal backdrops or at intimate local venues, my focus remains entirely on delivering timeless, creative imagery.

Inspiring the Next Generation

When I am not behind the camera for my clients, I step into a role that has always been a profound personal dream of mine: teaching photography at a local high school. Sharing nearly three decades of industry experience, light mastery, and compositional storytelling with passionate young students is incredibly rewarding. It allows me to give back directly to the local educational community that helped shape my own career path from the very beginning.

Today, I’m lucky to be supported by my beautiful wife Angie, my two amazing sons, Aiden and Weston, and my step-daughter, Gigi—all of whom find themselves in front of my lens more than they’d probably like!

Thank you for trusting me to document your most cherished memories across every season of life. Let’s continue to create beautiful images together.