CJ Varela Photo

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CJ Varela Photo Professional photography services based in South Lake Tahoe, CA. C.J. Varela

Divided Line Media offers professional photography and videography services in the Reno/Lake Tahoe are as well as neighboring areas such as Sacramento, the bay area, and Napa Valley. We specialize in wedding photography, portrait photography, engagement photos, studio portraiture, lifestyle photography, as well as a variety of professional video services. Divided Line Media is also the home of Tah

oe Wedding Movies, a joint venture with CJ Varela and Sean Davis, who produce high-end wedding video content customized to suit individual needs. Varela started Divided Line Media from his passion for photography; he uses his background in video production and editing to combine photo and video to clients who are looking to utilize what each medium has to offer. “I really enjoy all aspects of the business. From capturing those special moments on some ones wedding day to exploring the wilderness by myself and being inspired by the natural beauty of this world. Photography is my passion, but video is another powerful tool to tell stories and that’s what I love about doing both. In all my work I love that I get to tell stories and there’s real emotion and depth to someone’s wedding day. There’s a father handing off his daughter and so many other meaningful subplots in every wedding I shoot. In the same way, I love doing portraiture of someone in a way that tells something about that person; I want to reveal something important about their life in their portrait and that’s what makes if fun and meaningful for me. And what's so fun and special about photographing weddings is that I get to explore all those avenues in the same day and for the same client. So that's why I bring a mixture of styles to wedding photography because it's all a necessary component to telling the whole story -- photojournalism, contemporary, posed, and portraiture." –C.J.

I’ve seen plenty of proposals, and Lake Tahoe truly makes each one feel cinematic — the water, the pines, the mountains ...
20/03/2026

I’ve seen plenty of proposals, and Lake Tahoe truly makes each one feel cinematic — the water, the pines, the mountains all do the heavy lifting. If you’re planning a beach proposal, here are a few things I always recommend: pick a spot that fits your vibe (Sand Harbor for dramatic boulders, Emerald Bay for dramatic views), time it for sunset or early morning, and add a personal touch — a favorite song, a small picnic, or flowers that mean something to you.

Want those real, unposed moments captured? I love blending into the scene so the reactions stay genuine. If you’re dreaming of a Lake Tahoe proposal that looks and feels like you, let’s plan it together — I’ll help with locations, timing, and capturing every tear, laugh, and “yes.”

Tell me: Sand Harbor or Emerald Bay — which would you pick? 💍🌲📸

Real Lake Tahoe elopement — candid, calm, and completely yours. I’m C.J., and I loved capturing this Lake Tahoe day: tim...
20/03/2026

Real Lake Tahoe elopement — candid, calm, and completely yours. I’m C.J., and I loved capturing this Lake Tahoe day: timing the light, handling permits, and keeping things effortless so you can actually enjoy the moment. Swipe through for unposed frames and quick planning tips — and if you’re dreaming of your own mountain ceremony, check availability and the full portfolio: https://wix.to/piheIwF ❤️📸🌲

Want to chat about a location or timeline? Tell me your vision below.
https://wix.to/vwod0ox

Sunrise on granite, a quiet vow, or a family laughing by an alpine lake — I love matching a Sierra Nevada spot to the fe...
06/03/2026

Sunrise on granite, a quiet vow, or a family laughing by an alpine lake — I love matching a Sierra Nevada spot to the feeling you want to remember. With 10+ years photographing Lake Tahoe moments in a photojournalistic style, I’ll help you pick the best time of day, assess access, and keep planning relaxed so your shoot actually feels like you. Ready to find the perfect spot? Visit https://wix.to/UiQb1MI to get started. 🌄📸

Studio or on-location — which headshot tells your story better? I love showing the difference: crisp studio lighting giv...
05/03/2026

Studio or on-location — which headshot tells your story better? I love showing the difference: crisp studio lighting gives a polished, classic look, while my environmental headshots around Lake Tahoe capture relaxed, authentic moments that feel more you. I handle commercial and personal branding shoots, so whether you need a formal portrait or an approachable, location-driven image, I’ve got you covered. Ready to try something natural and memorable? Book a session: https://wix.to/tU35ubK 😊📸

We loved capturing this multi‑generation family session in Lake tahoe — candid moments, kids exploring, and genuine conn...
04/03/2026

We loved capturing this multi‑generation family session in Lake tahoe — candid moments, kids exploring, and genuine connection against those alpine views. I keep things easy and fun so everyone can relax (yes, even the grandparents). Want portraits that feel timeless and true to Lake Tahoe living? Let’s plan a stress‑free on‑location shoot that’s family-friendly and full of real smiles. Book a session: https://wix.to/jmKHsLi
https://wix.to/qa93BaT

I’m a big believer that the best family photos happen when everyone forgets the camera’s even there. Outdoors — especial...
03/03/2026

I’m a big believer that the best family photos happen when everyone forgets the camera’s even there. Outdoors — especially around the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe — the light, space, and scenery let families be themselves: running, hugging, whispering secrets, and laughing.

Want photos that feel real (not stiff)? I help plan relaxed sessions at your favorite outdoor spots, guide playful prompts that spark genuine smiles, and make sure timing and outfits flatter the setting. Golden hour by a lake, a sunlit forest trail, or a quiet park — those are the moments that turn into lifelong memories.

Thinking about an outdoor family session? Let’s chat about locations, timing, and a plan that keeps things fun and easy. Share your favorite spot or click to learn more! 🌲📸✨


https://wix.to/CLqrI6l

Photos in the snow are always a fun time. Thanks to Kori and Jacob for being up for the adventure. From a photographers ...
25/02/2026

Photos in the snow are always a fun time. Thanks to Kori and Jacob for being up for the adventure.

From a photographers perspective, I’m still blown away that the autofocus of modern cameras is as good as it is. Not that many years ago I would have had hundreds of images focused on snowflakes.

Love is sweet at any age, but this wedding proved that it can be sweeter in the twilight years. (That’s not a recommenda...
21/02/2026

Love is sweet at any age, but this wedding proved that it can be sweeter in the twilight years.

(That’s not a recommendation to wait. Get married have babies — the more the merrier ;)

S+L’s   at     and reception at the  . ——————————————————————
11/02/2026

S+L’s at and reception at the .
——————————————————————

03/02/2026

knows how to throw an employee annual awards party better than anyone.
What a party! What a team!
Tip of the cap to Shannon on all the planning work to make this thing happen.
Thanks so much for the opportunity to capture it for you guys 🤗.
Also great seeing the magnificent band. You guys are mental! So good 😊.

Congrats to J & P! What a beautiful way to close out 2025.
08/01/2026

Congrats to J & P! What a beautiful way to close out 2025.

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