If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Hello! My name is John and I do business as High Orbit Media. I grew up on the California coast and have been photographing full time since 2020. With a degree in film, I bring a very cinematic eye to my photography helping to capture the right moment from the best angle. My style of photography may be best described as 'enhanced realism'. Before messaging me here, do a quick Google for more detailed pricing and packages. Let's make you look good!
Overview
Hired 80 times
Serves Salinas, CA
Background checked
1 employee
6 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
Services offered
Type of sport
Athlete age
Adult
College
High School
Middle School
Types of shot(s) needed
Individual
Individual action shot
Team / group
Team / group action shot
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, work quality, and professionalism.
Exceptional 5.0
38 reviews
5
97%
4
3%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Jerome S.
Feb 9, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
John did a great job with fairly short notice on the event details -- delivered exactly what we were looking for in the best timeframe possible. Would definitely hire again!
John with High Orbit Media nailed it when I hired him to capture the moment! I was planning to propose to my girlfriend and was stumped about how I’d get someone to snap a pic without her catching on.
John was punctual with the initial contact, communicated well with me in making the arrangements and gave me a fare quote.
On the day of I was nervous already and was stressing about how Jonh would find us at the park full of people. Pointless stress, as Jonh had it covered. He located us before I even saw him! He stayed a fare distance away not to ruin the surprise and followed us to the spot I proposed.
John shot photos discreetly from a distance at first, capturing the moment, then snapped a couple afterwards. In under 48 hrs, we had the photos in our computer ready to share with our friends and family.
Last but not least, the quality of the photos were great! 👍👌
Thanks John for making my surprise proposal project so easy!
Details: Couples portrait • Natural / environmental (photographed in an outdoor setting) • Outdoors • Digital or online download • At the pro’s location
Portrait Photography
John G.
Oct 1, 2021
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Hired on Thumbtack
Beginning at finding a photographer, HOM responded immediately to my inquiries, met my pricing goals, had a simple contract, arrived at the agreed upon time, friendly firm but not overbearing navigation of wedding party to get the shots needed, and lastly good results.
Details: Wedding • Fewer than 25 guests • Outdoors • Digital or online download
Wedding and Event Photography
Chris F.
Jan 16, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
So far the experience has been great. It is hard to coordinate something like this long distance. John was super helpful, easy to communicate with and responsive. Looking forward to the finished product!
Details: Sporting event • Fewer than 25 guests • Outdoors • Digital or online download
Wedding and Event Photography
Becky K.
Jun 4, 2024
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I can’t say enough great things. The pictures are just what I envisioned and he worked with me to get so many more options than I had even hoped for! I will be a repeat customer!
Details: Family or children's portrait • Natural / environmental (photographed in an outdoor setting) • Traditional / classic (looking directly at the camera) • I'm flexible • Flash drive • Digital or online download • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Portrait Photography
Credentials
Background Check
John Ruddock
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
When paying for photography services, you are paying for the photographer's time to photograph you, the time to perform any edits and retouches, as well as the quality of the camera and lens. These are all factors in the final cost.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I will determine what type of photographs you are looking for (ex: portraits, maternity, artsy), what type of location (ex: beach, forest, city), and how long a session they desire. We can do multiple outfits and locations.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor's degree in film from San Jose State and have applied all my knowledge to photography. My skills cover landscape photography, portraits, construction, real estate, and sports. I have filmed in locations all over the world from East Africa to Hawaii.
