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
Photoshoot type
Photo style
Traditional posed
Candid
Artful composition and lighting
Natural or environmental
Wedding photographer also needed
Yes
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
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Read reviews that mention:
Jerome S.
Feb 9, 2026
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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 was very professional and did a great job on my surprise engagementphotos . John was very very nice and punctual and always responded to my questions and took the time to explain how he works and how we can pull off this very special surprise on Carmel beach. Johns work and quality is very good and his prices are excellent. I highly recommend John for any event and will use him again in the future ..Pick John …you won’t be disappointed
Details: Proposal photoshoot • Natural or environmental • Outdoors • One location • Online or digital proofs and prints • My home, venue, etc.
Engagement Photography
Jonathan V.
Sep 19, 2022
•
Hired on Thumbtack
John was such a pleasure to work with for our engagementphotos. He was very personable and professional. We ran into issues that were out of our control and John was able to quickly remedy them. We weren't able to do the photoshoot at the planned location and John suggested a new spot which turned out to be perfect.
It was great to have John instructing us on how to pose for the photos since it can feel awkward to have a camera pointing at you and not knowing what to do. He also gave us the freedom to do any poses that wanted too. It felt very comfortable and natural having him photograph us. The photos turned out well beyond our expectations. We're so happy that John was the one to capture such a special moment for us. Don't hesitate to book him for any of your future special moments!
Details: Proposal photoshoot • Candid • Natural or environmental • Outdoors • One location • Online or digital proofs and prints • My home, venue, etc. • At the pro’s location
Engagement Photography
Elizabeth M.
Jun 28, 2022
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Hired on Thumbtack
We had a great experience working with John for our engagement photoshoot. We contacted him pretty last minute but he got us scheduled and set up with a contract very quickly - throughout the process he was prompt, thorough, and professional with his communication.
We are in love with our final photos! John was flexible on location and made sure we got the shots we wanted and also coached us through several poses that we ended up loving. He also got many gorgeous candids and his final edits made the light and environment look magical!
Would highly recommend!!!
Details: Posed engagement photoshoot • Natural or environmental • Candid • Artful composition and lighting • Outdoors • One location • Online or digital proofs and prints • My home, venue, etc.
Engagement Photography
John G.
Oct 1, 2021
•
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
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.
