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.

Ho, Ho, Ho, I am Santa Craig Ball.   I have been portraying the big man for over 30 years.   In the beginning, I was Santa Claus for only my friends and family.   My Santa world changed when I was invited to a meeting with a group of real bearded Santas.  At that meeting, I learned of many opportunities on how I could spread my holiday cheer.  I graduated from the International University of Santa Claus School and I invested in a Hollywood movie-quality Santa uniform.  One of my favorites was to spread holiday cheer is volunteering with my local police department as their Santa.   Distributing toys and participating in Shop with a Cop gives me great pleasure each year.

With a twinkle in his eye and a heart brimming with holiday cheer, Stephen Johnson, affectionately known as “Beach Santa Steve,” has been spreading joy and magic for years as a seasoned real bearded Santa portrayal artist. Growing up on the sunny shores of Manhattan Beach, Stephen embodies the spirit of a coastal Christmas, bringing warmth and merriment to every event and photo shoot he attends.

Stephen’s portfolio is both diverse and impressive. He has become a beloved fixture at Manhattan Beach community events, captivating crowds at the famous Skechers Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks, and bringing joy to families at the Redondo Beach Fire Department’s annual holiday party. Whether it’s corporate gatherings like Luna Nueva’s festive soirée, Century West BMW’s elegant affair, or spreading holiday cheer at Mattel Toys employee’s celebrations, Stephen has a remarkable talent for infusing every occasion with the magic of the season.

Stephen’s dedication to spreading joy extends beyond these events. He has touched the hearts of countless children and families at Beethoven Street Elementary School, Manhattan Beach preschools, and holiday parties for foster children.

Santa Steve is available for Holiday Party’s and Corporate Events. 310-487-4460.           BeachSantaSteve@gmail.com

I discovered the magic of being Santa over 40 years ago when I bought my very first suit at Toys “R” Us to surprise my young sons on Christmas Eve. What started as a father’s wish to create a single holiday memory grew into my lifelong calling. Seeing the wonder of the season through the eyes of my children and grandchildren sparked a deep, permanent connection to the spirit of Christmas within me.

Today, I am a professionally trained, bilingual (English/Spanish) Santa and have shared holiday magic all across Southern California and beyond. Over the years, I have had the privilege of portraying Santa at popular destinations like Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga, Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, JCPenney Portrait Studios, and the Burbank Street Festival. I have also brought festive joy to the Chula Vista Center’s Gran Posada, and even crossed international borders to visit children for a tree-lighting and photo event in Tijuana, Mexico.

For me, putting on the suit means fostering genuine connections and welcoming families in the language they feel most comfortable speaking. I strive to treat every child with absolute kindness, respect, warmth, and love—ensuring that everyone who visits me leaves carrying the true, enduring magic of Christmas in their hearts.

“Be kind, be brave, and always believe.”

Available for home visits and corporate parties, contact me at; www.rafaelclaus.com