When kids reach the age of three or four, sometimes it's actually better to send the parents out of the camera room and just work one-on-one with the kiddo. Not necessarily because the kids or parents are misbehaving, it's more that the one on one relationship allows me to get great, relaxed images full of personality.
This was the case with Emily! I have photographed Emily since she was six months old, and as she's gotten older, her sassy, fun personality has become more dominant. During the beginning of the session, she was performing for mom and dad - dancing, twirling, and sticking her tongue out. Each time she would cast a glance their way, just to make sure they were watching. I don't mind the dancing, twirling, and tongue sticking out, but I need the back and forth interaction to be between me and her, not her and her parents. So, I sent them "away". As you can see, the results were perfect!
Taylor brought cute, fun clothes to her senior session, but the funny thing was that they all were very appropriate for warm weather! Only the one sweater was winter looking. So, we got to stay in-studio for most of the session. Which isn't a bad thing, I love in-studio lighting! Not to mention the fact, that it was quite chilly outside. Though we did run out and capture some great images in her "warm" sweater!
After many rescheduled appointments, I finally got to meet Tad! Due to Tad's crazy soccer schedule, it was very difficult for us to connect and coordinate schedules. So of course, on the day that finally works for us, it is a warm 32 degrees outside. That didn't stop us, though! After being inside in the warm studio and capturing some great expressions, we stepped outside. Within five minutes, Tad's nose and ears started turning red and my fingers started going numb against the cold metal parts of my camera! Needless to say, we did not stay outside very long.
Holden is a big time Momma's boy. At his session, he did not want her to leave his side. Which worked out great for getting images of the two of them together, but made it a bit challenging to get Holden by himself. But, of course, we prevailed, capturing some adorable images of the little man!
...of why photography is SO important! In September, I had the honor and joy of meeting six adorable, fun-loving, four-legged siblings. I was very sad to learn that in November two of them passed away.
Boomer the Beagle. The oldest brother. The littlest of the pack. Mommy's best buddy and companion!
Monty the Chocolate Lab. The beefcake of the pack. The laid back, taking it easy guy!
Boomer & Monty you will be missed, but will forever be in our hearts!
This is the view from my back window! How awesome is that?!? I am so lucky!
Maria walked in the door with this adorable little pregnant belly. I know to her it's not so little, but compared to some of the other bellies I've photographed, it was pretty little!
I had a great time photographing Chris & Maria, because I had an opportunity to sneak into their world. Just by asking questions, encouraging them to get close together and watching them interact. They are so sweet with each other! Especially, Chris, you can tell that he just adores Maria.
I'm excited to find out what they're having. I know, whether they have a girl or a boy, they are going to be sweet, sweet parents.
Even though Daddy is a big time tough guy, he doesn't often get very serious and is always full of joking, laughter and goofiness. I know that his baby girl is going to have him wrapped around her little finger. He's actually already been selecting the girly pink stuff from the baby store and talking about how "she's a girl"!
He's going to be in so much trouble!
It's a good thing mommy and daddy came in for their maternity session when they did, because nine days later Baby Lily arrived!
Lily was born six weeks early at a whopping 4 pounds 11 ounces. After spending 17 days in the NICU, she finally got to come home. Although she had gained weight, she was still only 5 pounds 1 ounce when she came out for her newborn session.
I absolutely love the images of Daddy holding Lily, because it gives perspective and really shows just how little she is. I know that in just a few months, Mom and Dad are going to look back at these images in amazement at how teeny, tiny Lily was!
