Sara's Maternity

It really is hard for me to put into words how much I love maternity photography. There is something really uniquely beautiful about a woman ready to bring a new little person into the world. And there is something amazing about the love between couples as they prepare for the unknown adventure of birthing and parenting. I feel really blessed to be able to photograph these growing families. Sara is a friend of mine from work, the funny thing is I don't even remember telling her I did photography but I'm so glad she was listening. Sara and Tim are adorable! Not to mention laid back and easy to work with. Despite the less than optimal weather, they braved the conditions and got photos that I am thrilled to share now. They seem pretty ready for their bundle to arrive, I'll be thrilled to meet their little person too.

Tuesday's Tip : Blogging

I'm not an expert but I have learned a thing or two about blogging to promote my business. As a photographer the 2 most important things is that 1) you have a blog and 2) you post pictures!

I have recently learned a few things about content that tends to go viral there are 3 important things.

1) Positive does better than negative: people like positive tones. So more "do lists" will thrive over "don't lists" generally.
2) Emotion gets shared- strong (positive, if you follow point #1) emotions inspire people to share.
3) Practically useful info does better than fun random facts.

So if you are new to bloggin those 3 tips should help you direct you content and give you a better chance of having other share your posts.

Now since I'm a photographer here are some pictures!
Waiting for baby.. I can't wait to meet the little guy :)

Mel + Josh : Bun in the Oven!

These two are insanely cute... I can't wait to meet their baby!!! Such a good looking power couple is bound to have the handsomest little man. I was thrilled to be part of their preparation getting ready for a pair of little ears in their home.

Please comment!!! Subscribe and Follow :)

TOP 15 Things that I LOVE about being a photographer

I thought I'd make a quick list...kinda late show style :)

15) When strangers can tell I'm a photographer by all the bags I'm carrying

14) Being snap happy- especially on outings like family walks

13) Being confident enough to be "in the way" for a second to get the perfect shot at an event, then ducking out. It's kinda fun when it's socially acceptable to follow brides up or down the aisle :P

12) Playing with equipment..."hello, awesome glass, where have you been all my life?"

11) Playing with props, I mean who doesn't need 10 rustic baskets that a newborn baby can fit inside? And hats! Lots of baby hats!!!

10) Playing with wardrobe... Yes I have a case full of clothes for models...doesn't everyone?

9) The odd workout I get during a shoot- I may need to do more yoga.

8) The fact that my husband let me take over half of his "man cave" to set up my studio.

7) That on a whim I can get really great pictures of my own kids ... which reminds me I should do that more often.

6) Holding newborn babies. I would have stolen every baby I have ever photographed if I thought I could get away with it...or if I thought I had a big enough house for that many children.

5) Meeting wonderful people. Clients, models, other artist.  I ♥ U!

4) Developing a craft that requires both technical knowledge and an artist eye. Its a cool art meets science thing and anyone who knows me knows how much that appeals to me.

3) Photoshop!!! Oh how I love messing around in Photoshop. I love to enhance the beauty that is there, I have no ambitions of doing "digital plastic surgery" but man can the correct application of Photoshop make an ordinary good image look stunning.

2) I am self employed! "Sorry, I'm busy with my family that Saturday but I can book that other time you are free." I can work as much or as little as the rest of life affords- which means if I'm out working I'm excited to be there!

What's the number 1 thing that I love about being a photographer?

Hmmmm

1) Capturing forever the deepest depths of love. No amount of Photoshop can alter the loving looks exchanged during shoots- I get invited into people's lives to immortalize those really great moments. It has been a true privilege in my life. I'm really very grateful to all of my clients for trusting me, I look forward to seeing you all again soon. And if you don't know me yet- let's hang out and take some awesome pictures!

Ok so here's the drill, if you are reading this MAKE A COMMENT!!! & SUBSCRIBE!!!  Oh and follow me on twitter or like my facebook page

Baby Belly Contest

I've decided to have a contest! I would like you to upload a picture of your baby belly onto my facebook page CLICK HERE. Then get your friends to like your photo. The belly with the most likes will win a free maternity and newborn package from me. I'll choose a winner on March 30th!

Hey YOU! Remember to like my facebook page and Follow me on twitter :)

New Newborn Props

I've always loved crochet hats on babies. A good hat can really bring out the features of a babies face. I have always been blessed to have a crafty mother who has made many of my photography prop hats but I got an idea the other day to make a few more of my own. I made some very cute new baby props out of old t-shirts. I ripped the shirts into strips and crocheted the strips into hats. They are super soft cotton and they keep there form so they would be great for just slipping onto a sleeping baby. There primitive look also really goes well with the antique boxes I have for photographing new little ones. I made little fabric roses that can be added on for perfect princesses too. Now I just need some tiny heads to put them on :)

How to look your best 34+ weeks pregnant

I have had the pleasure of interacting with women as they prepare to become mothers. Despite the profound natural beauty that women emanate at this time in life they can often feel less than gorgeous. Whether it is the baby weight, stretch marks, karate kids, high emotions or just a good old fashion case of the "blahs" it can be hard to feel like leaving the house let alone posing in front of the camera. Here are some suggestions to feel as “Glowing” as you can in the weeks before meeting baby:

Take Care of Yourself

Seems obvious, I know, but it can be the answer to many bad moments. For example: If you are hungry, don’t wait, have a small snack; if you get sleepy take a cat nap! Growing a new human being takes a lot of energy so make sure you have all the rest and fuel that it will require. Keep in mind also that moderate activity is a good idea and fresh air can feel great! So maybe after that nap take a nice paced walk (who cares if you waddle a bit!)

Buy New Clothes

I can’t even count the number of moms-to-be I’ve heard talk about waiting too long to buy new clothes that fit. I have found for myself that nothing makes you feel crankier than being all bunched up in clothes that don’t fit. Also try some stretchy fabrics that will move with you. Clothes don’t have to be super expensive to look nice and many baby consignment stores have a maternity consignment area too. Flowing dresses are great and won’t put as much pressure around your waist and pelvis which can mean less red pressure lines.  

Pamper Yourself Once in a While

Before each of my children were born I went and got a pedicure. Nothing like sparkly toes to distract you from swollen ankles! Get a hair cut, get your make-up done… have a photo shoot!! Do something that reminds you that you are special and beautiful. There is nothing as beautifully feminine than a woman about to have a baby and don’t let yourself forget it!

If you like this post subscribe or leave a comment. I'd love to hear from you :)