Newborn Pictures

What makes a baby photogenic? Simple, babies are adorable so the camera loves them. 

They have tiny toes and tiny fingers and even when they cry they have cute little crying faces.
So one might ask, what makes a good baby picture then?
I've learned it's the simple things that make my newborn sessions successful.

My formula is: good lighting, cute outfits and simple back drops.

.

How to get the best maternity pictures

I wanted to share some wordrobe tips I've learned over the years while photographing maternity pictures.

1. Wear something fitted, it helps to show off your beautiful baby bump!

2. Bring two outfits one formal and one casual.

3. Dress in layers. This helps you transition between looks easily during the portrait session.

4. Don't forget the accessories! Earrings, neclaces, shrug and scarves are a great way to add some drama to your look.

Kick Ball Game

 “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.” - Jimmy Johnson

Children play with all their might. Why? Because they have no reason not to.
~This Image was taken at the annual YMCA camp reunion in Ann Arbor Michigan.

Magic Smile

“Children see magic because they look for it.”

― Christopher Moore, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal

I took this image at a recent baby shower. There were children of the guests just playing in a side room, while the adults attended to the festivities. The sun was reflecting off the back of the house spilling into the room, lighting up the kids faces. This little girl had a particularly angelic look and smiled quite naturally. Children have a graceful ease about them. They smile because they can, because they still believe in the possibility of anything!

How to properly beach comb

 I thought this would be a cute way to share some iPhone pictures from my vacation.

Step 1. Find a relaxing coastal place, such as Miami. 

Step 2. Make your way down to the beach early in the morning (after a few caramel lattes)

Step 3. During low-tide, walk gingerly along the shore

Step 4. Survey the spoils of the hunt.

Step 5. Choose your favorite shell. Perhaps one that resembles the Cheetos you ate for breakfast.

Step 6. Find a hammock and take a nap, because your on vacation!

Siblings

I shot this picture in ludignton while walking with the kids out to the Breakwater lighthouse.

It really is a beautful moment when a mother sees her children interact as siblings and freinds. This made me reflect on my own relationship I have had with my 5 siblings over the years. Did you know, only one third of siblings remain close into adulthood.  

I admit I only speak to 2 out of my 5 siblings. Some part of me hopes my kids somehow beat those odds. If there ever comes a point in the future when they are not speaking to eachother I will send them this picture to remind them of when they did.

"From the time that they are born, our brothers and sisters are our collaborators and co-conspirators, our roll models and cautionary tales.  They are our scolds, protectors, goads, tormentors, playmates, counselors, sources of envy, objects of pride. They teach us how to resolve conflicts and how not to; how to conduct friendships and when to walk away from them.  Sisters teach brothers about the mysteries of girls; brothers teach sisters about the puzzle of boys.  Our spouses arrive comparatively late in our lives; our parents eventually leave us. Our siblings may be the only people we ever know who truly qualify as partners for life.  Siblings are with us for the whole journey."

Katherine Conger - University of California, Davis

St. Patricks Day

For the first time in my life I officially celebrated Saint Patrick's Day.

I am part Irish (just ask my grandma). I'd never really seen the novelty in the holiday, I don't drink beer, so the thought of trying to choke down GREEN beer sounds even worse!

But this year my friend Jen said she was having a divorce party on St. Patty's day! Now that's a good enough reason to celebrate! So I met up with her happy crew downtown Ann Arbor. I was happy when she asked me to take pictures of the group of girls. To my surprise a large part of the group was from a facebook group for mothers of twins. How cool is that?? I didn't even know such a group existed.

 

I have tried to dress my daughters (who are 2 years apart) identically for years now, and they refuse. 

So, no twins for me.

I did get a change to visit with my favorite little leprechaun Saturday morning before the festivities got started. All he was missing was a little green hat, lol.

P.S. I'm well know for studying the origins of holiday and was asked several times during St. Patty's to explain. I have included links in this blog post from wiki for all you curiosity seekers.