Vinny is Two! - Birthday Session in Cranberry Twp.

"Oh Two-dles!"

I can't believe my baby boy is 2!  I'm filled with mixed mommy emotions.  Part of me is so sad to see the little baby fading away (although, the chubby cheeks haven't gone anywhere), and part of me is excited to finally be able to interact more with him, take him places like amusement parks and museums, and carry on little conversations with the little person I created.  Motherhood truly is such a powerful thing.  Everyone tells you it changes you, but until you experience it yourself, you don't fully understand just how much. 

Vinny's 2nd birthday party was Mickey Mouse Clubhouse themed, so I wanted his pictures to reflect that.  I also wanted to capture him playing with his three favorite things at the moment; Mickey, trains, and books.  Someday I will look back on his annual birthday pictures and be able to remember exactly what he was into.  I encourage all parents to bring a few items with them for their toddler's birthday pictures, whether it be to make them smile or simply just for them to hold, it'll be a good token to jog your memory when looking through the pictures many years from now. 

In my photography experience so far, I can surely say that 2-year-olds are the most challenging subjects!  When they're younger than two, they're a little easier to pose, when they're older than two, they start to understand and follow directions (to an extent), but when they're wild and crazy two, you just have to keep snappin' away and hope for a smile.  Luckily, being that Vin is my own, I had an idea of what songs and antics make him laugh. 

He's my little buddy, and I'm so happy to have these sweet shots of him.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Vinny!  I love you more than you'll ever know!

Haley McKenzie - Newborn Photography in Pittsburgh

Little Miss Haley was wide awake at the beginning of her session, but after her first time ever using a pacifier, she peacefully snoozed through the rest of her sweet pictures. 

Haley's parents wanted to highlight their love of Disney in the photos, as well as her daddy's collection of "Back To The Future" memorabilia.  They even announced their pregnancy with a "Back To The Future" trailer parody that they made themselves!  It's always fun to work with parents who have a very clear vision of what kind of photos they want.  

Haley was such a sweet, sleepy Minnie!  

Ben is One! - First Birthday Photography in Cranberry Twp.

Benjamin was having so much "fun being one" at his First Birthday Session at my home studio that big sister Abigail had to get in on the fun, too!  You can't deny these two are brother and sister with the beautiful blue eyes they share!

Ben is a very special little guy to me, as he was one of the first newborn sessions I ever did.  His mama (my dear long-time friend) was kind enough to let me experiment with my camera using her and her new baby boy as my subjects.  I can't believe this little man is one - which means this little business of mine will be turning one in a few months, too! 

My favorite part of this session was watching Benjamin work his birthday boy party hat.  He didn't want to take it off! 

Chelsey - Maternity Photography in Marshall Twp.

I have been waiting for this session since my beautiful sister told me I was going to be an aunt back in January.  Now it's July and my darling niece will be here in under two months. 

For Chelsey's maternity pictures, we chose to do some posed and styled photos outdoors, as well as some candid "lifestyle" photos in black and white in the nursery.  I am so happy with how they turned out.  The outdoor colors at sunset are magical, and the indoor photos in a simple black and white make the nursery look so peaceful.  

My other niece "Bella" joined us for the photo shoot, as well.  She is such a proud big-sister-to-be.  

I can't wait to meet my niece in September and take her newborn photos!

Miss Ava - Child Head Shots, Cranberry Twp.

I spent my childhood competing in dance competitions, auditioning for local musicals, and fantasizing about becoming the next Sutton Foster, so I totally identify with the need for some head shots!  Miss Ava is competing in the "photogenic" competition at Star Systems National Dance Championship next month, and I was happy to help her and her mom get some quick head shots together. 

I have been asked to take head shots a few times now, so I am officially adding it to my list of services.  You can read more about it on the "Pricing" page of the website. 

Ava was a breeze to photograph - she's a natural in front of the camera!  I can't wait to hear how the competition goes!  

Oh, and for the record...now that I'm grown up I'm still a Sutton Foster fan!  Have you seen the show "Younger" on TVLand!? 

Declan Martin - Newborn Session, Pittsburgh

I love family history and family heirlooms, so when the Myers family showed up to their Newborn Session with a box of them, I was so excited!  The key that Baby Declan is holding was passed down and is engraved for his middle namesake.  The toy truck symbolizes his grandfather's profession, and the tattoo on his father's arm is the Myers family crest.  Even Declan's mommy and daddy's wedding rings had interesting stories behind them!  

In addition to sharing a love for family with me, they also share a love for all things Disney!  Baby Declan's nursery is Mickey themed, and he already has his first vacation to meet the Mouse scheduled!  My 21-month-old son is obsessed with Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, so I was happy to see all the Mickey items they brought along.  

It was so great to meet the Myers family and sweet, little Declan - who was so cooperative for his photo shoot!  One of the sleepiest little guys I've ever photographed - a perfect angel. 

Kenley Ann - Newborn Session in Cranberry Twp.

I love watching my friends become parents.  I've known Baby Kenley's Mommy and Daddy for a while now - her daddy lived with my husband in college (in Briar 1 Lodge, to be exact).  It brings so much joy to my heart to see him so in love with his baby girl.  She already has him wrapped around her (very) little finger.  Kenley is also so blessed to have a loving mommy who was so attentive to her needs during the entire newborn session.  You would never know these two are in the trenches of the first week of sleep-deprived parenthood, as they both looked great and were glowing as they talked about their darling daughter. 

I can't wait to watch Kenley grow up.  Not only is she a family friend, but she is also a neighbor, living only a couple streets away in our neighboring development.  I see lots of stroller walks in the near future!  Welcome to the neighborhood and the "Briar" Family, Kenley!

Miss Jacqueline Is Two! - Birthday Session in Cranberry Twp.

I love being a mommy to a baby boy.  They're funny, sweet, crazy, and love on their momma, but this session made me realize the fun I'm missing with a little girl!  

Jacqueline was so much fun!  She arrived at my home studio with her entourage of aunts, her mommy, and her grammy.  It was immediately clear that this child is surrounded by ladies who love her beyond measure.  Jacqueline then began accessorizing her outfits for her 2nd birthday tea party photo shoot!  It may have been snowing outside (in April!?), but Jacqueline was bringing the sunshine with her spring dresses, bathing suit, and shining smile.

We had so much fun laughing and enjoying her cute personality as a whirlwind hour flew by.  I will always look back on this session and smile.  Thanks for spending your afternoon with me, my fellow Aries and March birthday girl!