LASH GOALS: Monroe's Newborn Photoshoot
(Hey, welcome to my first client session on the blog! I've been looking forward to a way to highlight some beautiful client sessions and get to share a little bit more with you, so these blog posts will hopefully be somewhat regular. I might even go back and blog some favorite sessions from the past, because there has been some magical stuff, you guys... Enjoy!) So lets go ahead and state something obvious, shall we? This sweet girl Monroe has THE MOST amazing lashes. So crazy long and feathery, what a dream! I always try to capture lots of detail shots during newborn sessions; lashes, pouty lips, fingers and toes, wrinkly skin, and baby rolls all give me the heart eyes. The lashes were the standout winner of this session.
You know, every newborn session looks a little different because I try to get a feel for the stye and personality of my clients. Sometimes the baby herself dictates the way the session looks, for instance, sweet Monroe wanted only to be wrapped up and snuggled in.
It was actually kind of perfect, because I just recently acquired some gorgeous new props I was excited to tuck her into. For instance, this box, which was a custom build by my amazing and talented Dad is simply perfect and sturdy to snuggle baby into. The props are gorgeous, but should never be 'louder' than baby, which is why I like to keep things simple and neutral.
Another thing I loved about this session was we tried some some different neutrals (Lavender! Grey!) which I think turned out beautifully.
Another cool prop we got to use was this custom rustic cradle, also made by my dad. It was actually built from reclaimed wood from an old headboard my dad pulled out of an old barn. I kind of love that story, a forgotten part of an old bed is given new life as... a bed! It's a sweet little cradle, and such a unique prop.
I love using sturdy crates or cradles for portraits with young siblings that aren't quite ready to hold a newborn. The new baby is is safe and cozy, and big siblings are free to be wiggly and interact with them in a natural manner. Monroe is one lucky little girl, because she has got the very best big brother! I mean, look at that boy! He was so loving, and that million dollar smile took my breath away!
Valerie P Photography has a collection of headbands, hats, outfits, wraps, and other small props to create the entire look for each unique image in your gallery. Like the one-of-a-kind headband above -- made by yours truly -- or the pretty little rainbow below purchased from one of my new favorite online shops. I was so pleased this rainbow headband showed up before her session, her Mamas told me the most amazing story about their family and many miracles that brought about this perfect rainbow baby. So happy she got to break it in. (And check out those lashes again!! AHHHH! I can't get get over it. I WON'T!)
Another prop I often use in a newborn session is a bowl or a basket. Wrapped or partially wrapped, depending on baby's preference. My first goal is keeping baby happy and comfortable, that means being patient and being flexible, but it always pays off.
Of course baby is always most comfortable when snuggled in with her family, and this girl was no exception.
Sometimes new parents aren't super excited about being in front of the camera-- especially mamas who have just given birth. I understand that, I was that mama a few times. But these first family pictures are SO special, and I think will be special to your kiddo someday. For newborn photos with the family I keep things sweet and simple. These photos are not about props or fluff... but just capturing your family and your connection perfectly and simply as you are.
Monroe's family was so wonderful to work with and I was so honored to get to meet and capture them during this extra sweet time of their life. Hoping to see these faces on the other side of my lens again someday! <3
