Adoption Mini Sessions, Part 1 // Smithfield, Virginia Family Photographer

Last weekend was one to remember! On the most gorgeous day in October I could've hoped for, ten families met me to take pictures as they supported our adoption. There were families of all ages and sizes - from a couple barely a year into marriage, to a family of six, to a whole bunch of cute dogs, the variety of people from all stages and walks of life was incredible.

I am so amazed that there was such an incredible response to our announcement, and to the mini sessions themselves! I remember right before I hit publish on my blog, wondering aloud to Nathan if ANYONE would sign up. And here I am, with 10 down and 9 more to go this weekend, blown away by the love people have shown us.

So I hope I've done justice to these families who have become a part of our story! It's hard to choose just 5 or 10 images to send, let alone one or two from the blog, but I've narrowed it down to my absolutely favorites. The only thing more exciting than this is that I'll have even more to share next week!

Best of 2013 // Hampton Roads Photographer

I have LITERALLY been looking forward to this post the whole year (Parks & Rec, anyone?). With each portrait session and wedding, I've become a stronger, more confident photographer who can deliver better images. I'll be honest - launching my business was terrifying! And really, it still is. I get nervous before each portrait session, and before each wedding, and every time I get a new inquiry...the list goes on. I've realized, though, that I'm not nervous because I'm afraid I can't deliver stunning images. It's because I want to get better each time I click the shutter, and I want each of you to see that progress.

I know I can tell my improvement throughout the year, and I hope you can, too. I'm excited for 2014 and all that it will bring. Have a wonderful New Year and enjoy some of my favorites from 2013!

What to Expect Part 3: Maternity Session

I honestly wasn't sure if I'd do a whole separate post about  maternity sessions initially but then I realized I need one! Maternity doesn't quite fit with family portraits, and it definitely doesn't always belong in the same camp as engagement sessions, or weddings! So here we go :) 

Maternity sessions are some of the most unique and specialized portraits I regularly shoot. They're all about someone you can't even see yet! Pregnancy is such a sweet time in a woman's life, and it's an amazing privilege to be able to capture this time. One of the best things is knowing that your life is about to change in big ways, and I love being able to photograph future moms and future parents as they prepare to experience all these exciting changes. 

Before I get to your maternity shoot, I'll talk with you a lot about what you want to make of your session. Most people will bring props - baby clothes, shoes, a cute chalkboard for the baby's name and due date, or whatever is special to them. I want to know all of that before I even get on location so I can plan out some super cute pictures highlighting all those little details that are important to YOU. This will prepare me to put a big emphasis on you AND your baby!

Once I get to meet you, I'll ask you a million questions, because babies are just so darn exciting! Beyond just focusing on the little life that is coming, though, I want to make sure you get the royal treatment - you're becoming a MOM. I'll make sure that your session reflects not just the little one growing inside of you, but your beauty and individuality. If you are by yourself - wonderful! If you come with someone else, that's awesome! Either way, I want to capture your joy at all the things that are coming.

After I get home, I'll post a sneak peek as soon as possible. These are always exciting, because EVERYONE loves babies, or so I hear :) I'll edit each and every picture so I can give you the most beautiful product that you deserve and when I'm done, I'll deliver a beautiful customized website for you where you can download, share, print...or whatever you feel like! And I'll be there every step of the way to help. You'll get a blog on my website, and some gorgeous pins on Pinterest so other people can get ideas from your special session. 

Maternity sessions are the only time I expect something back from my client - namely, posting a picture after your bundle of joy is born so I can share in your happiness! I love working with moms-to-be, and I hope to work with you soon if you're expecting. Let me know if I can help you in any way, and congratulations! 

Next on what to expect: WEDDINGS!

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