It's been 365 days since she took her first breath. She's been loved by her family every single second of every single one of those 365 days and she will continue to be all the days of her life. 
I tend to get really sentimental with returning clients, especially those I photographed as newborns. I came to photograph her when she was less than a week old, in the comfort and quiet peace of her own home.
This session was a little different because there was the hum of excitement in the air and the intimate gathering of loved ones who wanted nothing more than to spend the afternoon celebrating her life and reflecting on what she has brought to their family. 
As a mama myself, when birthdays roll around, I find myself doing the same thing. I feel that each baby teaches us something new, a little more than before. I never knew how much one little, precious being could teach me- they teach us the most important lessons in life. Selfless giving, unconditional love, and patience.
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When I photograph a birthday celebration and milestone events, I always take the opportunity to observe familial connections. Stolen moments away with cousins or grandparents, adoring aunts and uncles- each wanting a special moment with the birthday girl. As much as I love seeing a baby eat cake (who doesn't?!) and the excitement surrounding the mess she is going to make, I live for these quieter moments and I'm always seeking them out. They are tender, heartfelt, and so precious. 

Hiring a photographer to document these events allows the family to relax and to let go. It allows them to focus on what is important- celebrating and spending time and energy on the ones they love. You don't have to worry about taking pictures yourself or hastily passing off the camera to someone else so that you can actually be in the picture for once. You don't have to hope that they get a slightly flattering picture or that their finger isn't in it, or that it's not blurry. It's all taken care of and you will get a gallery of beautifully documented images to treasure for a lifetime. 

It also needs pointing out that I look for humor everywhere! Outright humor, understated humor, sarcastic humor...all of it! And this had me cracking up! I hope little Hazel will laugh at it one day. 

If you'd like to hire me to document your next event or milestone, in home newborn, or family Day in the Life session- reach out to me here or click the contact tab above. Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram and Facebook too. 
​Here's a link to Hazel's In-Home Newborn Storytelling Session.

This Virginia Beach family will probably always hold a special place in my heart. You know when you meet someone and you think to yourself "These are my people." Well, these are my people. 
This family hired me for the newborn session of their littlest one- and during that session, I snapped one of my very favorite photos. The second to the littlest greeted me at the door in his diaper and a pajama shirt (how cute is that?!) and ran up the stairs. I slipped off my shoes and crept up the stairs behind him...and I found him in a dark hallway, standing perfectly illuminated in the doorway of the bathroom. That was my shot. 
I know that the story they hired me to tell is that of the newest babe, but the story evolves and develops with other characters, highs and lows, action, conflict and resolution.
So when they scheduled another session a few weeks ago, I was thrilled. I couldn't wait to see how the littlest had grown and to witness his role in the family. What story was waiting for me?
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Needless to say, the little one established his role and he fits in just fine. 
But what I really, really loved about their session is the fact that they just get it. They are so unapologetically themselves and it shines in their images. That is a truly beautiful thing. 
I hear lots of mothers say that their little wildlings can be a lot to handle- they can be kind of rambunctious, a little loud, a little whatever. But I am here to tell you- it's okay and I see you, mama. I embrace little ones and the adventurous sense of curiosity. I love it. I look for it. This is your story and it's unique to your family. And wouldn't it be so boring if we were all the same?! I promise I go with the flow and the session will be a piece of cake- there's nothing to stress about. 
Throughout the course of our day, there were cuddles, loud moments, mischievous moments,  a little chaos, with some quiet and introspective moments sprinkled in. All of it is beautiful- the range of human emotions is an incredible thing to witness. 

Are you interested in scheduling your own in home session with me? Do you have questions before you book? Reach out to me via the Contact tab above or simply just click here and I will be happy to talk with you more about my process and booking your family storytelling session. 
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I thought it would be fun to connect with my community and share the things I'm really diggin' right now. So, let's jump right in! Here's 3 things I am loving right now!

• Nature/Landscape Photography! I've always loved nature and being outside. During our time in Tennessee, I completely and totally found my calling as a barefoot mountain mama. But one thing I haven't always loved is landscape and nature photos. That's a whole other genre of photography and I'm no where near an expert in it, but I've started really digging nature and landscape photography...mostly plants. I mean, during a pandemic, who ISN'T loving plants!? Here are a few recent favorites, the first one was taken at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach. I'm not quite sure what it is, but those dew drop and that light is just dreamy! The second is my Lamb's Ear that I have in my yard.

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• Also, I feel the need for an honorable mention here- I'm totally, completely loving the tie dye trend coming back. How can you be mad looking at tie dye! It's literally like you are wearing happiness! I also love all the 90's trends that are mainstreaming right now. I can still remember the absolute joy of getting a Delia*s catalog in the mail. 

Who else is with me? What are some things you are loving right now? Any trends or fads? I'm also really loving spaghetti squash right now too! 
Be sure to check out my Facebook and Instagram for updates on recent sessions, session availability, and daily posts!
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