So, I'll just go ahead and say, this little guy is so lucky to be born to these parents. He is going to be so loved, so cherished, and he will be surrounded by art every day of his life. Mom is very talented musically, teaching herself to play guitar and singing in church weekly. She said that baby boy even "dropped" and engaged while singing in church! I can imagine his life in the womb, being gently rocked and swayed to the rhythm of beautiful music while listening to the voice of his mother lull him to sleep.
When I did their maternity session (you can read more about that here!), we talked a lot about music and how baby reacted to it. He's been surrounded by the rhythm and beat of music from day one, tapping and kicking along inside his mama's belly. Dad mentioned he could put his hand on her belly and feel him dancing around when they played music and sang to him. And sure enough, when he was fussy during his newborn session, Mama put on some music and he quieted down and became so curious about his surroundings.
Dad is a very talented videographer here in Hampton Roads and I am so glad that this baby's life will be documented and memories recorded from Dad's perspective. What an awesome blessing to be able to go back and see such heartfelt videos produced by your own Dad when you're older? I think seeing your childhood through your Dad's eyes will be absolutely priceless. And the boy will be no stranger to the camera!

These are first time parents, but you wouldn't be able to tell it from looking at them. I was terrified as a first time mom (many people can attest to this!), but they approach parenthood with such an unmistakeable joy, calm, and confidence. I was in awe at their laid back demeanor.
But let's talk about this baby! What a hunk of of chunky goodness! Holy macaroni at his sweet, precious little rolls! I couldn't get enough of him and they were even awesome enough to let me snuggle him for a second. Could my job get any better? I mean, seriously. I don't think so. After a long and rather eventful labor, Ryker was born at 37.5 weeks weighing in at a whopping 9lbs 11oz and 21.5 inches long at 2:07am. His parents are staying busy loving and kissing and cuddling every ounce of him, rightfully so.

Here's a few more of my favorites from their session. If you'd like to schedule your own in home newborn session with me, use the contact tab above or find me on Instagram @jess.nicole.photography or see some of my work or tag your favorite photos by me at #thebravestoryteller !

Maternity sessions hold a very special place in my heart, it's like the beginning of a new chapter in a couple's life. Instead of shooting this session in-home, we decided to take it outdoors! This maternity session took us to downtown Norfolk, Virginia. Honestly, Norfolk has so many hidden gems to see and explore. With a vibrant art community, even just an evening stroll downtown can bring you breathtaking historic architecture, art, stunning views of the Elizabeth River, great food, and incredibly diverse neighborhoods.

We decided to stop for coffee and tea at The Cure in Norfolk and then take a little stroll. Nothing was really planned, you know me, I just go with the flow. I shoot what I see and I don't typically guide poses. This couple had no fears about being in front of the camera and let me capture some super sweet moments. They shared stories about how they met, how they got together, and how part of their relationship was long distance. But now, a whole new adventure is beginning and they have no idea the way their hearts will expand and grow with undeniable love once their sweet baby boy is born.

We left the coffee house and strolled down to the riverfront. They love taking walks downtown and taking in the city (and I have a feeling baby boy will love it too!) Dad is a fellow photographer and videographer, so he brings his camera along on all of their dates and documents a lot of their daily lives. It was important for them to have me capture that aspect of their relationship.
We walked, we chatted, we drank fantastic coffee, we watched the sunset over the river, and even saw the cutest 3-legged dog out for his evening walk with his owner!

Stay tuned for their newborn shoot coming soon!
Also, if you're in the area, stop by The Cure- the coffee and tea was absolutely fantastic.
If you'd like to schedule a newborn session with me, use the contact tab above and let's get something scheduled for you!