Interview with a Motherhood Photographer…
Motherhood photography is a beautiful way to capture the bond between a parent and their child. It is a celebration of the love, connection and joy that comes with being a parent. With the advent of social media, motherhood photography has become more popular than ever, and it is easy to see why. These images capture a moment in time, a memory that can be cherished forever.
The craft of motherhood photography is all about capturing those special moments. Photographers who specialize in this field (Like me!) are skilled at capturing the beauty and connection between mother and child. We know how to use light, composition and color to create stunning images that convey the emotions of the moment. I personally love catching those off script moments of that sweet babe loving up on mom and dad. They always turn into the SWEETEST photos and truly capture those intimate moments of unconditional love. The connection between parent and child is what makes motherhood photography so special. The love that a parent has for her child is one of the strongest bonds in the world. This bond is captured in each image, and it is what makes these photographs so powerful.
As a motherhood photographer, capturing the best images of mothers and their children is both an art and a science. It's important to capture the little moments that make motherhood special. This could be a mother holding her child's hand, a child's smile, or a tender moment between the two. These moments often happen naturally and it's important to have your camera ready to capture them. Having a variety of shots is always beneficial as well. This can be achieved by changing the angle, distance, or focus. By having a variety of shots, we can tell a story and capture the essence of the relationship between the mother and child.
Finally, it's important to be patient and flexible. Sometimes the best moments happen when we least expect them, and it's important to be ready to capture them. By following these tips, we can create beautiful and meaningful images that will be cherished for years to come.
Motherhood photography is a beautiful way to celebrate the bond between a parent and their child. It is a craft that requires skill and creativity, but the end result is a stunning image that captures the love and connection. These images are a testament to the power of parenthood, and they will be cherished for years to come.
Always your fav photog,
Katlin
Preserving Treasured Moments: The Importance of Family Photos for Timeless Memories
In a fast-paced world filled with digital distractions, it's crucial to pause and cherish the precious moments we share with our loved ones. Family photos hold the power to freeze time, capturing the love, laughter, and connections that make our lives truly meaningful. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of having family photos taken and why it's essential to prioritize capturing these memories as our children grow. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's dive into the world of treasured photographs that will last a lifetime.
A Glimpse into the Past: Family photos offer a glimpse into our personal history, serving as a visual time capsule of our lives. They allow us to reminisce about the joyous moments, the milestones, and the stories that have shaped our family's unique journey. When we look back at these photographs, we are transported to a specific time and place, reliving the emotions and experiences that were once so vivid.
Creating Lasting Memories: As our children grow, their little personalities develop and evolve at an astonishing pace. Capturing family photos regularly ensures that we have a tangible record of their growth and the precious moments we share together. These photographs become cherished memories that we can revisit time and time again, creating a sense of nostalgia and warmth that connects us to the past.
Celebrating Connection and Love: Family photos showcase the bond and love we share with our family members. They capture the laughter, the hugs, and the genuine connections that define our relationships. These images become visual reminders of the strong foundation of love and support that we have built, strengthening the ties that hold our family together.
Building Self-Identity and Belonging: For children, family photos play a crucial role in building their self-identity and sense of belonging. Seeing themselves surrounded by the love and support of their family members helps them develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. It also provides them with a visual narrative of their place in the family tree, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to their roots.
Preserving Generational Legacy: Family photos are not just for the present—they are a gift for future generations. As time passes, these images become a treasured legacy that can be passed down from one generation to the next. They provide a glimpse into the lives and stories of our ancestors, helping future generations understand and appreciate their roots and heritage.
The Power of SEO Keywords: Enhancing Visibility To ensure your family photography services reach a wider audience and increase visibility on search engines like Google, incorporating relevant SEO keywords is essential. By strategically incorporating phrases such as "family photos," "capture memories," "family photography services," and "timeless portraits," you can boost your website's visibility, reaching more families seeking to preserve their precious moments.
Family photos are more than just images—they are the keys to unlocking a treasure trove of memories and emotions. By capturing these moments, we create a lasting legacy that transcends time, connecting us to our past, strengthening our present, and shaping our future. So, let us prioritize the beauty of family photography, immersing ourselves in the joy of capturing these irreplaceable memories. Are you ready? Head over to “contact me” to book your session today!
From Bump to Baby: Capturing Milestones with Katlin Dodgion Photography's Belly to Baby Package
The journey from bump to baby is a whirlwind of emotions, milestones, and unforgettable moments. To help you treasure these precious memories, Katlin Dodgion Photography is delighted to offer the exclusive "Belly to Baby" package. In this blog post, we'll dive into the details of this comprehensive package, which covers your maternity session, newborn session, 6-month milestone, and one-year smash and splash milestone. Let's explore the benefits of having one talented photographer capture these milestones, creating a seamless and enchanting visual story of your baby's first year.
The Power of Continuity: Choosing a single photographer to document your maternity, newborn, 6-month, and one-year milestones offers a unique advantage—the power of continuity. With Katlin Dodgion Photography, you'll have a dedicated professional who understands your journey, personal style, and preferences. This builds a strong foundation of trust and rapport, allowing for a more relaxed and comfortable experience throughout the entire year.
Capturing the Evolution: From the baby bump to tiny fingers and toes, each stage of your little one's journey is filled with wonder and charm. By opting for the Belly to Baby package, you ensure that the same skilled photographer captures these significant milestones. This means consistency in artistic style, attention to detail, and the ability to seamlessly transition from one session to the next, capturing the evolving beauty of your growing family.
A Journey of Connection: Documenting your maternity session allows you to celebrate the awe-inspiring transformation happening within you. Your photographer will skillfully capture the radiance, joy, and anticipation that come with expecting a baby. As your journey continues, the connection established during the maternity session deepens. Your photographer becomes acquainted with your unique story, creating a personal and authentic narrative that shines through each subsequent session.
A Comfortable and Familiar Environment: Having the same photographer throughout the first year of your baby's life means having a familiar face and a comfortable environment during every milestone session. This consistency fosters a sense of ease for both you and your little one. Your baby will become accustomed to the photographer's presence, resulting in more relaxed and natural expressions, leading to truly magical photographs.
Creating Timeless Memories: By choosing the Belly to Baby package, you are investing in a visual storybook that chronicles your baby's first year. From the precious bump to the adorable smiles, the milestones captured by a single photographer will seamlessly blend together, creating a cohesive and breathtaking collection of memories. These images will transport you back to those fleeting moments and allow you to relive the joy and love you felt during each stage.
Tailored Artistry: Throughout the year, your photographer will work closely with you to understand your preferences, desires, and vision for your images. This collaborative approach ensures that each session reflects your unique style and captures the essence of your family's journey. From the props to the poses, your photographer will customize the sessions to create art that resonates with your heart.
Katlin Dodgion Photography's Belly to Baby package offers the extraordinary opportunity to have a single photographer capture the remarkable milestones from your pregnancy through your baby's first year. With the power of continuity, connection, and tailored artistry, your photographer will create a visual story that celebrates your journey and creates timeless memories. So, embrace this enchanting package, and let the magic unfold as you embark on this extraordinary adventure, from bump to baby.
Preparing for Your Newborn Photography Session: Tips and Tricks for Picture-Perfect Memories
Congratulations on your precious bundle of joy! Now, let's embark on a whimsical journey into the world of newborn photography. In this delightful blog post, I'll be your trusty guide, sharing tips, tricks, and a sprinkle of magic to ensure that your newborn photography session becomes an unforgettable experience. So, fasten your diapers and get ready for some picture-perfect memories that will make your heart melt!
Timing Is Everything: First things first, let's talk about the ideal timing for your newborn photography session. The sweet spot is within the first two weeks of your baby's arrival, when they're still in that adorable sleepy phase. During this time, they're more likely to curl up, pose like little angels, and remain calm while we work our photography magic. So, reach out to your photographer and pencil in a session that aligns with this magical window of opportunity.
Location, Location, Baby: Now, let's decide on the perfect setting for your newborn's photo debut. Some parents prefer the cozy confines of their own home, while others opt for our professional studio. Whichever you choose, ensure that the space is warm, comfortable, and filled with natural light. After all, we want your baby to feel like a superstar in their very own spotlight!
Dressing Up or Down: When it comes to wardrobe choices, simplicity is key. If a home lifestyle session is what you lean towards, dress your baby in soft, neutral-colored outfits that won't distract from their angelic features. We want the focus to be on their adorable faces, tiny fingers, and squishy cheeks. Oh, and let's not forget those tiny toes! Feel free to include sentimental items like blankets, hats, or onesies gifted by loved ones. These little touches add a sprinkle of personality and make the photos even more heartwarming. If you are coming to my studio for a posed newborn session, I have all the props and wraps right at my studio! No need to dress baby in anything special - they will be dressed in studio outfits, wrapped or in the sweet simplicity of their own skin for cute newborn photos!
Full Tummy, Happy Baby: Here's a little secret: a well-fed baby is a happy baby during the photo session. Make sure your little munchkin has a full tummy before we begin. A satisfied baby is more likely to cooperate, snooze peacefully, and give us those precious, dreamy shots that will melt your heart. So, have a feeding session before we start, and be prepared for some adorable milk-drunk expressions that will make you chuckle for years to come.
Embrace the Unpredictability: Babies have a knack for keeping us on our toes, don't they? Embrace the unpredictability and let go of perfection. We're here to capture the genuine moments—the yawns, the stretchy little limbs, and even the occasional cries. Remember, those imperfect moments often turn out to be the most cherished and authentic ones. So, take a deep breath, relax, and trust in the magic of the moment.
Snuggle Up and Smile: During the session, your photographer might encourage you to be a part of the frame—after all, you're the most important person in your baby's world. Snuggle up, exchange adoring gazes, and let your genuine love and joy shine through. These candid, heartfelt moments will undoubtedly become some of your most treasured photographs.
Preparing for your newborn photography session is like stepping into a fairytale, where dreams come to life and moments turn into timeless memories. With these tips and tricks in your treasure chest, you're well on your way to capturing picture-perfect moments that will warm your heart for a lifetime. So, embrace the magic, trust in the process, and let's embark on this enchanting journey together.
Remember, dear parents, I am not only your newborn photographer but also your friend and ally in creating cherished memories. So, reach out, let's embark on this adventure together, and capture those captivating moments that will bring smiles to your faces for generations to come.
Why Should I do a Boudoir Session?
Because my VIP group has had a ton of new members, I wanted to do another blog post on boudoir and what boudoir shoots are all about!
Maybe you’re new to my VIP group…maybe you found this blog post looking at babies on another tab….maybe you searched “what is a boudoir photoshoot” and this popped up. Nevertheless, i’m glad you’re here and I cant wait to show you a peep of what a boudoir experience is like with Katlin Dodgion Photography.
Boudoir photography is an intimate form of photography where women are often photographed in lingerie/nude. These are amazing for self confidence and spicing things up in the bedroom. TOO many women think that boudoir sessions are only for women in their early 20’s pre-kid with a slim figure. BUT NO GIRL let me tell you…
I hear a lot of…. "I wish I had the confidence to do a Boudoir” OR “I’m not comfortable enough with my body to do a boudoir”
These are two of the most common reasons I hear for women not booking their boudoir sessions.
If you have children, you've most likely made them the center of your world from the moment they were born. You've dressed in snotty clothes and skipped showers so that your kids could have everything. Being a busy mother can cause you to lose your sense of self...and eventually your confidence. Even if you don't have children, you can lose confidence. It’s unfortunately all too simple to loose it and not easy to gain it.
Women are expected to do everything and be the “Wonder Woman” of our generation - we’re expected to work full-time, keep a clean house, exercise, keep up with everyone’s needs, you name it...
The unfortunate harsh reality is that EVERYONE is busy, and failing to take care of yourself can lead to low self-esteem.
Boudoir boosts confidence by turning the attention back to you.
Having a boudoir experience can aid in making you feel sexy again! Feeling sexy can help you regain confidence and SPICE up your relationships. Long-term relationships can sometimes become boring and repetitive, and it's sometimes necessary to spice things up. Boudoir photos are not only a GREAT surprise gift for your significant other, but they also awaken your sexuality.
Positive sexuality exists in these photos, which translates to positive actions in the bedroom. #getitqueens Boudoir photography also elevates your body image, which is essential to confidence. READ THAT AGAIN.
Again, you have COMPLETE control over how your image is portrayed because the photos are taken on your terms - want to show off those curves and ditch the lingerie - you got it! Want to stay sultry and sexy with your nighty - yes girl! This boosts self-esteem by allowing you to embrace your natural beauty in a way that is both comfortable and attractive to YOU!
If you already feel confident and have a steamy sex life, then boudoir photography can accentuate your healthy love-life. And, if you're lacking in self-assurance, it's likely that your bedroom needs a little sprucing up.
So what are you waiting for - head over to the Boudoir Lounge tab or the VIP group on Facebook to book your session. I promise you won’t regret it!
Lucy Wren Atkins
Last year I met the Atkins family as I captured some photos of their two children, LJ and Oakley. When they found out they were expecting again, Olivia reached out to me to discuss capturing this sweet babe in my belly to baby package and boy oh boy was I thrilled.
My belly to baby packages allow parents to take the worry of remembering to schedule their little ones milestone sessions out the way. They provide a consistent look for all of baby’s milestone photos throughout the first year. The belly to baby package includes a maternity session, fresh48 (or newborn upgrade), 6 month milestone, and 1 year milestone. (Parents can also add the birth package on for a discounted rate!)
Olivia, London, LJ, Oakley and I met in the sunflower fields late this summer for Olivia’s maternity session. It was so dreamy and beautiful! We were able to capture the end of the sunflower season right as a new season in life for the Atkins family was about to unfold. Here are a few gems from that session!
In the late hours of Friday October 15th, Olivia and London messaged me that it was “go-time” I got my bags together and met them at Virginia Baptist hospital to capture the delivery of their sweet baby, Lucy. They had the SWEETEST nurse Caroline who made Olivias birthing space even more calm than ever imaginable. I remember somewhere around 3am Lucy’s parents giving her a “pep talk” to be born before the nursing shift change at 7am so Caroline could be there as they loved her so much. The night went on and Olivia handled labor like a champ. Somewhere around 630am on Saturday morning Olivia was ready to deliver sweet Lucy into this world. On cue - with her 7am curfew given by her parents - at 6:59am Lucy Wren Atkins was born into the world. The looks on her parents faces were priceless as they met their sweet baby girl for the first time face to face.
Just a few short weeks later, I got to spend more time with Lucy and her family when they came into the studio for her newborn session. I loved getting to snuggle up on her! Hey, what can I say, its a great job perk! ;) Check out some of her newborn images here:
Oh wait! If you’re not crying because all of the beauty yet, you will be! Sweet Lucy and her family came back to my studio so I could snuggle with her and capture all her fresh baby skin. One of my favorite parts of my job - yes, I have a lot of favorites, but hey, can you blame me?! I have the best job ever! - is seeing these babies in my studio to get my baby fix and snuggle them to pieces.
So without further ado, here is sweet Lucy Wren Atkins and a sneak peek from her newborn session:
While I never wish for babies to grow up too fast - they already do that on their own - I am so excited for Lucy’s 6 month session! She is just so stinkin cute and she is blessed with the SWEETEST family.
xoxo,
Katlin
Its been so long!
Hellooooo….is anyone reading this? If you are YAY! Thank you for being awesome.
As you can see if you have scrolled through my blog - I am TERRIBLE at remembering to blog. Seriously a business goal for 2022 is to keep this blog up to date. But I thought why wait for 2022? Lets start today!
So lets catch up on all the things that have happened in the last year or so -
2021 has been my busiest year ever! I am so thankful for such amazing clients who have trusted me to capture their beautiful images over this past year. I am so so so blessed.
I now offer boudoir full time! See the Boudoir Lounge tab! I have a range of packages offering from a simple beautiful session all the way to a luxury boudoir experience!
Local hospitals are now allowing birth photographers back in the labor and delivery rooms! I would love to capture more births now that restrictions are being lifted. If you are expecting and want your birth photographed, please reach out!
I have two new groups on Facebook! Ill pin them in here - Boudoir ladies only group and my Client group - These people are the first to know about sales, events and so much more! We play games, win prizes and have a blast! If you’re on Facebook, be sure to join!
I am so excited to begin to dive back into the website and keep you guys up to date with all the fun new things happening for Katlin Dodgion Photography!
xoxo,
Katlin
Boudoir? But Why?
*This blog post will give you a bit of insight as to why I decided to include boudoir photography into my wheelhouse and why I continue to be a #motherhoodphotographer as boudoir still fits into this model*
Definitions
What is Boudoir photography? The word Boudoir is french for “women dressing room/bedroom”. Boudoir photography is an artistic style of photography in which women pose tastefully in lingerie. These can be very classy and elegant as well as empowering.
Why?
I have had quite a few boudoir sessions here recently in my studio and have now built a few boudoir packages to choose from when booking. I am so excited to offer these sessions full time now in addition to my traditional motherhood sessions. (I mean hey, babies get here somehow right ;)) I asked one of my recent boudoir clients to share some things from her session for this blog post. Ive also had those uppity people (Yea you Karens out there - this ones for you) that call this distasteful and ask what the heck i’m doing photographing these sessions. My favorite word to describe these sessions is “empower”. During these sessions i’ve watched so many women transform. Ive watched mothers of young babies at home love on their new #mombod, i’ve watched women in their 50’s begin to feel sexy again, i’ve seen women who are finally being set free from years of negativity and, probably most importantly, i’ve seen women who are taking back their confidence. This is EXACTLY why I offer these sessions and will continue to do so.
So, lets see what its like from a client side of things:
Why did you decide to do a boudoir session?
“I decided to do a boudoir shoot as a gift for my fiancé for Valentine’s Day and our anniversary. In reality, I think I was doing it more so for myself. As a mom of two and after losing over 100 pounds I was lacking self confidence and developed body dysmorphia. I needed something to boost my confidence and make me feel better about the milestone I had met. I was so nervous going into the shoot because of how self conscious I was about the way my “new” body looked.”
How was your experience during the session? How did the session empower you/change your self confidence?
“Katlin made me feel welcomed and talked to me like I’d known her my entire life, setting my mind at ease and bringing out the inner confidence that I couldn’t bring myself to show on the outside for the longest time. This shoot made me see myself in a different image and it’s what I should have been seeing all along. I gave life to two great kids and went down a path of being healthier for them. That’s a lot to be proud of and now my confidence matches that!”
What is one piece of advice you would give someone who is considering having a boudoir session done?
“If you’re on the fence about doing these pictures for the many reasons I was, don’t be! No matter your shape, size, age or confidence level, these pictures will make you feel like you’re in the clouds! My confidence level has increased so much and that’s all because Katlin helped me see the beauty of what God gave me!”
Boudoir isn’t about how you look or even the images….
Its about how you FEEL
If you’re still on the fence about booking your boudoir session, lets chat. These are about so much more than just a “sexy photo” these are about bringing out your inner goddess and making you feel like the true BADASS you are! If you’re ready for more or want to find out more about boudoir sessions, head over to the boudoir lounge tab on my website and check out all the package options as well as some of my boudoir gallery.
xoxo,
Katlin
Help Wanted - Brand Ambassadors!
Ok y’all Time to roll out my brand ambassador program for my 2021 mamas!
Im looking for 2 mamas who are due in 2021 to capture their “belly to baby” experience as my street team! These mamas will get some awesome discounts along the way and will be photographed for their pregnancy and baby first year. Maternity, Newborn, 6 month, 1 year milestone will all be discounted sessions as well as the freebies listed below! Ambassadors can use their referral bonuses to pay for their belly to baby package which has the opportunity for all their sessions to be FREE.
Whats in it for my motherhood brand ambassadors?
Two free mini sessions throughout their tenure as ambassador
One full family session throughout their tenure as ambassador
First grabs at bonus shoots and themed shoots throughout the year
Branded swag & referral bonuses!
A chance to win the year end ambassador prize and so much more!
Limited positions available. No modeling experience necessary!
Now…Whats expected of these ambassadors?
As a mama brand ambassador you must commit to the following terms:
Commit to a “pregnancy-baby’s first year” term as an ambassador
Consistently participate and engage on social media posts - this is liking, sharing, commenting on KDP stuff across all social media * this must be done once a week
Refer clients to Katlin Dodgion Photography and earn referral bonuses and credits towards your discounted package
Actively & consistently promote Katlin Dodgion Photography exclusively and not represent, promote or share images taken by other photographers within Virginia
Write Google and Yelp reviews
Write a blog post for each session done with KDP for use on katlindodgion.com
Sign a model release
I cant wait to see who will be my mama ambassadors for 2021! If you are not expecting, but know someone who is, please share this with them!
xoxo,
Katlin
Branding Sessions!
What is a branding session?
Small businesses rule the world - ok, well, we’re awesome soooo….we need to be showcased!
A personal branding session is deadicated to taking photos of you doing your thing and being an awesome small business owner. These photos don’t only highlight you, but your brand as well. These are the photos your clients will see on your “about you” section on your website - you know, those photos of you typing away, drinking coffee - yea, thats what i’m talking about.
Why is a branding session important?
These sessions don’t only get to showcase your awesomeness in all that it is, but they can easily take you to the next level of professionalism. This is an amazing tool to have in your pocket! Show off that shot of you responding to emails with a funny story from your brand - use this to connect with the audience. It not only makes you more personable, but makes you approachable as well!
Photos are often the first thing your clients see when they go to the website. You want these photos to represent you! Prior to your branding session, we will chat a bit about you, your brand, and what you want to represent. This is how we will set the feeling and surroundings for your session. *Make an AMAZING first impression*
Your clients…yea they want to know YOU! Lets have some fun shots of you doing your thing! We can do the traditional headshot, but adding some mixed posed shots of you rocking your brand in some way helps make you relatable.
Check out some of the branding session I had with Emily Rymer, a local realtor for the Lynchburg and surrounding areas. You can find her on FB here! https://www.facebook.com/remingtonrellc
You want to be recognizable to where someone sees you or your brand and instantly knows who you are/what your brand is about. Build that brand! You want to become recognizable within your logos, labels, style, etc. A branding session incorporates you into your brand in just this manner.
Put your face with your business. Make an awesome first impression. Connect with your clients. Grow your empire. YOU GOT THIS.
Rainbow Baby Program
KDP is launching the Rainbow Baby Program this month!
As some may know, rainbow babies are close to my heart as my last child, Theo, is a rainbow baby. I wanted to do something to honor those rainbow babies and those lost before them. I chose to release this program in September as it marks one year since the loss of our son Kohen and he and his baby brother Theo are my inspiration for this program. 1 in 4 women suffer from miscarriages. I am 1 in 4.
My own personal rainbow baby - Theodore James Dodgion aka baby “Theo”
What is a rainbow baby? A rainbow baby is often a term used to describe a pregnancy after loss. This can be a loss from miscarriage, still birth, infant loss, etc.
So, whats this rainbow baby program? Each month, I will be donating one newborn session to a rainbow family. They will receive 5 edited images included with their session*
How will I choose these families? I wanted to give every rainbow family a chance to participate in this project in some way. To be considered to be the rainbow family of the month, families will fill out this form (https://forms.gle/uExFKu2ifQcUtgZKA). From this I will select one family.
What if i’m not selected? Everyone who is not selected will have the opportunity to participate in the rainbow families blog portion where they can tell the story of their family and remember their little one. Anyone who is not selected will receive an email with special offer on a newborn session booked with KDP.
*parents participating in the rainbow baby program will have the opportunity to purchase additional imagery and/or the full gallery from their session.
Fall Sessions!
Did someone say FALL? Fall is my FAVORITE! (insert Olaf voice here for full effect in your head)
I have opened my annual mini fall sessions for only one day each location this year. They will be held October 24th in the Lynchburg area and October 25th in the Charlottesville area. These are always my favorite mini sessions because of all the sweet families I get to capture. To book a fall mini, reach out to me via the “contact me” tab up top or reach me on Facebook!
Looking to update that family photo? We live in a GORGEOUS place to do just that during fall. I’d love to capture your family portraits this season. With fall being by far my busiest season with family portraits, my calendar is filling up quickly! I have limited weekend availability through November. Want to squeeze in on a week night? I got you! You’ll get a discount for a weeknight booking! *applicable to lynchburg area only*
Lets get all those gorgeous fall colors into your updated family photo!
Lets DOULA this!
So after what seems like years of talking about it, thinking about it, research, doubts, fears, life’s road bumps, and everything else under the sun, I have officially, and finally, registered with StillBirthDay for my Doula certification! Yep - thats right - here I sit, less than 2 weeks postpartum with this sweet babe on my chest, jumping into this new journey ready to make a difference in the lives of moms giving them empowerment into their journey within motherhood - however that may look.
StillBirthDay is a certification organization that focuses on both traditional birth doulas and bereavement doulas. I chose StillBirth Day as my where I would do my doula training back when I was going through my loss with Kohen. During his loss, I really wanted to find meaning in his loss and help myself heal. I also noted the need for bereavement doulas in the Central VA area. Even being as immersed in the birth community, I didn't even think of the use of a bereavement doula during my period after Kohen.
So lets talk about this certification. At the end of the course, I will finish with both my traditional birth doula certification and a bereavement doula certification. For me, based on my journey, it is important to cover both areas as traditional birth and bereavement. Heard of a doula but don’t know what it is? Unsure of what a doula does?
Doula - “a person trained to provide advice, information, emotional support, and physical comfort to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth.” - Merriam Webster
Bereavement Doula - “provide(s) individualized support to families who are experiencing a loss. They provide an intricate understanding of how grief effects people, throughout every stage of loss.” - Beautifully Connected Wellness
Did you know? - Pulled straight from the SBD site!
Doulas supplement medical support to provide the following:
reduces overall Cesarean birth rate 50%
reduces the length of labor 25%
reduces Pitocin use 40%
reduces the need for forceps delivery 40
reduces requests for epidural pain relief 60% (source)for more information, read: The Invaluable Birth & Bereavement Doula
I cant wait to see where this journey takes me! Birth has always had a special place in my heart and I have always wanted to do more in the birth world. Of course I will still always offer my birth photography services, however after this course and certification, I will be adding the doula role into my services. I will have an option for stand alone doula work, stand alone birth photography or a combination of services. Until then…let the studying begin!
Carvalho Girls
This sweet mama reached out to me about capturing a simple session with her and her two girls. As we began talking about what she was looking for, I learned her girls were similar ages to mine and had similar interests which made this session so fun for me! We headed out to a sweet little field to capture these beauties with their mama.
Did you know that each session with KDP gets their own sneak peek on facebook? Typically, these sneak peeks are posted within 24-48 hours of the session. As a mama, I know how hard it is to see those sweet images and see how they turned out. I myself have had my own family sessions where i’ve wondered what the images are going to look like due to the kids being…well kids! Or it may have been my hair wasn’t right, I didn’t feel confident, etc. But then i’m always stunned at the images when they are returned! This is why I try to make it a priority to post at least a sneak peek asap. Following those sneak peeks on Facebook and/or instagram, I typically edit the gallery and then send it to the family. Coming full circle, I come here to post about their session on my blog. This helps me relive the session and love on those images one more time. This also helps future clients see my work as it evolves and see some of the potential locations they can shoot with me!
I love being able to share these images and sessions with you guys and give you a sneak peek into my life behind the lens. I seriously have the best job ever!
What do I wear?
I get this question a lot when families are planning their sessions! Lets chat about some clothing choices!
Are you having your session in the beautiful all white studio? I love when clients come in neutral colors! This really helps bring out the simplicity and timeless inspiration of the photos. When neutral colors are worn, these photos are sure to stay up to date and in scheme with any home decor for years to come.
Shooting outside? I love my outdoor sessions! I recommend coordinating with the season and style of your shoot. Spending your session time in a field over a soft light fall evening? Lets see those maroons, mustard’s and fall inspired colors! Shooting on a blooming spring afternoon? Pastels and lighter colors work great!
Here are some additional tips for general sessions:
Family Sessions:
Coordinate colors
Avoid miss-match patterns
Newborn Sessions:
Baby will be wrapped and/or naked most of the session - No need for special clothes for them! Just bring back up diapers :)
Families I suggest wearing light/white colors for tops with similar style pants
The studio gets HOT to keep baby comfortable. We will try to do family and parent images first to avoid feeling sweaty during this portion of the session. I suggest layers to take off during babies solo time
Maternity Sessions:
Similar to family portraits, if your whole family is participating, I suggest similar colors for family members
Don’t want to buy a dress just for the shoot? I offer a studio gown in burgundy! Just ask to see it!
Sitter Sessions:
I’m slowly working on building my studio closet for sitter sessions. However, if you have something special to wear, please bring it! I love babies in practically any outfit and will be excited to see the outcomes of the session!
Hunter Turns 7
This handsome little man just turned 7! Hunter was anxious to show me all around his family property where we got to explore and take his annual photos. Can you believe he’s had his pictures taken here every year for his birthday? It is SUCH a gorgeous place tucked away in the mountains of a small little town. The same small little town I grew up in which makes it all that much more special. We hiked the fields to find rocks, spent time by the pond on the dock and played on hay bales all while being watched by a bunny amongst other farm animals.
I loved exploring with this little guy and his mama and capturing his 7th trip around the sun. Check out some of his session here:
Calloway | Maternity | 2020
This sweet little family had big plans for their wedding day. Sadly, like many brides to be, the recent pandemic put a damper on their plans.
The morning of their maternity session they eloped! This was truly a day to remember for them.
I met up with them and sweet Bryce to celebrate Tripp, their bundle of joy due to arrive in August. We had patiently been watching the weather all day in hopes the rain would hold out long enough for our golden hour maternity session.
I always love when I get to travel to my hometown - If I could move back I would in a heartbeat. The whole atmosphere is different and I instantly get that “home” comfort when I cross those county lines. Living close enough to go “home” I will forever be grateful for. For this session, we met at one of the beauties that my hometown holds. This beautiful location boasts two ponds, a field with trail, beautiful greenery amongst the steps and sweet little bridges along its beautiful landscape.
Check out some of their sweet session here:
Wedding at the Pandemic?
Ha. OK i know…cheesy headline. But hey, when you grow up pretending to be an emo kid to fit in jamming to “Panic at the Disco” its fun to think back to those crazy haircuts and dye jobs isn’t it?
Now lets get into the wedding - Brittney and I are friends on Facebook and she was in search of a photographer to capture her small wedding during the pandemic. A few local venues had done special event days during the COVID pandemic offering the use of their venues for mini or micro weddings which would allow couples to still get married, but under the Governors regulations to have no more than 10 people gather.
For Brittney and Casey’s wedding, it certainly was sweet and intimate - it was simply perfect! When we arrived, it was just Brittney, Casey, their two sons and daughter, as well as Brittney’s dad and step mom. As Brittney walked down the isle, she was met with a surprise as her sister and her sisters boyfriend had traveled up from the Carolina’s to surprise her for the big day! How sweet is that y’all?
The whole idea of a “mini wedding” excites me as it brings the “wedding” part back to what it truly is - a beautiful, sacred, exciting love between two people. And during a pandemic? Talk about a story to tell grand-kids one day! Such sweet memories!
I wish this sweet family all the best. They were so fun and laid back to work with. Can we also say stunning? I mean look at them! How stinkin’ sweet are these two. I am swooning over how cute their couple pictures are! Gahh. Now i’m obsessed. Give me all the micro weddings!
Jessica Reichard - Maternity 2020
“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. “ -Osho
Oh Motherhood. What a wonderful journey. Don’t get me wrong, I love all the wrinkly, squishy, sweet babies that come into the studio, but i’m also obsessed with the process that gets them into the studio. I believe motherhood is beautiful in all forms and each and every motherhood journey is special. I have a photography bucket list so to speak and capturing all types of motherhood journeys is on it!
This sweet mama is expecting her first bundle of joy - Sweet little Jaxon is due to arrive in late May and I am so excited to get to meet him! Yep, you guessed it! Ill be following this sweet pea throughout his first year too!
This sweet couple was seriously swooning over each other during this session. You can tell they are both SO excited to welcome baby Jaxon into the world.
Check back soon to meet sweet little Jaxon during his newborn session at the studio!
McKenzie McIntosh - 1st Birthday
How can you look at this cutie and not get all the baby fever in the world?
Ahhh you guys! I can’t believe this sweet babe is already 1 year old (seriously…insert that crying emjoi here) Where has the time gone?! I feel like just yesterday her parents and I were meeting at a little cafe in the middle of nowhere to talk about all things baby and birth-y.
I’ve taken McKenzie’s pictures since her mom Caitlain’s maternity session. Sweet McKenzie was on my “belly to baby” package where I follow clients through their maternity, newborn, 6 month, and 1 year session. For McKenzie, I also had the blessing of capturing her birth and an extended family session along the way. To say I am truly blessed to have witnessed her growth throughout the last year would be an understatement.
These packages help commemorate baby’s first year and area such a special way to ensure milestones are captured. As a mom, I know how important those milestones are and how they pass way to quickly which is why I wanted to put together a package that allowed parents to take the worry out of having these moments captured. Having these sessions bundled together not only scores the parents an awesome discount, but it also allows for the photos to be of similar style and composure to create a well balanced sequence of baby’s first year. Another perk - I often tell clients who choose to go with the belly to baby package that we will be great friends by the end - I say that half jokingly because usually, we really do establish some great friendships! McKenzie’s family is certainly one that I consider great friends. I am blessed to have gotten to know these amazing people and watch McKenzie to grow over the last year.
McKenzie has always been such a happy baby. Seriously guys…she is the most laid back, chill kid. And if you didn’t have baby fever before, you’re about to! Actually, right after I send McKenzie’s mom her gallery she texted me to tell me how obsessed she was and how strong of a baby fever it gave her. I LOVE when my clients obsess with their galleries like I do. It truly gives me all the feels!
Are you expecting? Lets chat about a Belly to Baby package!
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