Monthly Birthday Minis

As a child the one thing I vividly remember were birthday celebrations. We were always made to feel loved and extra special on our big day. Once I became a mom I continued this with my children. It’s not always a big, extravagant party, but it’s most definitely a day where they get to choose their special meal and dessert, and we make sure to surround them with all the people who love them.

This got the wheels spinning. I have decided that I would like to host birthday minis. So, each month, I would love to schedule a day where I can photograph your littles (and bigs) in their birthday month. I probably should have started this in January but I can’t control when my brain decides to develop ideas, but I do want to make this a long term service should it be successful.

I am still working on dates, but I’m planning on doing a weekday/evening during the summer months (July to August) and a weekend date from January to June and again from September to December. Some will be held outside, while others will be in the studio, and each theme may be different from the last. There may even be times where there’s no theme at all. Everything is still up in the air.

I will announce all of the dates and sign ups through my newsletter in the coming weeks, so if you would like to take part in these events, please sign up for my newsletter HERE.

Birthday Photos with Batavia, N.Y. Photographer

Happy 3rd birthday, Stephen!

I met Stephen and his family 2 years ago when he was about 9 or 10 months old. He always gives me a run for my money, but he’s the most fun! He loves Peppa Pig and his mommy and daddy- but he’s definitely a mama’s boy! He’s the sweetest, happiest little guy I have ever met. He’s easy to temper but when he’s happy HE’S OH, SO HAPPY, and has a smile that is so infectious.

Over the years working with Stephen I have learned that when he finds something that soothes him, you just go with it. As you can see here he is holding his Mom’s cell phone in one image and a water bottle in the other. The shot with the cell phone was when mom and dad were in the studio with them, but I wasn’t able to connect with Stephen on a personal level while his parents were in sight, so I kicked them out-along with the cell phone, LOL! He did fuss for a minute but, then, found a nearby water bottle that calmed him right down. I decided that I was just going to photograph him with these items because 1- he was able to control his emotions with them and 2- it shows who he is at this stage of life. Is it ideal? No, but I will do whatever I need to do to get the shot, and “the shot” here is him smiling and engaging with me.

I usually tell parents that showing a child their favorite cartoon on their phone over my head is not ideal because it makes them zone-out. In turn they look like a zombie for their photos. It also doesn’t allow me to get that connection that every parent wants from their photos. However, I make an exception for Stephen because the phone actually helps calm and center him, but I can still get that connection and keep him in the area of the studio I need him in. I rarely get eye contact from him but when I do it’s magical. His sweet little face, big brown eyes, and adorable smile make all the work worth it when I can capture it.

Portrait photography is not always about getting the most perfectly posed shot. It’s about meeting people where they’re at and photographing them as they are. It’s about pulling out their personality and showing it to the world. You’re a storyteller.

Family Photo Wardrobe Ideas- Spring Edition

Spring 2023 Wardrobe Ideas

March 1st has finally arrived, so I thought it would be a perfect time to discuss clothing ideas for the upcoming Spring Photo Season. We are at the point now where we will begin to get more warm days than cold…..I know I might be overly optimistic here because….N.Y., but I’m ready for the great thaw.

In the Spring you’re going to start to see more softer color palettes; think pastels and neutrals! While the color palette will shift from season-to-season, you’re still going to follow the basics: Dress for the weather (if you have an outdoor session), incorporate layers, and don’t forget about patterns and textures. In the winter you’re typically looking for heavier textures such as knit, wool, and fur, but in the spring you want to find something a little lighter (weather dependent, of course). Linen and lace are great ways to add light weight textures to your wardrobe, but you may need to add knit if the temps are a little on the chilly side.

Below is a sample wardrobe I put together based on my own family. I have 3 boys: 15, 11, and 7. Now, this dress is not something I would choose for myself, but it works for the purpose of my post. The dress would be considered the “hero piece” here since it holds all of the colors I wish to use. Doing this takes a lot of the guess work out of picking colors for everyone. For my oldest, who only wears joggers and hoodies because…teenagers, I picked something that would be super simple with bit of texture to add interest. For my middle son, I picked a blazer because it’s something he likes to wear; he’s a total gentleman sometimes, but I also paired it with a simple button down linen shirt to contrast the green in the blazer. I chose a crew neck for added comfort. For my youngest son I chose pink shorts because he’s still at an age where he isn’t overly opinionated about what her wears. The top I chose because I thought it was fun, but I probably wouldn’t choose this specific green as it looks more like a lime green over a soft, moss green but, by choosing this shirt, I have opened up an opportunity to teach you something. I always tell clients to take a couple of pieces that they plan to use for their wardrobe with them so that they can compare the colors side-by-side with potential pieces. Even a small color shift like this can make or break your wardrobe. Finally, for my husband I chose a soft blue sweater and paired it with a button down flannel. He can wear just the flannel like the man in the photo, or he can layer it under the sweater and just have the color showing. This is a nice way to be fully prepared for any weather you might get because he can layer it if it’s going to be a little chilly or just do one or the other if the temps are warmer.

Below I did another wardrobe sample, but I did a family of 4 with 2 girls.

In this wardrobe selection I kept a similar color palette as above but omitted the green, but you could totally add green in here if you wanted to and it would still work. First I saw this adorable scalloped sweater and built the colors around that, so don’t think that your hero piece has to be the one with all the colors. It just has to be a piece you absolutely love and have to use for your wardrobe. Also, I opted for an outfit for Mom that wasn’t a dress. So often I have people ask what they can wear instead of a dress, and this is a great option! I love the textures on the top and to warm it up I added a brown flat. Flats are a great choice for a lifestyle session. They are comfortable and easy to walk in. For Dad I wanted to bring back some of that pink, but I paired it with a darker blue slack. By adding the dark blue here instead of the same light blue on the top, it adds another level of contrast to the wardrobe. You can absolutely add in other shades of colors so long as the tone is similar.

And that’s it! If you’re still needing to book your Spring Mini Session with your Batavia, N.Y. Photographer, you can do that HERE.

Let’s summarize what we did here for preparing a great Spring Family Session Wardrobe

1. Soft Color palette

2. lightweight fabrics: linen, lace, and tulle. Cotton + knit should you need a little warmth on a chilly spring day.

3. Layers are a great way to add interest to your wardrobe, but it also serves as an extra layer if you need clothing for a cold day.

4. Pick clothing that fits your child’s personality and will make them feel comfortable and confident for photo day.

5. Wear clothing and fabrics that are comfortable.

6 Tips To Prepare Your Pet For Family Photos

Meet Charlie.

Charlie is about as well behaved as they come. If I had the choice to photograph one pup for the rest of my career as a photographer, he would be my first choice. He also has a baby sister named cricket, and she’s pretty amazing, too! First off, look at how cute he is! The only “flaw” he has is that he’s incredibly awkward when asked to “smile” for the camera. He is trained well, but we have found that his best photos are during play. I guess the same could be said for the majority of people who are not used to being photographed professionally.

working with pets during your family photos is similar to working with infants and toddlers; they have the attention span of an ant and a mind of their own and it’s up to us to rein them in. there are a few things we can do to prepare them to be their best during your family photo session. Below are just a few tips on how to ready your pet.

1. Pamper them: You get your hair, nails, and make-up done for your photos. Why not do the same for your pet. Give them a little spa day so they look their best on photo day. You can do this with a professional or do it yourself.

2. Include them in the questionnaire: I send a questionnaire over to my clients to let me know who is being photographed and tell me a little bit about each person. If your pet is being photographed, please don’t exclude them from this questionnaire.

3. Feed them: Again, your pets are just like children. You don’t want them to show up to a session with an empty belly.

4. Walk them: Dogs can get pretty excited when meeting new people. This is normal, but it’s important that you expend a little energy before your session. I wouldn’t tire them out completely, but by giving them a 15 minute walk prior to your session time will allow them to be more calm at the start of your session. Plan to arrive to your session about 20 minutes early so that you can let them do this.

5. Treats & toys: Reward your pet when they’ve done a job well done, but try to not overuse these; we don’t want sick animals. Toys can be used by the photographer to catch the attention of the pet.

6. Be patient and have fun! Remember that we also want to capture playful moments and the genuine personality of your pet, so don’t be afraid to love on them just like your kiddos.

That’s it! That’s all I have. If you have any additional tips/tricks or questions for your pet in particular, please drop them in the comment section below and I will answer them as soon as I can. Happy Monday, y’all.

What to Expect from your Batavia, N.Y. Photographer in 2023

Happy Friday, y’all!

I have a couple orders of business with this blog post: First, discuss what to expect when booking your session with Marie Bohn Photography in the New Year & 2023 Family Session Pricing.

I’ve been spending a lot of time trying to make my business a little more seamless during the booking process. Over the years I’ve spent so much time putting together emails with all of your session prep information, only to receive a message from a client saying it never came through. This year I am delegating a little space on my website just for you in hopes to avoid lost information. This is something that will take some time to get together because it’s all new to me, and there’s been a lot of trial an error along the way, but I’m super excited to have all the information in one area with just a link for you to click! It will include all pre-session prep, day- of session “what to expect”, and post session expectations. I have been trying to keep it as short and sweet as possible, but there’s a lot of information that needs to be shared to fully prepare you and your family for your family session, but I will do my best to simplify it for you because I know life can be crazy, and who has time to read long-winded articles.

Next order of business- 2023 Family Session Pricing

Every year the rent at my studio increases. I’ve kept my pricing the same for 7 years (with the exception of my mini session pricing). This year I am at the point where I am finding I need to make the increase to cover the rising cost of my studio space. I have done my best to keep the same pricing, but as the world changes, I need to, too. I hope that you all still continue to come to me as the price change is “only” $50, but I do understand if you need to go elsewhere. I did run 2022 with the pricing for my new inquiries only and it went well, so ALL clients booking in 2023 will be subject to this new pricing. If you have any questions regarding this price change, feel free to message me.

Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Your Batavia, N.Y Family Photographer and Her "Home" Studio

Welcome to my “home”.

The decision to sign a lease on a family photography studio space in Batavia, N.Y. was not an easy one. I was in my 2nd year of business after moving back home from T.N. My position as a photographer in the community had not been fully established yet, and I am actually still working on that! However, I realized how difficult it was in that 1st year to offer my clientele what they were requesting during the cold and snowy winter months here in Western, N.Y. A studio space separate from my house was the only thing that made sense, so I took the plunge and it has been the best decision I have made.

The next hurdle that came my way was how I make this dingy, old industrial building feel cozy and inviting, as though it was your home! I started by painting everything, I mean, EVERYTHING white, because that’s what trendy, upscale photography studio spaces look like, right?! I used it that 1st year and I just couldn’t find my groove in there. Any setup I created just always felt like it was missing something. I wanted it to feel cozy and invited like a home, but also a space that could be used for professional family portraits. Something was missing. Finally, after much soul searching, I finally realized that it was “ME” that was missing! But, how do I go about finding “me” in my style?

I decided to reflect on the clothing I wear and the decor I have in my home, and what I realized is I love drama! I love bold, rich colors! I’m not that feminine; I don’t love lace and frills. That said, I do have floral curtains in my dining room, but I have paired them with an emerald green bar with brass handles and wooden shelves. I quickly realized that I am not that “light & airy” photographer that I was trying to be in my studio space. It was time I stopped following “the trend” and started to be me. This is the 1st year since painting the walls black that I have enjoyed being in my family photography studio. It feels just like home. My home, specifically. My Limited Edition Holiday Setup was a bit specific, but I love it, and I am so glad other families saw and loved my vision, too!

And, you know, it’s so funny to meet families at the front doors of the building my studio is located in- I immediately greet them, and I can just see their eyes whirling around inspecting every corner of the front entrance. I then bring them up the questionable elevator (that is often locked for service), and down this long, dark and cold hallway to reach my studio. All the while wondering what might be going through their minds. Usually the kiddos are pretty vocal with their opinions, but parents are not so much. I’ve heard from children, “why is it so dark in here?”, “why is the elevator so scary?”, “where are you taking us?” ETC…

Then, I open my studio door. It almost feels like I’ve opened the gates to heaven, based on the sense of calm from everyone. Which is immediately followed by a “WOW! This is not what I expected. It’s so cute in here.” I don’t know if I have ever said this, but I love hearing those words. My sister (we share this space) and I have put so much time, hard work, and money into creating a space that feels like home, and I am so grateful that the families I work with feel that, too!

Have a little looksey inside….

Let's Talk TICKS {insert itching} | Batavia, N.Y. Family Photographer

As you all know I love me some unpolished foliage. Give me a field full of overgrown beautifulness and I am happy as a clam! Unfortunately, that also comes at a price. Winter is generally “off-season” for family photographers in Western, N.Y. simply because it just becomes too challenging to keep the little ones happy in the colder temps, so that means that everyone who is looking to update their family photos are typically having them done between the months of March and, at the latest, November. As you all know ticks are basically demons that live earth side and can cause some serious health issues. It is, as a mother and family photographer, incredibly important to me that I do everything in my power to protect the families who entrust me with the safety of their precious littles, and so I have decided to compile a list of things to do before and after your family photo session with your Batavia, N.Y. family photographer in attempts to prevent tick bites.

BEFORE

-Treat the clothing you will be wearing for your session with a repellant containing Permethrin. This product is typically good for up to 7 washes.

-(From the CDC website) Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellentsExternal containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone.

• Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months old.

• Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.

AFTER

-Take a lint roller (sticky kind) and run in all over yourself and your child(ren).

-Change your clothing asap!

-While I do suggest a constant check during your session, it is incredibly important to do a full body check right after your session. This means both yourself and your child(ren). In addition to the main areas of your body, be sure to check under your arms, in your hair, private region, and belly button. I would also suggest showering up to 2 hours post session as to remove any unattached ticks and to run your body check.

Also note: The transmission of Lyme Disease only occurs if the tick has been attached for 36-48 hours, so it is paramount you do an immediate check to prevent the spread of Lyme disease.

Now that I am all itchy just thinking about this, I hope that this post offers some valuable information for you and your family before, during, and after your next outdoor family photo session.

Why Your Batavia, N.Y. Family Photographer is so NOSEY!

Hilchey Family - Oakfield, N.Y. Family Portrait Session

Many of times I get inquiries for sessions that look like this-

“Hi there! How much for a session?”

Listen! I’m not “Portrait Innovations” or “The Picture People”. One price does not fit all. There are many elements involved to decide what price your specific session would be. When you book with me you are booking a CUSTOM portrait experience. Now, what does that mean exactly?

Well, for starters I am not selling you this pose and that setup. I am creating images that are unique to you and your family. That includes, but is not limited to, clothing, location, “props”, desired images, etc…. You will find that when booking with me I ask A LOT of questions. Not just before booking but even during the planning process. Even more-so if I’ve never met you before. Every family has different needs and expectations for their session. That said, not everyone knows what to expect from a session. It is my job to educate you on what experience I offer and vice versa- to find out what experience you are looking for. I don’t do in-person, pre-consultations and so it is very important for me, and I hope my clients value this part of my service as well, that I learn as much about your family as I can so that I can capture genuine and unique images that tell your story. Simply put, it’s like commissioning an artist or even an interior designer. It’s important that you are specific about what you are looking for so that they can see your vision and produce the product.

This photo is a great example- Had mom never mentioned that her husband wanted a photo done at his fire department, I would have never thought to incorporate it into their session. As the daughter of a service woman (veteran/EMT), I know the impact that images like this can have. God forbid anything were to happen to him during a call they now have this photo to remember his dedication to the department and to the community.

So, if you book a family photo session with your Batavia, NY Family Photographer, aka- ME, please be extra transparent with your specific needs/wants. These images are special, but let’s make them a little extra special just for you!

Pietrzykowski Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Check out this adorable little family!

Mom contacted me, get this....BY PHONE! What a concept. Nobody ever calls me anymore, lol. Anyways, I was super excited to chat with her about their session.  She was super open to just about any ideas I had and just wanted some photos of them as a family.  When we finally had the opportunity to meet (the day of their session), mom mentioned to me that her and her spouse are not very photogenic.  To me, love is always photogenic.  I eased her concern with my shooting style and it was going to be more natural and playful rather than super posey.  I don't know about you, but I think they ROCKED their family session! 

There was also a little pressure since I knew that this little family had driven a loooooooong way to be photographed.  See, dad just graduated from school to be a State Trooper.  They currently reside in the Adirondacks with hopes that they will soon be able to re-locate back home. Home being here near Batavia, N.Y.  

I was so relieved when mom sent me an email after they viewed their gallery that read, "Hello! First off, I just wanted to say thank you again for capturing memories of our family. You are hands down the most enjoyable photographer that we've worked with."

That made my day!

Scroll down to see their family photos that they selected as their favorites!

McLaughlin Family | Batavia Family Photographer

McLaughlin Family

This is Amy and her son. Amy is a devoted client, but more importantly, a friend.  I was so excited to offer these mommy and me sessions.  I originally didn't want to follow the 'trend' of mommy and me sessions, but as I was assembling my family album from all the photos we took in the year 2016, I noticed something. I was in very few images. NOT GOOD!  This then solidified the importance of having portraits done of just mom and her children.  Sure, when I do family sessions I take photos of just mom and her children, but how often do you usually update your family photos? Generally speaking, once a year if you remember to schedule a session with your photographer.  Typically families rely on snapshots from holidays, family gatherings, and birthdays to keep their growing families documented. Think about it, though. Who's usually missing from most of those images? MOM! It's not that she's not there. It's that she's playing photographer and by the time she realizes she would like an image with her in it, the children are pretty much done and ready to move on.

Amy understood my purpose and once she found out I was offering these sessions, she was on board 100%! Amy has shared her trials and tribulations of motherhood, as well as, her victories and accomplishments. She not only works hard in her business and community, she is devoted to this little boy of hers and would jump through fire just to see him smile.  Currently Amy and her husband are trying to grow their family and have had some really trying times in the process.  As a friend, it's really hard to watch the roller coaster of emotions that she is dealing with, but to see her face light up when things are going great, is a really fantastic experience; she's like a little kid on Christmas morning.  

I am so glad Amy decided to take some time for herself and her son to come out and document their love for one another with me as a photographer in Batavia, N.Y. She loves this little boy with all her heart and you can see that he is pretty smitten with her, too! Have a look at a few of the images that mom hand selected to share and display in their home.  I threw in a couple of my favorite as well. 

Mager Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Check out the Mager Family!

They couldn't be any cuter!  Mom contacted me awhile back for photos and since this weather has been everything but cooperative it took awhile to complete their session.  Needless to say after nearly 3 months since her inquiry, 3 (or maybe 4) reschedules, we finally meet!  Their 2 little girls were ready to go straight away and oh how fun they are. The oldest was a little reserved, sweet and quite, but had just the right amount of spunk to keep up with her wild and crazy little sister.  It's amazing how multiple children from the same parents could have polar opposite personalities, but they do.  I have 3 of my own and the 2 oldest couldn't be any more different.  

Mom hand selected their dresses from the beloved dress boutique here in Batavia, N.Y. Pollyanna & Dot.  I love how simple and timeless these dresses are and they can be "dressed up" with nearly any accessory. Mom chose to pair them up with a simple white cardigan and cute ballet flats.  

At the end of their session they wanted to add one more family member, and boy did she spice it up a bit.  Dad was my designated wrangler if you will. He did great! Have a look at a few of their images from their session below. 

Pollyanna & Dot | Batavia Baby Photographers

Batavia, N.Y. Woman's and Baby Clothing Boutique 

O. M. G!! You guys, look at this adorable baby outfit I just picked up at Pollyanna & Dot here in Batavia, N.Y. 

Pollyanna & Dot is known for their beautiful "fit and flare" style dresses for woman, but let's not forget that they also carry some super cute baby clothes!  Also, another plus, if you cloth diaper like we do, a lot of the clothes she carries are cloth diaper friendly! The owner, Ashley Bateman, is also a fellow fluff mom, too!

This little blue and red, Under the Sea Dungaree is by Little Green Radicals, and made from 100% organic, fair trade cotton. Much of their baby clothing is made up of fun, unique patterns and vibrant colors, which I LOVE! Being a mom of ONLY BOYS, it's hard to find something unique for them. We're usually limited to solids, stripes, or plaid. All of which are fine, but not fun in my opinion.

This baby outfit buttons at the legs for easy diaper changes. It's great for summer, but can also work for colder months if you throw a onesie underneath and where like overalls. I know my son will be wearing this often.  As a photographer in Batavia, N.Y. I of course had to go out and grab some photos of him right away! I have an impatient personality when it comes to this sort of stuff. 

Grab yours before they're gone! P.s. If you have a little girl, she also has some REALLY adorable floral rompers, too! 

Ranlett Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Meet The Ranlett Family

I had the pleasure of photographing the Ranlett Family, and I am so excited to share a few images they chose from their gallery.  Mom did a great job picking out their wardrobe for their family portrait session. I mean, it's  not really hard when you have such a beautiful family to begin with. Am I right!?  Their little girl is the same age as my son and her personality is totally opposite of his. My son would've given the photographer a scowl for probably the entire session......not her! She was so happy to be there and gave me so many smiles. She was non-stop hi's from the moment I met her. Mom and dad did a great job wrangling her to get some really gorgeous family photos.

I would like to also give a shout out to dad for such a selfless act. He just got his hair cut just prior to their session. He grew it out and donated it. It took him 2 YEARS! His haircut was done at Jagged Edges Salon here in Batavia, N.Y. My son is doing the same thing and once I heard dad had done this, I decided to share his story with my son.  My son is 9 years old and sometimes worries that he'll be made fun of if he has long hair. Showing him that other "boys" are doing it, gives him a little more motivation to push forward with his goals. Thanks dad for being the motivation that my son needed.

Scroll down to see a few of their family photos. *Disclaimer* The last image I posted just because. It's totally out of focus, but dad tossed baby up in the air so high that mom, myself, and baby were terrified. Meanwhile, dad was totally having fun. You can see it in her face. I re-live that moment every time I look at the photo, hahaha!

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Pollock Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Meet the Pollock Family

When I started photography I was so afraid to photograph families.  Now, I LOVE IT! Especially when you get that family that just "knows" what to do. This family was amazing to work with and so fun! Let's not forget to mention how adorable their little guy is.  Take a look at a few images from their gallery. 

Metzler Family | Batavia family/Newborn Photographers

This family is AMAZING!!

They are so laid back, easy to work with, and fun! Mom contacted me a while back about doing maternity/newborn photos. I expressed to her that I only offer lifestyle newborn photos. She was totally on board and I have to say, I'm in love with all of their images.  Big sister was so sweet to her baby sister. She loved giving her sweet kisses and "attempted" to hold her as best she could.  

Also, can we give mom a big shout out at how amazing she looks?!  She's really pulling off this mom of a newborn way better than I did. 

Lifestyle photography is so beautiful and raw. As a newborn lifestyle photographer in Batavia NY, I love how much more comfortable my families are in their own home; especially the children. Another great thing about lifestyle photography is that should the family move to another home, they have these images to share with their little ones as they get older and can show them where they came home from the hospital, what their nursery looked like as a baby, their bedrooms as they became a toddler and so on.  I love looking back on old photos from when I was a kid and seeing the different homes we lived in as we grew up. It's really cool to see and memories come flooding back from that time in my life.  

Thank you, Metzler family, for sharing this amazing time in your life with me. I am so honored to have been chosen to be your newborn lifestyle photographer in Batavia, N.Y. Check out a few hand selected images from their gallery below. 

CLICK HERE to book your newborn lifestyle photography session today! 

Cora says, thanks for checking out our family photos!

Turner Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Oh Boy!

Check out this adorable family.  Mom has her hands full with this crew of boys. I can absolutely relate to her life as a mom.  I'm sure she cleans the toilet at least 1,200 times a day and if she doesn't I need to know her secret because I know I do!! One of the greatest things about being a mom of boys is that boys LOVE their mommas!  I definitely know this momma is loved so very much by her littles and I was so fortunate to be able to witness and capture their little snuggles with her.

I also need to give a shout out to dad and big brother because they were fantastic to photograph. Let's face it, dad's and older children usually don't enjoy having family photos done, but these two were so happy to be there and it definitely shows.  Or maybe they didn't and they're great actors! Either way, BRAVO!

Have a look at a very small collection of their gallery below and leave them some love in the comments. 

To book your portrait session with your Batavia NY Family Photographer CLICK HERE I look forward to hearing from you.

Mommy & Me Portrait Special | Batavia Family Photographers

Mom, you are special.

You might not feel that way when your little is puking all over you, the bags under your eyes have swelled due to lack of sleep, you're in your sweatpants for the 3rd day in a row because what's the point?! But I assure you, your place as a mother is one of the most (if not is) important roles you'll ever play.   

As a Batavia, NY Family photographer I feel as though it's important to be IN photos with your kids, and so my goal this year, is to be in more photos with my boys because I am THAT mom that I just mentioned above.  My hair is in a constant state of flyaways, leggings are my favorite "pants", and while spit up is no longer an issue; my sweat from wrangling 3 boys and 3 dogs is! I don't ever feel as though I'm 'photo ready.'  When I look at photos of my mom, her being 'photo ready' is the last thing on my mind.  I'm thinking how great these images are to look back on from when we were little. The memories that were captured. And when she is gone, I will cherish ANY photo I have of her because I won't be able to see her face any longer.

Remember that when you book your Mommy & Me Portrait Session with your Batavia, NY family photographer.  These keepsake photos that you get to hand down to your children when they're grown and starting their own families. I am also offering a FREE GIFT when you pamper yourself at Pollyanna & Dot or Jagged Edges Salon in Batavia, NY.  This is a great Mother's Day gift to yourself or your mom!

These are available for the entire month of May. Space is limited so CLICK HERE to schedule your Mommy & Me session today.

My Family | Batavia Family Photographers

You can NEVER have enough family photos!

I have about 9584445446464675664646413117 x 500,000, photos, but I still don't think that's enough. 

This is a photo that my mom requests every other Christmas. One where most of the family (yep, that's not all of them) gathers to share love, laughter, and of course FOOD! The reason I'm sharing this, is because this is the very last photo I have of my grandmother before she passed away yesterday morning. It was so unexpected and sudden. She is the one sitting on the couch all the way to the right.  I am mad because this was Christmas day 2016.  It is now April, and THIS is the last photo I have of her! That's why that number above is still not enough.

I spent quite a bit of time as a child running back and forth between my aunt/uncle's house and grandma/grandpa's house. I don't remember a ton, but the one thing I do remember is that SHE is why I know of Bob Ross.  I don't recall a time when visiting her, that I didn't hear something about a happy little tree or chh, chh, chh faintly in the background.  I don't recall my grandma yelling (loudly anyways) often. Maybe Bob Ross had something to do with that. His show was so calming. I guess Grandma and Bob Ross can paint together now wherever they are. Happy little trees, clouds, streams, water falls and whatever else their hearts desire. You will be missed, Grandma. Looking at this photo, and you sitting there, so healthy and happy, I just can't believe you won't be there next year. 

Rest in peace Grandma. 

And just when you think you've clicked that shutter one too many times, click it again!

Photographer in Batavia NY | Baby Suzanna | Fresh-48

I LOVE babies! I really, REALLY love new babies!  I was told that Golisono Children's Hospital has a baby snuggler program for the NICU. I "jokingly" say I'm going to be the baby smuggler instead. But for real though, Hahahaha!  

Meet little Suzie.  She was born last Tuesday (4/4). Mom and dad didn't find out what they were having. Can I just say........patience!  I wanted to find out the gender of my children the same day I found out I was pregnant. How these two held out for a full 9 months is beyond me! Here are a few shot from their Fresh-48 session, and I am so in love. I only wish big sister, Cora, could've been there. Unfortunately, it's flu season and UMMC (Batavia, N.Y.) is being very cautious about letting in the littles.  

Your baby will only be this little once! Their tiny little fingers and toes. Skin so pink and soft. You savor it, and I'll capture it! 

Click here to schedule your Fresh-48 today!

Little Fighter; Lucas | Photographer in Batavia NY

Meet Lucas! 

You see that cute little face? That's the face of a fighter, a survivor; a baby! He has overcome so much more than many adults have in their entire lifetime, and he's ONE! 

I met Lucas's mom in a social media mom's group. I won't go too much into the story of how because I don't want to lose track of the real story here, but needless to say, a couple of other moms were being very rude and selfish. Lucas's mom in-boxed me to share kind words. This was just before Christmas, and so our family was doing our annual Christmas donation. It was Christmas trees to families in need. She shared with me that her son had, had three, THREE brain surgeries that year and that she was just thankful he was alive! She was appalled to see these woman acting the way they did. I was so touched by her story that I just knew I had to meet her and her little guy. So I sent mom a little surprise in the mail; a gift certificate to have her family photographed.  

Here's Lucas's story:

"3 days before he was 4 months he was rushed to children's hospital because he couldn't eat without choking and wasn't breathing right. He had lost movement in his arms. After 5 hours of being there he was put in picu on a ventilator to help him breathe. After numerous tests and MRI's they found chiari malformation and syringomyelia myelia. He had emergency surgery at 4 months old to help treat his symptoms. We was there for 2 weeks in picu. Little did we know our journey had just begun.

A few days before his 8 month Birthday he showed all the symptoms and signs again and was rushed back up to children's where they found he had hydrochephalus and at 8 months had emergency surgery yet again and had a shunt placement. After this surgery he showed improvement again but was hospitalized twice for a week each for high fevers and had to have his shunt tapped and antibiotics each time. We finally got home and was okay for awhile, but at his 11 month checkup (MRI) they found his csf fluid was blocked and the fluid in his spine had grown and he would require another decompression surgery.

So, at 12 months, he had another brain surgery. He did well the next few months and in November we got great news that his MRI showed fluid was flowing and the fluid in his spine had gone down. He has good days and bad days. When the weather changes it is really rough on him. His shunt was just checked recently and is working great. He will have the shunt for life and it does require revisions as he grows so everything is checked every 6 months. His next MRI is in May and we are hopeful for good news as this is an incurable disease and treatment is the only option.

He continues to grow and is the happiest kid. We got lucky and he has no motor skill delays but does require pt to keep on it as the syringomyelia affected his left leg for a bit. He will continue to have MRIs every 6 months and if I think he's acting off. It's been a rough road for our family but looking at him you would never know.

He will need revisions in the future and possible surgeries are unknown as he grows. He also will never be able to play contact sports, no roller coasters and no bounce house or trampolines he's going to give me hell when other kids can. I feel so bad about it but his life is far more important than any sport." -Mom

Mom, thank you for sharing Lucas's story with me, and now the world, but most of all, thank you for sharing your little guy with me. I had a blast! He is definitely a happy, spunky little boy. I can't stress it enough that just because someone appears to be happy, healthy, or on top of the world, doesn't mean they actually are. We all lift our heads and put on a happy face when in public, but the real story of each person lies deep inside. 

“Give me scars, give me pain
Then they’ll say to me, say to me, say to me
There goes the fighter, there goes the fighter”

— "The Fighter" (feat. Ryan Tedder​)

Mom asked if it was okay if we could get a photo of Lucas with his Easter basket because he was in the hospital for his 1st Easter. My response- OF COURSE!

Here is an image of mom and big sister. I only added this one because I love the emotion and connection this image offers. You can see the love they share, and the strong woman that mom is. My only wish for this image is that Lucas was present, too. He was done by this point.