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.

4 Tips on How to Manage Fussy Children During Portrait Session

Fussy children during your photo session can be stressful. I have 3 children of my own; I get it! And, they’re all boys- which seems to be more difficult to convince them that family photos are important. Now, I must admit that these are not fool proof tips and there are some children that are unbreakable, but they do work most of the time and are always worth a try.

Tip #1

• Be Empathetic: Some children start the session with strong emotions, and that’s okay. You have protected your children and taught them stranger danger since they were born and now you expect them to perform for a stranger. As your Batavia, N.Y. photographer, I try to put myself in the shoes of your little ones. I read their body language and develop a plan based on the energy they are giving me. Maybe they are hugging your leg and hiding. This shows me they are a little shy and probably a little nervous. Maybe they are clutching you and crying. This tells me that I am not to be trusted just yet and must earn it. I must show them that I am not here to cause them any harm. These two things tell me that bringing out the camera right away is not the best idea if I want to win them over. They need time. They need time to assess the situation and get comfortable with their surroundings. Never push if your children are not ready. Be patient and they will come around. If you know your child requires extra time, make that known to your photographer so that they can give you ample time. This is also why I tell parents to never let their child(ren) fall asleep in the car on the way to a session. Could you imagine falling asleep in one place and waking up in another, meeting a new person in a location you’ve never been, AND you are expected to put on your best face?! That’s going to be a negative for me.

Tip #2

• Give them a break: Your children have feelings just like you and me. The only difference is they haven’t been afforded the full experience on how to manage those emotions just yet. Maybe they started off their session strong but about 15 minutes in they just aren’t having it anymore- Give them a moment. Allow them to have a snack or a little drink. Give them some time to gather their emotions and bring them back when they’re ready. A good family photographer will also be able to pick-up on these cues and should be able to change it up to create a set-up that will be more appealing to your little one: This might be throwing them in the air, giving them some tickles, standing and walking, allowing your child to run or jump, etc. Kids are unpredictable and we need to be able to adapt to their needs.

  Tip #3

• Positive words: I don’t have enough fingers and toes to count the amount of times I’ve told parents that yelling at your children will not work to correct their behavior during a session. In fact, I’ve physically seen a child get worse because of it. Why? Your child is having a moment and needs that time to process it. Yelling at them actually shuts them down and makes them even more upset. Not to mention, it embarrasses them in front of a new person. If you have ever worked with me, you have probably heard me tell your children that they are doing a great job and how amazing they are, and that I appreciate them for doing a job well done. I always tell parents that if your child is not harming anyone or themselves, all play and silliness is okay with me! I get inspired by your children. Do I like children who follow directions well? Of course! But I also love those free-spirited children who force me to get creative.

  I remember becoming a parent for the 1st time. I loved seeing the world through his eyes. It’s a perspective I’ve seen before but was lost in my growth. Give me that with your children, too.

  Tip #4

• Embrace it: Sometimes kids just have bad days- Adults do, too! They just don’t know how to, as my SIL is told often, “fix their face”. In this situation I just say to embrace it. This stage of their life won’t last forever, so it’s important we document who they are in that moment, and if that means RBF, then that’s what we get. Another option is to literally embrace them! Hold them close with their face away from the camera and just give them all the love. Even though you can’t see their face, your love will still shine through by a simple snuggle. These offer a more emotive style session and can leave you feeling excited to share this sweet moment with the world just as much as an image with their smiling face.

And that concludes my list. I hope you found it helpful. If you have any other tips that you have used and work well, I’d love to hear from you!

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!

Why Your Color Photograph Doesn't Look as good in B&W | Batavia NY Family Photographer

Do you love Black & White photographs?

I know I do! There are times when I get special requests to convert a color photo to black and white. You see, when I edit my photos, I give every family their gallery in all color edits with the exception of a few that I will convert to Black & White, but only if I think the photo can handle the conversion. So, because of the way I edit and the requests I’ve received, I decided to do a little write up about my “why” I don’t convert all of my images to Black & White.

To start, we need to define Dynamic Range- Dynamic Range has to do with, but is not limited to, the light being captured in a photograph. Simply put, an image created with a lot of light and a lot of shadow would be considered an image with a great deal of dynamic range (high contrast). These types of images covert to Black & White beautifully!

If you look below I have shown 2 examples. One has great dynamic range while the other, even though it’s a great shot, is 1000% better in color!

With that said, I will do a Black & White conversion if requested but, if you truly love Black & Whites and want them in your gallery, please let your photographer know this before your family portrait session. This way they can be fully prepared to photograph your family for the Black & White conversion.

Black & Whites are created in camera with the light and the location.

Currier Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Batavia, N.Y. Baker has a secret to share!

I had the pleasure of meeting Kirsten from KMC Cakes a few months back. She asked if I could photograph some display cakes for her shop.  She has some real talent, this one! Not only are her cakes super yummy, but the detail and design of her cakes are so intricate it's almost hard to believe they're edible! She made my son a Ninjago, Lego cake for his birthday and his face when he saw that thing is something I'll never forget.  She is worth every. single. cent!  She is based in Batavia, N.Y. but she works with families and wedding couples all over Western, N.Y. 

Now back to our regularly scheduled program......

Kirsten had mentioned to me that she wanted to have some family photos done, so we scheduled a date, and planned their family portrait session. Being a family photographer in Batavia, N.Y. this worked out splendidly.  Low and behold, she had a surprise for me! We had to re-planned their family session, and had SO MUCH FUN!

Sure, the bugs ate us alive at the beginning, but you'd never guess by their beautiful family photos.  I should also mention that their little 3 year old daughter was a riot.  She was so ready to show off her dance moves, running skills and bug catching.   See Kirsten's "secret recipe" below (along with all their adorable family photos). 

Greis Family | Batavia Newborn Photographers

Meet the Greis Family!

Mama invested in a Fresh-48 session around Thanksgiving last year (2016), but I didn't know until I checked my account notifications.  I was so flipping excited! Problem was, I couldn't say anything. Do you know how hard that is?!

I had the pleasure of meeting this little beauty last weekend. I couldn't be happier for their little family. Mom of course let me sneak in lots of snuggles. That's the real reason why I offer Fresh-48 sessions.  I get in my baby fix!  I love getting to work with this family because they're so laid back and fun to be around.  Mom and dad are so in love with their little ones, it's hard to not get great photos. Even Grandma and Grandpa were in a "new baby coma." It's actually a really beautiful thing to witness grandparents meeting their grandchildren for the 1st time. 

Take a scroll through their images below to see what I mean and while you're at it, see if you can guess what the family named her. 

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. 

Baltz Family | Batavia Children's Photographers

Meet the Baltz Family

Mom contacted me about having her family photographed and mentioned that she had not had any professional photos done since her oldest was 7; he is now 16.  Of course as a family photographer I was sad, but as a mom, I understood.  Life happens, and as your children get older they are more active in sports and extra curricular activities that just surviving the day is a victory in itself.  Upon mom's inquiry I investigated a little further about her children; names, ages, etc. When she mentioned that she had teenagers I was nervous.  A majority of the families I work with have younger children usually ranging from newborn to about 10.  I was nervous because teenagers, generally speaking, 'have it all figured out'.  They don't usually enjoy being photographed, and when I say they I mean boys, and they DEFINITELY don't like to be photographed with their siblings, and even more-so........{gasp} TOUCHING! 

These kids were the exception to the rule. They seemed to really enjoy each others company and totally went with anything I asked them to do.  Mom was so very awesome during the whole process and you could definitely see how much she loves her children.  She was so kind to them and had fun cracking silly jokes with them. You could tell that they have a wonderful bond. 

Mom drove all the way out from Henrietta, N.Y. to have these portraits done with me; a photographer in Batavia, N.Y. and I am so grateful that she trusted me to capture some really genuine and beautiful portraits of her children.  Have a look at a few of the images she hand selected to share and display in her home. {psst....my personal fave is the last one.}

The Baltz Family

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. 

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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McLaughlin Family | Batavia Family Photographers

Meet the McLaughlin Family

Amy, mom, is the owner and groomer of Amy's Fluffy Friends here in Batavia, N.Y. She's a hard worker, loving mom and wife, active community member and one of the strongest woman I know.  This family has been through a lot in the past year and I am just so happy to see these beautiful, genuine smiles on their faces. They face the grind every single day and every single time they're in front of my camera their love and devotion for each other radiates.  They're so fun to work with and they go along with pretty much any crazy ideas I have. Dad is so on board with having their photos done, that is makes for a smooth session and you can just see how happy he is to be a part of this little family. 

I should also make note at how beautiful mom looks in her floral dress and yellow Cardigan. Her wardrobe is by Pollyanna & Dot; a local dress shop located here in Batavia, N.Y. You can find more info about her shop HERE.   The dress shop is owed by Ashley Bateman and she has been dressing Batavia and surrounding areas for over a year now. Amy loves her shop and she looks fabulous in her dresses!

Take a look at a few images from their gallery below. Enjoy!

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.

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!