Baby Gavin: 3 Weeks {Dallas/Allen Newborn Photographer}

The teachers at my son's school recently got together to give fellow teacher, Miss Megan, a newborn photo session for her Baby Shower. I'm always thrilled to photograph newborns and was especially looking forward to meeting baby Gavin and getting to know Megan. 

Gavin is three weeks old and such a handsome little fellow.  Though it was dreary outside, we were able to find a small patch of light in his mommy's bedroom to hold his newborn session.  Gavin, like most newborns, was drawn to the light.  We didn't have much luck drawing his attention away from the window.

Distracted little man aside, the session couldn't have gone any better. With only a small break to drink a bottle, Gavin was such a good sport. And that good behavior apparently lasts all through the night.  His mommy says he's only waking up once in the middle of the night to eat. I'm thinking I'd like to know her secret (IF - and that's a big IF - I ever end up needing it again).

Could he be any more precious!

sigh...I just love these tender moments between mother and son.

Gavin's sweet Aunt Rachel was on hand all day to help out her sister. Gavin adores her, and I'm pretty sure the feelings are mutual :)

Fleurs & Events by Amparo

Fleurs & Events by Amparo has to be one of the most charming floral shops I've encountered in a long time.  Not only was the shop itself breathtakingly beautiful with an old-world feel, but the Creative Director, Amparo, who specializes in European Floral Experiences, was such a breath of fresh air.   She was so sweet and genuinely kind. 

I met Amparo while on my session with sweet little Margaret a couple weeks ago.  Before beginning Margaret's session, I wanted to pop in to make sure it was okay to snap a few pictures outside Amparo's doorway. As you can see in the picture above, her shop is postcard perfect, and I was so hoping she'd allow me to incorporate that beauty into a few of my shots.  

Not only did Amparo graciously oblige, but she even provided several flowers that made for the perfect props.  Amparo's generosity and kind-heartedness reminded me of the good old days when store owners cared for their patrons and took the time to know them by name.

I wanted to take the time to pay it forward and highlight her shop on my blog.  I couldn't just take a picture of the flowers outside her shop.  I wanted you to see for yourself the exquisite creations found inside.  The flowers were vibrant, fresh, unique, and exotic.  I could tell a whole lot of love and passion went into each and every arrangement.

Take a look for yourself.

In case you haven't bought your mother something for Mother's Day, it isn't too late.  Stop in to see Amparo and her associates for your last minute gifts.  They are also available to assist you in your wedding, special event, floral, decorating, and catering needs. 

I would think any bride would be honored to carry one of Amparo's bouquets down the aisle.  Don't you agree?  One thing is for certain, these aren't supermarket bouquets.  These are a work of art!  

Stop in to see for yourself at 6841 Virginia Pkwy, Suite 105 in McKinney, Texas 75070.  Or, visit their website at www.fleurs-events.com.

Thanks again for the flowers, Amparo.  Your a gem!

Best Friends: Lily and Grace

Lily's mom Tami was telling me during this session how she had taken a ton of pictures of her first born son when he was little.  She was shocked to discover recently how few pictures she had taken of Lily.  So, she decided it was Lily's turn to have a special session of her own.  Big brother was left at home.

Isn't that the way it is with our second born? I can remember feeding my first born homemade baby food.  My second born was fed out of a jar. Sure, it was mostly organic, but I always felt it was second best.  I shutter to think what I'd feed our third child if he/she ever came about. 

Life with two small children has a way of bringing our best intentions to a slow halt.  Tami reminded me how important it is to document each child's life.  Perhaps it's time for you to schedule a session for your younger child as well?  

Instead of her big brother, Lily was allowed to bring along her best friend to her photo session.  She and Grace just happened to be having their very first slumber party that night, so it was a super fun way to kick off their weekend together.  I can remember going along with my best friend on a photo session when I was growing up.  I still treasure those pictures - though I much prefer the post-braces me. 

I'd say we got some precious images of Lily and some very fun pictures of the two of them together.  Take a look!

There was some debate over the two painted chairs I had brought along. Lily LOVED the blue sunflower chair.  I, of course, preferred the pink one that coordinated better with her outfit.  So, we compromised.  We took a few pics with each.  This last one's for you, Lily!  I think it worked out just fine!

Does your child have a best friend?  Be sure to take pictures of the two of them together.  They'll treasure those pictures long after life takes them on their own separate journeys.

Aubrey, Parker and Piper: Cuteness x3

This first image was taken during my very first session with this family just short of 7 months ago right after Parker and Piper were born.  I love how tenderly their big sister, Aubrey, is holding each of them.  

Now look at them all.  Aubrey is a sweet as ever.  Little Piper is beautiful and simply full of giggles.  Handsome Parker is cutting his first teeth - AND already on the move.  

Mariah hoped the twins would both be sitting up in time for this session.  Who knew our little man Parker would be CRAWLING!  I think they may just have a little athlete on their hands.

This is the fourth time I've photographed this family.  One thing is certain.  They are a family full of love for one another and full of laughter.  They are definitely hands on parents.  I've recently discovered that Mariah does wonderful crafts and fun themed meals for Aubrey to teach her about the world she lives in. I'm certain I'll have to incorporate a few of her ideas with my own children.  Talk about creative!  Who knew a hotdog could double as an octopus?  That sure makes learning about the ocean much more interesting for little minds, doesn't it.  She gave me permission to share the link to her blog, so you can check it our for yourself.

Aren't they a beautiful family?  Mariah, Great job on coordinating all the outfits.  See, you didn't need me after all.  

Can't wait until next time!

Sweet Margaret {Dallas Children's Photographer/Baby Boot Camp}

Margaret is just a few months younger than my little girl.  I really love two year olds.  They are learning to be so independant and have so much enthusiasm for everything and everyone in their world.  Sweet Margaret was no exception.  She was so joyful and smiley.  I found myself a little happier for having spent some time with her.

Here are a few of my favorite images from Margaret's session

 that showcase her sweet, fun personality.

Mommy and Daddy weren't planning on being in any of the pictures, but I had to get them in there somehow.  I think little Margaret will love and treasure this picture when she's older.

Margaret's mommy, Tricia, is about to have baby number two.  She and another one of my clients, Jennifer, teach Baby Boot Camp classes. Tricia actually owns the business which was recently featured in an artical written by a reporter from the Allen American.  The reporter covered an upcoming free event Tricia is sponsoring in honor of Mother's Day (details below).  

You can read the article at the following link.

http://www.scntx.com/articles/2009/04/22/news_update/715.txt

What new Mommy doesn't want to get back into shape? Sometimes it is difficult to arrange for a sitter, so working out with your baby in tow (with exercises geared to accommodating baby strollers) is a great way to do just that!  There are several locations throughout Collin County, so check out their website listed below and join in on the fun.  And don't hesitate to give Tricia a call if you have any questions.

INFO ON THE MOTHER'S DAY EVENT:

Friday, May 8
9:15 AM
Celebration Park
Meet in parking lot at 500 North Malone Road
Free gifts, raffles, refreshments, fun free class, and a chance to cool off in the splash park included! :)
__________________________________
Tricia Meehlhause
Franchise Owner - Allen, Plano (East), Wylie
214-335-6406 | tricia.meehlhause@babybootcamp.com

Baby Boot Camp®
Bring your baby. Get fit.®
www.babybootcamp.com

Matilda Jane Mini Session Sneak Peaks {Matilda Jane}

The long wait is finally over.  Saturday was our much anticipated Matilda Jane Mini Session photo event.  Three of the six families had to be reschedule due to illness and scheduling conflicts, but the three families we were able to photograph were were so much fun!  I am so pleased with all of the pictures from these sessions.  I'll post a quick overview sneak peak today and will post on each of the families separately throughout the week.

Say Hello to Parker!

And his twin sister Piper!

And their big sister Aubrey!

Say hello to Margaret (very soon to be a big sister herself)!

And last but not least, Lily!

Alyssa and Ashley {Allen Texas Senior Photography, McKinney Senior Photography}

Meet Alyssa and Ashley.  Alyssa is a Junior.  She's a member of the National Honor Society and the sister of two of my son's classmates. Ashley is Alyssa's cousin and a soon to be High School graduate!  We doubled up on their sessions for twice the fun.  Their mothers wanted some nice pictures of the two of them together.  What better way to do just that!  

Ashley and Alyssa are not just cousins, they're very good friends as well.  Both of their families relocated to Texas a couple of years ago from the sunny state of California, so they have a lot in common - not just their beauty.

Throughout the session, Alyssa took pictures of me taking pictures. Turns out I'm the subject of her latest English project.  She's been assigned to write a story featuring people and their passions.  She had chosen photography as her subject, so taking her camera along on our session was the perfect fit.  I got to fulfill my passion while taking pictures of two lovely young ladies, and she got to check off something on her homework list.  Not a bad switch-off if you ask me.

Here's the beautiful, incredibly sweet Alyssa.

And the stunning, outgoing, and very likable Ashley:

And of course, we can't forget to make those mothers of theirs happy. Here they are together:

I've been wanting to try this following sequence of shots below for quite some time.  I had a hunch Ashley would be up for the challenge, and she didn't disappoint.  How fun is this!

I know I've said this before, but it's true for me once again.  Each session keeps getting better and better and more and more fun.  My session with Ashley and Alyssa was one of my favorites to date.  They were such great sports, and I was able to try out a few new shots. Thanks again, girls!  I had a blast.  Hope you did as well. 

One thing is certain...my passion (and I think it's fair to say my photography skills) certainly grew during this session.

Jason and Carley are having a baby!

Jason and I used to teach together at Providence Christian School of Texas.  He was passionate about young people then and continues to be today where he now serves as the Pastor of Student Ministries at our church in Frisco.  His wife Carley shares his passion for young people and serves right beside him in the youth program.  I was so thrilled to finally meet her today. 

During our son's recent scare with epilepsy, Jason was there at the hospital with us while we waited for our MRI results.  He prayed over our son and spent time talking to us to help take our mind off the situation.  That's Jason.  He's just an overall great guy who genuinely cares for others.

Jason and Carley are expecting their first baby on May 14th.  (Enjoy your last couple weeks of freedom, you two!)  Jason was so sweet to treat Carley to a professional maternity session.  He even had the perfect location in mind.  We met up at Fountain Place located in downtown Dallas where they have enjoyed many evening strolls over the years. What a beautifully landscaped courtyard!  It is absolutely gorgeous! 

Throughout the session I felt like I was in the mountains or near the beach.  The sound of the rushing water was so soothing.  At times, though, the water was so loud that I had to resort to a game a charades just to communicate with Jason and Carley.  Fortunately, they caught on quick and the session went smoothly.  I really enjoyed the morning.

Here are a few of my favorites, Jason and Carley.  I can't wait to meet your little baby in just a few short weeks.  My prayers are with you for a healthy delivery and a healthy, happy baby!

Emily and Richard

Meet Emily.  She's the girlfriend of Richard, the oldest sibling from last Saturday's session. I was thrilled to be able to take some portraits for Emily as well as some really great pictures of Richard and Emily together during Saturday's session.  

Isn't Emily stunning!   

They're are a pretty sweet looking couple, too!

Richard, Ashleigh, and Austin

Cindy called me a couple weeks ago wanting to schedule a time to get some updated portraits for her older children.  Richard, 24, Ashleigh, 21, and Austin, 14, are a great group of young adults.

Before my youngest brother was born (the summer before my 8th grade), I grew up sandwiched between two brothers - just like Ashleigh. It was so much fun seeing how the three of them interact.  Sure made me miss all three of my brothers (who all live out of town).

In honor of brothers everywhere (especially mine), I can't end this post without mentioning that tomorrow is Brother's Day - in my family anyway.  We began the holiday the day of my grandmother's funeral - vowing to dedicate one day each year to her memory and to each other. We didn't want to grow apart like some of my uncles had done.  I might add that Sister's Day (I'm important too!) is on May 4th.

So, maybe the rest of you can join in on our little holiday and give your brothers a call today. Let them know how much you care!  Life is short!

Here are a few favorites from Richard, Ashleigh, and Austin's session.  (I am so jealous of their perfect white teeth!)