Creek Walks + Softball | Killing your Senior Session even when you don't feel good :(

This sweet girl was is such a trooper. I make that distinction because I know that even though I only spent a little over an hour with her, I know she is this cool all. the. time.

First of all, I have to point out that this chick is super cool, fun, and down-to-earth. She is completely honest and was a delight to work with. But she is also pretty much amazing at life, since she will be graduating early and heading off to play softball at Memphis, this winter. Yeah, like a month away.

I'm sure she is ready - even though Mom and Dad are wishing she would pump the brakes and stay a little longer.

She is the baby after all.

Meet Regan. Poor thing wasn't just beautiful and open to anything - see creek walking photos below - she also got through all of this feeling pretty ill. I can't imagine seeing her on a good day if this is Regan sick. Read on to find out how she prepared for - and made it through - the shooting of these gorgeous photos.

1. How did you feel before the photo shoot? Did you have any concerns?
Not really concerned, but just anxious to see if you could do something with
the outfits that we had...

2. Awesome clothing choices, where did you get your inspiration?

She mainly just wanted to be herself and we just picked stuff in her closet,
except for the dress.

3. How was everyone feeling during the shoot? How was Regan's stomach after the shoot?
I think she may have been overheated the day of the shoot.

3a. Think the stomach was just nerves or more serious?
Could have been nerves, I suppose, but she is not normally a nervous person.

3b. Regan, how did you deal with Michelle giving you a bunch of strange things to do while you didn't feel well?

I feel like I was telling Michelle what I wanted to do and she just "tweaked" it.
 

4. What are you going to miss most when you go away to school? Mom/Dad what will you miss the most when your little girl goes away?

Regan said she will miss hanging out with her friends and family most.   

Mom and Dad are going to miss her fun personality and just knowing that she is safe at
home.  We are also going to miss her laugh and daily stories.

5. Based on the few images you've seen, do you think we accomplished goals?

Yes, definitely.  Beautiful scenery and our beautiful girl looking her best.

6. What were you thinking during the session? Any directions sound strange until you saw the finished photo (if you have yet)? Remember specific posed that you were thinking 'Really?!?'
No and no, definitely not.  Michelle is obviously very experienced and a professional.  Just look at the results!

7. What did you talk about in the car as you left the shoot?

We talked about how relieved we were that it went so well.  She said she was very comfortable more than she expected.

8. Is there anything you would have done (or had Michelle do) differently?
We would probably have chosen so warmer weather clothes, but we went with the "Fall" theme.

9. Mom/Dad what advice would you give other parents about planning/scheduling their high school senior's photo session?
First, use Michelle!  Next, plan your clothing/outfits with the season.

10. What was your favorite part of the photo shoot?
The barefoot in the creek pictures.

Pearls + Glittery Toms | MHP Louisville, KY Family Photographer

"She loves bows, gets really upset when I take them out of her hair."

Hadley Margaret has a special place in my heart. From maternity photos, newborn, and now a whole year old...I just can't get over that sweet smile.

And her parents are so much fun, when they are not busy being awesome at everything (I had to catch mom jet-setting to answer a few quick questions about their session).

How did you feel before the photo shoot? Did you have any concerns?
Not really - I mean you want the pictures to turn out well and was obviously hoping Hadley would be her usual happy, silly self :)


Beautiful fall clothing choices, where did you get your inspiration?

I love Tea Collection for Hadley - just couldn't resist the little flannel top.  I have to give Dress & Dwell in New Albany a shout out for my shirt too (check them out here).  That's my go-to.  Josh just had to coordinate with the girls.  :)
 

What makes Hadley giggle the most?
She LOVES Peek a boo.  She also loves to be chased and to make silly noises.
 

What were your hopes for the session?

To capture this time in our lives which has been so precious and to capture all of the joy Hadley Margaret has brought to our family.  She is a complete blessing.

Based on the few images you've seen, do you think we accomplished goals?

So far - yes!!!  I'm dying to see the rest.

What did you talk about in the car as you left the shoot?
We love Michelle!  You're so easy to be with and genuine and it was just a really enjoyable session.  Went by fast!



We could not have asked for a prettier day, and Hadley is always a joy. This session was tons of fun and I agree that it went by so fast, they did an amazing job.

XOXO,
Mich

P.S.  If you have a sweet little one that is full of smiles and personality, or you simply enjoyed the images above, please share this post or pin the images on pinterest. You can also signup in the box above to follow my blog for more yummy portrait sessions like this one.
Please don't crop out the logo, alter or save these images. All rights reserved © 2015 MHaas Photography.<3 

Its the Most Wonderful Time of the Year... | MHP Mini Session Info 2015

Its Holiday Mini Session time! With some help from my friends, I found the CUTEST little evergreen tree farm. Perfect for portraits whether you celebrate Christmas or Kwanzaa. I have just two dates open at this time and the spots are limited. Please head on over to the link below to book your spot.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mhp-holiday-mini-sessions-tickets-19417073991

You will receive a followup email after payment is complete.

Four Generations = Endless Joy | MHaas Photography Family Photographer

"Family is not an important thing. It's everything." - Michael J. Fox

It has been a pleasure to work with this sweet family. You might recognize one of my favorite little families included because you have seen them 3 times now - hint: its the cuties with twins. Hadley and Holden were first in front of my camera at about 6 months old back in January and they have grown so much this year.

With such a large group and the increase in requests for these sessions, I asked if we could make this blog a little different. There are a few different people from the shoot each giving their own unique perspective.

For reference as you read, Neva is in the pink v-neck sweater, Kristal is hold little Mr. Holden and Shaun is in a khaki colored button-down standing between his three beautiful ladies (and handsome son too). Their answers are in italics.

1. How did you feel before the photo shoot? Did you have any concerns?
Neva: Excited to finally get the family together for professional photos!

2. Was it difficult to get everyone together?
Kristal: Surprisingly not. You had an available date that worked with everyone's schedule and we were all excited to have a family photo session.

3. Any special occasion for the session?
Kristal: My mom's, Neva's, birthday. She has been wanting professional photos of the family all together and separate forever. You know grandmas, they can never have too many photos of their kids and kids' kids!

4. Have you had large family photos taken before? If so, how long ago?
Kristal: Not professional photos. We just always try to squeeze the family together on the couch during the holidays to take a picture.

5. Based on the few images you've seen, do you think we accomplished goals?
Shaun: Yes, they look great.

6. What were you thinking during the session?
Neva: I was thinking what a great night it was and hoping we were getting some good photos of the family and my grandbabies.

7. What did you talk about in the car as you left the shoot?
Shaun: That the session went really well and we couldn't wait to see how the pictures would turn out.

8. Is there anything you would have done (or had Michelle do) differently? Any suggestions for making the dads feel more comfortable?

None suggested so I'm taking that as a win :)
9. What advice would you give other families considering an extended family session? Did you find the session to be a good value?
Kristal: From what we have seen in the preview photos, it's a great value. I initially thought it would be very hard to get everyone together with schedule and in a great location that my grandparents could physically get to but it all seemed to go very smooth and now our family will have photos to cherish forever.

10. What was your favorite part of the photo shoot?

Neva: Getting to spend time with the entire family and knowing I was finally going to get my family photos!

Shaun: The best part of the session was that we are blessed to have my grandparents healthy and able to be in the photos with the rest of the family. And I really loved some of the moments we captured and can't wait to see how all of the turned out.

Kristal: Getting a photo of all the kids together. We either have outdated ones without the babies, or our attempts to do them at home have failed. Also, the location and weather were perfect.


I am so in love with these photos and that we had an amazing day to play and make some gorgeous images. This family was loads of fun and there are even more where these came from. The setting, light, leaves, colors, and most importantly the family, they were all simply amazing.

XOXO,
Mich

P.S. If you have been thinking about having an extended family session, don't wait. Family is such a treasure and you will want images that last longer than a lifetime.

And longer than the life of that CD or computer.

Professional printed photographs are an heirloom and will last long enough for these grandbabies to share with their grandbabies. How cool is that? Contact me to schedule your professional photography session.

P.S.S How sweet are those grandbabies? Goodness <3

Yummy Light + A Dapper Little Man | Leo [14 months] MHP Family Photographer

I just love getting a little note from old friends. 

Sandy and I went to high school together, worked on the yearbook, and attended the same college. Life has happened in between and I was so excited to catch up a bit, meet her sweet hubby, Michael, and little man, Leo. 

Leo was not so thrilled to see me. 

But I think I pretty much won, and with the help of the amazing Anika, we got some great photos of this sweet family. Anika, I still might call you to help with other sessions :)

I asked them a few post-session questions to see what they were really thinking and hopefully give you all some real-life, first-hand accounts of the beautiful chaos that is MHaas Photography sessions with a 14 month old. Enjoy!

1. How did you feel before the photo shoot? Did you have any concerns? 

Honestly a little overwhelmed. I've always had to just get myself ready but having to get Leo ready as well was a bit stressful, hence the reason we were late ;) 

2. Beautiful fall clothing choices, where did you get your inspiration? 

My sister took some photos last fall with the color mustard and I loved them, that was the inspiration behind our dressed up look.

3. What makes your family giggle the most? 

Being silly with Leo, playing peekaboo, watching dad make funny sounds/faces.

4. What were your hopes for the session? 

Timeless photos that could be printed and displayed in our home, capturing the milestone of leo turning 1 (2 months later lol) 

5. Based on the few images you've seen, do you think we accomplished goals? 

Yes!

6. What were you thinking during the session? 

Somewhat stressed because I did not think Leo was behaving very well, 

would not let us hold him for any pictures.

 7. What did you talk about in the car as you left the shoot?

How exhausted and hungry we were lol, hoping that you were able to get some good pictures 

despite Leo's behavior.

8. Is there anything you would have done (or had Michelle do) differently? Michael, what are your suggestions for making the dads feel more comfortable? 

I probably would have picked an early morning shoot (not sure if that is ideal lighting). That is when Leo is most happy, content, and agreeable. 

9. Dad, what advice would you give other dads before their family photo shoot? And you Mom? 

 Just relax, no matter how your child is acting some priceless pics will come out of it.

10. What was your favorite part of the photo shoot? Be sure to ask Dad too :) 

I love seeing life through my child's eye, every experience is new to him, so seeing him walk around and explore nature is priceless to me, Also seeing him interact with my husband- brings warmth to my heart!

Michael's responses... It was very comfortable.  I like taking pictures when it more natural instead of forced.  I thought the photos so far have been great,  I'm excited to see the rest.  As for any advice, show up and support your wife.  After the pictures and the finished product you'll be happy you did.  

Thank you again :)

Thank you Michael, Sandy, and Leo (and Anika too!) It was wonderful to see you again Sandy and I can't wait to show you more photos of your sweet family ~ and hopefully find the perfect photo(s) for that spot in your house.

XOXO,
Mich

P.S.  If you enjoyed the images above, please share this post or pin the images on pinterest. You can also signup to follow my blog for more yummy portrait sessions like this one.
Please don't crop out the logo, alter or save these images. All rights reserved © 2015 MHaas Photography.<3

Next to the River + Between two Trees [family] | Louisville, KY Family Photographer

The tree to the right marks the spot, where mom and dad tied the knot.

::swoon::

I always love to shoot a session in a spot that means something to my clients. These photos will serve as memory keepers, reminding you of amazing moments with your beautiful family members - all captured in time. And what better way to remember your wedding spot and your kiddos at this exact age.

When Brooke asked me to come out and take a look at her parent's home on the river where they wed in 2008, I was giddy.

Then I sat in an hour of traffic for our city's bridge-expansion-in-every-direction-plan :).

But it was all so worth it.

This adorable family is sitting in the spot where all of Brooke and Nathan's wedding guests sat a few years back, watching them tie the knot - between two trees - just to the right of the camera.

Secret time: Keegan must be a great secret keeper.

I was so thrilled with how these photos turned out and people are always so concern about their kiddos cooperating, I wanted to give you guys a little behind the shoot 411. So here goes, straight from Brooke and Nathan's mouths.

Big brother Keegan is so great with Grant and Harper.

1. How did you feel before the photo shoot? Did you have any concerns?

I'm always excited about having family pictures done but nervous about how well the kids will behave!

2. Did you prepare for the shoot? If so, how? We tried to talk to the kids, particularly the younger two, about cooperating during the session! (It does not always work)

3. Did the kids undergo any smile/giggle practicing?
No smile or giggle practicing! They know how to do that pretty well!

4. What makes your family giggle the most?

Unfortunately the kids think talking about toots are the funniest...

Growing up with an older brother and cousin that was like a brother, I know how little Harper feels, and she is not letting anything past them :). Adorable in her dress and boots and still beating the boys.

5. Was any member of the family bribed?

No bribes this time because they do not usually work...

6. What were your hopes for the session?

I just wanted to get some good pictures of everyone!

 How gorgeous is this scenery?AND right in the back yard ?!?

 7. Based on the few images you've seen, do you think we accomplished goals?

The images I have seen have surpassed my expectations!

 

8. What were you thinking during the session?

I thought you might go running for the hills screaming and I might follow behind you! Haha

 

 9. Is there anything you would have done (or had Michelle do) differently?

Weather was perfect and photographer was perfect :)

Some of those sweet candid moments are the most valuable, seeing your family in their element, playing match :)

10. What advice would you give other dads before their family photo shoot?

The pictures are not as important to me as they are to her so I just wear what I am told and try to get it done as smoothly as possible.

 

This has to be one of the sweetest photos I have ever made.