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

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Lillies + Puppy Kisses + How to Make Your Newborn Session Awesome | MHP Louisville, KY Newborn Photography

I am sitting here thinking about a way to share these photos of the sweetest little family, and of course I do what most others do while procrastinating focusing on the task at hand, I jump on Facebook.

Would you believe that it just so happens to be the little mama's birthday? I cannot think of a better way to celebrate, than with posting and sharing these sweet newborn photos of her new baby Lily.

This little family was sent to me by another friend (I LOVE referrals) and I am so glad that we could fit sweet Lily in to the schedule.

Isn't she the most gorgeous little girl, and that name, fits her so perfectly. We even found some yellow Lilies blooming in the backyard. How PERFECT! 

There are so many great images from this session - we were able to shoot indoors and out! - and I felt so bad that mom and dad were concerned about Lily being upset and having to snack a little during our session. Which is COMPLETELY NORMAL and expected! Just look how beautiful!

SO I wanted to share what to expect and I put together a few tips to make your newborn photo session go as smooth as a baby's... well you know buns ;).
   

 1. Start Early - Be sure to start contacting photographers at lease a couple months before your due date. I usually use your due date as a place holder and then confirm with the little one arrives. I will always try to fit in any session, but I can only schedule so many sessions per week because newborn sessions can take some time, see #2.

2. Be Prepared for a 2-3 Hour Shoot - Babies are amazing, cuddly, adorable, squishy, unpredictable little creatures. But, they are on their own schedule and have to eat pretty often. We may have to have a few mini feeding sessions in the middle to calm down baby and make them sleepy again. The photo shoot will stress them out and feeding helps to soothe them too.

3. Feed Before your Session - It is best to feed a good big meal about a half hour before the shoot and loosen the diaper if you are interested in naked baby photos. Makes baby milk drunk.

4. Avoid Crazy Days - I know it sounds ridiculous with a brand new baby, but get as much sleep and take it easy the night before and morning of the shoot. Lots of visitors wear baby out, and can make for a more cranky pumpkin for the session.

5. Young Babes are Sleepier - I suggest photos in the first 10 days of life and first 7 is ideal. It is not always possible for various reasons, but try to get photos done as soon as you get home from the hospital. Younger babies are sleepier, which is usually better for photos because they will be more content. Babies eyes haven't developed strong muscles yet, so they often look cross-eyed if they're open.

6. Don't Skip It - If you are concerned about timing, or baby comes early/late, or has a little stint in the NICU, don't cancel. Even if the photos end up being 1 month photos, do them anyway, you will be glad you did later. 

7. It Won't Be Perfect - But we will get perfectly amazing images that will last more than a lifetime. Behind the scenes always looks a little messier than you would imagine. The photos will be gorgeous even if your house is a mess, you haven't slept more than 30 mins and your pants have dried milk on them. The photos show only where I point the camera, and I can hide a lot.

8. Include the Important Stuff - Be sure to collect heirlooms and objects that mean something to you and have them ready for the shoot. In fact, I often ask what you have before hand so I can get the ideas rolling.

9. Consider Priorities - Sometimes the little ones just aren't having it. They may be growth-spurting, or fighting sleep, and just don't want to do much. We have to have a plan. So tell me what is most important to you and we will do that first. I always suggest family photos first, just in case we get some projectile matter on our clothes (also completely normal, no worries).

10. My Models Tell Me - My models, large and small, always tell me when they have had enough. We will go by the way the little one responds and if we have enough and little one starts freaking out, we are officially wrapped up. This is why #9 is so important. 

Most of all, I know it is scary and uncomfortable. But, PLEASE try not to worry. I have done this many times. Pee, poop, spit-up, breast milk, boobs, I have seen it all, and it doesn't freak me out. I will not be offended or injured if it happens during our shoot. I have a washing machine and I know how to use it :)  

Plus babies can smell fear, and their mom, so sometimes I'll make you go away :D

XOXO, 

Mich

P.S. Send me some love, or tell me what I missed, in the comment section below. And please shoot me an email - using the contact link above -  if you need some art made of your new addition.