The Honor of Capturing Those Fleeting Moments.

Back in August, some friends asked me to photograph their 9 week old Daughter. They live 6 hours away, but were planning a trip here to see family. We had a small window of time at a park that I have only been to once. I went into it feeling very anxious. I had 5 minutes to scope the place out for lighting issues, and then jumped in feet first.



I don't often get the chance to photograph babies. In fact, the last time I photographed a 9 week old, it was Sugar Bear, and I had no clue what I was doing with my little 4 MP point and shoot.



I fumbled around for a bit, and baby girl wasn't sure she liked my basket, but I managed to snag some decent shots, before she insisted on a mama break.



After a change of clothes, the little honey proceeded to seriously inspect her surroundings.



Her fun outfit did nothing to lift her spirits.



Our next tactic was to go directly to her heart....you know....through her tummy. After a little feeding, we stripped that little honey, and plopped her back in the basket.



She was much more content, and showed her joy by flailing her arms about...



and chewing on her fists.



What sort of infant would she be if she gave in to our plan, and didn't insist on some more love from mama?



Love and adoration.



Hugs and Kisses.



Daddy couldn't let Mama hog all the limelight, so he stepped in to lend a hand...or two.



I had something altogether different planned for the next few shots, but somehow, I wasn't able to deliver. If you look hard enough, you can see both Mom and Dad's hands supporting her head in these.



They oooooooo'd and awwwwww'd and proceeded to completely smother her with utterances of love.



And she reciprocated. Awwwwww...look at that smile.



All that loving makes a girl hungry, so after another quick nursing, Mama put her in one last outfit, and we struggled to get a few last shots while her tolerance was waning.



I felt so honored to be given a chance to help them capture this moment in time for them. This time that will be fleeting. This time to cherish. It is obvious that they adore every inch of this little bundle of baby fat, and who can blame them? Look at that arm....have you seen such scrumptious rolls?



To be honest, I wanted a do over on this shoot. I know I can be overly critical of myself, but I know I could have done better. I see so many silly mistakes, and wish I could have another chance, but the truth is....babies change from day to day, she will never be as she was that day. It is what it is...and despite my errors she is beautiful.

Camera Critters~ Splish, Splash, Slither

While camping back in July, I noticed a small snake nestled near a rock in the creek Sugar Bear was playing in.



Yes....IN the water...


as in UNDER water...



And then on TOP of the water.



Until he/she decided to come out and see us.



As a child, I loved snakes. I could often be found outside playing with little garden snakes.



I even enjoyed taunting my brother with them. He has NEVER been a fan of snakes.



Somewhere along my life journey, I became less and less fascinated with snakes. In fact, you aren't likely to see me picking one up these days.



We did, however enjoy this little critters visit. Come back next week to see more.

Photo Hunters~ Sad

My Photohunt this weekend is over at Blissfully Domestic. The first photo is mine.

Due to an increasing amount of projects I am working on, I am woefully low on time this weekend, so I am killing two birds with one stone. NOT that I'm all that hip on killing birds or anything.

Have a great weekend everyone! I should be SEWING right now.

Photostory Friday~ A Mother's Love

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Awhile back I featured some photos I took of a Senior boy. That photo shoot meant a lot to me in many ways. Not only did I get the chance to see my vision come to light, I was able to capture these special photos for my good friend. Kim is someone that I admire greatly. She is a wonderful person, mother, and friend. Years ago, she stepped up and provided me with unconditional support when I needed it most. I will be forever grateful for our friendship.

Taking photos of her with her son was a joy. While editing these, I could not wipe the smile off my face. We are relatively the same age, so it is a real hoot for me that she has a child in his Senior year. It's okay though....she also has a child that is a year younger than Sugar Bear.....and 5 more in between.

During the photo shoot we had to get the uncomfortableness out of the way... and it led to giggles....

and laughs......

Which finally led to natural smiles.

Then they were at ease, and I could capture the more serious side of their relationship.

And no matter how big they get.....they are still our babies!

Happy Friday to you all! Have a great weekend!