Grayson's Newborn Photoshoot
With each major milestone, I always debate getting professional photos done...(which is odd...considering) I think it's just the pressure of gathering the wardrobe for all of us, trying to decide on colors, and how I want to play with patterns, etc. Then, its trying to figure out where to take them, who to hire, and what day we can actually take them, since my hubby works so much. Also, knowing how much he actually dislikes taking them, as most men do...it all adds up in my head, and I'm like, too much pressure...ha. Sometimes, like with this pregnancy and being so sick, I almost didn't do maternity photos either, because the smallest task was so difficult for me. Yet, I always think ahead and realize how devastated I would be, to not have that moment captured.
Sadly, this newborn stage is so fleeting, and there is actually nothing that pleases me more than captured memories!! Throughout my life, I was always the one taking a zillion photos of every event and occasion. I didn't want to forget a thing, or a memory with a friend or family member. There's only a handful of people, I've ever met, that actually take more photos than myself...so I guess blogging became a natural fit. Although, taking photos solo is a whole new embarrassing and awkward transition...more on that another time.
I actually found my newborn photographer, Shannon, on Instagram. I love how Instagram is the new google...I do so much research via Instagram. As soon, as I saw her work, I knew I wanted to hire her...and being true to my style...I didn't reach out till my baby was a week old...gosh I swear, I'm such a procrastinator...I dislike that about myself. Luckily, she squeezed us in about a week later...I was like whenever, wherever...ya know!
I absolutely LOVE when I come across people who are so talented such as Shannon. As an artist in my own way, I love meeting someone who has found their calling, and is practicing in what they were meant to do! I find it so inspiring and amazing to witness!
Shannon, was definitely meant for this! One of the things I loved so much, was that she has an entire wardrobe ready to go. She has literally all the cutest rompers, swaddles, headbands, and props in her studio. I didn't have to gather a thing for baby Grayson! We discussed the color palette I wanted, and I noted which pics of hers, were speaking to me. She then sent me two, this is what I'm thinking, wardrobe and prop pics, and they were perfect. Seriously, all we had to do was show up! That was worth it alone...as usually the planning process is days and weeks of researching and shopping, and uggh like I said...overwhelming. This was actually so cool and such a treat! Oh my gosh, but what I'll never forget, is her endearing way she would hold and position my sweet Baby Gray. It was like watching an artist...so fascinating...and she would spend 5-10 minutes just dressing her, in the sweetest way, holding her like she was the most cherishable thing in the world. Then, here I am, her momma, moving at lightning speed, dressing and swaddling her up so quickly...missing these sweet moments...bad momma. Since then, I always think of her, and try to slow down when I'm dressing her. It's hard, because I'm usually in a rush, am changing about 15 diapers a day, my toddler needs me too, or I'm in the middle of, say an actual warm meal for once...ha. Now I'm super conscious and cherish these tender moments even more (such a good take away)! But yes, she is the Best at handling little babies, and knowing how to get them into position just so. It was honestly so much fun, just watching her do her thing...such an artist!!
Unfortunately, my sweet baby H (Hartley) was like a mad women. I could not get her to sit, like she normally does, all day long with Grayson, kissing her and loving her so. Nor, could we get her to take a family picture with us...mortifying...I was kind of in a dazed stupor, thinking, who is this child, where is my sweet H. Of course, the crazy always comes out in public, or when we'd like her to do something...toddler life...ha! Shannon was soooo patient with her and us...I mean we tried, multiple times, for like 30 minutes...yikes...I'm sure she went home exhausted...I mean, I was like okay...I need a glass of champs or a spa day...instead I settled for a chocolate malt and chili cheese fries (my go to, I've had a stressful day, gluttonous meal). However, we did manage to get two precious shots...see below:)
The pictures definitely speak for themselves, and she was worth every penny! It was such a pleasure to work with Shannon and see her in action! A true artist, who was meant to capture your precious children in the sweetest way!
Ok, I seriously can't wait to have baby #3...that was such a fun day (all but Hartley's part), and I'll have these precious memories forever! Thank you for squeezing us in, and I'm so glad I stalked you on Instagram...ha!
Shannon's website: www.shannonleephotography.com ...you will love her!
Below is Little Miss Scrumptious, In all her Yumminess...Welcome My Love...You Are Everything!
HARTLEY LOVES TO LEAN IN AND KISS GRAYSON...OR PAT HER HEAD, OR NUZZLE HER HEAD NEAR HERS...SERIOUSLY, THE SWEETEST THING TO SEE YOUR OLDEST BABY ADORE YOUR YOUNGEST
God Bless both my babies...You are everything Hartley and Grayson!! (and Oscar too) May my guardian angels watch over you now instead.