Newborn Portrait Photography in Glendale: A Timeless Way to Preserve Your Baby’s First Days

This Glendale Newborn Boy Session Was Precious!

There is nothing quite like the first days of your baby’s life. The tiny fingers. The sleepy stretches. The way they curl so naturally, as if they are still wrapped in the safety of the womb. Newborn portrait photography is about preserving these fleeting details before they change, often within just a few short weeks.

This recent newborn session is a beautiful example of what studio newborn photography can capture when it is thoughtfully planned, unrushed, and centered around your baby’s comfort and safety. As a professional newborn photographer serving Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, my goal is to create timeless newborn portraits that feel calm, elegant, and emotionally meaningful for your family.

Why Newborn Portraits Are Best Created in the First Two Weeks

The ideal time for newborn photography is within the first 7 to 14 days after birth. During this window, babies are typically sleepier, more flexible, and more comfortable being gently posed. This allows us to capture those classic newborn images parents love, including softly curled poses, peaceful expressions, and delicate details like eyelashes, lips, and tiny toes.

These early newborn portraits become more than just photos. They become heirlooms. Years from now, you will look back and remember exactly how small your baby once was.

A Calm, Full-Service Newborn Photography Experience

Every newborn photography session begins with a planning consultation. This consultation is an important part of the process and helps ensure your session feels relaxed and customized. During the planning consultation, we discuss color palettes, styling preferences, family participation, and how you envision displaying your finished artwork in your home.

Whether you prefer neutral newborn photography, soft blue tones, or a minimalist studio look, everything is thoughtfully prepared in advance so you do not have to worry about details on the day of your session.

Newborn photography sessions typically last about three hours. This timeframe allows for feeding, soothing, diaper changes, and gentle transitions between setups. There is never a rush. Your baby leads the pace of the session, and safety is always the top priority.

Including Parents and Siblings in Newborn Portraits

Many families choose to include parents and siblings in their newborn photography session. These images are often some of the most cherished because they capture connection and love during a major life transition.

In this session, we created clean, timeless family portraits that highlight emotion without distraction. Neutral clothing and simple backgrounds keep the focus where it belongs: on your growing family and the bond you are building together.

Sibling portraits are approached gently and with patience. Young children are encouraged, not forced, to participate, resulting in natural expressions and authentic moments.

Studio Newborn Photography Designed for Timeless Artwork

My studio newborn photography style is intentionally classic. Soft lighting, neutral backdrops, and carefully selected textures ensure your images will not feel dated years from now. These portraits are designed to work beautifully as wall art, albums, and keepsakes that remain meaningful long after your baby outgrows the newborn stage.

Each newborn portrait session includes a curated selection of props, wraps, and outfits chosen to complement your baby without overpowering them. The result is a cohesive gallery of images that feel calm, refined, and emotionally rich.

Safety and Experience Matter in Newborn Photography

Choosing an experienced newborn photographer is essential. Newborn photography requires specialized training, patience, and a deep understanding of infant safety. Every pose used during your session is baby-led and safely supported. Composite techniques are used when necessary to ensure your baby is never placed in an unsafe position.

Parents can relax knowing their baby is in caring, experienced hands throughout the entire session.

Booking Your Newborn Photography Session in Los Angeles

Because newborn photography is time sensitive, it is best to book your session during pregnancy. This allows us to reserve space around your due date and schedule your session within the ideal newborn window once your baby arrives.

If you are expecting and looking for newborn photography in Los Angeles, Glendale, Pasadena, or the surrounding areas, I would love to create a set of newborn portraits that reflect the beauty and emotion of this season in your life.

These first days are brief, but the images you create now will last forever.

What You Need to Evaluate When Having Your First Child

Becoming a parent is an exhilarating yet overwhelming process that requires preparation and planning. From the first-time expectant parents to those who have been around this block before, there are several important criteria you must evaluate to ensure your family is fully prepared for their new arrival. In this article, we'll look at three key points that should be taken into account when bringing home a baby!

Your Health

Prior to starting a family, it is essential that you assess your health. Pregnancy and childbirth can be taxing on the body, so visit a medical professional for an examination before conceiving. Make sure all of your vaccinations are up-to-date and address any underlying conditions that could risk complications during pregnancy. Additionally, maintaining proper nutrition with wholesome meals as well as regular exercise will ensure healthy habits throughout your journey into parenthood - avoid smoking or drinking alcohol excessively!

Financial Readiness

The second factor you need to evaluate is your financial readiness. Having a child can be expensive, and it is important to make sure that you are prepared for the added expenses that come with raising a child. This includes costs such as medical bills, child care expenses, and the cost of providing basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. It is important to create a budget and ensure that you have sufficient savings to cover these expenses. You may also want to consider purchasing life insurance or disability insurance to protect your family's financial future in case of an unexpected event. Term life insurance will be the most affordable option for young parents.

Safety in Your Home

Ensuring the safety of your home is a vital factor to consider for every parent. Indeed, you must take effective precautions such as installing childproof locks on cabinets and drawers, covering electrical outlets, and anchoring furniture and appliances in place to prevent tipping over. Additionally, you should check that your living space isn't contaminated with lead paint or mold which could have a harmful impact on your child's health. Taking these steps will ensure that your home is safe and secure for many years to come!

Having a baby is an enormous life event that necessitates thoughtful preparation and assessment. Prior to becoming parents, it's prudent to evaluate your physical condition, financial stability, and the security of your home environment. When you take these elements into account and make the required changes if necessary, you can be certain that you are as ready as possible for this new member of your family. Although perfection in parenting does not exist, being equipped with knowledge can help create a nurturing atmosphere where children can blossom happily!

Check out these 10 fun iPhone ideas to do with your kids!

How to Create Your Baby’s Nursery Before They Arrive

Crafting a nursery for your little one is both exhilarating and intimidating. You want to ensure the area will be safe, comfortable, and cozy for your infant - it must also be practical, stunningly beautiful, and overflowing with love. We’ll explore tips on how to create the ultimate nursery for your little one before they arrive.

Paint

Painting the nursery for your new bundle of joy is an exciting way to make a cozy and safe home for them. To ensure that their environment remains healthy, you should use non-toxic, low-VOC paint in order to create a space that will bring smiles and comfort for years to come. 

Make sure you pick a color scheme that will last as your child grows and keep in mind that lighter shades of paint can help make small nurseries seem larger. Finally, once you have chosen the perfect color, take some time to apply it properly with quality brushes and rollers so that it looks its best.

Make Safety Improvements

Establishing a safe and peaceful haven for your child is vital when establishing their nursery. Make sure to install cord-free blinds or ones with safety tassels so that, if pulled down by an inquisitive toddler, they won't become accidental choking hazards. Cordless blinds will help keep your young children safe in the nursery. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, too. Make sure any furniture you get meets safety standards like those set by the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM).

Decorate

Designing a nursery for your upcoming baby is both an exciting and special experience! It's the perfect chance to display your creativity while constructing a comforting, safe, and inviting environment for your bundle of joy. One of the first steps in creating the perfect nursery is selecting the right furniture, as this will determine the overall aesthetic of the space. Choose furniture made from materials such as wood, metal, and plastic that are both safe and sturdy. Additionally, look for pieces with rounded edges to ensure maximum safety in the nursery.

The anticipation of the arrival of a baby is an exciting time for many new parents. Creating a baby nursery before their arrival can be a rewarding experience, and following these tips can help make it an enjoyable occasion for both parent and infant alike.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read: Is My Baby Too Old For Studio Newborn Photos? 3 Things to Consider

Is My Baby Too Old For Studio Newborn Photos? 3 Things to Consider

Newborn photography is a relatively “new” discipline. The highly stylized poses, wrapping, and props is something that has come about as a genre in the last 20 years or so. But of course, moms have been taking baby pictures for a hundred years. A question I get a lot is “Is my baby too old” to come for photos. The answer is: it depends.

Do You Want Super Stylized Perfect Newborn Photos?

14 days old is a common cut off point for “best outcome” in studio newborn photos. Let me explain a couple of things so moms out there can get an idea of what this so-called deadline means. First, newborn photographers are artists at heart. They have their ideas of the kinds of images they want to create. These images will be used for their “book” (porfolio) and they will also be used for vanity. Of course we want our peers and potential clients to see the most astounding baby picures possible. For this to happen, the younger the baby the better. Babies under 10 days old sleep more deeply, are less aware of their surroundings and don’t wake up as much as older babies. They are also more easily posed. Everyone wants a newborn session that does not drag on for 5 hours. Under 10 days means faster, easier sessions and often competition quality images. The best possible world. If these kinds of images are your priority, then the 14 day deadline matters. A lot.

Second, this 14 day cut off does not apply to preemies. Babies born prematurely have their own timeline. Obviously, a literal 14 day deadline makes no sense if your baby is in the NICU until week 7 or 8. For me, my rule for preemie newborn photos is that the baby has to weigh 6 pounds. Whenever the baby meets that benchmark means they are good to go in term of photos.

Fine art level stylized and edited newborn images definitely are cool to have. No doubt. Of course we want the best. But in my experience, I have never had a mom disappointed if her baby was not able to be posed in ways to create those “Award Winning” images. Sure, if her baby can do all those adorable poses safely and comfortably, then they make magnificent memories. In short, the 14 day cut off for newborns is about time, ease and getting epic imagery. Those things are important, but if your baby is older than 14 days, you can still get gorgeous images. Maybe not as many, and it may take longer, but it is doable.

How Good Are You At Following Directions?

If your baby is an “older baby”, studio images are still possible at least up to 6 weeks old for full term babies. But here is the catch, you absolutely must follow the preparation guidelines your photographer gives you as much as you can while still following your health care professional’s directives. The two most important things, at least in my studio, are keeping the baby awake for 45 min to an hour before you arrive the session, and waiting to feed them until you arrive. If you can get to the studio with your baby a just little bit tired and hungry, (I know it sounds awful), once you feed them, it is likely they will fall into a deep sleep for at least 45 minutes; enough time to do at least 2 set ups . No one is asking you to withold food for too long, just a few extra minutes. This is one reason why finding a newborn portrait studio close to your home is best.

If you follow the preparation guidelines, your older baby has a good chance at getting a fantastic gallery of images. It sounds simple. but a lot of moms disregard the guidelines because they think their baby will “sleep through anything”. Sadly, in my experience, this is NOT true. Unprepared babies often are very difficult to settle and pose.

Do You Want In-Your-Home Lifestyle Photos?

All this talk about 14 days or younger only applies to images where the baby is posed. If posed baby pictures are not your thing, there is no age rule for your baby. Lifestyle photos are images taken in your home in a natural way. There may be some staging of your home to remove clutter, and some basic posing of family members. In most shots, you or someone will be hold the baby, or they will be in their own crib or bassinet.

Lifestyle images are overlooked sometimes as a lovely, emotional and authentic way to remember these early days with your new baby.

The 14 day rule only matters if you want a certain pose or styling to your images. Cetain features of a baby are harder to capture after this time. If you are open to your baby being wrapped and placed in a cute prop, or having their eyes open for many of the images, then you can still have studio newborn photos taken up to 4 weeks (at least in my book).

Are you ready to start thinking about newborn photos for your baby?

You may be interested in Must Know Secrets For Epic Maternity Photos

Aspects of Your Baby’s Health You Need to Watch Out For

As a parent, it’s your job to ensure your baby is healthy and happy. From their diet to their teeth to their growth, there are so many aspects of your baby’s health that you need to watch out for. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most important things you should know about taking care of your baby’s well-being. 

Their Diet 

As with any human being, having a balanced diet is essential for babies. Breast milk or infant formula should be the primary source of nutrition until six months when you can start introducing solids into their diets. It is recommended to introduce one type of food at a time to monitor potential allergies and reactions. 

While they may start to eat some table food around seven or eight months old, steer clear of items like honey, whole nuts, choking hazards (like popcorn or grapes), and processed foods with added sugar as these can be dangerous for young children. 

Their Teeth 

Taking care of your baby's teeth starts even before they come through! Before they turn two years old, you should begin brushing their teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water only. Once they turn two years old, you can introduce toothpaste; just make sure it’s fluoride-free. 

You should only use a small amount of toothpaste to clean their teeth. Regular visits with the dentist from an early age are also essential for teaching them proper dental hygiene habits and ensuring that their teeth stay healthy as they grow older.

Their Growth 

It is important to monitor your baby’s growth throughout the first year to ensure that they are developing properly. At each well-baby check-up from birth until two years old, your doctor will measure certain indicators such as height and weight to track progress against expected milestones for development. If there are any discrepancies or delays in growth or development, this information will help inform further steps that need to be taken such as additional medical tests or treatments if necessary.

There are so many elements that go into making sure your baby stays healthy and happy – from proper nutrition and dental hygiene habits to monitoring growth patterns – but don’t forget that it takes a village! Make sure you talk with other parents who have gone through similar experiences as well as consult professionals in the fields of nutrition, dentistry, and healthcare if needed to ensure that your little one gets everything he/she needs during this critical period in their life.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read: How to Create Lasting Memories With Your Kids in the Outdoors

10 Fun iPhone Photo Ideas To Do With Your Kids

Ideas for iPhone Fun

Like any other mom out there, you want to create lasting memories of your kids as they grow up by taking photos of them frequently. But what if I told you that you could turn your casual snapping into a fun and engaging activity that your kids will enjoy? Instead of snapping them as they run around your house or play with their toys, you can actively involve them and spend quality time together. 

Take a look at the following list of 10 fun photography ideas you can do with your iPhone and get some inspiration. I bet you’ll end up with some candid shots you’d want to share on your insta feed afterward!

1. Experiment with posing

Children, especially the little ones, are very playful. And since you’ll probably find it quite hard to get them to stand still, you can try different poses which show their energetic spirit.  Grab your cell phone and choose the location you’d think would give the best backdrop. Then, tell your child to pose in whichever way comes naturally to them. The important thing here is to stand still while taking your kid photos, so you might want to use a tripod. Ensure your child takes different positions, so there’s no overlapping afterward.

Now comes the best part of this iPhone photo hack!

Choose an app that will allow you to combine the images (such as Adobe’s Photoshoot Mix). Then, work its magic to end up with one of the best insta pic ideas, showing every pose your child has taken into one photo!

2. Framing photography ideas 

Framing is another interesting technique that will take your images to the next level. In essence, it’s about focusing on one subject by blocking off other parts of the image to form a frame. For example, you can ask one of your children to stand closer to the objective and the other farther away, focusing the camera on the latter. Or, to make every one of your kids a focal point in the picture, choose a natural environment and blur the surroundings by focusing your iPhone’s camera on your little ones. This will create a lovely vivid frame that I’m sure will look good on your feed.

3. Get creative with the chalkboard

Next on my list of fun photo ideas is giving your kids a chalkboard and colorful chalk and instructing them to make a sign by writing a slogan or drawing a picture. You can include their brilliant masterpiece in the photos by coming up with interesting ways to hold the sign while they pose. 

And if they’re too little to create the sign, why don’t you get creative and write something yourself? You can place the sign next to them and make some pretty fun shots!

4. Use a DIY frame

Every mom with a camera looks for new and clever ways to take candid photos of her little ones. And I have the perfect idea for you!Next time you put them to sleep, grab cardboard, styrofoam, or a few pieces of wood and get crafty. Arrange them, so they form a frame and paint or draw over your project. You can later use it as a handy prop when photographing your children while they do something cute. 

5. Unusual props 

Incorporating some unique props is probably one of the best photography ideas. Apart from the usual ones every mom has already thought of – such as toys or blankets – you can use many more household ideas. For example, you can use your cooking utensils and create a mini-kitchen setting or blow some bubbles for the ultimate color-depth effect!

6. Put your dog in the picture!

Your dog is an important part of your family, and probably someone your kids spend a lot of time playing with. So, it’s only natural to think it deserves a special place in your kid photos. 

You can snap some adorable photos of your children playing with their furry friend, or hang a sign that says something funny. I bet you’ll love the outcome so much that you might even print it to include in your family album. 

7. Create a staircase setting

Who says that your home only offers a limited source of photo scenes? One brilliant example of how you can use your home environment to create a handful of funny family photo ideas is your staircase. You can place your children on different stairs and use different props to make the perfect setting. 

8. Tell a story through photos

This is probably one of my favorite photography ideas, and it is not so hard to capture. Think about which details you would like to include in your frame and make the preparations in advance. And remember, you need to take a variety of still images of a single situation to tell your story successfully. 

9. Take a different perspective

If you’re tired of shooting vertical photos, switching perspectives is a good idea. Photographing your children from above as they lay down will give a whole different dimension to your insta pic ideas. You can also use some props to create a fun and unique setting that will look great in your photos. 

10. Give your iPhone to your child

So far, you’ve been doing all the work, so why don’t you consider entrusting the photography task to your child? Give them your phone and ask them to take a bunch of photos of whatever they like. May it be their favorite toy, or your beautiful garden flowers, allow the choice to be ultimately theirs. Not only will this be a fun activity for them, but you'll also find that your child has some hidden photography talent!

I truly hope these super-fun iPhone photography ideas will inspire you to create some images you’ll truly adore. 

Did you try one of these ideas already? Post them on your Instagram feed, and don’t forget to tag me at @panosphotography! And if you’re looking for someone else to make some lovely portraits of you and your family in Los Angeles, Contact me today:

The Road Hardly Traveled: How I Became A Family Photographer

No Mom With A Camera For Me

It’s rare these days that a family photographer, especially a Mommy and Me photographer, does not have her own kids. But I came to appreciate motherhood, children and all the sacrifices and turmoil that goes with it as a teacher. A special education teacher. And more, a special education teacher in the inner cities of Los Angeles.

I’ll be honest. I did NOT dream of being a teacher as a kid. In fact, my aspirations were far, far afield. I wanted to be…..wait for it….a baraoque cellist. Yep. you read that correctly. As a tween, I thought the years 1600 to 1750 or so were the greatest that had ever happened. With supportive and tolerant parents, I was escorted to record stores in Pasadena CA where they purchased for me every relevant Deutsche Grammophon recording I could carry. I discovered the harpsichord, The Brandenburg Concertos and counterpoint. I was in heaven.

From Music Conservatory to Inner City Classroom

I spent the next 10 years studying with the former first cellist under Toscanini when Toscanini led the NBC studio orchestra. Cesare Pascarella was my cello instructor from my tweens all the way through my stint at Cal Arts. He lived in the acclaimed Hollywood Hills in a house from times past. It was filled with all kinds of amazing Italian renaissance art. Since I spent so much time here, there is no doubt I was exposed to elements that would (decades later) influence my Mommy and Me Portraiture.

What happened to my dream you ask? The competition happened and I got my arse kicked. That’s what. I studied hard and I became an adequate cellist. You know, good enough to do garden wedding music, women’s clubs luncheons, stuff like that. The brutal reality was that “accomplished” was not enough in the competitive world of Baroque Cello Performance. You had to be exceptional. I wasn’t. (Fade to black).

I’ll be honest again and tell you that most teachers in LAUSD who I met did not dream of being a teacher either. Teaching served as this huge safety net; something that people who had lost out on a dream came to really appreciate. Teaching is the paragon of “Plan B” careers.

Universal Motherhood

When I announced to my family that I would be teaching special education in some of the toughest schools in the country, it was not popular. My liberal and tolerant semi -Hippie parents were not keen on their daughter trudging to and working in the bowels of inner city Los Angeles schools. It seems Tolerance has a precipice and I had reached my parents’ limits. “Those moms down there don’t care”, my family bellowed. “You’re wasting your time”.

I ended up spending a lot of years teaching. 18 to be exact. And in that time, I saw many social problems, inequities and political red tape. In the early 2000s, LAUSD had over 144 languages represented amongst their students. Diversity was the name of the game. I came upon and saw traditions and belief systems that jarred my own ethical threshold and caused me to re evaluate. I saw every form of parenting imaginable; every reaction to frustration and concern, every strategy a mom could think of to help her child learn and develop.

What I learned is that on the whole, Motherhood is tough for every mom out there. She sacrifices, tries and fails sometimes, adapts and keeps going. I learned that Love, capital L has an expanded meaning within Motherhood. Mom is the main guide for kids, she is the one they call for, the one who soothes and counsels. As a teacher watching this, I was reminded of the elaborate Baroque melodies I admired in my youth. I saw Motherhood as an apt metaphor for these musical conversations about Love. “Maybe”, I thought, “Maybe, there is something here to investigate artistically”. (Camera Enters Stage Right)

Are you interested in having Mommy and Me Portraits made of you and your kids?

Must-Know Secrets For Epic Maternity Photos

Maternity photos rank high in the “must have” list. In my years as a maternity photographer in Los Angeles, I have noticed a few things. Here, I want to share them with you. Use these tips to help you find, plan, and experience the best maternity photos you can.

1. When To Take Los Angeles Maternity Photos.

If possible, do not spend weeks or months trying to decide if you want maternity photos. Trust an expert. You want maternity photos. In my work, so many expecting moms call me days before they are due. By then, it is too late. Scheduling is limited. No one ever regrets getting maternity photos. You can do them yourself, or hire a professional. The best time is during weeks 28 to 34. Most women are showing nicely and they still have enough energy for a photo session. Here are more reasons not to wait too long:

• Maternity photographers tend to book out 4 to 6 weeks in advance

• Maternity photo shoot poses are usually easier on mom earlier rather than later

• Maternity gown rentals take at least a month’s notice

• Location sessions may need to be rescheduled due to weather

2. Pinterest Is Just For Ideas

Everyone loves Pinterest. It is a good place to start to get some ideas for the kinds of maternity photos there are. It can help you decide what kinds if styles you like. You will be able to see lovely location and studio images. However, it is important that you keep in mind your own personality. Remember, you are looking at what other moms-to-be did. Maternity photos at the beach during sunset may be stunning. But do you have any connection to the beach? Is it a place that is important to you? Try to think about locations that are meaningful for you. You will photograph better and be happier with the maternity photos you get. If the beach is someplace you never usually go, your maternity photos should probably not take place there. Here are the best ways to use Pinterest to plan your maternity pictures:

• Look for gowns that you like. Make a note of colors and styles.

• Look for locations and studio maternity photos that speak to you.

• Study images with expecting moms alone, and with her partner. Which ones do you like?

3. Decide About Hair and Makeup

Maternity hair and makeup is a very personal thing. Some women prefer a more “natural” look. For them, these images are mostly about the relationship with their expectant child. For others, having the “glam maternity” experience is what is important. In my experience as a maternity photographer, both ways yield showpiece maternity photos. It totally depends on the person. Here are a few things to consider about hair and makeup for maternity photos:

• Think about whether you want hair extensions, a new color, or cut for these images. Long hair can be a lot of fun in studio, especially if there is a wind machine.

• More natural looking, subtle makeup often does the trick. Even for glam maternity sessions, less is more on the make-up end. I recommend to go easy on the contouring, select light or more skin toned eye shadow and light lipstick. It is less intrusive and gives a finished look to your maternity pictures.

• Decide how you feel about bare belly shots. Many maternity photo poses show a bare belly. Usually, the skin tone on your baby bump is different than the skin tone on your face. Some people love the difference, others hate it. Again, it is a personal thing. Many maternity photo clients decide to spray tan so they have a consistent looking skin tone. If you want even skin, then you will have to plan your spray tan appointment accordingly.

4. Think Hard About Maternity Gowns

The kind of clothing you select for your maternity photo session depends a lot on whether it is on location or in studio. If you are on location, gown changes can be tricky. You also have to consider how the gown will behave in water, or sand, or in areas with a lot of brush. What if it is breezy that day? How will the gown look. If the gown is sheer, and you want back lit sunset images, are you comfortable with that? Here are a few more things to consider about clothing for your maternity pictures:

• Buy or Rent. Maternity gowns are a bit of an investment. Most start at around $175. Renting gowns can save some money. But there is still the rental fee, cleaning fee, and shipping. Be sure to research how much it really costs to rent. You may find that buying and then selling your gown to a friend a better option.

• Photographer’s Wardrobe. Many maternity photographers own several maternity gowns. Be sure to ask. If you can find a photographer who owns a gown you can use, you have saved time and money for sure.

• No Maternity Gown: While it is common for most women to wear a maternity gown for their photo session, it is not mandatory. If you do not want to wear a traditional gown, that’s fine too. I have had clients wear jeans and a shirt, boy shorts and a camisole or just bikini bottoms. It all depends on where your session happens and on your personality.

5. Be Aware of Location Permit Fees

Most people do not realize that most locations require a permit for professional photo sessions. In the Los Angeles area, permits range from $85 to $400 or more. Many people assume that they can just go to a public park for maternity photos. It may be possible. Some public parks are gorgeous. Be sure to avoid hiring photographers who just “run and gun” it and hope they do not get caught. If you do decide on a local park, think about your maternity photo experience. Is a public park really what you want for your maternity images? In most cases, such images end up looking like snapshots. Be prepared to pay more for those gorgeous locations with dramatic vistas. Here are more facts about permit fees:

• Permits range from hourly to daily. Be sure you have at least 2 hours.

• Scout the location in advance. Know where to park and how difficult it is to walk to that perfect spot.

• If you want to change outfits, make a plan. Does your photographer have a changing tent? Will your partner hold up a towel?

• Have a backup plan if the weather lets you down.

Maternity photos are something every mom-to-be should have. You can do them yourself, or hire a professional.

Affordable maternity photography Los Angeles

Katie is a maternity photographer in Los Angeles, CA 91042

What Dietary Components Impact My Child’s Oral Health?

Encouraging your child to eat a diet rich in nutritious foods does more than just affect their overall physical health. Your child's eating habits may be greatly affecting their oral health as well. Here are three primary dietary components that impact the oral health of children.

Fruits and Vegetables

The antioxidant benefits of a diet high in fruits and vegetables also positively affect a person's oral health. While a moderate amount of any fruit is healthy, it should be noted that fruits that are highly acidic can actually damage the tooth enamel. This is why you should never suck on lemons or other fruits that contain high amounts of acids. Meanwhile, fruits such as strawberries act as natural teeth whiteners, making them a good choice. Vegetables that contain a high amount of fiber and water are also especially healthy for teeth.

Sugar

It is no secret that an excess amount of sugar can have detrimental effects on a child's overall oral health. Increased blood sugar levels can lead to an increase of inflammation, which can make it difficult for the body to combat oral diseases such as gingivitis. It is also important to remember that cutting all sugar out of a child's diet is unhealthy. There are a number of fruits that contain naturally occurring fructose. While it is a good idea to watch out for the consumption of too much refined sugar, it is not recommended for fruits to be avoided just because it contains sugar.

Grains

The benefits of whole grains stretch well beyond the protection that they provide against obesity, heart disease, stroke and cancer. A diet that is rich in whole grains has also been shown to reduce the risk of gum disease. The many vitamins and minerals that are present in whole grains serve to keep both the teeth and gums healthy and functioning at optimal levels. Magnesium is a powerful force in encouraging strong enamel while vitamin E works to reduce inflammation and guard against gum disease. It is easy to incorporate whole grains into your diet simply by swapping out some of your favorite foods with their whole-grain counterpart. For example, try substituting brown rice for white rice or whole-grain pasta for white pasta.

Encouraging your child to practice healthy eating habits will pay off big dividends when it comes to oral health. You will never regret making the effort to take special care of your child's teeth and gums.

Please check out our other blog posts here!

Studio or Location Photoshoots? Which is better?

You are planning to have some professional portraits taken. These may be for acting/business headshots, a family photo, an engagement or graduation portrait. You know you want portraits. Now, you need to set out what kind of portraits. Knowing this in advance will make your conversations with prospective Glendale photographers a lot more fruitful. The more you can tell them about what you are looking for, the more accurate their estimate will be.

GLENDALE STUDIO PORTRAITS

Studio portraits offer some advantages. Let’s list some:

• Total world domination in terms of lighting

  Lighting is the name of the game in photography. It is what can make you look younger, older, thinner, heavier, more serious and more approachable. It creates a candid or dramatic mood. While light can be modified on location, it is not as controllable as in the studio. If lighting is the most critical thing for you to get a theatrical or artistic look, then studio may be where you want to start.

• Can take place day or night, rain or shine

  Here in southern california, we don’t have to worry about the weather too much. But if you need an acting headshot, or modeling digitals ASAP and it happens to be pouring outside, the photo studio is your best buddy for sure. Also, time of day does not matter. So if you don’t get off work untill 8 pm, you could have a session at 10 pm no problem. Of course, you can be outside for night photography too. That is always an option.

• Usually allows you to see images as they are taken

  In studio, most photographers shoot what we call “tethered” in the industry. This means you can see the image just taken at full size and with proper color 2 or 3 seconds after the shot. This allows clients to look and see exactly how they are doing and to make adjustments; a change in expression, fix a tie etc. This way, there is no surprise at the end of the session. “OMG my hair was like that the WHOLE time?” What looks fine to your photographer, may not be OK with you. Tethering solves that problem.

  Of course, on location, clients can look at the back of the camera’s LCD display after a shot. But you cannot see all of the images in an array, or in a way that is easy to compare quickly. Some photographers DO have a way to tether on location, so you should definitely ask that during your discovery call.

• Easier wardrobe changes

  You may not believe this, but some locations out there do NOT allow wardrobe changes. This is probably so that photographers get in and out quickly without a lot of to-do or getting in the way of the general public. It can be hard to enforce though, so even if “technically” there are no wardrobe changes, it may be possible to sneak one in, especially if you are OK quickly changing while another person holds up a towel. You can invest in a portable changing tent, but they are cumbersome, conspicuous and not that easy to drag around in certain private locations.

  Studio sessions, however, are a breeze for private wardrobe changes that are not rushed.

• No permit fees

  Here in Los Angeles and Glendale, there are not too many options for large gorgeous open spaces for portraits that are free. As in real estate, they key to location photography is, wait for it….Location Location Location. Los Angeles beaches do NOT require a permit, but such photo sessions may not be the look you want, and for many people, it is at least an hour away with traffic to get there. Then, once settled, you have a brief 30 minutes or so to get that lovely sunset. That may be worth it to you. And if it is, tell your photographer right away.

  If you are looking for greenery and flowers as your location, you will most likely have to pay anywhere from $100 to $1100 for a 2 hour photography permit. Probably the most popular such location is the LA Arboretum

There are many things to consider when planning your egagement, family or graduation photos. To start planning your session, contact me, Katie Katsenis, certified portrait photographer. Let’s talk and see if I am a good fit for your project.

Los Angeles Geocaching: The Perfect Hobby For Kids

Real Life Treasure Hunting for Family Fun in Los Angeles

When I first heard about the sport of Geocaching , I could not quite get my head around it. What? Go around looking for treasures that people have left you the exact coordinates for? How is that fun? What’s the point? If you already know where the treasure is, then where is the mystery?

Here is the thing: Geocaching relies on the fact that exact coordinates are not as exact as it may seem. The coordinates get you most of the way to finding a hidden treasure, but it’s that last bit that makes it fun. I spent 20 plus years in the elementary and high school classroom. Here are the elements of Geocaching that make it a terrific hobby for kids.

Kids Being Tech Savvy

In order to Geocache, you need a phone with an app installed. There are several on the market, but they are all very similar. They range from free to about $5. Kids will need to learn something about latitude and longitude and how to navigate the app. They will also learn a bit about calibrating the app to their phone. There will be times when they may need to use a traditional compass as well. Like most things, apps do not work perfectly all the time. You need to be thoughtful and realize that apps are a tool that needs to be controlled by a human.

Kids Respecting Where We Live

There is an unwritten rule in Geocaching. Leave the area you are searching in better than you found it. The rally cry for this attitude is “Cache in, trash out”. The idea is that caching led you into a place, and you can take some trash with you as you leave. Whether you are caching in a park, wilderness, the beach, mountains or the inner city, take trash out. It costs nothing to bring a plastic bag, fill it, and then place in your trash when you get home. And it makes the world better.

Kids Cultivating Patience

Once the coordinates have led you to with 30 feet or so of your cache, the problem solving begins. Most caches are hidden really well. They will not be obvious, usually. You have to be patient and problem solve. Look down, under, over, up, around, to the side, from above, from below…you get the idea. It may take awhile. And, you have to be prepared that the cache is no longer there. Sometimes, people who are not Geocachers, “mugglers”, find caches by chance and take them. If you notice this, be sure to leave an online note, so that the next person does not waste their time.

Kids Seeing Things Differently

Geocaching takes you to places you would not go otherwise. You will see places of your town or city, empty spaces, and natural vistas that you did not even know were nearby. It also helps you to be more flexible in how you problem solve and interact with the world. Places that seemed useless or “ugly”, are now part of a global game that many appreciate. Places that seemed “not my problem”, are now places that have touched your life in a small way. Over time, these experiences change your attitude, and how you see things.

Kids Exercising By Proxy

Not every kid loves sports or going to the gym. Geocaching forces you to walk or hike a lot more than you would. And the best part…you are so fixated on finding the treasure, you do not even notice that hill, or those rocks you are climbing, or how hot it is. You are on a mission.! In this way, caching is a way to get some exercise without “officially" getting some exercise. If you have kids who are reluctant to move around, geocaching may be a way to get them out without them even knowing it. Pretty slick, eh moms?

Kids Enjoying Family

It is really easy to get caught up in the routine of school and activities. Caching can take as long as you like. When you select a cache to go visit, you can decide how hard, far and difficult the hunt is. If you all work together, you can pick easier caches for younger kids and multi-level caches for older kids. Kids can be independent while still being with their parents and siblings. Caching gives everyone something to do, at the level they are comfortable with.

Kids Logging Successes

One of the great things about the Geocaching website, is that you can log all your finds. Each time you get back from an adventure, you can log each one. You can tell if you found it, discovered it, did not find it, left a treasure, took a treasure, upload pictures and more. After awhile, your geocaching log becomes a prize possession. There are people out there who have found thousands of caches. How many will you find?

Katie is a former special education teacher in Los Angeles. She is now a maternity, baby, and child photographer.

Would you like to make some extra cash on your own time?

How to Deal With Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

Morning sickness is an incredibly common symptom of pregnancy that can leave you feeling nauseous, tired, and uncomfortable. It can be challenging to manage, but there are some steps you can take to ease the symptoms and find some comfort. 

Here's what you need to know about dealing with morning sickness during your pregnancy. 

Drink Herbal Teas

Drastic morning sickness can leave expecting mothers feeling sluggish and exhausted, making the first trimester of pregnancy a truly miserable experience. Fortunately, there are solutions available to make mornings more bearable. Many women find natural remedies such as herbal tea to help alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness. 

With its ease of use and abundance of flavor options, herbal tea makes an excellent choice for struggling mothers-to-be who are searching for a safe yet effective way to manage their nausea. By taking a few moments each day to steep some tea, you can eventually quiet that queasy feeling and restore your energy levels – making pregnancy just a bit easier!

Try to Keep Your Food Down

Eating smaller meals throughout the day can help keep your food down when you’re dealing with morning sickness. Additionally, you must get enough nutrients during your pregnancy, so stick with nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. 

Taking prenatal vitamins can help your body get at least some of the nutrients it needs. Eating smaller, more frequent meals during the day can also help you to keep your food down better. 

Don't Lie Down After Eating

Lying down after eating can make it harder for your stomach to digest food properly, which can lead to more nausea and discomfort. So try not to lie down right after meals or snacks; instead, get up and move around a bit or take a short walk outside until the feeling passes. Lying down after eating can also lead to heartburn and other gastrointestinal discomforts, so do yourself a favor and stay upright after meals to keep nausea at bay.

Managing morning sickness is no easy task but it doesn’t have to be daunting either! Remembering these few tips—drinking herbal teas, eating smaller meals throughout the day, and avoiding lying down after meals—can help make it a bit easier for pregnant women dealing with morning sickness symptoms. If you find yourself still struggling, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor about other methods for relief.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read. How to Manage Pain During Pregnancy

How to Ensure Your Baby’s Crib is in a Safe Position

As the parent of a new baby, there are few things you want more than to keep your baby safe. You’ve gone through the house and baby-proofed it, ensuring all the chemicals are out of reach and any sharp objects are behind child-proof locks. 

You’ve made sure any rugs won’t slip under your baby too. Have you looked at where your baby’s crib is though? There are a few things you should do to make sure it’s in a safe place in the nursery.

Beware of Falling Objects

The first thing to check for is any objects that could fall into or onto the crib. This poses an obvious risk to your baby. You don’t want anything falling on them that could harm them. 

You also don’t want dangerous choking hazards falling in that they could put in their mouths. Pay attention to what is on top of nearby furniture. Move anything you see that your baby could grab onto and pull, causing it to fall into or onto the crib. 

Don’t Put It Near a Window

Baby cribs should never be placed by a window. Near a window is a dangerous place for a crib for multiple reasons. Blind cords are known to pose a danger to children and pets. It’s easy for a baby to get tangled in them and get hurt. 

Windows are also dangerous because they are made of glass. While house windows aren’t broken often, accidents happen. You don’t want your baby’s window to break and for shattered glass to fall into the crib. Keeping the crib away from the window is much safer.

Keep It Away from Other Furniture

Children commonly start trying to climb out of their cribs around 1-2 years old. Climbing out of a crib can be dangerous. Keeping the crib away from other furniture may not keep your child from trying to climb out, but it will keep them from climbing out of the crib and onto taller furniture that poses an even greater risk.

Where your baby’s crib is positioned in the nursery makes a difference in how safe your baby is while they’re in it. Pay attention to what is nearby and any hazards posed. Think ahead to when your baby starts pulling themselves up and trying to climb out too. Babies grow and develop quicker than you would believe. Make sure they’ll be safe in their crib no matter what by positioning it carefully in their nursery.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read. How to Ensure Healthy Childhood Development

Important Skin Care Tips for New Moms

Being a new mom means adapting to a whole new lifestyle, and that includes taking better care of your skin. Taking care of yourself can be difficult when you’ve got a newborn around the house, but it’s important for your own health and well-being that you take the steps necessary to keep your skin healthy. 

From applying lotion daily to getting enough sleep, here’s what every new mom needs to know about keeping her skin healthy. 

Applying Lotion Daily 

Keeping your skin hydrated is an essential part of any skincare routine—especially when you become a new mom. As your body adjusts to its post-pregnancy shape, make sure you apply lotion daily to keep your skin moisturized and soft. 

Consider using natural or organic lotions if possible; these are less likely to contain harsh chemicals that could irritate sensitive areas. Simply applying lotion daily can make a massive difference for your skin.

Try Vitamin A Creams 

If you’re looking for something more powerful than just regular body lotion, try using vitamin A creams. Topical vitamin A products can boost collagen production to reduce stretch marks. 

Vitamin A products can also reduce other signs of damage on the skin’s surface. Vitamin A creams tend to be thicker than regular lotions, so they may not be the best choice if you have very dry skin or eczema—but they can work wonders on helping fade stretch marks over time with consistent use.  

Get Enough Sleep 

Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest challenges faced by new moms, but it’s important that you get as much rest as possible—even if it means getting up early or taking naps during the day when your baby does. Not only will this help ensure that you stay healthy and energized (so you can handle all those late-night feedings!), but it will also keep your skin looking fresh and youthful by reducing dark circles under the eyes and keeping breakouts at bay. 

Taking care of yourself after having a baby isn’t always easy—but it is essential! By following these simple tips, such as applying lotion daily and trying vitamin A creams, you can keep your skin looking beautiful even with all the changes that come along with motherhood. And don't forget about getting enough sleep; rest is essential for both physical and mental health! With just a few simple steps, any new mom can maintain healthy, glowing skin throughout her postpartum journey!

Have Your Maternity Photos Taken by Professionals. Find Out More

How to Teach Your Kids to Be More Independent

As a parent, one of your primary responsibilities is to nurture your child and help them to grow. It is important to make sure that your kids grow up to be strong and independent, while still having a good relationship with you as their parents. If you help your kids to learn to be independent while they’re young, they’ll be more motivated in their schooling and work, and they’ll be more successful adults. Here are a few ways in which you can encourage your kids to be more independent now. 

Encourage Their Curiosity

One great way to help your kids to be independent is to encourage their curiosity from a young age. This doesn’t mean you have to totally abandon your kids and leave them to discover things alone, it means that you can encourage curiosity as you spend time with them. For example, you can help your kids to play games or participate in activities that engage their minds and help them to think about different outcomes. If your kids are too scared to ever do anything without you, they won’t ever be curious enough to learn on their own. 

Teach Them Important Life Skills

Another important way to teach your kids to be more independent is by teaching them important life skills. Every parent wants their child to grow up to be smart and successful. By helping your kids to learn important life skills, you’ll be putting them on a path to success. For example, swimming lessons can teach your kids crucial skills that will help them in the water. Learning to enjoy reading can teach your kids to be analytical thinkers and can prepare them to be more successful in their schooling. If your child feels that they have the important life skills necessary to tackle tasks that come at them, they’ll be more independent. 

Give Them Experiences

Finally, in order to help your kids to be truly independent, you need to give them experiences that will help them to put their curiosity and life skills into practice. Encourage them to have experiences that push them to become better and smarter. For example, you could sign up your child to have music lessons or to be on a sports team. This would teach them to apply the skills that they’ve learned and will give them the opportunity to find their talents and passions. 

As you are trying to figure out how to help your child to become more independent, keep in mind the suggestions that have been made in this article. Make sure to personalize your plan for each child, as everyone has their own specific challenges and strengths. Helping your children to become more independent, strong, and creative will bless them for the rest of their lives.

Read this next: How to Get Your Child to Adopt Healthy Habits

Things You Can Do to Help Your Child Maintain a Healthy Weight

Your child’s health is one of the most important things as you help raise them into an adult who can take care of themselves. One thing you can do to help them stay healthy throughout their life is to help them develop healthy habits that in turn lead them to maintain a healthy weight. Staying at a healthy weight can feel complicated, but as you teach your child to make healthy decisions, you can help them to maintain a healthy body.

Teach Them to Listen to Their Bodies

One thing you can do that will point them in the direction of always maintaining a healthy weight is simply teaching them to listen to their own bodies. Their body will send them signals about when they are hungry or full and when they have energy to get out. When they are confident in their ability to listen to their body and do what they need to do to keep it feeling satisfied, they will be better at making the right decisions for what their body needs.

Help Them Enjoy Physical Activity

If you can help your child to love a physical activity, it will be much easier to help them stay active. Let your child try a variety of sports and other physical activities until they find something they really enjoy. Some kids will prefer sports like basketball or football while others will like dance, martial arts, or swimming. Swimming lessons teach vital safety skills that can help children stay safe when they're playing in the water.

Teach Them to Have a Healthy Relationship with Food

The last thing you want to do as you work to help your child maintain a healthy weight is to make them feel nervous or scared about eating food. Instead you want to teach them that food is fuel that helps them to do the things they need to do each day. Teach them about moderation in the foods they eat and try to help them understand what benefits different foods bring to their bodies. When they have a healthy relationship with food, they will be much more thoughtful about how they fuel their body.

As your child learns more about their body and what it takes to keep it healthy, they can develop great habits. Those habits will inform the way they eat, the way they exercise and the way they feel. Do what you can to encourage them to feel comfortable and happy with the body they have.

Check out this article on how to help your baby build more confidence!

Creating Better Cell Phone Images

     Composition and the skills related to creating compelling composition in photographs are something photographers spend a lifetime honing and improving. It is composition that plays a large part in setting one’s own style or signature ‘look’ in photographs and makes an image go from a snapshot to a thought provoking experience. You can spend years journaling, reading and studying composition. But, overall, a photograph with good composition has four basic elements all working together:

·         A clearly defined subject and background

·         Balance

·         A point of view

·         Simplicity

     To begin, let’s look an amateur photo I took some years ago in Paris. At the time, I thought I was taking a great image. But when we evaluate it according to the standards of composition, it turns out to be nothing more than a mediocre snapshot. Why is this? First, there is no clear subject and background. One could argue that the trees are the subject, or that the building is the subject. Is it the red or green parts of the building? For the viewer, the question arises, “What am I supposed to be looking at?” And if this happens, your image has failed. Second, the image is not balanced. It is just one big blob of “stuff” going on. There is virtually no negative space, and no breathing room for the eyes. It’s busy and unfocused. Third, while this image has a point of view (that if a tourist looking upward from the street), it is not an unusual or compelling point of view. It is that which any of us see most of the time on any given day. Had I climbed to the rooftop across the street, or climbed one of the trees and taken a photograph, the point of view would at least be different. Finally, as we have said, this image is not simple. It’s crazy busy.

     With a poorly composed photograph as a backdrop, let’s look at a much better one.  And as we go through it, I will bring in a couple of other elements that you can be thinking about as you start to intentionally compose your own images. Looking at this image there is no question that the crow is the subject. So, immediate, this second image is a million times better than the first. Just this simple “detail” is powerful.

     An additional element that adds interest to the subject is that the crow is at one side of the image. In this image, the eye travels from the crow, over to the tree and back again.  the eye travels around the image in a natural way. In the Paris image, the eye does not “travel” at all. Instead it rests in one spot, unsure what to do or what to look at.

     The crow mage is balanced in at least 2 ways (1) by the use of lines and (2) by another object the tree, to the left. And of you look carefully, you will notice that some vignetting has either been applied around the edges in post-production, or as a result of the lens (some lenses have a bit of a fall off that can be a good thing).

     The point of view of this image is subtlety different. It is not from the bird’s perspective. But it is not from your average adult’s perspective either. It looks like the photographer either knelt down or placed the camera on a tripod about 3-4 feet high. The result is a point of view that is one not commonly seen. This makes the viewer spend more ‘time’ on the image and make the photograph more interesting. The other strong element in this image is that it has a clear foreground, middle ground (the tree trunk)  and background (the other trees and buildings).

     The simplicity of this image is obvious. A bird on a fence.  With not much else going on, it allows the mind of the view to begin to create a story for the image. Why is the crow there? What is it doing? And so on.  The gap between the bird and the tree trunk  is essentially good use of negative space. Negative space is one of those “issues” in photography. Some say to not have too much, others have mostly negative space in their images. But an image, like the Paris one above, with no negative space is unlikely to work.

     Making images that contain strong compositional elements is mostly a matter of awareness. Take your time and try to address these 4 basics, and you will see a major improvement in your images.

What If You Didn't Have Kids? What Would Your Life Look Like?

I am one of the few women in Los Angeles who chose not to have kids. I am now 50-ish. For me, it was an easy choice; at the time anyway. I had a career as a special education teacher and I saw first hand how hard it is to have kids; how hard it is to be a parent. It scared me. And I honestly did not think I could do a good job teaching a child all those things you have to. Since I have a unique life, in many ways, I thought I would share with you what it’s like. I think you will see that as parents, you actually got the better end of the stick. In my view anyway.

D.I.N.K. (Double Income No Kids)

Yep. I am part one of a Dink lifestyle. I own a maternity, newborn and child photography business that is successful. All that money I earn is mine. All of it. There is no tuition, no kids’ clothes, no summer camp fees, no club sports, no candy sales, no Scouts, none of it. Of course, the business has expenses, (you would be stunned at how expensive it is to run a small solopreneur business), and then basic living expenses. But after that, I am able to be as irresponsible as I want to be. There is no one depending on me to save money for college, or for a rainy day. Spontaneous trips to Vegas, weekends at Santa Anita, a quick flight to Chicago to see the Cubs, it’s all there.

So far this all sounds spectacular right? It’s like being a college student with a never ending expense account from your parents. I will admit, that at first, in my 20s and even into my 30s, it was great. In fact, it was amazing. Especially when a large portion of your peers are not married yet with kids. But it gets tiresome. And after a while sporting events are not that amazing anymore, and quick weekend jaunts take their toll. They also lose their sense of taboo. You start to realize that every thing you do is all about, well, you. It’s a bit selfish. How many images can you post on social media of you gallivanting hither and yon while everyone else you knew in college became adults and has responsibilities? Whether that is good or bad, I’m not sure. But there it is.

Tenured College Dorm Life

While I did grow up enough to have a career and do all those responsible things, I never did grow up in other ways. Take domestic stuff, for example. I think most people, when they have kids, they try to keep a relatively organized house. They cook balanced meals. They clean, do laundry, take care of the yard. They do all these things with some kind of order and regularity. For me, that never happened. Now it could be, that even if I had had kids, I would still be a terrible homemaker. But I think that not being a parent allows you to live in utter disorganization. I think this promotes bad habits and fosters selfishness.

They only thing that has changed for me since college, is that I can’t take my laundry to mom’s house anymore. So what happens is, I pay to have other people do the things I probably should be doing….cleaning, cooking, yard work, basic upkeep on the property etc. I can’t be sure, but I do not think I would have developed such laziness with kids. Having kids keeps you sharper, more alert and self-sufficient; as I see things, anyway.

The-Who-Will-Take-Care-Of-Me-When-I’m-Old Question

There is an urban myth that says most people have kids so they will have someone to care for them as they age. As a newborn photographer, I see new moms all the time. I don’t see aging by themselves as their motivation for having kids. But still, it is a question most of us have to face. And since I am farther along the path than most of you reading this, I can tell you: Don’t worry about it. If your kids care for you when you are old, great. But if they can’t or won’t, it’s OK. There are competent professionals all over the place who will step in when the time comes. So the fact that I did not have kids does not make aging or getting older any harder. So I would say that on the aging issue, it’s a draw. Kids or not, getting old is tough.

The Mother-Child Relationship

Here is where not having kids loses big-time. There is one relationship that is so critical, so meaningful, so profound, and so important. It is the subject of countless paintings, books and photographs; and that is the mother-child connection. It is so raw and inspiring that my studio offers an entire portrait package just for Mother-Child. Not having kids means you miss this. It means you miss the single most awe inspiring interaction on earth. You miss the basic “why” of the human condition. You miss all those times your child calls for you, and not dad. You miss the way your child holds your hand, or sits in your lap. You miss how they look at you when they see you are proud of them. You miss how safe they feel with you after a bad day. You miss the most basic life event. You could say, you miss Life altogether. (That may be too dramatic, but you get the idea). Of course, there are lots of elements to Life, but having kids is a big one. Not having kids takes you out of a major experience.

I don’t think there are too many moms out there who regret having kids. I really don’t. But you may wonder what it may have been like if you did not have them. And I can tell you, it has some advantages. It does. But at the end of the day, the most fundamental thing is not on your Life’s resume. To my mind, you are definitely at an advantage as a parent.

Katie is a maternity, newborn and child photographer in Los Angeles, 91042

Early Childhood Skills That Can Give Parents Peace of Mind

Children in their early years are hard to keep track of and keep safe, and that’s on a good day. You may lose track of them or be out of diapers. That’s why you should teach them these important skills to give yourself a peace of mind.

Potty Training

While the time it takes to teach your child to use a toilet can vary per child, PennState Extension explains that there are signs to look out for indicating when a child is ready. Some of these include staying dry for at least two hours throughout the day, and being aware of when they are urinating or having a bowel movement. The peace of mind from potty training is worth the trouble, as children left in diapers too long can develop rashes that pain them for days afterward. You won’t have to worry about carrying around diapers anymore, either. Instead, you’ll maybe need to bring an extra pair of underwear or a roll of toilet paper.

Swimming Skills

If your child falls into a body of water, you will feel much less panic if you’ve already taught them to swim. Children who know how to swim can keep themselves afloat while you try to reach them. They can also have fun with older children because they’ll know how to move in the water. According to SwimJim, children don’t automatically know how to swim, so it’s important they learn skills in a class setting. Your child’s teacher can give you guidance on the proper swimming techniques they should learn. If your child is afraid of getting into the water, a swimming class can encourage them to be less afraid. Your child can also make new friends.

Being Lost

Many children in their early childhood get lost and, according to Kid Pillar, 500,000 children go missing every year. However, you can still teach your child how to be safe if and when they get lost. First, teach them to freeze and not start looking for you. Practice with them beforehand on calling for you by your real name and, if needed, how to identify safe people to ask for help. If they’re old enough, you can help them memorize your phone number, or otherwise put your number on their person. With these measures you’ll feel much more at peace taking your child out in public if you know, should you be separated, they have the skills to stay safe until you find them.

Children’s brains are constantly growing and developing. Even if you don’t think your child is teachable yet in some areas, you should start early in helping them learn valuable skills. Their brains can retain more information than you think!

Read this next: Childhood Habits You Should Help Your Child Break

Three Things Moms Need To Know About Studio Newborn Photography

Your little one is on the way. It is an exciting time and there is no doubt that you are going to want professional photos. Newborn photography is a very different experience than things like headshots, weddings or graduation photos. Knowing what to expect will help you plan and enjoy the results of your baby’s first photo session.

Newborn Sessions Take Time

Everything that has to do with a newborn happens in a suspended time portal. Few things happen quickly. There are three main things that take a lot of time during the session.

First, is feeding. Most photographers have mom feed the baby right when she gets to the studio. The reason for eating immediately before photos is that it encourages the baby to sleep deeply. This will give the photographer about an hour ot do to pose and take photos before the baby has to be fed again.

Second, is posing. Nearly all poses require that the baby is asleep. Newborns have certain behaviors the photographer has to take in to account while posing. Because of this, the photographer often has to stop and soothe along the way and slowly place the baby into those adorable poses. Poses are completed in stages so that the baby feels safe and secure the whole time. It can take up to 15 minutes or more to get the baby styled. And that is just for one shot!

The third thing that adds time to newborn sessions is waking up too early. It is not uncommon for a baby to be 90% wrapped and posed only to wake up and need soothing . Then, the whole posing process begins again. Patience is something you have to have at your session. Each of these things, feeding, posing, and soothing back to sleep can take time.

Expect Fewer Images

Not only does it take a lot of time to wrap and/or pose newborns for the actual photo, it also takes time processing the images afer the session. Believe it or not, newborn skin requires a lot of retouching. You may not think so, but it’s true. Your photographer will spend upwards of 10 to 15 minutes per image to retouch so your baby looks fantastic.

Because of this and other concerns, most newborn sessions have about 10 to 25 images in their gallery. While you may be used to wedding photographers who show you hundreds of images, or a holiday mini session where you get 50 images in 20 minutes, this is generally not the case with newborn portraits. The number of images depends on many things such as how well mom and the baby are prepared for the session, the demeanor of the baby the day photos are made and the types of images you want. For example, if you want family, sibling, and baby-alone images, that is a lot to accomplish in a 2 or 3 hour session. Add in a baby who decides to cluster feed that day and images can be even harder to get.

Honor What Your Baby Is Able To Do

Every newborn session is different simply because each baby is unique. This obvious statement is sometimes cast aside by overly enthusiastic moms who have high expectations for portraits. While it is fun to go on Pinterest and look at newborn photos you may want for your new baby, keep in mind that not every baby can do every pose. Some babies simply do not like to be in certain positions. Other babies do not like certain textures. Your newborn definitely follows developmental patterns and newborn photography pays close attention to how the baby is reacting during the session.

Yes, I know that camping theme with the baby adorably leaning over a bucket is to die for. But it is good to have reasonable expectations and to rejoice in the images your baby completes. Newborns already have a personality. They have preferences. Let the images they make accentuate who they are at this time. When you look back in 15 years, you will recognize attributes that showed themselves in a teeny way during your son’s or daughter’s first photo shoot.

Studio newborn sessions have the advantave of showcasing features of your baby that more casual photo shoots can miss. But they do require pre-planning, good preparation, and patience. Following these recommendations will help you get the best images from your session.

Talk to an expert about planning your perfect newborn session.