All the high-fives and heart eyes go to sweet toddlers that are willing to cuddle their newborn sibling. Did you know that transitioning a toddler from being an only child to being a big brother or sister is tough? I was reading a study that likened the transition to a husband bringing a mistress home to his wife. It’s a little dramatic, but the thought of going from the only star to having to share the spotlight must feel that way to a 2 or 3 year old.
Thank goodness for easy going siblings that slide into their role as big sister or brother with the greatest of ease.
Being a Older Sibling // Orange County Baby Photographer, Photos taken by Kristin Eldridge.
Sometimes clients get sad when the sun goes away. I get it…there’s a lot of beauty in the sun peaking out from the trees. But, there’s also a lot of beauty in the subtle way that clouds mute all the colors and make them into a watercolor painting.
My job, as a photographer, is to take the situation (whatever it might be) and make it work. So, if it’s bright and sunny, I’m making the light work for me. If it’s cool-toned and overcast, I’m gonna make that work for me too!
This maternity session is the perfect example of a beautiful overcast day.
Photos by Kristin Eldridge, Maternity Photographer in Orange County.
Overcast // Orange County Maternity Photographer
I’m feeling all the feels for this adorable family in their converse and poppy clothes! Really, I just love when a location comes together with the people I’m photographing. This set of urban walls was found in Santa Monica, CA. A client of mine told me about it and I thought it would be perfect for those that wanted something a little different.
Each family I photographed in this location took a different route. Some did lots of neutrals, others dressed it up a little. I love how everyone made this unique space their own.
Make it your own // Los Angeles Family Photographer, Kristin Eldridge
I know that a perfectly posed family photo is a must for every photo shoot. But, I’ve also gotta say that my very favorite photos are the ones with movement and laughter. After I get the photos where everyone is smiling and looking at the camera, I get the fun started and then I just move around, capturing every angle. It really is my favorite part of the photo session!
My holiday mini-sessions are kicking off this weekend. But, if you haven’t signed up, it’s not too late! I still have some dates and times open, so look at the options below and click on the link above to check them all out. This session is from one of my favorites in Laguna Beach. The rock formation adds the perfect bit of texture to the already gorgeous sand and water scenery.
I love spirited children and these boys were amazing to photograph. When personalities come through a photo, it just makes it come alive. So, when I see you this fall, make sure to bring all the spirit!
Photographing newborns is one of the best parts of my job, but also the hardest. I allow 2 hours to shoot a newborn session in my studio and I usually use up every moment.
Here’s how it all breaks down with shooting a newborn session in 2 hours:
1. The family arrives and I go over the plan with them. I ask about preferences and we talk about what shots are most important. Sometimes, they don’t have any ideas and I plan the session. Other families come in with lots of ideas.
2. I always start with the siblings together. I’m a fresh new face, but that only lasts for about 15 minutes! I find that older siblings will listen and cooperate right away, but after that I become familiar and it’s a little harder to get everyone on board. So, if the baby can arrive sleeping, that’s optimal.
3. If all is going well, the sibling shots will last about 10-15 minutes. I try to switch between looking-and-smiling and then give them cues to interact with the baby.
4. Next comes the family shots. I like to do all adults as soon as I can because the room is hot, so hair gets sweaty and make-up runs. I also want families to be able to relax and enjoy me photographing their baby. So, I like to put all the work at the beginning. I will vary up the family shots between traditional and then some more candid/interacting type shots. I also throw in some unique crops and photograph each parent with the baby if they are up for it. This can last 10-20 minutes.
5. After these shots are done, I check in with the parents and make sure they’re happy with everything we’ve gotten so far. Then, the can relax and just watch. I use a bean bag and layer the backdrops so I can quickly change from one to the other. If props are being used, I’ll make sure that the baby is sleeping soundly. So, I might be photographing the squirmy baby who’s not quite in a deep sleep on my bean bag and then once I realize they’re completely out, I’ll move to the prop. Then, I’ll move back to the bean bag to finish things up.
If you’re new to newborn photography, just don’t give up. You have to outlast the baby that just doesn’t want to sleep. So, be patient…it will pay off. If you’re a parent of a newborn, come in relaxed. Know that your photographer is a professional and will know how to handle any situation. A relaxed family = happy photos!
Using a light back-drop with newborns is the perfect way to add creaminess to their skin tone. Newborn skin is so soft and sweet that I love to enhance that instead of fight against it with darker or brighter colors. It’s just a personal preference, but I swoon every time I’m looking through creamy newborn photos.
Catch the last little bit of summer sun in late August with a Summer Sun Mini-Session!
Here’s the details:
August 22 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30 Monte Verde Park in Long Beach/Lakewood
August 29 4:30, 5:00, 5:30 El Dorado Park in Long Beach
$100 mini-session fee + $300 (just kids) or $350 (family) for all your digital images. This is the last time to get the summer rate…prices go up in Sept for the busy Fall season.
Call/Text 562-980-6480 or email (contact button on the left or at the top) to book your session!
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