Heartstrings - The Blog

Out with the old, in with the New!

2009-07-18T01:16:00.004-04:00

Yep, I've made more changes. I've created a brand new blog. One that looks more professional and even more user friendly. The pictures are bigger and you can even search for specific types of images. For example, birth, newborns, babies, families, etc. And there are links to my main website and to this blog here! I'll leave this one up for a couple of months for it's high traffic and until my new blog beefs up a bit more from client sneak peeks! And the new blog has a MUCH easier web address:

http://www.teresavickery.com/blog

Sweet and simple.

Oh. And I'm in the process of renovating (sp?) my main website too. Forgot about that part. I just feel like in this photographic journey, I'm discovering and becoming more and more comfortable with my own style: one that is clean, crisp, natural, elegant, and organic, if you will. So I think my website should reflect the same.

Okay! So now you can keep checking out the main website for the reflected changes! Yay! Something to look forward to!

harper ~3 months old~

2009-07-12T20:09:00.006-04:00

I had the pleasure of photographing the newest member of this lovely family. Miss Harper is so adorable and looks much like her older brother. I did mom's maternity session which you can see HERE.

And I just have to add: Harper fell asleep while I was there, and she let us attempt to curl her up and pose her like a newborn! Ha! Never has that EVER happened with my older baby clients! I was chuckling the whole time, bewildered, but snapping away.

Thank you, Melissa and Chau! I had a lot of fun. Such a pleasure!

Rachel ~34 weeks maternity~

2009-06-29T22:26:00.002-04:00

I did a maternity mini-session with this lovely couple today! So laidback and so sweet. Mom is a music teacher and dad is a wedding DJ (but I think he might DJ other events too). So their baby girl will be born into a loving and musical home! During the session, David broke out his guitar and picked for a little while, making baby "O" (as they refer to her) dance all around Rachel's belly.

This baby is going to be so beautiful! Stay tuned in a couple months or so for images of newborn baby "O." So excited!

I wish you a swift, natural, beautiful labor and delivery!

Post Delivery ~claire and nora~

2009-06-29T22:18:00.002-04:00

Here are a few shots I captured while mom and baby were recovering from birth a couple of days later. I uploaded these to my Facebook page, so I'm sharing these with those of you that are not on Facebook. I just have to share how beautiful these children are!

Birth ~The "C" Triplets~

2009-06-29T22:06:00.006-04:00

I was honored to photograph the c-section birth of another set of sweet triplets. So so precious! And these babies have a proud big sister to keep them in line! Congratulations to the new family of 6!

Cate {9 months old}

2009-06-27T20:18:00.003-04:00

I just love this baby! Look at her blue eyes. The bluest, prettiest eyes I have ever seen! I just can't get over how blue they are. It was so great to see you again! I'm looking forward to her one year session. Lots of ideas brewing!

Birth ~Sweet Little Girl~

2009-06-25T11:39:00.011-04:00

I had the privilege of photographing another birth. No matter how any times I witness birth, it never fails to amaze me! Such a beautiful thing. This mom and dad are both physicians and I have to say that they make THE most beautiful babies!!! Seriously. Congratulations to the parents and proud big sister!

wyatt {2 weeks old}

2009-06-22T18:50:00.012-04:00

Oh my. He was the perfect newborn model. He slept almost the entire time and never peed or pooped on anyone or anything! Imagine that! I've never been that fortunate! I even forewarn my clients and let them know that it's inevitable but okay. So I never expected NOT to get pooped on! This is a huge deal for me!

He's so cuddly and sweet. And he has such a handsome big brother too! Congratulations, Karen & John. You are sooooo blessed!

Carter.

2009-06-18T17:25:00.006-04:00

Carter is 4 weeks old and such a sweet lil boy! He's got two big brothers to watch over him and a mommy who loves him too. Here's a sneak peek into our session! I love these!

And this one's for you, Landon! (He was dying for me to take pictures of him jumping on the trampoline. Ha!)

On the Move!

2009-06-14T23:55:00.009-04:00

Shiloh's about 9 months old now and I've been photographing her since she was just 2 weeks old.

Her sneak peeks can be seen here:

Newborn
4 Months Old

I just adore watching her grow! She's a prime example of how fast babies can change and develop. It's a thrill to see her again and again. Now she's crawling everywhere and doesn't care to sit in one spot for more than a second before moving on to something else more interesting. She's a mover and a shaker and a cute one at that!

Dana ~33 weeks~

2009-06-08T23:07:00.003-04:00

I went over to my friend Dana's house this evening in Morgan County. I love how rural it is out there. So peaceful--at least where Dana lives. She wanted maternity pictures taken so of course I obliged but I told her she had to stand out in a hay field in the middle of fescue (isn't that what it is?) that was waist high. And it was lovely.

I love taking her photograph. She is RADIANT, isn't she?

~Raleigh~ 15 days old

2009-05-27T19:50:00.004-04:00

Finally! I was able to photograph miss Raleigh and her gorgeous mommy and daddy in their home. She fought hard against sleep, but alas, she gave in to my squishy, snuggly beanbag and space heater. And oh the sweet smiles I managed to capture! She smiled so much and so big! But here are a few from our session. It was hard to pick just a few to show off.

So here they are....

Just two.

2009-05-25T22:12:00.002-04:00

Wanted to post, very quickly, two images of what I did this evening of my 15 year old cousin, Erica. She's growing up into a young woman. So pretty.

shweet wittle owen

2009-05-19T19:23:00.005-04:00

This is Owen. Just look at him! Doesn't he look like the Gerber baby? Seriously! From his beautiful blue eyes, to his lovely little mouth, to his soft & lightly fuzzed head. Just like the Gerber baby to me. And so happy!

Enjoy these awesome captures. I just love them! The first one was an idea courtesy of his mommy. So I brought along my helium tank and some balloons, and he had a field day with them!

.brand new.

2009-05-14T21:26:00.003-04:00

A little taste of what I get to photograph very soon! Miss Raleigh came into this world 3 weeks early. I was also supposed to document her debut into this world but she decided to come on her own time--at 3:00 in the morning. Just 4 hours before I had to be at work. Her mommy and I work together in the Family Birth Center. She's so adorable!

She loves to stretch out. Arms and legs straight out!

Look at those legs!

Shelby {7 days new}

2009-05-13T18:14:00.003-04:00

This is sweet little Shelby. At just under 6 pounds, she's a squishy, snuggly, sleepy little peanut! And she felt SO good to just hold her. She melts in your arms. Not a tense little muscle in her tiny body. I didn't want to put her down! And her mommy & daddy are quite smitten with her. Who can blame them? I wanted to take her home with me!

I love these images!

LeAnna ~Senior Session~

2009-05-11T00:36:00.005-04:00

I had a blast doing LeAnna's senior pics. We started out indoors, doing some studio-style shots and then we headed downtown to Depot Street in Hartwell. There are lots of nooks and crannies with lots of texture and color and I can tell you we found them all! I have known LeAnna since she was 9 or 10 years old. It was such a privilege to be able to document the beautiful young woman she has become.

This sneak peek isn't posted in the order the images were taken.

Thanks, girl, for letting me do this session for you! Go ahead--Brag your heart out. You've got the BEST senior pics of anyone you know. Ha!

p.s. I know I spelled your name wrong, but I am HORRIBLE with names! I've never had to spell your name out!

Enjoy!

LeAnna with her mom Sandy. I know where she gets her good looks from!

Three Times Blessed!

2009-05-06T19:34:00.004-04:00

Meet Jack, Gabe & Isabella. I had the privilege of photographing their births back in March. Their mommy's due date isn't even for another 6 more days! I've been patiently waiting for the timing to be just right for these little bundles of joy so that I could do their newborn session. They weren't in the NICU for any time at all (Jack & Isabella for 2 1/2 weeks and Gabe for a little more than 3 weeks) and were sent home as healthy as can be. They are so so soooooooo precious!

What a blessing! Here's a sneak peek for you guys! And Jill--I've said it once and I'll say it a million times more--You are BEAUTIFUL!!! You DO NOT look like you just gave birth to triplets!

Miss Isabella...She looks thrilled to pieces, doesn't she?

It's Been Awhile...

2009-05-05T23:20:00.005-04:00

It's been quite a long time since I put my sweet little Ashlyn in front of my camera--studio-style. I can tell you this: Confining a toddler to a small space and then expecting them to pose this way and that is almost irrational. Yet when I asked her if I could take her picture wearing angel wings, SHE SAID YES! I was able to photograph her for all of 10 minutes and she was through. Once you look through these, you'll see her booboo face. At that point she was finished. No, these aren't posted in the order they were taken. I just wanted to post them. :o)

But nevertheless, I just love my little Ashlyn. I've been so emotional about her lately. She'll be 4 years old in a couple of months and then starting preschool in the fall. I have that knot in my throat right now as I type this out. I don't want my little girl to grow up. As her mother, I am so proud of her. Of the little person is becoming. My sweet little angel.

baby ansley {8 MONTHS OLD}

2009-04-21T21:08:00.006-04:00

Meet sweet baby Ansley! She is just the cutest thing! Even though she didn't get much of nap before our session, she was still so happy and tolerant of my changing out backdrops and hairbows and props. And meet her mommy: Annie. We work together in the Family Birth Center at St. Mary's. She's a nurse too! She's so beautiful, I talked her in to getting in front of the camera too. It's such a waste to let a beautiful person go unphotographed, lol! I just love her natural beauty. So fresh and clean feeling--like a laundry detergent commercial. Ha!

But seriously. I thoroughly enjoyed doing this session. Hope you like them!

Ty + Charann ::: 04.18.09

2009-04-19T16:28:00.012-04:00

This wedding was lots of fun and good times. I worked with Charann in the ER (she's a nurse too) so it was all very laidback. I even got to see some old co-workers that I haven't seen in a long time! I have literally HUNDREDS of images to go through. And I haven't even gotten the files yet of the ones my friend and photographer, Trina, got! Here are a few I proofed to get a quick preview.

Charann: We'll talk later about Bridals! Enjoy!

Gettin' down on the dance floor: "Ice, ice baby...." Ha!

Pictured here with the bride & groom are Jill & Travis. They were generous in sharing their home for the ceremony and reception. Thank you! Your home is beautiful!

Ryan + Liz ::: E-Session

2009-04-09T22:08:00.005-04:00

Oh. My. Gosh. I had SO much fun doing this session! This is my cousin Liz and her fiance, Ryan. As I mentioned in my previous post, Liz is a hair stylist. And Ryan? Well, he's a graphic designer. I cannot think of any other couple more PERFECT for each other. Creativity just runs through every vein in their bodies. And with all this being said, you KNOW I had a blast doing this session.

We went out to an old, abandoned building right on the Ohio River in Vanceburg, KY. And every single room was a photographer's paradise. Really. I was so disappointed that we ran out of daylight. I could have played there all day long! And don't you know that this couple ROCKED THIS SESSION?!!!

In a perfect world, I would have my own lofty, studio. Complete with a building like this one and my own hair and makeup artist and graphic designer! I wished I could have taken them home with me. So much fun!

Thanks guys, for letting me do this shoot for you! It's one of my faves. Enjoy!!!

GLAM!!!

2009-04-09T21:56:00.005-04:00

So, of course, being the photographer I am, I cannot even visit family without pulling out my camera and attempting to get some pro shots too. I coerced my two aunts Cheryl & Anna, and my cousins Liz & Amber to put the makeup on and tease the hair out for some "hot mama" shots. Liz is a hair stylist and makeup artist so she did the hair and makeup. Okay, well I don't think she's really a makeup artist, but she sure could be!

Enjoy these ladies! I think you are all STUNNING!

Museum of Appalachia

2009-04-09T21:52:00.002-04:00

We met up with my aunt & uncle at the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton, TN and had lunch. We all left together, from there, to head north to Kentucky and Ohio to visit family.

~Cousins~

2009-04-09T21:32:00.005-04:00

A few shots of little cousins while visiting in Kentucky and Ohio...

Baby Girl Landry ~7 Days Old~

2009-04-02T20:16:00.005-04:00

Meet baby girl Landry. A little chunker she is! And a cute one too! At 9 pounds and 4 ounces at birth, this sweet girl is no frail & skinny newborn. She's quite healthy and mommy feeds her very well! I had so much fun trying out different things with her. And mom was game for anything I suggested.

And big brother is sooooo proud of her. I can tell he's going to be very protective when they get older. So. Much. Fun!

Thank you, Alisa & Matthew, for allowing me to capture these fleeting newborn moments! I LOVE these!

BIRTH ~Triplets~

2009-03-31T12:07:00.006-04:00

I was honored and privileged to photograph the birth of TRIPLETS!!! And such feisty little ones they are. All three of them came out screaming. What a miracle. Really it is. No matter how many times I witness birth, it never seizes to amaze me. What a BEAUTIFUL family.

Sweet Lil Gabe...aka BABY "B" being shown to mommy. Lots of hair!!!

Baby Cate ~6 Months Session~

2009-03-28T17:05:00.005-04:00

I cannot even find the words to describe just how cute Cate is. Look at those cheeks! And those pretty blue eyes! I did her newborn session, too, back in October. What a privilege to be able to photograph such an ADORABLE baby! I even managed to get her beautiful mommy to pose for some shots with her too. I just LOVE IT when I photograph beautiful people!!!

Hope you like them, Megan! You look stunning girl! I'll post some of these on Facebook for you too.

Eli ~18 months~

2009-03-21T22:09:00.007-04:00

My friend Dana and I decided to take our boys (who are 6 days apart) to the park so that 1.) we could let them run play and 2.) so I could get some 18 month pictures of Eli. We met up at Harris Shoals Park for a little while then we ended up at the Elder Covered Bridge outside Watkinsville before calling it an evening. Whew! Two toddler boys = high energy and high risk for accidents! But I know our little guys had so much fun...

My favorite...

Don't you just love the tie?

My sweet man having a blast....
On the playground--No, they weren't fighting. I think Eli just wanted to take Brent's shoe off...

Mommy and Eli...She's pregnant with #2. She doesn't know the sex of the baby and it's KILLING me!!!
Another shot of my Brent. Being silly, as usual.
Note his face expression. This is the result of Dana saying, "Smile for Ms. Teresa, Eli!" Don't you love it?!
The covered bridge. Was going for intimate and moody. I think it works here.
Pullback shot of the covered bridge. A pretty place.

Miss Kyler ~11 Days Old~

2009-03-17T16:45:00.006-04:00

Meet Miss Kyler at all of 11 days old. She was so sweet for us! She had to clusterfeed for awhile in the beginning, but then she was putty in our hands. Oh how precious she is! Thanks so much, Kevin and Lauren, for letting me capture these fleeting moments for you and your family.

Meet Baby "S" {6 Months Session}

2009-03-13T18:05:00.006-04:00

Oh what a sweet little charmer she is! And I think she liked me--if I left her sight for a moment, she would make a fuss. I'd reappear, and her pretty little face would light up. Absolutely sweet! When it comes to photographing babies, newborns are my favorite, but 6 month olds are close behind them! What a joyous age. Interactions, emotion, and that chubby "babiness." Gotta love it.

Thank you so much for inviting me into your home to capture Miss "S" in all her cuteness! :o)

My Sweet Girl

2009-03-09T10:48:00.002-04:00

With so many sessions and proofing, my nursing job, being a mom, going to the grocery store, giving baths, and paying bills, I haven't had time to pull out my camera to take pictures of my own kids. Ashlyn's getting older now and she's gotten more cooperative in front of the camera--all the more reason I should be photographing her more often. Brent (my son) is an entirely different story. But I'll post a couple of him later.

We went to Hartwell to visit their Nanny (their great grandmother). With the weather as warm as it was, I decided to go ahead and get some shots of Ashlyn in a field beside Nanny's. It makes her happy to be able to just run free--so that's what I let her do. My little free spirit...

Rylan's One Year Old!!!

2009-02-28T17:45:00.006-05:00

I can't believe he's going to be a year old. I photographed him when he was still in his mama's belly, his birth and then again when he was only 6 days new. And now he's talking and dancing and giving kisses and crawling and standing...He's growing up.

Happy Birthday, Ry Ry!

Cake. YUMMY!

Kisses from Daisy

Can you say, "CAM-A-RO?"

Big Baby Blues (courtesy of mama Mixon)

The posterchild for Bailey Boys Boutique Clothing

Isn't he just PRESH?!

Saltine crackers. Mmmmmmmm....

Probably my personal favorite so far....

Playing on mommy and daddy's bed...

The little man with his mommy & daddy...

Charann + Ty ::: LOVE

2009-02-24T22:36:00.005-05:00

You can sooooo totally tell that this couple was meant to be together. The way they were together. It is so obvious they complete each other. I did this session for my friend Charann who's getting married in April. So you'll get to see her beautiful face more often with her bridal session coming up and then the big day--which I am honored to cover. It is going to be FABULOUS and so much fun, I can tell already.

What a HOT couple!!! (Yes, Charann. You definitely have the hot factor, girl.) Talk to you soon!

Sweet Lily Jane ~Newborn Session~

2009-02-24T00:58:00.006-05:00

What can I say about this tiny newborn baby other than she is utterly adorable? I could just eat her fat little toes and kiss her sweet, squishy lips. But I didn't do either one... No, I held it back as much as I could but I did cave and kiss the top of her little newborn head. Oh she is so sweet! And I had so much fun with her too.

There's so much more proofing to be done! Laura, you're going to love these!

I see DIMPLES!!!

Three generations (Yep, that's GRANDMA on the right. I bet you thought she was mom's sister, didn't you?)

A living, breathing, baby doll.

Wide awake--wondering why I'm molding her into these awkward positions.

Sweet squishiness...

An angel...Gotta love the wings

Baby in a sling....I've been DYING to try this pose out. It was NOT easy. All three of us were sweating and on edge!

Night night.

Radiant! ~Maternity 37 weeks~

2009-02-20T21:39:00.007-05:00

This girl literally GLOWS with pregnancy. So, so pretty! Why couldn't my body look this perfect when I was pregnant? Doesn't she look like a maternity model?! And her little boy is definitely a looker too. I bet her new baby girl will be another beauty factor added to this precious family.

Thank you so much for letting me photograph you and your sweet boy! (Oh, and don't let me forget little miss Molly in all her diva-ness) Hope to see you all again and meet baby Harper!!!

My website is Back up!

2009-02-10T21:30:00.002-05:00

Yesssss. I LOVE my new website. And it's back up and running! So with the new site comes a new feature--the option of placing your orders right inside your safe and secure viewing gallery! AWESOME! So no more surfing from one address to another. You'll do everything right from the site! Yay! No more confusion.

Oh, and it's prettier too.

Kyle + Sarah = BEAUTIFUL BABIES!

2009-02-09T20:19:00.007-05:00

Okay, okay. I know I always talk about how cute my client babies are, but I can't help it! They really are! And I have to say it again for these sweet babies! Yes, the family is gorgeous, but their sons are just so beautiful! I can say that because their both so small. Especially the newest addition to their family unit. At almost 3 weeks, we still managed to get some precious, curled, sleepy baby shots.

I just LOVE these! Enjoy!

Technical Issues...

2009-02-09T20:04:00.003-05:00

As my new website propagates down, you may not be able to view my site. This may take up to 72 hours (but I hope not). If you have any questions, you can contact me at heartstringsphotography@gmail.com or via phone at (706) 247-4230. I'll update my blog once the website is back up. Thanks!

Teresa

~BIRTH~

2009-02-09T15:57:00.006-05:00

I love my jobs. Yes, BOTH of my jobs. As a photographer, to be able to photograph such precious moments for people in these beautiful times in their lives. And as a L&D and mother/baby nurse, to be able to witness the emotion and life changing moments with the birth of a baby. With each delivery, I'm reminded of just how miraculous life truly is. I had the privilege of documenting Laura's birth of little miss Lily Jane.

Laura: I can't WAIT for you to see the slideshow. It's awesome!

Bright, Bold Colors!

2009-02-09T15:49:00.004-05:00

I'm really liking the use of off camera flash outdoors. Especially at night. My goal here was to try and do it right at sunset to really get some shots of the setting sun in the background. Fate wouldn't let me do it though. My battery died on my remote transmitter so I had to run to the store to a new one. By the time I got my shooting location, I had my lighting all set up. I went to move the umbrella I had my flash set up on, and CRASH! Down went the umbrella, flash and the transmitter on the light stand. The transmitter died but my flash was okay, thank goodness. So anyway, we broke my studio strobe, the extension cord and started shooting. Maybe next time I'll be able to do this set up again at sunset like i originally planned!

Thanks, Erica, for being so patient. You are so sweet to put up with my mess!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!

2009-02-04T09:30:00.002-05:00

Yep. There's going to be some re-vamping around these parts. Soon I'll be going live with a brand new website! And this time, your private proofing gallery will come WITH a shopping cart! So no more going to a different web address to place your orders if you want to order online. SO much easier! And man, it's going to be pretty! Much prettier. So you can expect to see it in the next two weeks or so. I'll update with more info later.

Twins!

2009-02-02T22:09:00.007-05:00

These sweet baby boys have come a loooong way. At all of 7 & 8 pounds and some change, Kyler and Colton are thriving beautifully at 3 months old. Since they're still the size of a newborn, we attempted newborn poses. But these boys had other ideas. So aware of their surroundings! But so precious. I enjoyed doing this session. And yes, Andrea, I think we got some good ones!

See you soon!

Had to throw this one in for Ryan!

Hello Again!

2009-01-31T22:59:00.005-05:00

I love seeing the same baby clients again and again. It's so amazing how much they change with each meeting. For those of you who visit my blog often, you may recognize this sweet little baby girl. The original "baby on a dresser"--Shiloh! She's definitely developing her own little personality--not to mention her own temperament too! She's quick to let you know when she doesn't like something.

Watch out, mom & dad! She's a little princess! And a cute one too!

It's Been Loooong Overdue

2009-01-31T08:28:00.007-05:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about how I have no family pics of me with my own family. OR any of my ME. Period. Then I thought about how, one day, I'll no longer be here on this earth, and my poor children will go on with NO pictures of their mother. I'm always behind the lens and dread getting in front of it. So I've made it a point to allow myself to get in front of the camera more often. For the sake of my kids.

We went out to my friend Frankie's studio and she actually managed to get some great shots of all four of us in front of the camera at the same time with a decent expression on our faces. I'm so thrilled because I know how hard it is to photograph my kids and I warned her before we started. Her and her assistant, Anna, definitely got their workout in for the day with Brent running around like a crazy child.

But look! At last, I had to share a picture of my beautiful family together, courtesy of my girl Frankie Wylie.

Sweetness!

2009-01-25T16:41:00.002-05:00

A sneak peek at a session with a sweet little girl about to turn 2 years old and a sweet, sweet couple so in love with each other.

Enjoy!

Laura's Maternity ~35 weeks~

2009-01-16T21:25:00.007-05:00

I just can't say enough about how adorable Laura is. Her belly is so perfect. From the poked out belly button to the linea nigra that runs from top to bottom, it is just perfection! She let me do whatever I wanted during our session together. A photographer's dream! And I just loved how comfortable she was with herself and her pregnant body. She felt beautiful and it shows in ALL of her images. I posted some from our session and merely skimmed the surface on proofing. There are so many other poses we managed to get that I couldn't get to just yet. I have to hold back as I finish up proofing other client sessions.

You go, Laura, for being so beautiful! You RADIATE happiness and pure pregnancy bliss! You'll get to see all of them in about 2 weeks. Thank you, Micah, for being so cooperative and patient. And thank you, Ms. Joyce for lending a helping hand. Now I know where Laura gets her good looks!

Enjoy!

~Little Miss Finley~ 2.weeks.old.

2009-01-08T20:31:00.005-05:00

She never cried the entire time I was there! So laid back and easygoing. Even when she didn't want to fall asleep for us. She was content to stay awake and look around. After a marathon nursing session, she was putty in our hands, ha! She is just SO sweet! Not to mention just so darn cute!

Thank you, Eric & Cassie, for letting me capture these sweet newborn baby moments for you! You'll be hearing from me very soon. Here's your sneek peak and it's a big one! I couldn't just proof a couple; there were so many good ones...And many more to come in your private gallery!

Enjoy!

Baby Kyleigh

2009-01-04T16:32:00.003-05:00

I've been photographing Kyleigh since her mommy was still carrying her inside her belly. I last did her newborn session when she was 5 days old. (Remember the baby wrapped in cheesecloth?) Now here she is at 3 months. My, how they change so much in such a short amount of time! This is why I feel it is so important to photograph babies frequently--especially in their first year of life. They change from day to day. Many times we forget or cannot remember our little ones so small. Capturing as much as you can in an image can help preserve a memory of your sweet baby's chubby cheeks or the baby smell in their hair or the way they smiled great big when you made googly eyes at them.

Kyleigh is just so cute! Her eyes are so bright!

Sweet, Sweet Baby Girl

2008-12-31T12:07:00.005-05:00

This is tiny Miss Abie. I photographed her mommy earlier this month during a maternity session. One word describes this baby: PERFECTION. She's absolutely perfect. Thank you so much for allowing to capture this precious time in her new little life. Congratulations guys!

Hope you like these as much as I do...

Look! A smile! From both beautiful girls!

A baby cocoon...

Eye contact! From a newborn baby! Isn't she adorable?

Sweet baby goodness...

Peel-y, just born baby feet...

One of my favorites...

Another one of my favorites...I'm really digging textures right now!

Yep. She's totally got him wrapped around her teeny little finger!

A sweet portrait of a brand new family.

The Magic of Christmas

2008-12-05T20:06:00.004-05:00

I managed to snap this shot of my kids admiring the tree. We have to peel ornaments out of Brent's hands at least 10 times a day now! He just loves the tree and everything about it. The holidays are so much more fun with kids!!!

You Better Watch Out...You Better Not Cry...

2008-12-05T12:06:00.003-05:00

We took Ashlyn and Brent to see Santa at Bass Pro Shop so that Ashlyn could tell him what she wants for Christmas. I really thought she would be nervous and speechless but she took one look at him and shouted, "There's Santa Claus!" I took my camera with us since the pictures were free and I'd much rather have done them myself instead getting some blurry ones off the store's point and shoot. But she walked right up to him, climbed up onto his lap and told him exactly what she wanted without a stutter. Brent sat on his lap merely for picture-taking purposes and just wasn't too sure about him.

I was so proud of her and how she had no fear. She was so excited. And when she was finished and she climbed down out of his lap, we began to walk away but not before she turned back around and asked, "Hey Santa Claus? Can I pet your reindeer?" So cute! Jade picked her up and leaned her over toward the stuffed reindeer and let her pat his nose.

I thought that Santa did a great job. He really looked the part! So real!

It made for a magical moment for my sweet 3 year old daughter. Ah, the innocence of childhood.

~Karen~ 36 weeks Maternity

2008-12-01T21:33:00.008-05:00

Karen has the roundest baby belly I have ever seen! She just GLOWS with pregnancy! Makes me miss being pregnant. It's just so special. Those kicks and jabs are just so precious. Constant reminders that there's another human being growing inside you. It really IS the miracle of life.

She's expecting their first baby, a little girl. You'll get to meet her in a few weeks too. I'm so excited, I can't wait!

Thank you, Karen & Brad, for allowing me to capture this beautiful yet brief time in your soon to be busy lives!

Hope you like these as much as I do!

Bradley and Amber

2008-11-27T21:36:00.006-05:00

These two have been together since they were 14 years old. Isn't that sweet?! Now they're married (and have been for over 2 years now) and still very much in love. Now everyone say, "Awwwwe."

What a sweet couple!

Mother & Son

2008-11-21T22:26:00.003-05:00

There's something that has to be said about a mother's love for her little boy. I can attest to that. This little family of three (including Spike, their boston terrier) was undoubtedly very close. We did a session back at the Botanical Gardens and we weren't sure if they allowed pets, but we let Spike hang out with us for a little while and snap some pictures while no one was looking. (FYI: No pets allowed. There's a sign at the entrance)

Thank you, Janna, for letting me try to catch a glimpse into the life and bond between you and Ashford! (Who, by the way, is as handsome as can be, in case you didn't notice). I had a lot of fun!

Playing with Light...

2008-11-12T21:54:00.003-05:00

I love experimentation and learning new things. I love figuring out the how's and why's of photography. I feel like this is what makes me grow as a photographer. Thank you, Erica, for letting me try something new! I LOVE rusty, colorful old trucks.

The Correll Family

2008-11-07T21:42:00.005-05:00

What a sweet little family! The boys were so mindful of mommy but at the same time, they were spirited and itching to run free. (They did in between shots though) The boys are simply adorable and mommy is just so beautiful. She says she doesn't like to have her picture taken and I do NOT know why! She's gorgeous! I just love her natural curls!

Thank you so much for allowing me to do this session for you! Hope you like them!

The Walters Family

2008-11-02T20:12:00.003-05:00

Here's the Walters family. We ventured out this morning and had a fun session at Watson Mill State Park. Such a well-put-together family! Here's a sneak peek into our session. I wished I had had more time to proof more than I did. Hope you like them!

Christmas Cards!

2008-10-28T18:00:00.005-04:00

Okay, I know I posted a while back about Christmas Cards. And now FINALLY! Here are the Christmas Cards I'm offering this year. These are only available to clients who have booked a session since August.

Simply click on the image below to get a closer look!

I think I've got a great collection this year! These are all double-sided, 5x7 thick, high quality cards. Printed on your choice of linen, pearl, or plain cards. They are ordered in multiples of 25 and come with envelopes too. $50 per 25 cards! Not bad for such HIGH quality! Everyone you send these to will NOT want to throw these away! I've even heard of some clients say they're family member or friend FRAMED the card they received! Yes, they're that nice!

And don't worry, you'll be able to see these samples in your viewing gallery too so you can get a REALLY good look at them!

Shiloh ~15 Days Old~

2008-10-18T23:05:00.004-04:00

What else can I say other than Miss Shiloh is ADORABLE!!! I can't believe how easy her session went today! Simply put: A photographer's dream. She slept the entire time, occasionally cracking an eyelid here and there, and making us all awe over her.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Mom & Dad: You have yourselves a GOOD baby! No, there is no such thing as a bad baby, but her temperament in just divine.

She is so precious, I just had to post some from our session. She smiled so much. I love them all! And I hope you do too!

The "B" Family!!

2008-10-15T21:14:00.004-04:00

What a beautiful family! I did a family session with a photographer friend today along with her husband and sweet, spirited little girl. Don't you know they made my job soooo easy! It's like they know each other--really know each other. I didn't have to do hardly any posing with them. They just knew what to do. A dream!

Thank you "N" & "G" for letting me capture a glimpse of your family with my camera.

Hope you like them!

Little Miss "C"

2008-10-14T18:37:00.008-04:00

Little Miss "C" is all of 3 1/2 weeks old and slept like a 2 day old for almost her entire session! What a pleasure it was photographing her and her mommy and daddy. She is such an angel! Perfect is every way.

Well "A" & "M," I know you two are very proud of her. You should be! Here are a few (okay, several) images from our session today. I just cannot pick a favorite! Although #5 has me staring at her chubby cheeks and sweet little baby lips! I hope you like these as much as I do!

Making Use of Some Cheesecloth...

2008-10-12T16:51:00.000-04:00

Cheesecloth + Newborn Baby = Adorable

"J" Maternity

2008-10-06T22:31:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of shooting "J" at Hurricane Shoals Park today. Expecting her first baby, she's so excited to finally meet her little boy. As promised! Here's your sneak peek, "J"!

Testing out a New Backdrop

2008-10-05T23:43:00.004-04:00

Because of my love for damask patterns right now, I had to have this backdrop. Ashlyn was my test subject, of course. Lately, she's been a very willing participant in my photographic experiments.

One.Year.Old.

2008-10-03T13:46:00.002-04:00

I've been taking this baby's pictures since he was 6 weeks old. And my how he changes every time I see him! He's so animated and spirited. And so so handsome! Here's a sneak peek into his session:

Baby K - 4 days old

2008-09-29T19:32:00.004-04:00

I actually did this session today and was SO excited to get home and proof a few of my favorites...Okay, so there are more than a few, but I just couldn't help myself! Isn't she just adorable?

Okay, back to proofing my other sessions...But here are some from today! (The first 3 are from when she was 1 day old, in the hospital.)

2008-09-24T15:20:00.007-04:00

With the Month of October being recognized as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, The Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Foundation holds its Annual Fund Drive for six weeks starting in mid-September and ending in October.

President Ronald Reagan enacted Proclamation 5890 in October of 1988 to recognize that each year, approximately a million pregnancies in the United States alone end in miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of a newborn child. Reagan stated, "A national observance offers us the opportunity to increase our understanding of the great tragedy involved in the deaths of unborn or newborn babies. It also enables us to consider how, as individuals and communities, we can meet the needs of bereaved parents and family members... " To read the full Proclamation signed by Reagan, CLICK HERE.

If you are in a place to make even a small contribution to NILMDTS, please know that doing so will continue to allow the organization to provide improved resources, training, communication, and other tools necessary in support of our amazing contingent of professional photographers who provide the gift of free remembrance portraiture to families in need.

Our next project we are working on is an online, interactive webinar version of our Formal NILMDTS Training taught by Co-Founder Sandy Puc' allowing anyone in any country with access to a computer to complete the course online. Donations help make programs like this a reality!

Your Donations Support the Organization in Many Ways -

* By supporting the continued education of our volunteer photographers

* By allowing us to further our outreach to hospitals and hospices across the world

* By offsetting the costs associated with outreach efforts including Formal NILMDTS Traingin Seminars

* By supporting the Family Forum which creates a productive and supportive haven for healing

* By supporting the Photographers' Forum which provides a helpful environment for our member photographers to express their feelings and receive advice on the various issues that they face in this noble work

* By supporting the day to day operations of our Headquarters Offices

My little man's turning 1!

2008-09-23T21:27:00.002-04:00

Well, my sweet baby boy is going to turn one year old in about 8 days. It's amazing how fast a human being grows in the first year of life. Going from a tiny, helpless newborn infant, to a walking, babbling little person. But he's still very much my little baby. Oh how I adore his sweet giggles and soft skin and chubby short legs.

I had to take some time out of proofing to squeeze in a small session with him to document his turning one. So here he is...sigh...

Anita & James 09.13.08

2008-09-21T21:59:00.003-04:00

Well I don't usually do weddings, but I was willing to make an exception for this couple. I simply couldn't say no. The wedding was small and quaint and you could really tell that they were very much in love with one another. I was priviledged to witness their union and capture those little but ever so important details so that they will always remember them.

I've barely skimmed the surface on proofing all the images, but I wanted to go ahead and post a few here for a sneak peek.

Congratulations, Anita & James!

Christmas is Around the Corner!!!

2008-09-15T10:54:00.002-04:00

That's right! So that means it's time to get those Christmas pictures done for those Christmas cards! There are a few slots available in October and November if you want pictures in time to order Christmas cards. The deadline to book your session November 30th so hurry! These session openings won't last long!

I'll post a few card examples of what I'm selling this year here on my blog very soon so check back son!

Sweet Sisters

2008-09-15T10:46:00.002-04:00

Meet big sister "K" and little sister "C." What a sweet little duo they are! They loved to play dress up and laugh it up with me. Little "C" is a little more serious than her big sis, but by the end of the session, she was the main jokster! So cute, the both of them!

~Brittney's Maternity Session~

2008-08-30T22:15:00.004-04:00

At 34 weeks, she just glows with pregnancy! With an 18 month old little boy, she's having a sweet little girl to complete her family. She was so easy to work with and was up for anything! So I had the opportunity to let my creative juices flow! Thanks, Brittney, for allowing me to capture this special time your lives.

Here's a sneak peek into our session...

Meet Mr. Caleb

2008-08-26T20:08:00.009-04:00

This little man has come such a long way! At almost 5 months old, he's all of 10 pounds. He was born 8 weeks premature and has overcome so many obstacles. He's a strong, spirited little man who is very much loved.

I had the priviledge of photographing him and his mommy today and was so excited to hurry and post a few from the session. This time totally revolved around him (which was perfectly fine with me) and he definitely had plans of his own!

This session is to be continued...

Until then, enjoy!

Miss Erica

2008-08-05T11:31:00.002-04:00

Such a classic, all-american girl! Her natural beauty just shines!

Together!!!

2008-07-31T22:20:00.002-04:00

Well I finally managed to get a couple of pictures of both of my kids together. I haven't been able to get a decent one of them together since Brent was 5 weeks old! No, these recents still aren't perfection, but they'll certainly do! My children are constantly photographed and constantly fussing about it, so to get a decent one of them together just thrills me to pieces! As a photographer, it's much more difficult to take pictures of my own kids than it is of other children. Whew! A lot of work, but well worth it.

We went to a really pretty place downtown Athens. It ws so pretty!

Simply Adorable

2008-07-28T15:33:00.002-04:00

Well I just can't say enough about this sweet little guy! He was ALL smiles during his session. He was SO happy! It took very little coaxing to get him to giggle. So so sweet! I could eat 'im up!

More of my Kiddos!

2008-07-20T23:17:00.001-04:00

Snapped some more pics of my sweet babies...Ashlyn's always been a bit of a challenge to photograph but I think she's coming around. Brent has ALWAYS been a ham for the camera. He just loves the attention, I think.

Only one more!!!

2008-07-01T09:42:00.002-04:00

Okay, so now I only need ONE MORE breastfeeding mommy to photograph for the upcoming Athens Maternity & Baby Fair!!! Hurry and book! I'll be making a 16x20 of you and your nursing baby and then in return, you'll receive this 16x20 FREE at the end of the fair!!!

Athens Maternity and Baby Fair!!!

2008-06-29T14:46:00.002-04:00

Great news! I will be settng up a table at this year's Athens Maternity and Baby Fair at the Classic Center on August 9th from 9am-3pm. It's free admission so be sure to stop by my table for great coupons and a drawing for a FREE SESSION and a FREE 16x20!!! This is HUGE, folks!

YEA! For all you breastfeeding mommies out there, you will be able to get a beautiful, intimate, heirloom quality portrait of you nursing your little bundle! As a mother who breastfed for 14 months and still going strong with number 2 for 9 months, I can't tell you how many times I wished I had a nice, sweet, intimate portrait of me nursing my children. So now you can! Stop by my private studio setup in the Classic Center during the Maternity and Baby Fair and take a picture with your nursing baby and get an 8x10 portrait for only $20!!! You'll be SO GLAD you had this!

See you there!

~Just Beautiful~

2008-06-22T21:26:00.003-04:00

Enough said...

What an amazing subject! She made my job as a photographer so easy. She ended up being so comfortable in front of the camera. It was as though she knew exactly what to do.

I would love to post more but the others are for her boyfriend's eyes only!

Free Session!!!

2008-06-22T21:22:00.002-04:00

Yep, that's right! No session fee for the first two sessions booked by July 1st (worth $75)! So hurry...this isn't going to last long at all. This means you book your session and you pay NOTHING!

First come, first serve folks!

Gabby Lynn's session ~ 4 weeks old

2008-06-02T00:35:00.003-04:00

What a joy it was to photograph little Gabby Lynn and her beautiful family! She was an absolute angel for the camera. She hardly fussed and she even slept for a little while. A photographer's dream! I've seen many babies in my career but Gabby Lynn is one of the most adorable babies I have ever seen. ((((sigh)))) So, so sweet!

I only skimmed the surface on proofing. I got a lot of good shots!

The first one is my favorite so far. Enjoy!

Meet Layton and his mommy...

2008-06-01T20:39:00.003-04:00

Layton is the sweetest little boy and he loves his mommy. He turns 3 years old in a couple of days. Such a photogenic little man and mommy is just gorgeous! Happy Birthday, Layton!

Sugar and spice...

2008-05-28T22:16:00.004-04:00

and everything nice! That's what my little girl is made of. It's been awhile since I took any pictures of my sweet girl, so I decided to let her wear her "princess dress" (as she calls it) and let her go. I found an excellent spot near my house to do this session. I managed to get a few good ones. She's a very difficult child to photograph!

In this image, I tried out some sunflare...it's definitely an acquired taste. But I love it.

Heartstrings is getting a new website!!!

2008-05-15T16:42:00.002-04:00

That's right! I'm revamping my website to make it even better for you! It will be complete with slideshow samples and a new and improved viewing gallery and online ordering area. I'm so excited!

It should be ready by the end of the month.

So in celebration, if you mention this post, you will receive a customized 5x10 storyboard art piece FREE! (a $45 value) when you book your session with me by Jun 15th! Each piece is mounted on 2mm styrene and fully customizable to include up to 4 images and one quote/saying of your choice.

So hurry and book your summer session today to take advantage of this awesome offer!

Baby Eli

2008-04-11T22:45:00.006-04:00

I just love babies at this age! 6 months old is just perfect for pictures, I think. They're old enough to sit up, but still too small to get away from you. Little Eli was a perfect little ham for me at the Botanical Gardens in Athens. A spitting image of his daddy, he's a sweet chunk of goodness!

My son the guinea pig!

2008-03-31T22:54:00.004-04:00

I love to break out my camera and experiment with different things--whether it be lighting, props or composition, I love to experiment if I have the time. My son turns 6 months old tomorrow, so I thought I'd do a mini session with him to document this age and those fat legs!!!

Sweet Baby Rylan

2008-03-18T22:34:00.005-04:00

A sweet baby boy...10 days old. Here's a sneak peek into his session.

Here I was trying out a certain glow.

Childbirth Session

2008-03-15T10:34:00.003-04:00

This was my first childbirth session. The mom was wonderful...The entire family was great.

My Sweet Children...and a new prop!

2008-03-04T14:25:00.004-05:00

I bought a new prop to use on my newborn clients, but when I got it in the mail the other day, I couldn't resist trying it out! So I set up my black backdrop and set my kids up and made them both try it on...A boldly colored, handmade wrap. Thanks to Amanda from www.bloggingwithamanda.blogspot.com!!!!

Meet little Riley!

2008-02-19T21:48:00.007-05:00

What a sweet and spirited little boy he is. And what a beautiful family! A joy to photograph for sure.

FREE 12x12 "Baby Parts" Collage!

2008-02-14T20:32:00.004-05:00

Don't miss out on the Belly 2 Baby Plan! If you book a session by March 8th (the session doesn't have to be done before March 8th just booked before then), you will receive everything included in the collection, and you will also receive a FREE 12x12 "Baby Parts" collage!!! A $75 value! Absolutely FREE if you book your session by March 8th.

This is truly a work of art that can be treasured for many years to come and will look fantastic in your little one's nursery!

Kem's Maternity Session

2008-02-10T17:21:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peek at Kem's maternity session. Boy, did I get a lot of poses! So much fun for me and my camera. Kem, Kevin, and her mom were a pleasure to work with. Kem was a natural and her mom made my job so much easier...Thanks Kem's mom!!!

I couldn't post all the poses we did, but here's the majority of them. Enjoy!