Capture that 'so new' look within the first 2 weeks

When a new baby joins the household it often seems like life revolves totally around the new wee person - and it usually does. To capture that 'brand new' look that infants have, you should schedule your newborn photo session within the baby's first two weeks of life.

To make things comfortable for baby, especially if some of the poses involve being partially or completely undressed for a period of time, make sure that the ambient room temperature where the photo shoot will take place is on the warm side. We adults may find it a tad too warm, but baby will appreciate the gesture.

It also helps if baby is content. It's a good idea to feed your baby shortly before the session so he or she isn't feeling hungry or uncomfortable. Of course, a last minute diaper change may help too.

Any props used, either by the parents or the photographer, should be safe for use around infants and preferably of a soft and comforting texture.

A few steps like this will help to make the photo session more comfortable for all concerned and the resulting photos will focus on a happy new baby.

Dobbin's portrait session

If you're planning on having a series of photos done of your horse, there are some things you should keep in mind in preparation for the big day.

First of all, communicate with your photographer. Let her know how you want to use the photos. For example, will they hang on your living room wall? Or do you want to use them to promote your stallion or mare for breeding purposes? Or perhaps you're planning on selling your horse and want to use a photo in the advertisement. Each of these situations requires a slightly different approach including the selection of a suitable background area, level or sloped ground, lighting, soft or sharp focus, positioning etc.

Regardless of the end use, some things shouldn't be ignored. Make sure your horse is shiny clean - all grass and manure stains removed along with any knots in the mane or tail. Whatever tack you are planning to use should also be clean with any metal work polished and gleaming.

If you want to be in the picture with your horse, make sure that you are ready too with your hair combed, modest and appropriate make-up applied (for the ladies) or freshly shaved (for the men). Select a simple outfit with minimal patterns to avoid drawing attention to your clothes instead of you and your horse and the connection between the two of you.

Make sure that neither you nor your horse are hungry. There's nothing more distracting than a rumbly tummy - from either of you. If you're both content, it will be easier to get those happy images.

At the last minute make sure you've applied fly spray to keep the wee pests at bay, coat polish and/or baby oil for that extra glow, and keep a towel handy for wiping up those occasional slobbers or dust that may settle.

Ready now? Have fun!

They are all little heroes - and so are their families

Ever wonder why we are each given particular talents, skills or other gifts? I think it's because we are supposed to use those gifts to enrich the lives of those around us.

Last year I applied to, and was accepted by, the Littlest Heroes Organization to become one of their designated photographers. This organization was created to encourage photographers to "give back" to families of children facing extraordinary medical challenges in their lives.

 

Nathan is one of those special children. I had the chance to spend last Sunday morning with him and his parents - and what a joy it was. Despite his troubled 11-month-old life, Nathan is a happy child who lights up a room with his beautiful eyes and bright smile.

I'm grateful to have had this opportunity and I hope his family enjoys the images we made together - memories of a happy morning in January.