summer lyn photography

The new blog site has arrived!!!

2009-09-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Under the boardwalk | Long Island Child Photography | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-09-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Down by the sea... I keep singing that song when I edit this! It was a wonderful morning spent with 7 month old I. He gave us all a run for our money, but SO worth every single capture! The beach was phenomenal this day- perfect day, perfect lighting, and the shot UNDER the boardwalk are just as great as the ones I grabbed ON this boardwalk in the bike path! (Don't worry, it was 8:30am, and mom was blocking one side and dad was blocking the other!) LOL I am so dangerous when I shoot! ;-)

Thanks for looking- this session has to be up there in favorite captures to date. How can they NOT?!! Look at his eyes! A dream to photograph....

Under...

On top...

Awwww....

The eyes, the eyes, the eyes...

2 years of sweetness | Suffolk County Child Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-09-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

It took O a little while to warm up to me, being shy and all. I just have to say, MAN it feels good when you gain a child's trust. It is really the best feeling in the world. At first, she wouldn't really talk too much, held on to her mom and hid behind her legs! By the end she was in my arms, chatting away about Nemo. Again, what a feeling. This is why I can do this the rest of my life. This is why I quit being a cop. Because of days like these. Newborns are easy... scratch that- you definitely have to have a touch with them... But to crack the shell of a two year old, well, just heart warming I guess.

Anyway, here is O in all her sweetness....

My favorite...

Another fave....

She wasn't the biggest fan of being here, but it was a nice little spot and I wouldn't let her win! lol

Scaring her mom with a peek a boo in this one- she thought scaring us was hysterical!!

OH, and a HUGE thank you to Emily over at Emily Weaver Brown Photography for the rounded corner action!

Sunset. Beach. Family. That's all I have to say. | Long Island Family Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-09-11T22:35:00.000-07:00

Well, we waited until the end of August for the sun to set on the beach.... Imagine, I went through the whole summer not doing any sunsets??!! What the HECK was I waiting for??!! The lighting, the sand, the water... Gosh, I could just die! I am absolutely in love with this family, these girls, and this session! I know it was the beach and all but the sand was crazy and I am STILL getting sand out of that chair to this day!! ;-) T, it was a great session and the girls were a riot. Thank you for allowing me to capture them.

You can imagine the stares we got as I hauled this chair out to the beach....LOL

I am in love with this one... This is the photo that makes me hate to live in New York, with Noreasterns and harsh winters... I wish I could get this weather and lighting all the time...

Siblings | Long Island Child Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-09-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

Brother and sister bond. I loved this session- and a lot had to do with their personalities and the love between them. Another session that was a long time coming, between rainouts in June and getting on the same page for a date. But another session WELL worth the wait! Thanks, B, for letting me capture them!! In all their glory and outfit changes!!!

These first 2 shots kill me, I am so in love with the personality that seems to just SPILL out of my computer screen from them! LOL

I mean, don't these just make you smile, even though you don't know them?! Like you want to just laugh right along with them?

And then there's the "awwww" shot... Check out the minor detail of his eyes being closed that just takes my breathe away

The "I will not let go of my daddy's leg (but not stop looking at the photographer) shot"...LOL

Nothing better than a holding hand with my mommy photo...

Blond haired, blue-eyed brothers | Long Island Family Photographer | Long Island Child Photography

2009-09-04T05:51:00.001-07:00

I have known these boys for almost a year- Ryan and Brandon are two of my "original" clients; I shot them back in the winter, and photos from that session remain some of my favorite captures. You may recognize the blond hair, fair skin, and STUNNING blue eyes from a blog entry long ago. D, thank you again for another great session. I look forward to seeing your boys grow every year.

the eyes, they eyes, the eyes....

what a fun age- i cannot WAIT until all my newborns turn 4! lol

Happy 1st!

Mommy's boys....

Sweet newborn | Long Island Newborn Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-09-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

Some changes coming soon to my website= I have ANOTHER logo coming soon (don't ask, just go with it, lol), and I will be changing up the blog dramatically soon. I am also driving fast down another road called "let's dare to be a little different" avenue, where you will be passing houses of "different edits" and other houses of "unique locations".

Anyway, here is a sneak into Baby Marco, six days young. It was a little game today: my nikon vs Marco. Never in my life have I ever had a stronger newborn- although he slept through EVERYTHING, he blatantly refused ANY posing (even in the deepest of REM!). That is just fine, Marco. I think my Nikon won... Nikon 1, Marco 0. Welcome to this world sweet boy, and congratulations L and P. You have a future bodybuilder of some sort on your hands, ;-).

I am so in love with this capture, and the not so "summer lyn" edit on it....

this was all he gave me on his belly... 5 seconds was all I needed...

Two newborns | Long Island Newborn Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Both amazing sessions from this week, so I figured I might as well put them both in the same blog entry. Aidan and Victoria, both as sweet as can be. Since I have been getting the itch (if you know what I mean?!), these two sessions did NOT help! I am so lucky to be able to shoot so many newborn every month. I feel lucky for a couple reasons. Number one being that I get to capture SUCH a wonderful moment in the lives of the parents and the baby. They get so big so incredibly fast, that photographing this time, usually less than a week old, almost always less than two weeks, is unique. Get photographs at four weeks old, and they are usually two pounds more than they were four weeks prior, and definitely not as flexible... just a WORLD of difference. Number two, and call me selfish, is I get to see them grow up. I get to see them as sitters and walkers, and I remember every single face as a newborn. When I photograph them throughout that first year, it makes you stop and remember how fast it all goes. Because as I am behind the camera, looking at them through the viewfinder, I am seeing them as these tiny, six-seven pound, sleepy newborns, and I sometimes tear up over it. (Have you guys guessed yet that I am such a sap?!! LOL)

Enough about that! ;-) Introducing Aidan first, whose parents are DJs- hence the first shot....

I always love this position, and don't you just love that hair on his shoulders?!!!

Do you ever get sick of seeing these??!

It has become my most requested hat!

He was happy about this...

And Victoria, in daddy's arms- I am salivating over the lighting/shadows in this one...

And that favorite position always goes well with this hat...

She fell right into this pose... I'll take it, thank you very much...

Doesn't happen too often- their eyes open and alert and gorgeous!

My new favorite "holding the wedding bands" shot

Birthday Girl | Long Island Child Photography | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

With an amzing personality to boo! I actually had to find photos of her NOT smiling or laughing for variety! Addison was a gem, and I had such a great time with her. We celebrated her first birthday today, and although I have a few amazing newborn session to share, I just had to get these on the blog tonite. ;-) A new prop was a lot of fun to use, and she did exactly what I had hoped for. As soon as I put it on the ground she was immediately attracted to the colors, and I got some amazing captures! Erica, thanks for today. Did I already say that I had a great time??!!

I am in love....

A beachy wedding | Long Island Wedding Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-22T21:06:00.001-07:00

My very fist time shooting a wedding, and I hope not my last. What a wonderful day today. Here is where it all begins, and gosh it would be so nice to do this more- to see the couple from the beginning, their love on their wedding day. (I am already anxious for the maternity and newborn sessions with them, but I am told I will have to wait a long time!)

So, before my cop days, I went to school to become a doctor. What happened? I did an internship at a hospital under a cardiologist. One day, during rounds in the ICU, I was told, "Let's go get his wife. I have to tell her we are going to lose him today." As we told the wife, I was the one that started to well up and break down, and I decided that I couldn't be a doctor- that I can't bring bad news to someone, that I am too emotional, that I need to do something where I can remain calm and collected.

So much for that!

It is tough to remain unemotional when D and D were exchanging vows or when they danced their first dance. Okay okay, David Gray, This Years Love- who wouldn't cry?!

Through my tears I got some great captures. Here is just a sneak peak into the wedding of Diane and Dave- a day that I am glad I was able to take part of.

getting ready

the details...

stunning

Diane's grandmother, who told me today that God let her live to see this day......

they did it!

first dance

the passion...

Beautiful Belly | Long Island Maternity Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

I really wish I did more maternity. B is stunning, and I mean STUNNING. At 30 weeks pregnant, she carries her pregnancy like every women only WISHED she did, including myself. We spent a wonderful morning together- and poor B, I had her in and out of clothing changes, laying on skinny railings, and just when I told her she was done, I thought of something else and made her change again. :-) Worth it though. Thanks again for being such a trooper... You have an amazing family and I look forward to seeing you FOUR soon!

She wasn't 100% about the name, but after this shot, I told her she wasn't allowed to change it! LOL

Newborn Lashes | Long Island Newborn Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

Does it GET any better than this? A new pose, a sweet brother/sister capture, and a nice, sleep smile... Oh wait, and the LASHES!!!! At least a half an inch long! That is all there is to it; it just doesn't get much better than this session. I crossed the Whitestone for this one and headed upstate- and boy was is worth every mile. Baby Ava was 12 days old, and I am not lying when I say she LOVED being folded in half! It was actually her preferred position, so I worked the angle. Thanks M for a great afternoon, and for letting me have fun with Ava. ;-)

Go ahead, get the rulers out!!

I wasn't kidding, this was how she preferred to be!

I like to think she smiled bc she was so comfortable and warm in the fur...

Nothing like a classic...

Baby boy and his sister | Long Island Newborn Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-12T03:10:00.000-07:00

I love my job. I. Love. My. Job. Really. And do I even CALL it a job? I shouldn't. Why all this mumbo? Some know I just quit my job a few weeks ago as a city cop. Fun, at first, then you have a child (and children) and it changes your perspective on things. And it is sessions like these, with newborn boy R and his big sister E, that reassure "I did the right thing". Being at someone's home right after a baby is born is, well, amazing. There was just so much love and joy within this family- it just makes ya feel good. ;-) Thanks for letting me spend a couple hours with you all, and for making me love "going to work" that much more.

I can't get enough of seeing a newborn like this!

Played outside with her while her brother ate- is this a face, or what?!

She did this for M n M's, lol

Stunning Toddler Girl | Long Island Child Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

Everything about 18 month old E I just loved! She was sweet as can be... And MUST take after her mom, who was the nicest ever and a riot to hang out with. Shooting at a new location is always fun, and I am glad E was my guinea pig. I can't believe I can only pick a few teasers to give- I'd love to edit the whole thing tonite! Thanks M, for a wonderful morning well spent. The sweat was SO WORTH it!!!

the pout! I LOVE it!

Sweet Sophia | Long Island Baby Photographer | Summer Lyn Photography

2009-08-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

...and post a few more photos. I knew this session called for it. I won't go in to detail about Sophia again ( here is her website ), I will just post a few more from her session. She is incredibly special to me, and she holds a very special place in my heart. It wasn't important to me at this session to really capture "portraits"- what was more important was to capture the love they have for her- their bond as a family. Here are a few more that tugged at my heart (not to mention my tear ducts).

Become a fan, become a fan....

2009-07-31T22:50:00.000-07:00

...oh yeah, become a fan! I have FINALLY found my way to facebook... So please, blog stalkers (if there are any), become a fan! Clients, checking in here for their sneak peaks, become a fan. Looking forward to sharing on facebook, where 100% of the images are going to be different than from the blog! (But I may share the same information updates on both).

I wish I could say I took this picture...

2009-07-31T21:39:00.000-07:00

...but I didn't (hence the lack of watermark). I just edited it. Maddie is the daughter of my best friend and is a photographer's dream- the lashes, the curls...!!! Her brother is beyond handsome as well: he has his own set of lashes and with a dusting of freckles on his face... to die for. Anyway, I get my own session with them SOON, and I cannot wait!!!! Without further ado, here is Maddie. You will be seeing a lot more of her (and Joseph) in the coming weeks!

A year later...

2009-07-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

...and Mika is still just as beautiful as she was last winter when I first met her. What I love most about photography is the fact that it can come full circle for me some day. What does that mean? That means I captured Mikayla as a newborn, and if I am lucky, I will be able to watch her grow, and photograph her high school senior pictures, maybe her engagement photos, her wedding, her maternity, and quite possibly, her own child's newborn session. THAT is a full circle for me, and I have hopes and dreams to watch my clients grow into young women (and young men!) and capture their lives through out. And don't think I forgot about Nic, her handsome older brother, who is a bundle of energy and fun to photograph. Nicole, I look forward to years of photographs of your children (and hey, maybe we can get all four of you together one day!) I adore them, you know I do, and I'll see you this Christmas again. I apologize for another large share for this one, but I just couldn't help myself!

Don't you just wanna squeeze her legs??!!!

I am going to get "Chandler" on you all and say, "Can she BE more excited?!

I just love this shot....

I love the personalities that shine...

2009-07-29T21:48:00.000-07:00

...in my one-year-old sessions. At 12 months, it seems that the transition from babyhood to toddlerhood has already been made, and they are really coming in to who they are going to be. Aidan had such a great personality, and I enjoyed every minute of today (minus the sweat! Boy, was it H-O-T today!) My favorite part of the session? Before I even turned on my camera, I grabbed A to place him in the first spot, and he nuzzled his head on my shoulder... :-( What is not to love about that?! Anyway, we were all over the place today, and he was great with wherever we went... as long as there was food involved! Sorry, Dad, for having to work so hard in the "gerber puff placement"! Thanks, M, for today, and I am glad I was able to find a spot for you. You are an amazing family with an astounding love for your sweet boy. I was lucky enough to shoot Aidan on his actual birthday, so Happy 1st baby boy!

My favorite capture I think...

ah, the innocence....

we ended with a little cupcake eating

At three days young...

2009-07-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

...she takes the cake and has become my youngest newborn! (Now, if only I can meet client in the hospital...LOL!) Being so young, she was super scrunchy. I think I actually folded her in half at one point! Brooke's mom contacted me a while back, and she is just the sweetest woman I have ever met. She wanted to document this session because it is her last child, which I think is just so meaningful and precious. She has three BEAUTIFUL children, and I was only half kidding when I told her that I wished I could hang out with them all day. Middle girl K is so loving- she adored her big brother in ways I have never seen, and is such a mom to her little sister already. Big brother- 9 years old...so handsome and smart beyond his years. I can't rave enough about this session, and I am posting more photos than usual from this session. Thanks for looking, and J, thanks for an amazing day.

Yes, the folded in half shot....

I love these "womb" shots, but especially this one because she was so young, it seemed to suit her perfectly!

Yeah, rings on toes= thumbs down... I love this one!

Woudn't be a newborn session without a 10-toe shot...

She opens her eyes!

One word for this pose- yessssss! Have only gotten it at one other session!

Big sister...

Big bro and sis...

Was this session cursed...

2009-07-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

...or what?! J booked this session 4 months ago, and we planned a date in early June for the beach. We all showed up at the beach to a sand storm! We aimed for a few weeks later= no go, rain and thunderstorms in the forecast. We then met at the beach a couple weeks after that= again, too windy. Finally, today, we got it, great day... It couldn't be perfect though- we hid under a tree for 15 minutes while a rain cloud went by!!! What a nightmare! :-D I met A a few months ago after our session was booked, and I could not WAIT to photograph her. Blond hair, beautiful dark blue eyes that reflect light like you would not believe! So, even though is seemed as though the session may have been cursed, I got some great shots! J and A- never in my life have I laughed so hard during a session. Thanks for an eventful day!!

I love how dad made her laugh!!

"Must be a pretty big contract...

2009-07-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

...yup, she is worth millions!" A comment from a passer by at this session, and my answer to him. :-) Em was incredibly easy going, didn't fight us through outfit changing and spot re-locating. You know what my favorite part of this session was? The very beginning, when I walked up to her and introduced myself- she automatically put her arms out for me to hold her. Nothing feels better in the world, I swear. A lot of it because 10 months is a tough age- the whole separation anxiety thing, fear of strangers, etc etc. So it really feels amazing when a child this age comes right to me... That is how I knew it was going to be an easy session. Thanks so much J, for an afternoon spent of great photos!

Every newborn session...

2009-07-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

...is a little different somehow. Some are super bendy, some are super sleepy... Some are just super cute, like Baby L. He was so tan and cute, with THE MOST AMAZING lips on a newborn I have ever seen. This was another one of my 9:30 late nite sessions, which I am actually loving lately. R and her husband actually walked in to a newborn session of mine a couple months ago when she was about 8 months pregnant. She was stopping by to give the new baby a gift (who is actually at the top of my blog), and actually got to see first-hand a session. As I was packing up, she asks, "Are you available in July?" And I actually wasn't, but how could I say no??! I couldn't- I rarely turn down a newborn session unless I REALLY have no room.... I just love them, what can I say?!

She actually walked in to me getting this shot with her friends baby, and asked me for it....

I am obsessed with itty bitty toes, can you tell??

Nope, was NOT lying about those lips!

Couldn't you just eat him up??!!!!

I am so in love with everything...

2009-07-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

...about photography. After every session, no matter what, I am beyond excited to give the photos to my clients. So, it's official, I am obsessed with photography. All my friends, okay, my friend (you know who you are), hate me because it is all I talk about, all I think about. Whether it's a new location or a new prop, I love to be different and creative all the time. Anyway, I loved this family session. DJ gave me a run, literally... With a fresh pair of walking legs, there wasn't much sitting going on. That's okay with me, though. He was a ton of fun, and we had a great time.

I love doing this shot at my family sessions...I always think they turn out great!

Cutest EVER!

Am I the only one to get the emotion-filled sessions...

2009-07-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

...especially today when I completely teared up (okay, I cried)??! When I spoke to Denise on the phone about our session, she had asked me if there was any way that I could somehow work her father's fire helmet into a photo. 911 took many from us, Denise's father being one of them. Battalion Chief Dennis A. Cross was lost almost eight years ago. The helmet in the photos was given to the family by the department, as well as the flag, which was flown at the White House. In honor of his poppy, Nolan was named Nolan Dennis. So, yes, I did cry at this session. I picked up the helmet and lost it- thankfully, Denise held it together. I'm an emotional person anyway, and photography only enhances that. Sweet Nolan, you will know just who your Poppy was, and how he was a hero to many. Not only as what he did for the FDNY and the City of Manhattan, but what he did for, ultimately, this country.

I never really blog about my maternity sessions...

2009-07-12T04:54:00.000-07:00

...but I could not RESIST this one. I don't do maternity very often, so I take full advantage when someone wants one, and now I am itching to do more! A, you are a knock out! I had so much fun with this session, which was a super late 10pm session after my girls were sleeping. A little music + a vanilla candle + me, barefoot in sweatpants and a t-shirt = a lot of great captures. Couldn't have done it is A wasn't so willing... ;-) Thanks so much for such a great session, and I can't wait to meet your baby girl in September!

my favorite silhouette to date!

Well, alright, i DO love...

2009-07-10T06:26:00.000-07:00

...my newborn sessions. Who doesn't?? Don't answer that- I know some photographers who just cringe at the thought of photographing a newborn. They ARE hard, but worth it in the end. Baby Girl R trucked it in all the way from Jersey for her session. And at only 9 days old, she was amazing after the long trip. And any time I say "amazing" for a newborn session, I mean "sleepy". :-D My husband walked down the stairs while she was mid-pose, and said, "How do you get them to do that without them waking up?!" T and B, thanks for taking the trip! R is so sweet and pretty, and I had a great time.

Been wanting to get this pose- she was the perfect candidate!

I guess she was happy with this pose...

Yup, I got TWO smiles this session...

Not one photoshoot to share...

2009-07-06T21:45:00.000-07:00

...but actually three! I spent the day at the arboretum last weekend, met some amazing families, and got some great captures! Instead of a separate blog for each one, I decided to just put some of my favorites up! First, there's little boys P and C, both with me to celebrate their first birthdays. It was a great morning spent with boys, who I feel I just don't get to photograph enough! Both of them had THE MOST STUNNING blue eyes I had ever seen. Blondie P's eyes were the lightest blue- check them out- there is no photoshopping going on there! And C's eyes are these deep, royal blue color that girls are going to lose themselves in some day. I ended the day with a four month old baby girl A, who is so easy to photograph it was ridiculous. She was so picture perfect, she almost looks fake- like a porcelain doll or something. Thanks everyone for a great day- finally, this weather broke... these sessions were a long time coming!

greatest capture of a mom and son ever- I love it!

I wasn't lying about the eyes!

nothing like a cake smash in a radio flyer, lol

my GOSH she is pretty!

can you blame her for her beauty? Look where she is getting half her genes from!

Twenty tiny toes...

2009-07-03T20:10:00.000-07:00

...means that, yes, the twins were born!!! Ten day old twin girls that I have been waiting to photograph for about five months now- they were worth the wait!! O and S were just amazing. As I photographed them together, all you do is just let out a huge sigh at how bonded they already are. When one fussed and I put them together, IMMEDIATELY, they calmed and fell into deep sleep. Jen, thank you SO much for letting me capture your girls. You and T are phenomenal parents, and I look forward to photographing the girls' bond again.

one of my favorites from the session

Someone please email me...

2009-07-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

...and tell me enough newborns already?! I am guessing I WON"T get that email though. Who can ever get sick of a newborn?! I mean, I love them! I swear I can just eat them up. So, another newborn, sweet baby girl. I was a LITTLE nervous about this session- she was 2 weeks old. I haven't been able to get to my newborns super fast anymore- not with the rain that June brought upon us and the rescheduling and craziness that the beginning of summer has brought. I had my doubt, but she melted after about an hour. I was SO happy with this session (and relieved I was able to give the mom images that she would love).

And STAY TUNED!!!! My first set of TWINS coming TOMORROW!!

Gotta love my macro lens! The detail, the detail!

Gosh, I just love this image- big sister love....

Yup, got this pose once, and I can't stop

I am personally asking anyone and everyone...

2009-07-01T05:45:00.000-07:00

...that follows my blog to donate to Sophia. Here is her website. I have blogged about Sophia before- I photographed her as a sweet, sweet newborn, only days old. Now, she is the sweetest 4 month old you'll ever meet, with the most amazing story-telling eyes you will ever see. Sophia has been diagnosed with SMA, spinal muscular atrophy, a disease which attacks the muscles and for which there is no cure. Their family is amazing, doing such a great job fundraising to help Sophia get into a trial stem cell research program.

I am in love with this family and this little girl. I have never seen two parents so in love with their child- they have their own little made up songs for her that they sing to her constantly. And when Sophia hears them, she literally lights up. She is a gem; she is a fighter. I pray for her constantly.

Please, contribute if you can to her cause.

Seven-day-old "J" made posing a newborn...

2009-06-29T04:47:00.000-07:00

...look like a piece of cake! Every NON-newborn session I go to, my client always says, "Gosh, I love those poses you get the babies in! It must be so easy since they are so sleepy and mushy!" Um, no. ;-) There is always a lot of shushing going on in the attempt to keep them in the deep REM sleep they are in... And the balancing alone- being able to feel the balance of their heads, tweeking here and there as necessary, is REALLY tough. Then you have to think about the whole photo- is this going to look natural or awkward and uncomfortable? So again, tweek as necessary. I am always sore the next day after a newborn session! With J, there wasn't much tweeking! He just really went in to everything. There were a couple poses that took about 5 minutes, but the session was so good that when I was done capturing what I wanted to, I said, "Now what can we do with him??!!" K, thanks for letting me come and play! ;-) I had a ton of fun.

This is the one that took about 5 minutes...Worth it!!!

Decided I am tired of rings on toes...

Sometimes you catch a little look while they are sleeping- this was an almost smile...lol

Loving doing this pose...

Nothing like hanging a baby in a hammock to end the session...

What can I say, I love this blanket, and use it all the time!!!

If anyone wants to see...

2009-06-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

...what the smartest, almost one-year-old looks like, here she is. T was a gem, the whole session, and basically repeats everything you say!! Smart, smart girl... Of course, she is beautiful, with full, pouty lips too. Beauty AND brains!! Funny that she HATED sitting in the grass, and gave me a run for my money. But nothing that a basket to sit in, a blanket to sit on, and daddy's arms to remain in couldn't fix! G, it has been a long time coming, and I am loving these captures.

LOVING her kicks!!!

Are these not the most gorgeous...

2009-06-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

...kids you have ever seen?! Had an amazing time photographing them in their own home- and they had a great time when their mom told them it was okay to jump on her bed!!! They took full advantage of that moment! It was the first time I had ever photographed a family in their own environment, and I loved every minute of it. No backdrops, no props, just kids- being themselves. A, thank you for letting me into your beautiful home, for letting me play with the kids... I can't wait to be on-call for that first snowfall and get them running and playing together!

love these kids!

I can only imagine this face in about 15 years...a true heartbreaker!!!

I just want to take a minute...

2009-06-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

...and say thank you to everyone for loving my work... (And no thanks for keeping me up until 3am almost every nite for the last 5 months editing!! YES, I am currently in the process of hiring an editor... He is PHENOMENAL, cannot wait to start working with him...). Anyway, you guys have been wonderful. Thank you to all of my "old" clients for coming back...and to my new clients, well, thank you for waiting for an appointment. I am always going the extra mile to make sure that you love the photos that I get to you- hoping you see them and say, "This was definitely worth the wait!" And to the potential clients that have wanted something and I have been unable to give you an appointment- I do hope you think of me in the future...

That's it- just a big thank you. :-)

"As soon as I can see through the tears...

2009-06-24T21:18:00.000-07:00

...I'll write back." That is what Jess wrote in the responding email to the teasers that I sent her. I literally just got this email back 5 minutes ago, and just had to blog about it right away. I mean, I cannot explain that feeling I got when I got that email back. To know I brought someone to tears because of the photos of their child is, well, heart-warming. Jess, I am floored. You have been my most excited client, I swear- our emails back and forth the last 2 months have been nothing short of a riot. I was all set for that hour and a half trip into Jersey at day 6. We were both heartbroken when Jess had to spend more than a week in the hospital!!! In the end, Jess and her husband ended up making the trip to ME! So why am I so floored about that email? Because it was a tough session- Baby E was 3 weeks old; I really try never to photograph that age, for fear that the session won't turn out the way the moms want them to and expect them to. I always explain, "Everything you see on the website of the newborns are really less than 10 days old." So to be able to capture something that brought her to tears make me feel humbled. I didn't tuck E's toes under her chin or hang her out of a basket or any of my other poses that I usually do, and even so, Jess cried over what I gave her so far, and that is good enough for me.

The shot that may have done it- this was Jess's bear given to her when JESS was born, 30 years ago...

Going in her bedroom

E's fish mouth

Yup, we have ourselves some Steeler's fans!

Ah, let's celebrate...

2009-06-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

...another 1st birthday. What a great age! That 12 month stage- the curiosity, the smiles, the laughter, and okay, sometime the tears always make for great photos. I love capturing the 1st birthday- with or without a cake smash! A was such a good boy. I fell in love with his brown curls and BIG brown eyes, and I am pretty sure I am not going to be the only one! C, it was great finally photographing you guys... between the rain and the fear of the ocean, we really went through it all!

Who's keeping up with...

2009-06-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

...the entries? Like I said, I wanted to blog more! I won't be repetitive and keep saying this session was great and I enjoyed it... Let's just assume it!! Fell in love photographing another family, truly wonderful people. I sometimes get nervous at family sessions, especially when there are more more than mom, dad, and child!! I always hope I get the right shot for them, I hope they love them... I happened to get to get not only ONE photo, but a few really great ones that I would want blown up on canvas in my home. D, thanks for letting me capture your family, and I will see you again soon!

this is my favorite family shot ever (I think it is on the website too). You don't even see their faces, but speaks volumes...

sweet baby sister...

Happy Father's Day...

2009-06-21T17:00:00.001-07:00

...to all the fathers, and especially to my husband, who is kick-butt as a dad. Sometimes I have to stop myself and realize that I married the best man ever! He great to our two girls, who just ADORE him. He has his "things" with them, that I know nothing about, and admit, I am a little jealous about! Besides all the fatherly stuff, he is incredibly supportive to me while my business takes off. Every time I have a shoot, he is home alone with the girls. It is amazing that every time I come home from a session, the house is immaculate, something is cooked (or about to be cooked), and the girls have had their naps and are happy as clams. I could not, NOT, ask for a better man for our family. He is my rock. Here he is below, earlier today, throwing our 14 month old around. Thank you, G, for being, well, you.

There is nothing more beautiful...

2009-06-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

...than a breastfeeding mom. Oh wait, yes there is, a breastfeeding mom to twins. I am thankful to J for allowing me to post these on my blog. You are truly a wonderful mom- it comes so naturally to you. I am INCREDIBLY honored that I was able to capture this moment. I look at these pictures and I get teary-eyed. As a breastfeeding mom to a 14 month old, some days I am just dying to stop- but watching and photographing you feeding your boys, now I am in no rush. This was my first time shooting twins- they made it seem EASY! C and J are such good boys- 6 months old and the CUTEST ever, with sparkling blue (or green, depending on the shirt) eyes. Can you believe they are fraternal??!! Thanks again J, can't wait to see you guys in November for their first birthdays and our holiday session. Thank you again.

And who ever said that boys...

2009-06-18T20:12:00.001-07:00

...aren't fun to photograph?! S was a riot, and we had a ball. And you know what? Where girls are cute and all in pettiskirts and bows (I have 2 girls, I know), I love getting down and dirty (literally) with boys. We played in the dirt, on a bull dozer, with cars and trucks, on the beach, in the field... It was non stop fun- and tiring (my legs are a little sore today!) Thanks, C, for a great couple hours. I wish it hadn't ended!!

this was our last stop, and his first smile- had I known it was a bulldozer that was going to make him laugh, this is where we would've started!

i L-O-V-E this photo!

Holiday Session Information!!!

2009-06-18T04:54:00.001-07:00

Wait...isn't it June??!!

I know, but since October has completely filled already, I had to think about the holidays. So here is the deal- I am booking for holiday sessions from November 1st to December 1st. (Unless, of course, you are already booked in November for a session- J, I am waiting for those twins!!) Being done by December 1st will assure that you get your pictures in time for the holiday season- get your cards out, etc etc.

I have holiday package info coming soon as well (be on the look out). Ideas for sessions are still being brainstormed, but think super fun, different sessions coming your way (can anyone dress into their cutest Holiday pajamas and say PILLOW FIGHT??!!) LOL, just a thought! I refuse to do anything traditional or cheesy, that's just me. If you have had a session with me, you know I am a little crazy, and if you haven't had a session yet, well, get ready! Why not start with a with the holidays?!

Here is the bad news... I will not be booking at all from December 15th to January 15th (I may be making exceptions for newborns, as they have minds of their own and I cannot tell them to show up when I am taking time off). It is our first holiday season in our new home, not to mention I have not seen my brother or my sister in almost a year now... I'd like to celebrate this holiday, and make it extra special for my two girls.

Thanks for understanding this much needed break to unwind and recharge my battery. I came out of the gates full force with this business, and it hasn't stopped since, so I am really excited to relax, eat a LOT of food, hang with my two growing girls, and try to see my sister and her seven kids (yes, SEVEN!!! I am a follower on her blog, check her out!) and my brother and his 3 boys... Oh yeah, and my mom and dad, who in the midst of all this, up and sold the home I grew up in and moved to South Carolina this week!

Thanks for reading and keeping up with the blog.

Ever just meet someone and...

2009-06-17T20:59:00.000-07:00

...click with them, right away? J and P, what can I say- you guys are amazing people, and I had such a great time. I do, however, feel a little used, being passed around your group of friends like some, well, whatever. :-D You know what I love about photographing so many people in the same circle of friends- the fact that I have to bring something different to the table. I am constantly coming up with different ideas, different props, different ways of posing, because let's face it, it is great to be different. So again, another amazing newborn. Baby boy J was great, and although we didnt think he had it in him, he pretty much slept the whole time. He had eyelashes that made me hate him!!! Thanks again guys, for letting me in to your home. Again, a great time had by all.

those lashes I was telling you about!

daddy's little skateboarder!

thanks J, for a different looking hat!

my.....favorite.....shot

I have decided I am going...

2009-06-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

..to blog a lot more. There are so many sessions that I still haven't blogged about, sessions near and dear to me, babies that were born premature, children that have made me laugh, whose sessions I look back on with a smile. So I will try to catch up with the old and continue on with the new... Baby boy L was the cutest, sweetest boy with an amazing head full of hair! He was the second newborn that I have done in my home- basically because all my moms had their babies at the same time (naturally), so I feel like I am working around the clock trying to get all my sessions in. To L's mom and dad, I truly enjoyed hanging with you both, and thank you for a great session. He thought he was going to win by staying awake- but doesn't he know I am a Virgo, and a perfectionist, and I just won't give up? ;-) Thanks L, for letting me win.

this pose never seizes to shock me- newborns and their flexibility!

I love first putting them on their belly, and they kind of just fall into a cute pose...

something new, a twist on the thinking pose...

My new macro lens...

2009-06-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

...has me incredibly excited!! I've been using it for my newborn sessions, and the closeups and the detail in those itty bitty body parts is incredible. Take Baby K, for instance... look at his teeny tiny hands and toes- I just wanted to eat him up! He had eating on his mind too- the kid must have feasted for at least an hour- which I never mind, I love talking and hanging with new parents, getting to know them. C and K, I will drive to Brooklyn for you guys whenever you want!! Thank you for letting me in your home to photograph your sweet boy. Congratulations again.

Thanks to Sandra over at SeptemerBlue for inspiration on this picture...

FINALLY UP....

2009-06-12T05:03:00.001-07:00

...and running!!! After a few months of some incredibly hard work, the new website is now up and running. I have a new pricing section to still put up (I am not printing for everyone!), and a little tweak here and there, but done!! Thanks to all of my clients that have made the new site possible. For all the hours of shooting, the nites staying up editing and trying to launch this thing- it has all paid off! So that you again, I hope everyone enjoys the new site!!!

I will be launching a contest later today at some point!

Be on the lookout!

I love when gift certificates...

2009-06-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

...end up being amazing shoots. It's because the mom's never plan for it, just kind of get a certificate for a session and go with it. I was SO HAPPY with these... Baby D was one of the best babies, so happy and content, and I am glad I was able to get to him! I never plan for the newborn sessions to be early, so I was shocked when I received the email two weeks before his due date, telling me he was here! Luckily, they live close by, and I shot over and got some great captures. Thanks to Liz and her aunt for referring me and getting her this gift... :-)

gotta love capturing a smile!!!

I did say before...

2009-06-05T04:43:00.000-07:00

...how much I love being outside, right?! I can't get enough of the nice weather (when we have it!) and being able to shoot outside on-location! M is 9 months old and was a gem at our session, and a TROOPER! Loved the beach, the grass, the basket, the grass again...everywhere I put him for pictures, I got a smile! I swear this age is so much fun to photograph! The babies are so animated at this age, not to mention fascinated with everything... T, it was a long time waiting, between the weather to finally hit us and be nice, but we finally got it and I am incredibly happy with the results!!! One year pics??! ;-)

My newborns are lucky for me...

2009-06-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

...to have such an amazing friend! What the heck does THAT mean?! lol Well, my dearest and closest friend surprised me a few weeks ago and gave me this amazing blanket- a blanket that I had been wanting for my newborn sessions for about 5 months now, but couldn't bear to buy it just yet. So you could imagine my surprise when I opened the box to see it!! So why are my newborns lucky?! Well, look and see! It photographs AMAZING, the colors are phenomenal, and I have used it a every newborn session the last two weeks. Baby A was the first to be photographed on it. She was such a beautiful girl, and check out her LIPS!!! And her sister??!! Let's just say, I have two girls close in age myself, and I do NOT look forward to what is going to happen in the future. Melissa, let us BOTH lock our doors now! The blond hair, blue eyes (insert fainting icon)..... I am ending this blog now, out to the hardware store to buy chain links right now, and putting one in the mail for you!

The most fun ever at a cake smash...

2009-06-02T20:11:00.000-07:00

...was had today! The weather held up and we finally got to do an OUTDOOR smash, and it was a riot! K was the cutest little girl ever, I mean, just stunning- not the biggest fan of sugary cake (I know, what is WRONG with these kids!! LOL). I always tell the moms, "Don't worry if they don't like it, we will make it look like they did!" Maria, thank you so much for today! I had such a great time and couldn't wait to blog and post the pictures from our session. Happy FIRST birthday K!!

What am I about to get myself into??!!!

Getting a taste of family sessions...

2009-05-31T11:31:00.000-07:00

...outdoors- and I am LOVING them! My approach to family sessions is incredibly laid back and un-posed, which is why I think I am thoroughly enjoying them. Overall, I have just been excited about being outside, being my first summer in business... Anyway, this was another great session, and I really enjoyed capturing the girls- this age is always a difficult one (getting a 2 year old and an infant together is always tough), and I always walk out thinking, I really hope I got a great one for a frame for their house... And I did! As soon as I got this one, I pretty much pumped my fist Macauley Culkin style in Home Alone, thinking "YES!" in my head. C, it was great finally meeting you (how long were we waiting for this one??!!) You have an amazing family, and I look forward to seeing the girls grow together!

I fell in love...

2009-05-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

...with this family this weekend. The parents were the so sweet and funny, and the kids were ADORABLE!!! H is going to be an absolute knock out- not that she already isn't! While we were walking through the trails, there was a little boy that ran up to her and simply stared at her...and didn't look away. He stared for so long that we actually looked at each other and chuckled a little- It was almost like in the cartoons where the hearts start coming out of the eyes....! :-D Good luck mom and dad with fighting off the boys! And her little brother... what can I say- they have a great set of genes ;-) and are two of the most well behaved children I have ever met. L, thanks again for a GREAT session- so glad we FINALLY caught up!!!

My husband says I need an...

2009-05-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

...assistant buyer. I am completely obsessed with buying hats and knits for my newborns, I must have over 20! I can't help it, I get a lot of great models, like baby I, who is seven days young. The bear hat is new and from one of my favorite etsy sellers, who has made me about 5 hats in the last month! Anyway, I was an amazing baby, and was so perfect during our session (and those LIPS!!!). I love walking into my newborns sessions and hearing the parents say "Do what you want!" Free reign!! Newborns are so bendy and flexible, it is amazing that they truly sleep through the positions that I put them in. Thanks M and S, for being so welcoming and letting me dote on I... I was a true pleasure.

The joy of a new engagement...

2009-05-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

...was wonderful to capture. D and D compliment each other so well, it is no wonder they are planning on spending the rest of their lives together. Acting quirky, laughing together and at each other (which was incredibly funny for ME, being on the outside!!)... What a great couple! Our whole session was laughs and jokes, and photographing their love for each other was so easy. Congratulations on your engagement, may your life be filled with as much joy and laughter as I witnessed at our shoot.

A session near and dear to my heart...

2009-05-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

...is baby Sophia. Three months ago I photographed Sophia when she was just over a week old. I recently found out that she has been diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy- in which there IS a possible cure for!! I will let her facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=78605264002 ) tell her story. We, as parents, are in a HUGE effort to fund raise for Sophia, to give her a chance at a beautiful and fulfilling life.

I can only tell Sophia's story through the images that I was able to capture that day... She is truly the sweetest baby, and is being raised by the most loving parents ever. I feel so blessed that her parents are letting me capture their beautiful daughter again in a few weeks. See you soon sweet girl....

Let's do a little math here...

2009-05-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

...and figure out just what I was dealt with! Two sets of twins, two cake smashes...so I guess that four kids and four cakes... Adding it all up= a whole lot of chaos, and laughs, and a nite of sleep for me! M & J (skull caps) I just adore- their mom is an amazing person, and this session was insane. From the black frosted cakes (two words come to mind for this- never again!! LOL) to the amazing skull caps, it was just a great overall session, and I am glad I was able to capture them turning two together. K and J (boy and girl twins), well, weren't huge fans of the cake, and THAT session actually ended in tears, which was fine, because that is what I love about photographing cake smashes and also photographing twins (and maybe just taking pictures in general!) It's not about heading to some studio and taking a picture of your child standing next to the number 2 in honor of their birthday- it is about capturing their PERSONALITIES, who they are in the setting that they are dealt with. When I take a picture, I want you to look back at that same picture in 50 years and say, "Oh my gosh, I totally remember when this picture was taken!" But enough talk, here's the pictures...

My blog is a work in progress...

2009-05-12T22:44:00.000-07:00

...I am trying to make everything bigger and better to view. Thanks so much everyone for your patience while I turn my blog around and try to get my new website up and running. It is all a work in progress, but I haven't been wanting to take anything down because I love blogging about my sessions a LOT. I promise, and cross my fingers, that the new site will be up in a few weeks!

And back to another...

2009-05-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

...newborn session. Baby L was a pure joy to work with- she allowed me to change her hat multiple times while sleeping, and then woke up for me for a little while so I can capture those gorgeous eyes! I just love when my sessions come full circle- meaning I met L's mom when she was pregnant with her, and photographed her maternity pictures back in late January (see the beautiful, blond, pregnant woman above where my logo is). L looks exactly like her mom- which can only mean one thing: her parents are going to be in B-I-G trouble when she is allowed to date!!! Thanks C for letting me in your life not once, but twice, to capture such a memorable time...

My youngest newborn ever...

2009-05-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

...was only FOUR DAYS old! Baby T's father called me two hours after she was born; on direct orders from his wife to "call the photographer right away!!" I felt incredibly special that their pictures meant this much to be on the top of the call list. :-D Both of them are lawyers (hence, the one picture on the LSAT books!!) and are wonderful, relaxed, laid-back and FUNNY parents. Thanks so much for allowing me into your home and capturing your little girl for you...

Not my typical photoshoot...

2009-05-10T18:58:00.000-07:00

...where I am holding or shushing or playing peek-a-boo! lol Instead, I was telling A to flirt with me a little, which I guess was a little awkward being I am almost 30 and am married with two kids...!! :-D A's mom approached me a while back to see if I can take pictures of her son, who will be heading into the modeling world in a few short weeks. I said no problem, and happened to be really excited to see what I came out of this shoot with. A was INCREDIBLY easy to photograph, SUCH a natural in front of the camera, and if Ralph Lauren or Abercrombie doesn't pick him up, I would be in complete shock. If I HAVE any blog stalkers, I hope you enjoy these pictures as much as my usual. And D, you are an amazing mom who sees not only the beauty in her own children, but in everyone and everything around her. You have this energy about you that just makes everyone around you smile and feel at ease. A truly amazing woman...

It is SO nice to finally...

2009-05-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

...be outside!!! It has been a rough rough winter, and this was my first outdoor session of the season- and I hafta say, I am SO excited for the rest of the summer!!! In case anyone DOESN'T know, I really haven't been do this long- "this" being photography. So, in actuality, this summer is actually my first summer of being in business!!! How exciting! And I've already got some NEW ideas up my sleeves (although any idea I have is new, considering I've never done them before hahaha). Anyway, I finally caught up with these sisters, after months of waiting... They were certainly well worth the wait!!! Linda, thank you so much for understanding and putting up with my crazy schedule!! Your girls are just gorgeous, and I haven't been able to stop talking about them since. I am starting to annoy myself! :-D

Guess who came back for...

2009-05-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

...another session?? Well, not necessarily back for an actual session, but this was dedicated to getting some family pictures. When I photographed Luke at his newborn session ( *see "I just love when..." post), dad couldn't be there. I said, no problem, come by my house later, when he's a little older and holding his head up really great, so I can get the family shots for you. And it was amazing!! For 25 minutes, Luke gave me his best stuff!!! A and M, you guys are phenomenal and I am SO GLAD I was able to get the 3 of you together finally. :-) I am loving all of the pictures I got, but here are a few.

4 months old...

2009-04-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

...and already so beautiful!! Baby A had to be the most easy-going baby, letting us change her a million times, pics with diaper on, then diaper off, then on again, then inside and outside and back inside again- and not a single peep from her! She has THE most amazing greenish/blueish/greyish eyes I have ever seen, they are really stunning. I had a great session out east with her, and I can't wait to see her when she is sitting up!!!

I have GOT to be the luckiest...

2009-04-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

...person ever! You see, we just recently moved about 2 months ago, and it just so happens that I moved across the street from one of the nicest women that I know- and a super plus that she has three girls- a 6 year old and 3 year old twins! Now, I say that I am lucky because not only is she such a sweet mom, but those girls are a photographers dream!!! And I have access to them anytime I want! So I took advantage and did some pics for mom for Easter- and I believe we are FINALLY getting a break in this New York weather, and so I will be taking these girls out and about in the town (bc Lord knows my two girls won't even humor me and look at the camera)!!! And oh yeah, their mom has promised to show me some great spots out in the Hamptons to shoot, which I happen to be REALLY excited about for some shoots in July and August that I have planned out there. Without further ado, my new guinea pigs... :-D

A beautiful, amazing, round...

2009-04-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

...pregnant belly. And to top it off, a WONDERFUL family who took a two hour drive for this shoot. I am so glad I was able to capture this time for them- K is going to be a really good big sister, the way she was loving on her mom's belly was so heart warming. I remember being pregnant with #2, the only way I got my first daughter to touch my belly was to put paint on it!!! (It was a nightmare for my photographer to get this shot for me!) Needless to say, it will be a photographer's dream to get K and her little brother together when he is born... A single picture of that sibling love will be well worth the trip into Jersey!

Hope you never grow tired of seeing them...

2009-04-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

...because I'll never grow tired of photographing them. Fallan was just under two weeks old when I got to photograph her, but she acted like a 5 day old and slept for nearly the whole time... She has the the most amazing "Cindy Crawford" beauty mark ever, although I am thinking there is no way Crawford was this good looking as a baby!!! Megan, thanks for putting up with the craziness of my week! You have an amazing family, and you're two girls are beautiful- I was afraid that I might not be able to get a shot of 15 month old Teegan with her sister, but a lot has to be said for the parenting the way Teegan was incredibly gentle with her sister, showering her with love and kisses. You guys are great, and I can't wait to get a hold of Teegan and her blond ringlets again soon!!

But you can see why one might THINK....

2009-04-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

...that I am a newborn photographer. LOL I left D and G's house saying, THIS is why I do so many newborns, THIS is what it's all about! I walked out of there with so many amazing pictures. D and G were with me a couple months back for maternity pictures, and we hit it off. They are the most laid back people EVER and one of my favorites to work with. I was anxiously awaiting his birth, and was really excited when I got the call to come for the pictures. I really wish that I can share ALL of them, but I can't... there will be a few of Gavin on the new website I am positive! Here are some faves:

No, I am not just a...

2009-04-15T22:04:00.000-07:00

...newborn photographer! Although, the last 3 weeks have made me feel like it! I have been battling scheduling dates back and forth with Charlotte's mom for about 2 months- we FINALLY settled on a date, and I was able to photograph her daughter a week ago. In a word- stunning. Her eyes, her personality, her creamy white porcelain skin...everything about her! After a few outfit changes, though, she just wasn't having it anymore, so what do you do then? Give the birthday girl a cupcake! And we did...and I have never witnessed a cuter episode of eating in my life!! Happy 1st Charlotte, can't wait to see you again soon... :-)

And a few more one year olds....

2009-04-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

Let me switch it up a little...

2009-04-12T21:07:00.000-07:00

and have a little F-U-N!!! Here is a little "best of" post... Best of first (and sometimes second) birthdays in the last few months. It all started out a back in the fall, while stalking a few of my favorite photographers blogs, I came across the "cake smash" session- which allows our little one year olds to completely dive into a cake made just for them in celebration of their first birthdays. I thought to myself, I have GOT to do this for clients, only where are my one year olds???? FINALLY, four months later, I got my first one year old (I had begun to think I was going to have to wait for MY child to turn one- which is happening next month!!) And it has been a whirlwind of baking cakes ever since! So here are the best of the best in the last few months....

After a whirlwind of newborns...

2009-04-11T21:42:00.000-07:00

...I am finally updating my blog. It has been a crazy two and a half weeks, with a total of 12 newborns to shoot! All coming soon I promise. Starting off the newborn craze is Julia, who was yet another angel baby. I swear, I think God has blessed me with newborn luck, because all the babies I have shot are awake when they have to be awake, and sleep when I need them to sleep. Mary Beth, you are one of the sweetest people I have ever met (I guess that's where Julia gets it from)! Thank you for letting me into your life, and don't forget to send me the birth announcement. On a side note, I really love getting the birth announcements from my clients- I keep them stored away, and I look at them every now and again, and think to myself, "I took these pictures??!!!" It means a lot to me- that I can capture such a moment in the lives of my clients that they want to share one of those moments with everyone to introduce their baby... :-) Thanks again, MB...

In a single word...

2009-04-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

...stunning. This is how I described eight day old Kayla to my husband when I got home from this shoot. I mean, her eyes just took my breath away! I am having a great run these last few months- all my newborns have had the sweetest temperaments! Kayla was no exception-she was SUPER scrunchy and super cute, and I loved every minute with her. After photographing Kayla, I thought about how I much I just love what I do, especially with my newborns. I cannot describe the feeling that comes over me when I am taking pictures of a new baby- it feels like going home, it really does. Jenn, thank you for giving me the opportunity to take pictures of Kayla, and yet again reinforcing the fact that this is what I was meant to do. Oh yeah, and I hope you like the basket picture! Who would of thought that the basket that sits by your front door that you carelessly throw your keys in everyday would make such a great picture with your daughter in it?? LOL

I'm like Pepsi or Coca Cola...

2009-03-26T21:15:00.000-07:00

..."new look, same great taste"! LOL A new blog page to go with my new website (coming soon!!) New colors, a new logo...!!! Thanks for hanging around during these turnaround stages! Hope you like the new blog look! :-) -Summer Lyn

I just love when...

2009-03-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

...I get a phone call and someone wants a gift certificate for their friend. I think it is the kindest and most thoughtful thing. When Linda called me about a certificate for her friend Michelle, Luke had already been born, and wanted to set this up as soon as possible. Luke was two weeks old by the time I was able to get there for her, but he was still SO perfect and still SO scrunchy...and HUNGRY! This was my first newborn session where the baby literally ate more than the actual picture time! :-D Anyway, enjoy little Luke, who was a gem...

Just my two girls, but they wanted to say...

2009-03-25T08:12:00.001-07:00

...Happy Spring and Merry Easter. And yes, these are the chicks that I blogged about oh so long ago. There are 17 of them, and no, not 17 in this picture. I can barely hold the reigns on my 10 month old and 2 year old together, forget about bringing all the chicks into the picture! Just wanted to share a little of my world to you all. Everyone always says to me, "Gosh, you must have some really beautiful pictures of your daughters!" And lately, I had been feeling SUPER guilty because I DON"T! I feel like sometimes there isn't enough time in the day, coupled with the fact my older one doesn't like to look at me when I have a camera in my hand... :-( So again, maybe this New York weather will kick in and it'll feel like spring soon. Besides that, stay tuned for some new, fresh ideas on welcoming the summer... "Bring on the heat" mini-sessions coming soon!!! :-D

No pictures here... just NEWS!

2009-03-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

These last few months have been SUCH a journey for me. I have been let in to so many people's lives; been relied on to capture their new babies or their family, and I am so grateful to have that opportunity. I especially like to thank those mom's that let me in to their homes after only giving birth ten, nine and even six days prior. Life is crazy enough with a new baby, let alone me practically moving in to your homes with all my stuff to photograph those babies for you. :-)

That being said, with spring upon us now- the changing of the seasons, everything in bloom- I have decided I need to give birth as well...to a new website LOL. I am saying goodbye to the original summerlynphotography.com... My work has evolved so much in such a short time, that I feel I need to give it new life, so to say. I am sure there are certain images that will remain in the change-over- ones that I am just not ready to let go of, ones that have told a story somehow, or maybe ones that have just been so heart-warming to look at...

I am very excited about this new website: it is going to be loaded with some new colors, new galleries, maybe even a new logo!!! If all goes as planned, the new site should be kicking off within the next month or two...

To any blog stalkers- thanks for checking up on a regular basis. You are the ones that make me stay up late and update...just when I am ready to go to bed, I think "nah, I'll update my blog". My blog is the only way to really see my work evolving...and so the blog will remain.

To my past clients, thank you so much. I come out of every session usually with at least one or two images that I fall in love with (which is why I need the new website- with unlimited galleries and images!!) To my future clients, as this website change occurs, I cannot wait to include you!!

Stay tuned..................

It must be nice...

2009-03-14T20:10:00.000-07:00

...to have a birthday on a major holiday like Valentine's Day. Talk about double the presents! In about 20 years, some guy is going to cringe, knowing that he has to get Olivia birthday AND a Valentine's gift... Miss Olivia was sweet as ever: don't cha love when they smile in their sleep?? What a perfect moment captured. I never think it's "gas"... I believe that a baby is perfectly contented and smiles because of it- which is exactly what Olivia did. I may have been just as content as she was to photograph such a beautiful and sweet baby. Happy Birthday and Valentine's Day sweet girl...

Wait a minute...

2009-03-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

... I know these people! Sometimes the world is so small it's scary. Luisa called for Antonio's newborn pictures, and when I ran the bell, and big sister Alessandra answered the door, I knew where I was. Alessandra and my daughter Hannah played together at the park every day- they used to love holding hands and playing "who's the monster?" I remember when Alessandra was potty trained, I remember thinking how smart she was when she would recite all the letters and numbers to me... Like I said, small world. Alessandra continues to impress me: she has taken on a new role of big sister, and seems to have mastered that as well. Antonio was four weeks early, and so he basically slept the whole time. I am still going through frames to see if I got any with his eyes open! Here are my favorite captures from our session.

It's a talent I have...

2009-03-08T11:52:00.000-07:00

...that I remember every single newborn that I photograph. Weird, because I can never remember a single thing: tell me your name, I will forget not 2 minutes later. But newborns, I feel, touch my heart in ways that no one else can, and I always remember the time that we spend together. And it is always something particular I remember about them too; something that makes them stand out in their own way. With Avalynn, it was her full head of jet-black, silky hair. Such a beautiful baby, and only seven days young, already had the sweetest temperament. So sweet that I believe she may go on record for my SHORTEST newborn session ever. It's like she knew exactly what I had wanted her to do for each picture, and did it. Supermodels of the world should take a page out of her book, lol. Stephanie, you guys were amazing, and I can't wait to see Avalynn as she grows.

This maternity session...

2009-03-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

...made me super-excited for the warm weather to get here and get my moms-to-be out from in front of a backdrop. Danielle was great for me, as we decided to brave the cold and head up to the roof of my apartment for something a little different. With the few shots I got up there, I am pretty upset that we just moved from this apartment and into a new house! lol D, you and Greg are amazing, and will be great parents I am sure of it. I cannot wait to meet this little miracle boy...

There's something about...

2009-02-23T03:45:00.000-08:00

...big, chocolate brown eyes that I just love to photograph. Maybe it's the way they reflect light and look so sparkly. Liliana Willow was such a beautiful baby, and her eyes were to die for. At 10 weeks old, she is already a looker (lock your doors NOW, Layla!!) I had such a wonderful time capturing her personality, and I am beyond excited to see her as she grows.

Like I was saying...

2009-02-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

...I never get sick of photographing newborns. Valentina was 6 days old too, and I headed to Brooklyn the day after I shot Gabriella (see below). I was beyond excited, two 6 day olds in a row. Valentina was a sleeper...a deep, deep sleeper. She was sleeping when I arrived, and sleeping when I left four hours later. She woke briefly (yay!) and I got to see how beautiful her eyes were. Thank you to Frank and Maria for letting me into your lives to capture your precious girl... I know how crazy life is after a baby is born, so again, thank you.

I never, ever, ever...

2009-02-19T08:16:00.000-08:00

...get sick of photographing newborns. Gabriella was just 6 days old, and already had all the personality in the world. Such a sweet girl and happy about everything...and ALERT! (In photographers terms, alert means that she didn't sleep at all...well, maybe 5 minutes). :-D No harm done though, because I got to capture her big, beautiful brown eyes- not to mention her full head of black hair, which I love in black and white shots. Michele, I couldn't believe how calm and put together you were, with an 18 month old and a 6 day old! You have an absolutely beautiful family, on the inside as well as the outside, and I look forward to seeing you again soon.

Everyone always asks me...

2009-02-16T19:24:00.000-08:00

...what my favorite age is to shoot, and sometimes I never know the answer. I left this shoot saying, "I really need to take more pictures of this 5-6 month age, it is the BEST!". As you'll see below, that little Ryan was such a ham. So, meet brothers Brandon and Ryan- two of the cutest boys ever. And the love that Brandon has for his little brother is amazing, and heart warming to watch. I got so many amazing shots of the both of them, that it was hard to pick which ones to share here. But I narrowed it down, and here they are... :-)

Only one more month...

2009-02-14T08:35:00.000-08:00

...until Maureen welcomes her first born, but until then, I got to capture her in all her pregnant glory. She is simply stunning, with the most amazing belly and quite a natural in front of the camera. Maureen is the wife of my husband's good friend (did you get that? lol), and I've been begging her to let me do her maternity pictures since November! She sure made me wait, but it was well worth it. Billy and Maureen, you are both amazing people, and are going to make awesome parents...

Don't you know we love you...

2009-02-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

...Sweet Sadie? I just love that song, and this baby girl. I fell in love with so many of her pictures, that I might make her her own section in my galleries on the website! (She already holds a few spots under babyhood!) ;-) Sadie was perfect the entire time... I pulled out of the driveway after this shoot with a new found strength in the love for what I do. To get to hold such sweetness and innocence for 4 hours (because, sometimes, that's how long it takes!) is pure joy. I loved every minute with Sweet Sadie. Thank you Jen, for letting me into your life and capturing your precious first-born for you. I look forward to capturing her for a loooong time. ;-)