7:00 on Sunday | 32 seconds, 32 years

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted a “7:00 on Sunday”.  Three weeks to be exact, and I’m pledging now to get back on track.  I do have to make one tiny exception for this post, however.  These shots were taken as the clock ticked past 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 6th.

My dear friend H invited me to capture images of the labor and delivery of her third child, an experience that I will forever cherish and carry with me for the rest of my life.  To have witnessed her strength and courage on one of the most important days of her life is truly amazing to me.

At 7:10 p.m.,  H’s precious baby girl made her entrance into this world.  Just seconds old, her mama was already snuggling her close; I witnessed their first moment face-to-face with one another.  At this moment, I remembered to photograph the clock, and noticed the second hand ticking at 32 seconds.  Thirty-two seconds old.  Just hours before my 32nd Birthday.  To imagine  in that moment, what an amazing life she has ahead of her–where she may be in 32 years– was so amazing.

Happy Birthday to you, sweet girl.  May your life be filled with much love, laughter, and happiness.

Holiday Mini-Sessions, Round One | Frederick, Maryland Family Photographer

A few highlights from my first day of Holiday Mini-Sessions… a beautiful day with four beautiful famililes. 

blessed | Frederick, Maryland Newborn Photographer

I had the pleasure of meeting James and Danelle in October of 2009, after the birth of their adopted son, Braden.  Having been told by their doctors that they had almost a 0% chance of getting pregnant naturally and failed IVF treatments, they’re prayers for a child of their own were answered when Braden was born.  Two months after his birth, Braden was requested back by his birth mother.

A little over a month after this tragic loss, Danelle discovered she was pregnant!   Jaden Elias is truly the answer to so many of their prayers and he is an absolute sweetheart.  I loved the way he cuddled Danelle close while I was in their home, and I loved witnessing the profound love this couple has for their son.  Jaden is so, so blessed to have James and Danelle as his mommy and daddy.  What an amazing life he has in store…

Ava Grace | Frederick, Maryland Baby Photographer

Photographing six-month old babies is really a treat–they’ve just learned how to sit up on their own and they’re entertaining you with a variety of fun expressions.  Ava had so many different smiles to show me during our session together, and lots of squeals and drool to accompany them!  Isn’t she adorable?!