1. How did you get started in photography and when did you start your business?

My photography journey began in late 2009 as just a hobby. Like so many others I didn't start out wanting to be a photographer. I was actually in college for Elementary Education when it sort of "fell into my lap". My fiancé bought me a canon rebel and I began playing with it as a hobby. Friends and family began asking me to take pictures for them and I fell in love with shooting and editing. Other than a few online tutorials and one in-person workshop I am solely self-taught. I get addicted to learning new things about photography and could spend hours online researching and practicing. I feel blessed to get to do something I'm passionate about as a career!

2. Where are you located? Do you have a studio space or do you shoot on-location?

I have a commercial studio in Birmingham, Alabama. I feel blessed to be only 4 years into my career and already have a thriving business and commercial space.

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3. What do you shoot with and what are your favorite lenses?

I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark ii and my go-to lenses are my 35mm 1.4L and my 100mm 2.8 macro. I also own the 50mm 1.4 but rarely use it. I love prime lenses and am thinking of investing in something new like the 135mm or the 85mm this year.

4. What drew you to newborn photography? Do you photograph anything else?

When I first started out I photographed anything and everything that came my way (families, babies, weddings, headshots). I've always had a passion for young babies and worked in the daycare system with infants for many years. Most of my clients came from the daycare I had formally worked at. This really built my "baby" client list. I felt comfortable with the babies and always loved those sessions. As my clients would add new additions to their family I would do newborn sessions here and there. I loved how challenging these were as far as the fact that I had SO MUCH to learn. Like I said before I loved spending hours online researching so I began really putting my time and effort into learning the art of newborn portraiture. Before I knew it I was shooting newborns all the time and LOVING it! I loved how the babies just slept (well for the most part!) and I could really focus on what I was doing and have full artistic ownership over the session. I could take my time. With older babies and toddlers most of the time I'm just trying to keep up with their activity! ha! I love the older baby sessions too, but for totally different reasons. I love watching my newborns develop their personalities and skill sets as they get older. I love keeping up with families and seeing them come back to me time and time again. My job is so much more than just a job! I really get to build relationships with people and I have to say THAT is my favorite part!

5. How would you describe your style? Where do you find inspiration?

This is a hard question, haha! I guess my style is simple, clean, and timeless. I am really inspired by poses and props that showcase the delicate parts of the baby (hands, feet, little bellies!). I find a lot of inspiration through other photographers like Kelly Ryden, Little Bloom Studio, and recently Sweet Little You Photography. In essence my goal is to always capture the "sweetness" of the baby. I know that sounds cliché but it is my goal!

6. Have you taken any photography workshops/training?

The only workshop I have attended was with Laura Brett Photography. 

7. Where do you like to shop for props? Do you have favorite vendors?

I love going to my local flea malls for unique props but some of my favorite online vendors are JD Vintage Props, My Darling Emma, and Goodnight Mouse Knits.

8. What are three things you wish someone would have told you when starting out?

To hire a financial advisor from the very beginning and to expect photography to be a full time job! There is no way I could do this part time and keep my clients coming back to me. :)

9. What are your favorite things about NBP.com? How long have you been a member?

I love newbornphotography.com because everyone on this community "gets it". :) We all have something in common and the constructive criticism is always so nice and helpful. I also like reading critiques on photos other photographers have submitted- this has really helped me to grow and learn! I guess Ive been a member for about a year, not sure if I have passed the year mark yet.

10. Please share with us your Top 5 Favorite Images. Why are they your favorites?

I love to keep earth tones in all of my setups and also pinks and blues since those are the "baby" colors :) Parent poses are some of my favorites especially when you add in the challenge of fitting TWO babies into momma’s arms. :)

11. What is your photography site and NewbornPhotography.com url?

Website  |  Facebook  |  NBP Profile  | Instagram

12. Lastly, tell us about YOU! Who are you other than a photographer?

Would you like to be our next Spotlight Photographer? Fill out our Spotlight Photographer form HERE! We look forward to featuring you!