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

I originally started as a pet photographer... yes... posing doggies at a pet store in cute outfits in 2008. You might say that's where my patience began, because before I was the most impatient person alive.

I tried a little bit of everything- weddings, funerals, families, children, seniors, boudoir, maternity and then newborns... and I fell in love. I fell in love with photographing maternity and newborns.

My business officially began in 2014 as The Newborn Artist, but I used to own Baby Joy Photography from 2010 till 2014.

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

I am located in the B-E-A-UTIFUL Pacific Northwest, Puyallup Washington to be exact. I have a dedicated studio space in my home that is just perfect for my little clients to come and snuggle for a few hours for newborn sessions. I tend to shoot on location for maternity, and of course on location for the occasional birth session.

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

I shoot with my Canon 5d Mk II primarily. I have a Canon 7d as my backup. I use my 35mm 1.4 99% of the time (best lens EVER), but I have fallen in love with the 200mm f/2.8 recently (but that costs a pretty penny, so I'm saving for it!) and my next purchase will be the 16-35mm so I can shoot some epic wide shots for maternity and family sessions!

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

I saw an interview with Kelley Ryden and Tracy Raver in 2010 when I was pregnant with my daughter. I absolutely fell in LOVE with their work. Then I ran across Keri Meyers on Facebook and fell in love all over again. So when my daughter was born in mid 2010, I gave newborn photography a shot. I loved every moment of it.

 I typically only work with newborns and maternity, with the occasional birth in the mix.

I photograph families only in the summer.

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

My style of photography is sunlight filled, clean, natural and classic. I love to capture the simplicity of baby, or the stunning mama to be in all her glamor.

I find inspiration everywhere. I know that may sound silly, but inspiration is everywhere you look- if you open your eyes. A sunset. A giggle. A hiccup from a newborn. A newborn cry. A glimpse of a color combination you see when shopping. A bird chirping. All of these elements can be molded into an amazing photo session. 

6. Have you taken any photography workshops/training?

My first workshop was in Houston (I lived there for a short year) with Sal Cincotta and Lori Nordstrom. It was all about marketing and how to bring in clients. It was AMAZING! I have my Bachelors degree in Business Management and my minor in Marketing, so it was interesting to see the difference for marketing between industries.

I watched Kelly Brown on Creative Live a few years ago when she did her first CL Workshop, but other than that, I have been a trial and error kind of gal.

I am a natural teacher though, so I love teaching and learning. I'm a big believer in always expanding your education and constantly learning. You never want to get lazy and think you know it all- cause times are always changing, technology is always changing.

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

I literally find props in the most random places. Like furniture stores for amazing wood bowls or buckets. I also tend to score some awesome finds at Homegoods, Hobby Lobby and Marshalls every so often.

Some of my hands down FAVORITE vendors are Kiwi and Kiki for all my headbands and ties for newborns. Mr and Mrs Co for some gorgeous wooden props (hello curved bench!), Sew Whimsey for more sweet headband sets and Photo Prop Floors and Backdrops for easily storable flooring and backdrops.

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

1. PLEASE go get a business license first. If you charge someone, even a small amount, pay your dues... aka taxes. Be a legit business owner. No one ever told me that (I knew I needed a license, but was informed of much false information by many other photographers I reached out to).

2. Find a mentor. Someone who will guide you, give you honest feedback and challenge you to become a better photographer and business owner.

3. I wish someone would have told me how much blood, sweat and tears it takes to run a successful business. The photography industry is a tough one to stay afloat, but once your find your niche... you make it your own. Hard work truly does pay off- just work smarter.

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

I absolutely love the kind critique forum. The members in this group are amazing- they are honest and kind. Sometimes its hard not to take things personally when asking for critique, but we need to remember as artists that we need to grow- and you cant grow alone.

I've been a member of NewbornPhotography.com since March of 2013, so I just passed my two year anniversary here!

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

So.... I've been in a crossroads in my editing style the past few months. I have some oldies and some newbies that are faves.

The first one, little Miss Emmerson was just a peach. And her family are huge seahawks fans... so I figured she was giving the Hawks a #1 sign. ;)

Second- This little guy won 2nd place at the Washington State Fair this year ;) and how could he not swoon you with that adorable dimple???

Third- this one is part of my Tattooed Mama Project. Her beautiful soul shines through and through her. This has won numerous awards over the US this past year, including First Place at the WA State Fair.

Fourth- I'm not usually a fan of black and white, but this one just oooooozes love and adoration.

and last- sunlight filled maternity session- yes please!

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

Website  |  Facebook  |  NBP Profile | Twitter | Google+ | 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!