The anticipation of the arrival of a child and the rapid changes that ensue make pregnancy and birth a very special time. For one family it has been an amazing journey from pregnancy right through to their baby’s first birthday and all of the precious moments in between. What a joy it has been to capture many of these key moments for this incredibly kind and loving family.
MOMMA MIA!
This beautiful journey began with a "bump" in January 2018. First time Momma, Michelle wanted a maternity photo session that had a dual purpose: to celebrate motherhood and her cherished Mexican heritage. It was only natural that she should plan a Mexican-inspired photo shoot. Arlington Garden in Pasadena provided the perfect backdrop to compliment the vibrant hues of this Momma’s traditional Chiapas dress, rebozos (one in pink and one in red) and corona de flores.
OH BABY!
Welcoming Miss Valentina’s arrival into the world with an in-home newborn session was the sweetest. It’s hard to believe this little bundle of joy was just eight days old! She just melts my heart.
FAMILY TIES.
Just three weeks into her life’s great adventure I had the heart-warming experience of documenting four generations of the beautiful women in Valentina’s life with a family portrait session. How blessed this little one is to have such strong and positive women as her role models.
BAPTISM, A FAMILY AFFAIR.
Three months in and it was time for the Vargas and Godinez families to come together for Valentina’s Christening. I was commissioned to do the formal Baptism portrait that graced elegant hand-crafted announcements and to document the Catholic Rite of Baptism at Saint Charles Borromeo Church, a splendid example of Spanish Revival style architecture and one of the oldest parishes in the San Fernando Valley.
'TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY
for Baby’s first Christmas... need I say more about this precious family unit?
GOOD-BYE BABY, HELLO TODDLER!
My heart once again swooned with joy when asked to capture these adorable moments on Valentina’s first birthday. Man-O-man! This little Miss can brighten up any day!
IN SUMMARY
The year from birth to birthday is chock full of growth, changes, many firsts and milestones. And it all flies by so fast before you know what's hit you! How important it then becomes to have cherished photographs that remind us and bring us back to those special moments.
What are some of your own favorite "bump to first birthday" moments?
I hope you enjoyed this post featuring the photos we captured during the year for this awesome family. As a portrait and lifestyle photographer I’m here to help you achieve your family portrait goals, whatever they may be. I’d love the opportunity to answer any questions you might have. Please contact me to learn more.
About the Author
Laurie "LoLo" Spencer is a lifestyle and portrait photographer based in Southern California specializing in emotive photography for families, couples, maternity and newborns.