Have you ever found yourself staring at your newborn for endless amounts of time trying to capture every moment of their existence in your mind? I do it at least a dozen times a day. So much changes every minute. Max, my newborn, is so expressive. For someone who can’t talk, he certainly knows how to convey his feels and needs. I want hold these moments in my heart for eternity. In this time of “Mommy brain” and very little sleep, documentation is key, which is why we chose to get a professional photographer to capture these magical details and the love and connection we share as a family. Rachel Friedman Photography was the perfect choice for our newborn photos and family photos. She doesn’t just have a remarkable eye for photography; she has the ability to make each client feel special and beautiful. Her easy-going nature and pure joy in seeing children and adults interact make her vision come alive. Her joy and bewilderment are contagious. With a full wardrobe, lots of props, and beautiful locations for shooting, she provides everything needed to make the photos perfect. All you need to bring is yourself and your love for your family.
Something unique and helpful that Rachel offers is a complimentary online styling service as well as a studio wardrobe for moms and kids to help keep you coordinated and looking fabulous.
Before the session, Rachel sent me a variety of dress choices for myself and Athena. She brought a number of dresses to the photo shoot so we would feel and look great during the session. We matched and avoided any stress around finding clothes for the session.
This was one of my favorite services that Rachel offers because I didn’t need to buy something specific for the photo shoot that most likely wouldn’t fit me in a month or so anyway; after all, my post-pregnancy body is changing every day.
As for Athena’s dress, we loved it so much that I asked where Rachel bought it. We ordered the Girls’ Eyelet Maxi Dress from Target for Athena and it’s now one of her favorite dresses in her wardrobe.
Rachel also brought props and a swaddle for Max. The precious basket that she provided was my favorite. The photos of him snuggled soundly in the basket looked like a scene from a fairytale.
Even without the props or the stunning setting, Rachel managed to capture Max’s innocence and beauty in every shot. Maybe it’s just because I’m his mother, but doesn’t he look like the most perfect little prince in this photo? It makes my heart full every time I look at it.
Although the session was mainly a newborn session to capture Max and a family session to capture all of us together, Rachel didn’t forget to include a few wonderful shots of Athena as well. Rachel made Athena feel special during the entire process and that was more important to me than I realized. Athena doesn’t remember having her own newborn photo shoot or all of the time we spent with her as a baby but she will remember that we made time for her now. She needs her own moments to shine right now too. I always want her to know that she is every bit as loved and cherished as Max, even though she is older.
These funny photos are so indicative of Athena’s personality. It’s like Rachel knew exactly what to say and do to get Athena’s real personality to shine through and then she paused time so we can cherish them forever.
I don’t think anyone could have captured our spirit and love the way that Rachel did. She may have only peered into our lives for a short time but she truly saw us as the family we are together. When preparing your baby essentials list, don’t forget to include professional newborn and family photos on the list.