As most parents know, finding a photographer to capture your newborn baby’s first professional photos isn’t as easy at it sounds. Every photographer has a different style so it’s important to find someone that truly captures what you’re looking for, whether it’s light and airy, staged with props, lifestyle shots, etc.

Before Evan was born his newborn photoshoot was already in the books (yes, booking in advance is essential when dealing with in-demand photographers). Luckily for Nitin and I the task of finding a newborn photographer was as easy as 123, mainly because my sister had done the hard part in sourcing the perfect photographer 8 years ago when my first niece was born. Karen Byker of Reflections of Life Photography has a special place in my family’s heart (and on our walls) as she’s photographed both my nieces as well as my nephew when they were first born. I’ve always admired Karen’s style of photography as it’s clean, minimal and bright …right up my alley! She focuses on what’s most important (your family!) and keeps her images simple and timeless; something I know I’ll appreciate for years to come. She shoots in her home studio which is the calmest, most relaxing environment for any newborn …and parent!

We had booked Evan’s photoshoot before he was born but because of my epidural headache (you can read about my birth story here) I had to push the photoshoot date back a week. Karen was super accommodating and thankfully able to fit us in the next week. Evan was still quite little (around 2 weeks old) during his photoshoot and for someone who spent most his days sleeping our cheeky little bambino decided he wanted to be wide awake for his big day …he must take after his mama. Literally, he didn’t sleep a wink during the photoshoot despite feeding, rocking, cuddling, white noise, but we ended up with the cutest shots of our little guy. I love how Karen captured Evan’s hilarious, mischievous personality during his photoshoot; Nitin and I still crack up looking at some of these pictures.

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After our session was complete we booked the big Image Reveal a week later. For those wondering what an Image Reveal is, Karen invites her clients back to her home, turns on the projector and pretty much wows you with pictures of your bundle of joy. I’m not sure if it was the soft music playing in the background, seeing our family photos shining back at us for the first time, the fact that Evan is actually here …or a combination of all three but in full disclosure Nitin and I shed a few tears during the reveal. After we went through the images we placed our order for prints. Initially we were going to order just the digital images but after seeing the quality of print Reflections of Life offers we ended up also placing a custom order for two larger prints which are proudly hanging above the sofa in our family room, as well as one smaller print that is hanging in our upstairs hallway. These pictures put the biggest smile on our faces every time they catch our eye …the gift that keeps on giving.

xo, Kiki