family memories | chatham, nj family photographer

I absolutely loved hearing how this mom asked her husband for a family portrait session for her birthday. No diamonds, iPads, or massages ... just some family photo memories of these precious times with her two young children and hubby. I hate sounding like a broken record but I can't stress enough how it is so important for moms to get on the other side of the camera. So many of us moms are the soul "family record keepers" and we never get into any of the photos. On this upcoming Sunday for Mother's Day I ask each of you to let go and give your camera to your husband, boyfriend or even your children and have them snap some photos of you with your loved ones. Trust me, in 20 years from now you will be so glad you did! And stay tuned .... today I had a fabulous day shooting 28 first time moms with their brand new babies at a lovely spring picnic. It was a day I will never forget.

twinkle eyes | chatham, nj family photographer

I am in love with the twinkle in these children's eyes as well as the gap in P's little front teeth. David Letterman has nothing on him...

boys and their trees | chatham, nj family photographer

What is it with boys!? The minute they see a tree they instantly need to climb up it. Their little sister couldn't quite make it up but give her a couple of years and I am sure she will be right behind her big brothers.

jumping | chatham, nj family photographer

three pairs of gorgeous eyes | chatham, nj family photographer

Yes ... these sister's eyes really are that gorgeous. Just a few that caught my eye from this very fun session over the weekend.

from two to three | chatham, nj maternity photographer

This gorgeous "mama" is a month away from giving birth to her third child. Not only is she pregnant but she is in the midst of packing up their house and moving to a new state all before she gives birth. I give her huge props for being so cool, calm and collected. The Lavelle Ladies will sure miss you gals!

spring break 2011

We flew down to Florida for Spring Break. I have to say it was so nice to get away from the cold and warm ourselves up with the nice hot temperatures. Of course the kids had a fabulous time but mom/dad need a vacation after the vacation. For all of you thinking about booking a spring or summer session I highly recommend emailing or giving me a call to get yourselves on the calendar. I will be doing a bit of traveling over the summer so I would love to schedule everyone early on. I have had a few inquiries about city shoots and I am definitely all for them! Would love to meet your family down in Tribeca, Soho or around the High Line in the Meatpacking District. The colors and textures make for an excellent backdrop.

Thank you to all the families who have booked my Spring Simple Sweet Session on the 30th (try saying that 10 times). All of the times have been booked but if I get more interest I might put on another day since Father's Day is coming up..

dubai

A few days ago at my son's preschool pick-up, some mothers and I were talking about traveling and who has gone without children. I told my story about traveling to Dubai with my husband a couple of years ago. Talking about Dubai and the culture brought back so many memories so I dug through my archives and pulled up my photos. Looking back now I wish I captured so many more images of our time there. It is a very interesting place!