Jett {Birth Story}

When I started on my photography journey I never envisioned myself taking photos of someone's labor and birth.  I mean I didn't even watch my own let alone have the want to watch someone else's.  That is until Pinterest came into my life (follow me here).  All of these amazing photographers and beautiful photographs were all over the place.  The ones that ran chills down my spine were those of newborns and dad supporting mom during labor and that first look.  I remember those moments all too well thanks to my mom and her point and shoot.
Recently I did a styled session for a doula, Amanda, here on island and we got to talking about my photography future once I get back stateside.  I told her that I was interested in birth photography and how amazing it would be to capture those moments for parents so they can concentrate on a healthy and happy labor/delivery.  She mentioned a few photographers that specialize in that area of photography and sure enough more chills.  So after a few messages back and fourth I told her that if any of her clients wanted birth photos let me know and we can set something up.  No more than about a week later I was called up and one of her clients was in the early stages of labor and she was game for having me there to take photos.
At 11PM I arrived at Erin's house and meet her and her husband for the first time.  I sat down, made sure I stayed out of the way and started firing away.  After two clicks I was hooked.  The love between Erin and her husband was unreal and her belly was perfect.  Once 130AM came around it was time to pack up and head to the hospital.  The adrenaline that took over was crazy and unexpected.  I was prepared to just be a zombie once 2AM hit since I am so not a night owl.  At about 5AM Erin ended up giving birth to a 9lb'er baby boy, Caleb Jett.
It was truly an amazing experience that I will remember forever.  Both Erin and Amanda have given me the confidence to take birth photography by the horns and run with it.  I loved every minute of it right down to the viewing of the photos 3 days later and watching Erin's face light up as she relived that moment in her life.

Congratulations Erin and Caleb and happy birthday, baby Jett! 

Kinjo {Family}

One of my goals I had when I started this business here in Okinawa, Japan was to branch out and not only cater to the military families but also appeal to the locals.  The language barrier always made me shy away from asking or promoting myself to the local community.  That was until a fellow USMC wife and local took it upon herself to share my work with her friends.  I was beyond grateful for her willingness to do that and even more pleased a friend of hers, Tomo, loved my work.  Tomo spoke english very well and we were able to set up a session for her little family of three.  The thing I love most about the locals is that they aren't cookie cutter and when I saw them get out of their car and saw the plethora of colors they were wearing I was super excited! Their little one was a joy and they were such a sweet little family.  I am glad I was able to connect with one local family before leaving island.