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As promised, I'm making a huge effort to keep up on my blog in 2017. You know, I feel like every connection I make is special. It's completely undeniable and one of the biggest reasons I push forward in this industry. I truly love my job. I love the people I work with. Today I saw something that really struck me, and it simply said "Love is a big deal". And you know what? It is. It really is. Love is one of the most tangible, delicious and miraculous feelings in the world. It doesn't matter if you're in love with your high school sweetheart, a person you just met, if you love your best friend or if you've completely fallen for your newborn--love is a great big GIANT deal.
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I know, it's sometimes weird to be in front of a camera (or always, I mean). You're asked to really open up in ways that most strangers don't ask or get to see, and smile and pose. You know, I get it. I am a "I don't know what to do with my hands" person, unless I'm holding a camera. But let me tell you what you can do with yours--reach out, grab, touch. Flirt. Kiss arms, elbows, faces, foreheads. I think so often people are afraid to touch and be silly and really be vulnerably close to the ones that we love, but it's so important for that connection. And that's exactly why we take pictures, not because we want to remember ourselves as we wished we were, but to remember our hearts in that moment. It is in those times that you get authentic images.
touch
təCH/
1.
come so close to (an object) as to be or come into contact with it.
təCH/
1.
come so close to (an object) as to be or come into contact with it.
This year I am challenging each and every one of you to get close, and then closer during our sessions. I'm encouraging you to show up just as you are that day, and if it's a bad day, find comfort in the people with you. I am so happy to know you all and I can't wait to see you in our upcoming sessions.
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CASEY AND JERROD...ENGAGED
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May 12th, 2015
Safe and Sound (Welcome to the World, Adam)
It's been admittedly hard to keep up with my blog, although I feel like every session I do tells it's own unique and amazing story. I can never claim to be a great writer, but I can talk nonstop (trust me). Some stories don't need a lot of words, if any at all, and for that I am grateful...words can be so inadequate. I am constantly honored and grateful to be a part of the community of photographers that gets to join in on birth; before, during and after.
I met first-time-expectant parents Asarias and Aaron late one afternoon over coffee and bad jokes (I can't help myself). The two were excited and eagerly counting the days until baby Adam joined their lives. Kelly, Asarias' mom also joined us as she would be present during labor. When I meet with clients initially, we talk about any birth plans and my role during labor. Questions are answered and dates planned, deposits taken and forms are signed, but so much more happens. Connections are made, laughs are shared and hearts are opened. Being asked to be part of such an intimate and life-changing event fulfills my heart in unexplainable ways. I was so incredibly excited for Asarias, as she herself grew up in a big family full of children. We joked that Aaron might pass out and that if it happened I would, naturally, document that.
I met with the ENTIRE family about a month later for a brief family session in lieu of a maternity session. I had an absolute blast photographing everyone on National Siblings day and wandering through Mirabeau Park.
And then the countdown began.
Asarias had had some contractions around the 22nd and 23rd of April, but they subsided and a very anxious mama kept hoping for baby to make his appearance soon. Throughout the time, I was in constant contact with Kelly who was ecstatic that any day she might be meeting her first grandchild. On April 26th, around 3AM, I got a series of texts from Kelly that let me know they were headed to the hospital. I let her know that I was only a few minutes away so she could contact me whenever they thought they might like me to come. Knowing that labor can sometimes be long, I washed my face and started to climb back into bed, only to receive a text that said "she's at an 8! Come NOW!". And I did.
When I arrived, I honestly had a hard time believing that Asarias was even having contractions; she was a picture of strength and grace. Each wave that came she was surrounded by her mom and Aaron who laid hands on her and encouraged her to breathe. I was in awe of the sweet young mother to be that I had gotten to know over the past months, now a powerful goddess. I sometimes wonder if mothers really understand the depth of their beauty in these raw moments, the sheer amazement that washes over me as I document the journey from expecting to final arrival. Each birth is so different but so incredible. I am 100% a nerd for birth and babies and watching the transformation that happens in these rooms and homes and tubs and beds. I cannot stop tears (so just know I'm a huge crier, sorrynotsorry).
In 2 very short hours, Adam arrived following a very brief period of pushing. Swept up onto his mothers' chest, he was here. I never forget the first words that Asarias said "You're here, you're safe, you're here". The journey comes full circle. For months upon months you feel kicks, your belly expands, your hips ache and your body changes. There is truly nothing like that first moment.
Born at 5:18AM after less than 4 hours of active labor, Adam Benjamin Rodriguez was born naturally, weighing 7lbs 14oz and measuring 19in long. He was opinionated from the start, with the sweetest squeaks and scowls and beautiful dark hair.
I will add (I'm totally bragging) that I got to snuggle this sweet guy just a few days after his birth when I visited for his newborn photos. I am so lucky to get to do what I do. You can see some images from the birth and newborn session below.
Oh, PS...Aaron didn't faint.
I met first-time-expectant parents Asarias and Aaron late one afternoon over coffee and bad jokes (I can't help myself). The two were excited and eagerly counting the days until baby Adam joined their lives. Kelly, Asarias' mom also joined us as she would be present during labor. When I meet with clients initially, we talk about any birth plans and my role during labor. Questions are answered and dates planned, deposits taken and forms are signed, but so much more happens. Connections are made, laughs are shared and hearts are opened. Being asked to be part of such an intimate and life-changing event fulfills my heart in unexplainable ways. I was so incredibly excited for Asarias, as she herself grew up in a big family full of children. We joked that Aaron might pass out and that if it happened I would, naturally, document that.
I met with the ENTIRE family about a month later for a brief family session in lieu of a maternity session. I had an absolute blast photographing everyone on National Siblings day and wandering through Mirabeau Park.
And then the countdown began.
Asarias had had some contractions around the 22nd and 23rd of April, but they subsided and a very anxious mama kept hoping for baby to make his appearance soon. Throughout the time, I was in constant contact with Kelly who was ecstatic that any day she might be meeting her first grandchild. On April 26th, around 3AM, I got a series of texts from Kelly that let me know they were headed to the hospital. I let her know that I was only a few minutes away so she could contact me whenever they thought they might like me to come. Knowing that labor can sometimes be long, I washed my face and started to climb back into bed, only to receive a text that said "she's at an 8! Come NOW!". And I did.
When I arrived, I honestly had a hard time believing that Asarias was even having contractions; she was a picture of strength and grace. Each wave that came she was surrounded by her mom and Aaron who laid hands on her and encouraged her to breathe. I was in awe of the sweet young mother to be that I had gotten to know over the past months, now a powerful goddess. I sometimes wonder if mothers really understand the depth of their beauty in these raw moments, the sheer amazement that washes over me as I document the journey from expecting to final arrival. Each birth is so different but so incredible. I am 100% a nerd for birth and babies and watching the transformation that happens in these rooms and homes and tubs and beds. I cannot stop tears (so just know I'm a huge crier, sorrynotsorry).
In 2 very short hours, Adam arrived following a very brief period of pushing. Swept up onto his mothers' chest, he was here. I never forget the first words that Asarias said "You're here, you're safe, you're here". The journey comes full circle. For months upon months you feel kicks, your belly expands, your hips ache and your body changes. There is truly nothing like that first moment.
Born at 5:18AM after less than 4 hours of active labor, Adam Benjamin Rodriguez was born naturally, weighing 7lbs 14oz and measuring 19in long. He was opinionated from the start, with the sweetest squeaks and scowls and beautiful dark hair.
I will add (I'm totally bragging) that I got to snuggle this sweet guy just a few days after his birth when I visited for his newborn photos. I am so lucky to get to do what I do. You can see some images from the birth and newborn session below.
Oh, PS...Aaron didn't faint.
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March 24, 2015
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Know my HEART
October 16th, 2014
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A lot of you have already met me. Some of you have been with me on this journey for close to 6 years, back when photos were taken with an old point and shoot and the dream was just a hobby and the hobby was just beginning. Some of you I will meet in the future (I can't wait). Wherever you are on your journey with me, I appreciate you. Lately I am beyond humbled by the support and encouragement from clients, new and old. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and love.
Anyone that knows me know that I ramble beyond compare, tell really poor jokes and often stumble over my own words and feet. I want you to know why I do what I do, why I continue to pursue photography as my goal and dream and career. I want you to know my heart. I want it to be in every photograph that I give you, and in every session we have together. Art without heart is just...he....okay. Well. You know what I mean. |
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The photos in this mini blog post are of my boys--my son Hendrick and my boyfriend, Josh. Henners (as we call him) is now almost 18 months old and consumes most of my time and energy. I wasn't sure if continuing with photography after having a baby was feasible, as I was still growing in my journey but I was encouraged to continue and so I did--many sessions with Henners strapped to me. Photography is the breath in my life besides my family. It is what allows me to feel human and adult and connected to the world. It brings me great joy. It's hard to put into words how I feel when someone tells me that they value or cherish my work. I cry more than I should at weddings. I cry at births. I cry looking back on the years that it's taken me to come as far as I have--all tears of joy. Normally I pride myself on being a more eloquent writer, but today as I type, I find that I can't quite articulate what I want to say.
There is so much more for me to learn. I am so glad to do what I do. I am so honored that you allow me into your lives, your homes, your hospital rooms. I feel personally connected to every family I meet and I thank you for enriching my life. Photography is more to me than just providing for my little family, it is a calling.
I love you all.
There is so much more for me to learn. I am so glad to do what I do. I am so honored that you allow me into your lives, your homes, your hospital rooms. I feel personally connected to every family I meet and I thank you for enriching my life. Photography is more to me than just providing for my little family, it is a calling.
I love you all.
Roan arrives
Oh, Roan.
Sometimes a birth story does not need many words to convey the journey.
How we waite.d.
Waiting is the hardest part of birth, isn't it? I know some might argue with me that no, labor or you know, the actually pregnancy part is what's actually rough, but I beg to differ. The wait, the anticipation, the desperate need as a mother to count each and every toe, finger and strand of hair is heavy and pulling. You wait, holding your breathe, rubbing your belly, folding and re-folding tiny pieces of clothing and it is the most indescribable mix of excitement and excruciating torture. And then, they're here.
Brittany is a mom to 3 other children; 2 boys and a girl. She has a pretty awesome husband, Dan, and a whole slough of fantastic family members. For her this waiting journey involved preparation for a VBAC., choosing the right doctor, hospital and birth plan. Surrounded by her sister, best friend, husband, mom, dad AND mother-in-law, she had an amazing amount of support. I can honestly say that everyone breathed with her in unison.
Sometimes a birth story does not need many words to convey the journey.
How we waite.d.
Waiting is the hardest part of birth, isn't it? I know some might argue with me that no, labor or you know, the actually pregnancy part is what's actually rough, but I beg to differ. The wait, the anticipation, the desperate need as a mother to count each and every toe, finger and strand of hair is heavy and pulling. You wait, holding your breathe, rubbing your belly, folding and re-folding tiny pieces of clothing and it is the most indescribable mix of excitement and excruciating torture. And then, they're here.
Brittany is a mom to 3 other children; 2 boys and a girl. She has a pretty awesome husband, Dan, and a whole slough of fantastic family members. For her this waiting journey involved preparation for a VBAC., choosing the right doctor, hospital and birth plan. Surrounded by her sister, best friend, husband, mom, dad AND mother-in-law, she had an amazing amount of support. I can honestly say that everyone breathed with her in unison.
There were moments that I can never forget, as sister and friend gathered around Brittany to pray, I found myself closing my eyes as well. These are powerful things that you tuck away in your heart forever.
As anyone knows or can imagine, birth is an almost out of body experience. It is not comfortable. It is not painless. It is not without sacrifice, and often, it is not as planned. For Brittany, her birth was about empowerment in herself, courage, calm and probably a little bit of healing.
The picture of grace and calm, Brittany had a successful VBAC..
Roan made his arrival into the world on May 30th with a head full of deep dark hair and a face with such incredibly knowing eyes. In the few moments he was swaddled and warmed, I whispered to him quietly, and welcomed him, his aunt and grandma cooing close by, speaking words of love. I'm not sure I'll ever tire of birth and the beautiful miracle that it is.
As anyone knows or can imagine, birth is an almost out of body experience. It is not comfortable. It is not painless. It is not without sacrifice, and often, it is not as planned. For Brittany, her birth was about empowerment in herself, courage, calm and probably a little bit of healing.
The picture of grace and calm, Brittany had a successful VBAC..
Roan made his arrival into the world on May 30th with a head full of deep dark hair and a face with such incredibly knowing eyes. In the few moments he was swaddled and warmed, I whispered to him quietly, and welcomed him, his aunt and grandma cooing close by, speaking words of love. I'm not sure I'll ever tire of birth and the beautiful miracle that it is.
I congratulate the whole family on this tiny fuzzy headed boy, deeply loved and surrounded by wisdom and peace.
Dear Roan, welcome to Earth.
Dear Roan, welcome to Earth.
JEssica and hadyn
the journey
Let me preface this first mini-blog entry by saying I got a little choked up reviewing the photos from this session.
I've known Jessica and her family for many years now. I've taken photos before, during and after marriage. I've photographed 2 out of 3 newborns in the family, and was honored to be present at the birth of Hadyn this year when she arrived; bright-eyed, bushy tailed and ready to conquer the world.
After all these years, after all these photos, there is something so uniquely special about our nursing shoot. Watching someone as a mother changes everything. Watching someone soften and grow and achieve a goal as special as breast feeding made my heart absolutely swell.
I've known Jessica and her family for many years now. I've taken photos before, during and after marriage. I've photographed 2 out of 3 newborns in the family, and was honored to be present at the birth of Hadyn this year when she arrived; bright-eyed, bushy tailed and ready to conquer the world.
After all these years, after all these photos, there is something so uniquely special about our nursing shoot. Watching someone as a mother changes everything. Watching someone soften and grow and achieve a goal as special as breast feeding made my heart absolutely swell.
light and latching
Jessica contacted me to see if I had any nursing sessions coming up, and in our conversations, I learned that Haydn's breast feeding journey was coming to an end. While it is bittersweet for mom, it is something astounding. It is persona.l. It is empowering and beautiful.
There is no end to the bond between mother and daughter, but the start of many more journeys together.
Sitting quietly at the beach downtown Coeur d'Alene, we caught up on life and babies and everything in between as Hayden ate. The sun was just starting to set and all was soft and quiet. There is something so radiant about a confident mother, who is unabashedly being herself.
There is no end to the bond between mother and daughter, but the start of many more journeys together.
Sitting quietly at the beach downtown Coeur d'Alene, we caught up on life and babies and everything in between as Hayden ate. The sun was just starting to set and all was soft and quiet. There is something so radiant about a confident mother, who is unabashedly being herself.
I am so proud to know Jessica and her family, so proud to sit and absorb wisdom from a wonderful mom, so proud that she didn't give up.
Like Jessica put it: From first latch to last, it is about what works best for her and Haydn.
Plus, I mean, let's be honest, have you seen this kiddo? Completely snuggable. Hel-lo.
Much love,
-Becca
Like Jessica put it: From first latch to last, it is about what works best for her and Haydn.
Plus, I mean, let's be honest, have you seen this kiddo? Completely snuggable. Hel-lo.
Much love,
-Becca
