Native Sky Photography blog » Maryland Children’s Photographer

Down to Earth Family | Maryland Family Portrait Photographer

admin — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 02:12:28 +0000

I had a BLAST photographing this fabulous (and gorgeous!) family on their farm a few weeks ago! SO excited as we tooled all around their land in a Jeep-style ATV so we could get some beautiful hunting shots of the dad and his boys…. Then ending up near the water where we hopped into a little motor boat to get even more shots there. This is definitely a family that knows how to have fun together! In just the few hours I spent with them, it was clear that they were not the type to sit still for very long. And I love that! This is a time in their lives that they wanted to remember through photographs… a visual journal of what is most important to them each and every day – Family, fun, and living life to the fullest. The children were so very polite and well-mannered, confident and smart, witty and kind… Clearly these parents have taught their four children well. And without doubt, there is a whole lotta love between and among them all! Enjoy some of my favorite shots of this beautiful family!

Fantastic Family | Maryland Family Portrait Photographer

admin — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 23:28:47 +0000

So… I want to tell you about this family, but adequate words are failing me right now. I think it’s because they are such an amazing group of good, good people… I admire them for all the value they hold for their family…and their shining example leaves me speechless. They have a love that is rare…so very deep…and I look at them, observe how they interact with each other, and can’t help but wish that everyone could meet them and get to know them like I do. They are selfless givers. They would do anything to make certain that each day is a happy and healthy one, not just for each other, but for all those fortunate beings who surround them. A little over a year ago these wonderful people moved into a house just down the street from ours, and their presence has made all of our lives richer. Thank you for blessing our lives with your kindness, grace, and friendship. Photographing you all was an incredible honor for me — thank you for trusting me with lasting images of your family. You have a place deep in our hearts…and we are grateful to call you our friends.

Tara Staton’s DC Workshop | DC, Virginia, and Maryland Portrait Photographer

admin — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 19:50:07 +0000

So last September I hosted a workshop for Tara Staton, an incredible photographer, instructor, mentor, and friend. It was one of the most phenomenal experiences I’ve ever had! To organize and prepare for Tara’s workshop, I canvassed this great city of ours with ardent fervor and a powerful determination to leave no stone unturned regarding locations, permits, lodging, facilities, transportation, and entertainment! I also have the fortune of knowing lots of wonderful and gorgeous locals who I (and with the help of attendee Stacey Bahr – thank you, Stacey! And friend, Jennifer Burns – thank you, Jennifer!) recruited as willing and enthusiastic models, and all of the workshop attendees were truly thrilled to have them as their subjects. We had the opportunity to work with families, children, couples, and high school seniors. This was my first time shooting seniors, and I had a BLAST! I can’t wait to photograph more of them! And aahhh…the attendees! What a fabulous group of gals! It was such a blessing to meet these ladies and learn with them. We got to know each other very well and forged great friendships that will last, for sure. I also spent lots of time talking with the National Park Service as well as the super-nice folks at the Capitol Police Headquarters to learn all I would need to know for shooting in the city, and who had jurisdiction over which sections of DC — I had to make sure that we were following all the rules, obeying all the laws, and that we were obtaining all the necessary permits for our locations. For nearly four days we gathered at the vacation rental I lined up in the city for lodging and class time, and then we traveled with Dave Hinton from DTT Transportation (definitely look him up next time you travel to and within the city — Dave is fantastic!) to various and diverse locations for hands-on shooting practice with our models. Not only did I learn more about photography and how to create spectacular images, but I also learned so much about myself and what I am capable of accomplishing. I also discovered more amazing things about Washington DC…and I feel like I know that city (almost) like the back of my hand. What a triumph for me – personally and professionally! I want to thank Tara for her kindness and for sharing her experiences, knowledge, and skill with me and all the attendees. And to the attendees – I am so fortunate to have met you, and I look forward to staying in touch! It was a workshop that I will always look back on fondly. Here are some of my favorite images from those four days — have a look at these shots of our exquisite models!

Now this is family… | Maryland Family Portrait Photographer

admin — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:59:25 +0000

Ahhh….family. Once again I had the pleasure of photographing this dynamic collection of spirited people. Aunts, uncles, moms, dads, cousins, sisters, brothers…. This family is a delight to be around and I loved every moment working with them! So kind…. They truly understand that all of their distinct personalities, characters, and talents combined with the love they have for each other genuinely encourage such intense and powerful bonds to last a lifetime. All of them together…it’s a sight to see! Beautiful inside and out! As always, I have so many favorites to share. Please have a look and leave a comment…and to the family here, I hope you love these golden images as much as I do! Thank you for having me around to capture the love! and p.s. – The day wouldn’t have been complete without a tractor ride at the end…see the joy on those sweet little faces??!!!

Illuminating | Maryland Family Portrait Photographer

admin — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 22:17:24 +0000

This family has touched my heart…absolutely. Even if we had never had a conversation but had only stood near each other, I believe I would have been able to sense their innate goodness, simply because it radiates from their soulful eyes, genuine smiles, and wraps itself around you like a breeze. I am honored to have worked with them once again, and once again they made me feel welcome as I crafted images of this one moment that will last a lifetime. Although it was an intensely hot and humid evening, you never would have known it by looking at them! Their confidence shines brightly and it is clear that they truly understand the power of family. They love each other deeply, and you’ll see that here… Enjoy these shots of this beautiful family!

Dream Family | Maryland Family and Child Portrait Photographer

admin — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 15:36:36 +0000

Sometimes I think I’m just the luckiest girl… How IS it that I end up connecting and photographing the most amazing people? I mean, my “job” includes the privilege of spending time with phenomenal human beings, hearing their fascinating stories, eliciting bright and genuine smiles, and creating images for them that last a lifetime. Don’t get me wrong — this “job” isn’t always easy. In fact, behind every photo, there is so much more than most people realize. But it’s a challenge I adore… It keeps me on my toes and I like that!

However….I do have to say that a lot of the time my job does seem pretty easy! This family illustrates exactly what I’m talking about… They are brilliant, gracious, dynamic, and grounded. They know what is important in life — love, trust, honesty, faith, and kindness. Photographing them this day was pure pleasure for me! The weather was exquisite and the light sheer perfection. Six month-old baby “N’ was such a serious little guy at the start. Totally loved sucking in his bottom lip — adorable! But he quickly got used to my camera and silly noises and gave us sweet smiles all around! And the mom and dad….I love encouraging parents get portraits together — this can be a rare occurrence and they truly deserve a special spot in the limelight that is all their own. Naturally we included Bella, their cute little pomeranian! She was a tough cookie to follow but did her very best to pose for a few shots. Big thanks to the “E” family for being such a dream to capture… Enjoy this (big) sneak peek of your session! See you soon!

Sunny Happiness | Maryland Child Portrait Photographer

admin — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 21:19:23 +0000

Who do you think of when you hear the words “sunny disposition” ? And how does this person make you feel? I think of this little guy, right away! “G” is truly a happy baby, through and through, and every time I see him, he makes me smile and laugh with his perfect cuteness! And just look at those amazing blue eyes! So vibrant! I think I could say with quite a lot of certainty that “G” is a smiley, giggly baby with a sunny disposition, almost 100% of the time. Knowing his parents and big brother, this fact doesn’t surprise me. They too are incredibly positive, kind, and gracious people, and those qualities have definitely taken their place inside this little baby’s heart. His expressions show such JOY and it’s totally clear when you see him in his photos. This is the third time I’ve worked with the “V” family — taking the gorgeous Mom’s belly photos, then “G’s” three month photos, and now his six month photos! We had a lot of fun using their yard as a pretty backdrop, and soaking in that awesome early evening sun. We had two sessions — this one being the first half. Before we left on vacation to visit my family in Arizona I dashed over to their house to get these shots and then finished the session when I got back… So check back to see more family photos from “V” session part 2! Enjoy this super happy baby!

Pink and Pigtails ~ on Etsy! | Maryland etsy photographer

admin — Tue, 18 May 2010 18:07:54 +0000

SO much fun (and well, general busy-ness!) has been happening in my life and though I’ve been working hard, I haven’t had time to blog about everything I’ve been working on! But one thing I’m really excited about lately that I want the world to know about is this great collection of hair accessories designed by Chandra Robinson of Pink and Pigtails on etsy.com. Chandra uses an array of materials that feature vibrant colors, exciting textures, and deep contrasts that result in unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of beauty, versatility, and comfort. For occasions that are either fun or formal, there is definitely something in her etsy shop for that! The quality and customer service she provides is unmatched, and she is just as thrilled about designing and creating as you will be when you receive her work! I highly recommend that you check out Pink and Pigtails on etsy! You’ll be glad you did! Not only is Chandra someone who creates beautiful headbands, bows, clips, hats (and more!) for little girls, tweens, teens, and young adults, but she has also become someone I can call a friend. Chandra, thank you for reaching out to me… I truly value your friendship. Our paths were meant to cross and believe me, I consider myself so blessed to know you! I’ll see you soon!

Here is just a small representation of Chandra’s work, with more to come. Enjoy!

The Sweetest Family, part 2 ~ Maryland Family and Child Portrait Photographer

admin — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:25:49 +0000

I can’t get enough of this family! So of course I knew I would want to share more…. The kids are so full of character (notice the impish lift of her eyebrow in the first photo?) and sweetness of it all… the mother’s love, the father’s pride, the fun of aunts and uncles, the tight-knit closeness of family….I love every bit of it. I know you will too….so here are more! And please leave a comment or two to let us all know your thoughts!

The Sweetest Family ~ Maryland Child and Family Portrait Photographer

admin — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 01:16:53 +0000

It’s really tough for me to describe how pure and kind-hearted this family is…words can’t truly tell of the rare and extraordinary essence they possess that just makes these people glow. For the second time they welcomed me into their home and again I felt so comfortable, like I have known them for years. I had such a great time photographing them that I came away with more than my usual number of shots so it’s going to take me a little longer to process them all…and you can bet there will be another blog entry because keeping these gorgeous people under wraps would be a cryin’ shame!

Last time I had the honor of photographing their baby who was three months-old then. Now he’s almost seven months-old and growing into his “Little Man” clothes so fast! Today he was joined by his cousins — three year-old “L” and ten month-old “J.” All three of them together was an adorable sight to see! I hope you love this sneak peek of the kids as much as I do, with more to come…. What a way to kick off a beautiful spring!