I think we all know I'm a big fan of color in photographs, but I always provide a black and white version of each image to my clients on their image CD just in case. When I processed the black and whites from this wonderful newborn session, I really loved the feel of them. The candid, real-life moments captured seemed to shine through even more when the color was removed. So, I thought I do something I've never done before in all my six years as a photographer: blog a session in black and white only.

Ooops. Wait. Scratch that. Just found a set of images that *has* to be color:

Oh well. Maybe someday I'll try that again.

In true Austin fashion, there was some event going on at the park when we met for our photo session that day. Parking...oh lovely parking. Well, let's just say it wasn't easy to snag a spot. But we pushed forward--all the way forward to the really, REALLY LOUD live music that happened to be there. We were shouting at each other to try and communicate. It was rather comical. But again, they pushed on through and managed to keep a great sense of humor. The pics of mom and her cubs...oh my...

Growing up with my clients is a privilege I cherish. It's like I have the largest extended family on the planet and I get to be there to celebrate the biggest milestones and the happiest moments in so many people's lives. 

This particular session was very special to them and to me. It's marking the time as a family of three, how they've settled in so nicely into parenthood, this little beauty with her joy and spirit, and how--in just a few months--they will add one more to their nest.

The weather was incredible and the light fell perfectly on them no matter where they were. Everywhere we explored, we found beautiful little nooks to help them tell their family story. This gazebo was breathtaking, covered in every inch by jasmine in full bloom. We could smell it before we even turned the corner to spot it. It was like a fairytale unfolding before us.

I had *just* finished watching The Tree of Life a few days before their session. Even if I didn't fully understand the movie, I was completely inspired by the memory-like progression of the film...those little snippets flashing on screen making even the smallest moments seem significant. It greatly influenced my approach to their session and the ones I've had since. I need to watch it again.

And then, as if we needed icing on this cake, we stopped by this wildflower field on our way home for some signature Pinkle Toes Texas wildflower images ;-). Seriously, it was if we could do no wrong this afternoon.

I'm so happy we got to do this session before baby #2 arrives and I'm very much looking forward to see how baby girl up here embraces her new role as Big Sister!

On this day, we were fortunate that...

1. we were even able to find a parking space

2. we had live music to accompany our session (see #1)

3. the light was perfect

4. the wind didn't carry us away and

5. her mommy was there to help with the bubbles

6. this girlie can do cool tricks

7. we could celebrate her senior year with a fantastic photo session!

I adore the fact that she brought along some of her record collection for her senior portraits. I adore the fact that she even *has* a record collection...and some great tunes, too! And goodness, she is a lovely girl! Just radiant and confident!