newborn photographer – Kansas City Photography

He Puked On Me! Baby Oliver’s Newborn Session

September 12, 2018September 12, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

Oliver, unlike his big sister Genevieve, was all smiles for me during his newborn session!

I did manage to get one good grump face out of him, so here’s a side-by-side of Oliver at the same age as Genevieve!

And, with newborn sessions, there is usually some type of bodily fluid. I’ve been pooped on. And peed on. Oliver was no exception when he decided to upchuck on Aunt Christine.

Happy parents, Jenn and James, are avid sports fans. They love the Dallas Cowboys. This is something Jenn’s Dad passed onto them, because neither of them are actually from Texas.

And, of course, there will always be some sort of homage to Mizzou in Jenn’s photos. We can actually thank the University for us even meeting. And we were roommates for several years and still love each other. That’s saying something!

So, we’ve covered the NFL and college sporting teams, what do you think is missing, St. Louis?

It wouldn’t be a completely sporty newborn session without some Cardinals love. Having lived in Kansas City for years, I am personally partial to the Royals, but don’t tell anyone here that! :O

Oliver also has the cutest birth / beauty mark right on his eyebrow!

Tell me that isn’t adorable! We probably won’t be able to see it once his eyebrows grow in darker, so I wanted to make sure to get a picture of it!

Oliver is such a little stud. Thank you, Jenn & James, for letting me play with him for an hour! We had some drinks while you were away! 😉

Want to book your own adorable newborn session? Contact us!

‘This Is The Last One, We Swear!’ A Shackelford Newborn Session!

August 12, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

Everyone, step back, because you aren’t going to believe this. But we got Cameron to smile.

Hold your applause, though, because we also got a few to add onto his grump gallery. Here is what I have been used to seeing over the years, with the most recent one at the end!

Now, this cross-armed pose is something we all look forward to! Hahaha!

I met with the Shackelford family last weekend to meet their newest bundle of joy, Devin. I hadn’t seen them since their pregnancy announcement in January!

Devin was born July 18, 2018. Weighing in at 7 lbs., 14 oz., he is the eighth grandchild for the family!

It seems like just yesterday I was taking his brother, Holden’s, newborn photos!

But he’s a BIG brother, now!!!

I think the second photo sums up just about he feels about that. 😉

But, we did get some good shots of Holden, too!

Ayden is a veteran at this point. She is the big sister to THREE little brothers. Oh, boy!!!

I mean, not even during this meltdown did she lose her cool:

It was too funny not to share … and I know Jordon loves it when I include shots like that above. 😀

And, not only that, Ayden is a dog mommy, too! Meet Annabelle and Princess!

Nanny Della always wanted a granddaughter named Annabelle, but other than Ayden, all the grandkids are boys … so she got a grandpuppy named Annabelle instead! I thought this was too hilarious not to include!

Every time I see Ayden, she has gotten taller! These two photos were taken only ONE year apart!

Ok, Jordon & Ethan, make sure to tell Devin he isn’t allowed to grow up as quickly as the rest of them! My heart can’t take it!

See you all again soon!

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Sass And Sassafrass: A Newborn & Toddler Photoshoot!

July 9, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

Tessa was full of sass, but she couldn’t stop me from catching some of her sneaky smiles! But let’s start with the sass, and this shot, which may actually be my favorite from the entire shoot:

At this point in the shoot, Tessa was walking away from us, and kept looking back to make sure we weren’t following her.

But let’s start from the beginning.

I was able to meet up with our friends Katie & Johnny last week, who just so happened to welcome a new little one into their family. Of course, a photoshoot was in order!

World, meet Cecilia!

She has the tiniest little toes and fingers. Big sister Gwen couldn’t get enough!

It’s Tessa’s first time into the world of being a “big sister,” but she was rocking it! She kept making sure her baby sister was comfortable, and giving her lots of kisses!

Big, big sister Gwen is already a pro in the world of big sisterdom.

And both she and Tessa are getting so big! Just look at this comparison shot from last year:

And if this next set of shots doesn’t convince you how important it is to take family photos every year, I don’t know what will.

The one on the top is from only last year. The one on the bottom was just taken last week — just one year apart!

And now, there’s a NEW baby in the house!

Tessa has gotten so big!! She wasn’t quite in the mood to smile and pose, so we had to get a little creative. We’d let Gwen take a solo shot, and then ask Tessa if she wanted to take a photo just like big sister.

It worked … sometimes.

Thankfully, Cecilia isn’t old enough to do anything but let me pose her. 😉

Sometimes it’s the small victories.

Although, she’s already workin’ on her sassy face for me. Maybe next year she’ll have it perfected!

Thanks for letting me capture your troop, Katie & Johnny!

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Our Top 3 Tips For A Successful Newborn Photoshoot

April 6, 2018April 6, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in "How To" / Tips & Tricks!, Photoshoots

Everyone loves babies! Seriously. Who doesn’t? But these newborn wiggle worms don’t make it easy to get cute, snuggly photos of them! Here are our top 3 tips for a successful newborn photoshoot!

1. Make sure the house is WARM.

We usually recommend turning the heat on and having the house set around 78. No matter the season! If the adults aren’t sweating a little, it isn’t warm enough! Keep in mind, these new little snuggle bugs get cold easily. And if they’re cold, they’re going to cry. It needs to be comfortable enough in the house that the baby can have no clothes on and feel warm.

2. Feed Baby 30 Min. Before The Shoot

A hungry baby is a crabby baby. And we want your little nugget of love to be happy and smiling during the photoshoot! Feeding your snuggle bug 30 minutes before the shoot ensure they won’t be hungry come closeup time! It also gives some time for any stomach rumblies or spit up to happen. Now, not that we still won’t get pooped on from time to time … but at least the babies are happy!

3. Schedule Within The First Two Weeks

Babies grow — FAST!! We’ve found they really retain that new “baby” look within the first two weeks after birth. After that, they really start changing into their own little person very rapidly. The “baby” cheeks go away so quickly, it’s actually kind of heartbreaking! If you want true “newborn” photos, we need to take them when they actually are newly born!

We hope these helpful tips will make your newborn photoshoot a success!

~*~

Are you currently expecting, or have you already given birth to your bundle of joy? We’d love to help you capture these first couple weeks with a newborn session! Contact us to set a date and time (don’t forget — we are in both KC & St. Louis)!

Christine’s 7 Most Romantic Photoshoots of 2017!

January 17, 2018January 17, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

2017 was full of amazing photoshoots! From anime conventions to a haunted winery — we had a lot of fun!

But I really wanted to “focus in” (get it? Hahaha) on some of my most romantic photoshoots from 2017. Because why not start off the new year with a little bit of love?

This isn’t a favorites list, just some fond and romantic memories from 2017!

1. Bret & Hannah

I’ve known Bret since college, and was tickled when he filled me in on his secret proposal plan for his then-girlfriend, Hannah!

As far as romance goes — it’s hard to beat a surprise proposal!

Bret’s grand plan was to drive Hannah out to the wineries for their anniversary, so she thought he was being sweet and celebrating that. She didn’t realize he was going to pull out a ring! Now, a tornado watch was also in effect on the day of the proposal, because Mother Nature does what she wants.

Bret & I had a “secret spy mission” going so we could talk about the proposal in secret. You can read more about this fun shoot, here.

2. Lindsey & Dan

Lindsey and Dan made the list because they are so in love, they booked two engagement shoots! Dan loves hockey, so the first shoot was done at an ice rink. Look closely at the scoreboard – that’s actually their wedding date!

The second shoot was a more country setting, which was Lindsey’s dream! Plus, she had 7 outfits all planned out, with what shots she wanted in each outfit. She is the most prepared bride ever!

3. Genevieve, Theodore, Elena, & Jaxton!

And love leads to babies!!!

Let’s start with Jenn and James. They were so tickled to welcome their baby girl, Genevieve, into the world in 2017. She is their first, and very loved by all their friends and family!

But 2017 also welcomed other baby cuties that Christine was tickled pink about! Three of Christine’s very best friends all had them within months of each other!!

Mr. TJ (Amanda & Jordan) and Miss Elena (Steve & Alyssa) need to be highlighted, too! Elena actually POOPED on me during her shoot.

Plus, Christine’s little nephew was born this year. His name is Jaxton! SO MANY CUTE SNUGGLES WERE HAD!!!

TJ also gave everyone quite a scare. Amanda went into labor early.

He was in the NICU after birth, but he’s a tough lil’ guy!! Plus, his guard dog, Truman, is always at the ready! 😉

4. Emily & Stephen

Romance in the windy city! Emily is another one of my dear college friends. We worked together at the state Capitol and graduated from Mizzou together! I try to make it to Chicago at least once a year to visit — and after Stephen’s proposal … it was a must to make it out there ASAP!

With the romantic backdrop of Chicago against the water, it was a breathtaking photoshoot to celebrate their love!

5. Katherine & Josh

These two lovebirds just couldn’t stop kissing each other! I mean, of course it was their wedding day, but even during their engagement session, they kept sneaking little kisses! It was so adorable. A peck on the end of her nose, a kiss ever so gently on his cheek. It just made me squeak from the romance of it all!

Plus, Josh loves kissing Kathy’s hand!

6. Oye Engagement

I really wanted to highlight this adorable engagement shoot because these two lovebirds are in a long distance relationship, but they still made it work!

Months ago, Oye asked Sayo hypothetically, “If I happened to ask you to marry me, what would be your answer?”

Sayo gets so many bonus point for her answer: “You have to ask to find out!”

The happy couple is getting married back on the East coast in South New Jersey at Lucien’s Manor this October.

7. Jeremy & Amanda

This was definitely one of the most romantic settings this year – a gorgeous wedding at a country club.

Amanda & Jeremy had the entire property to themselves. It was spacious, and beautiful, both the land on the outside and the property on the inside! Bright grass, tall trees, a white picket fence surrounding the roadway, plus a deck to stand on.

We hope you had some romantic moments in 2017, and many more in 2018! After all, love makes the world go ’round!

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Tatiana’s Top 5 Most Memorable Photoshoots of 2017!

January 11, 2018January 11, 2018 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

Happy New Year! Tatiana here to reflect on 2017, my first year with Kansas City Photography!

Man, this year has had so many wonderful memories and I’ve had the privilege of working with so many amazing people! This in by no means is a “favorites” list, just a list of bizarre or unique things that occurred during these shoots, in no particular order.

Although none of my shoots are without their surprises! Like how a drain randomly started spraying water on Halee during her senior photo session.

But let’s start off the list with an intentional surprise:

1. A Surprise Proposal

Tony had reached out to us after discovering our blog to construct a surprise proposal for his now fiance, Katie. Yup, she obvs said yes! We chose Unity Village for their location as it’s in our top 10 locations in Kansas City.

This was my first surprise proposal shoot so I channeled my inner ninja for maximum impact.

And what an impact it was! Katie was so shocked that as I was right in her face with the camera, she still had no idea what was going on. “Oh my Gawd” was the main phrase of the evening. Hey, Tony! If you’re reading this, I know a fabulous wedding photographer. 😉

2. A Severe Weather Evacuation

Sweet Natalie was thrilled to show off her technique and dancing skills for me at Unity Village.

I seriously can’t believe how talented she is! I’m sure she’s truly a force to be reckoned with now since a few months have passed and she has practiced even more! Another powerful force was awakening in the clouds during this shoot, and for the first time ever, the intercom boomed through the gardens, asking us to evacuate due to severe weather!

Luckily we were able to get some stellar shots before the rain came pouring down.

3. A Photoshoot On The Go

Jaclyn and Jam’s engagement shoot was set to take place in Burr Oaks Conservation Center, but when we arrived it was CLOSED due to an organized hunt. Improvising, we went to a park nearby which was halfway closed due to a construction project.

We were able to get some heartwarming shots but I knew we needed MORE! So, we packed up and went to our third location: Bass Pro Lake!

As the old cliche goes, the third time’s the charm! Although we weren’t planning on our nomadic adventure, the new and final location was so worth it!

4. On Location in Denver, Colorado

Traveling to Denver and working in a new state was full of fond memories! I was able to take advantage of new locations and scenary such as the Adam’s County Fairgrounds where I was able to capture Ashlee and Craig with this romantic sunset backdrop.

I also represented the company at NDK, where we implemented “on location” cosplay photography specials. This was such a treat for me because cosplay is a huge passion of mine and I was able to connect with so many talented ladies! Here’s one of those ladies, Bad Emu Cosplay in her Nausicaa cosplay at the Capitol building.

Another cosplayer who booked us was Belle Mich Cosplay, who cosplayed from everyone’s favorite anime: Sailor Moon!

I’m itching to go back there in April and take advantage of all the new locations I discovered in downtown Denver, including the Civic’s Center Park with these stunning pillars! If you’re in the area, let me know and we can set something up! <3

5. The Longest Shoot of the Year

Well, of course it’s a wedding! Aftin and Anthony booked us for the largest wedding package we offer, and I had the privilege of capturing every intimate and extravagant moment with them for over nine hours!

This gorgeous couple wanted to celebrate every moment of their magical day, so it was my job to capture every first glace to each step down the aisle!

From the teary eyed first look (I’m not crying, YOU’RE crying!)

to each stolen kiss in between family photos, I was on it! It was the longest shoot of the year, and it was so genuine and mystical every step of the way! Congratulations again, Aftin and Anthony! <3

Here are my “Honorable Mentions” I just couldn’t leave out:

My little baby nephew Xavier came into this world July 3rd, 2017- which happens to also be my anniversary with Eric! <3 I need to get this precious squish ball behind the lens again!

My very first shoot with Kansas City Photography this year was a truly emotional one. I was able to capture my best friend, Ashley, and her fiance Skyelar for their engagement photos! Of course, Christine is going to be handling the photography at their wedding since I’m the maid of honor. She actually surprise proposed to ME at her engagement shoot! (Photo taken by the talented Dawn!)

Love you both, and I can’t wait to take some updated pictures in April. <3

That wraps up my list for 2017! I can’t wait to see what this new year has in store.

8 lbs., 6 oz. Of Cuteness! A Police Officer’s First Baby Boy!

July 13, 2017July 13, 2017 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

World, welcome Xavier! Proud Aunt Tatiana here to show off my brand spankin’ new nephew’s newborn photos I shot yesterday!

This big ol’ hunk a chunk’s papa, Estevan, is a police officer with the KCPD.

These need to go in his patrol vehicle!

Xavier was kind enough to crack one smile the entire shoot. He’s probably dreaming of his Dad and Uncle Frankie catching the bad guys (since Frankie is also a proud member of law enforcement)!

He is the first Duque boy of the next generation, so he is the talk of the town!

Born on July 3rd, weighing in at 8lbs, 6oz and a whopping 19.6 inches, he is literally a BIG deal!

His birthday has special meaning to the family, as his late great-grandfather’s birthday was July 4th. His mother, Jessica, explained his name also pays homage to his abuelo (grandfather) and bisabuelo (great-grandfather) who were both named Javier. Mom and Dad added the “X” for a unique flair!

Can we just talk about his face for a second? Just like his father! I’m allowed to say that since I am family, too!

Xavier is the third of the Vargas-Duque bunch. Nya is the eldest, and used-to-be-the-baby-of-the-family Mila, is now the newfound middle child. Mila was feeling a bit blue to not be the center of attention at the shoot, so she started coloring herself blue with chalk! She’s still cute!

As you’ll know by now reading our other newborn blogs, there’s a lot that can happen at a newborn shoot! Babies run on their own time, and always keep you guessing on what they will do next. Or, sometimes they poop on you. It happens.

Speaking of — Xavier needed a little time to poop out the modeling jitters, so as I was waiting for the next dress change, the girls decided to have fun with the frames I brought along!

I didn’t pose them or tell them what to do! Sometimes, letting kids just do their thing makes for the most precious photos! I can’t believe how grown Nya looks in these – STOP!

Okay, she’s still the lovable goofball I watched My Little Pony with years ago.

Mila was really eager to be in the spotlight! That smile melts my heart!

Okay, so back to what we came to see. Baby Xavier is truly a work of art! Wanna know how I captured that shot above? Take a look at our Facebook page! It involved a ladder …

It’s so incredible to have seen the journey of bringing Xavier into this world and seeing the joy he brings to his parents. Welcome, Xavier, to the Duque family! Your big sisters are going to take care of you!

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The Cutest Little Muggle We’ve Ever Seen!

June 16, 2017June 16, 2017 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

“Yer a wizard, Jaxton!”

Well, that’s what I wish the shirt said, but hey, “Snuggle this Muggle,” is equally as adorable!

I met up with Ally, Aaron, and Mr. Jax on Monday at their home in St. Louis (Kansas City Photography is in both KC & St. L!). I had been chompin’ at the bit to meet this little dude since the happy couple’s maternity shoot a couple months ago!

For newborn shoots, I usually recommend the parents home — the main goal here is to get the baby comfortable, and that’s usually best done in their own house! I also recommend setting the temperature to around 77-degrees. We will be sweatin’, but the baby is going to be super happy!

Plus, he’s a trained firefighter, so if it got too hot, we’d be OK!

Jax is a baby man of many talents, though. He is also training under the man in black himself — nana nana nana nana nana — Batman!

The proof? Just look at these socks. Given to him by the Bat King himself:

Need more babies in your life? Here are some more amazingly cute recent newborn shoots we’ve done:

A Little Tiger Is Born! A Mizzou Family’s Newborn Shoot

Mia’s ‘Royal’ Newborn Shoot!

I Got Pooped On! Elena’s Adorable Newborn Shoot!

From NICU To A Photoshoot: Teddy’s Newborn Shoot!

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A Little Tiger Is Born! A Mizzou Family’s Newborn Shoot

June 12, 2017 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

The world welcomed baby Genevieve into the world on Friday, May 19. Her mother, Jennifer, was in labor for 30 hours. Read that again.

30 hours!

But Miss Genevieve was well worth the wait and the pain — just look at this cutie:

We learned Genevieve’s middle name is Rose during Jennifer & James’ maternity shoot earlier this year.

The name Genevieve comes from Jennifer’s maternal grandmother, who she is also named after! Rose is Jenn’s mama’s maiden name.

I always find it so touching when family members are honored in the naming process.

Jennifer graduated from the No. 1 journalism school in the nation — The University of Missouri — fondly called Mizzou. I’m totally biased here, because I also graduated from the good ol’ black and gold!

Both of Genevieve’s parents are huge Mizzou fans — so of course we had to incorporate that into some of the photos!

Genevieve was nice and warm for the shoot. I always ask parents to turn up the heat / make sure it’s warm in the house for newborn photos. We may be sweating, but the baby is going to be so happy!

I also didn’t get pooped on during this shoot, so that’s a huge plus! Thank you, Genevieve!

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Mia’s ‘Royal’ Newborn Shoot!

May 23, 2017 by Kcityphotography, posted in Photoshoots

Brittney messaged me back in April telling me her sister, Stanze, was having her first baby. Originally, Brittney was hoping we could be there for delivery room pictures, but as we all know, babies work on their own schedules!

Mia was due May 16, but she came a day early, on May 15 — at 11:41 a.m.!

In the end, the doctor requested a photographer not be in the room since Miss Mia wasn’t wanting to cooperate. Thankfully, she was more than cooperative for her newborn shoot we re-scheduled instead!

Mia was a big fan of this blanket. She peed on it a couple of times — and she christened Mom, too! But hey, at least she didn’t get pooped on!

One tip I always give before the newborn shoot is to make sure the house is warm. Like, the adults should be sweatin’ a little. That way, the baby is nice and content and doesn’t get cold from all the outfit changes / naked shots.

And since Stanze’s mom was there — we had her hop in a photo, too! Grandma to the rescue!

There were quite a few people there to welcome Mia, and also to help us hold up the backdrop, which is always appreciated.

She kept wanting to hold onto her mama’s necklace, which was too cute not to capture.

Being in Kansas City, Stanze is a Royals fan — and she’s going to make sure Mia is, too! Even here, Mia has her eye on the crown. Just like the Royals did in 2015.

I have a feeling Mia is going to know what it feels like to be royal, though. She is already such a beautiful princess! Plus, look at that crown she has right over her crib!

She was nice and comfy cozy for most of the shoot, which means she was more than happy to snooze away while getting her close-ups taken. We did, however, get a glance at those beautiful eyes —

We loved working with this family — let’s do it again for her 6 month photos! 😉

Need more babies in your life? Check out some of our other adorable newborn shoots:

I Got Pooped On! Elena’s Adorable Newborn Shoot

From NICU To A Photoshoot: Teddy’s Newborn Shoot!

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