A Birth Story- Baby Ryleigh

I do not think it is possible to put in to words how much I love shooting births.  I love the emotion of the day, the ups and downs, and of course, the moment when you get the big pay off and hold your baby for the first time.  

I will never forget the first time I held my baby boy... the moment is seared in my mind.  But I do wish I had some photos of that moment too.  That is what I find so rewarding about this work.  I KNOW how important this day is-- for me, it was the first day of me, the new me, the person I am now that I have someone else to care about.  It taught me what is important, focused me, and mellowed me out.  

The other part of this birth that was soooooo amazing, was Amber had the same doctor and delivered in the same room that I delivered my first born. It was almost eerie to be back there, almost exactly five years since I had my baby boy.  It was a 'full circle' moment, for sure. 

Amber was amazing.  She had a natural birth, but she was so calm and collected the nurses thought she had had an epidural.  They had already had a very long night before I arrived at 5:30AM, but she was so mellow, she was even able to take some naps between contractions. Way to go, Mama! I am in awe of you.  

Hopie's Home Birth Story (Part Two)

Thank you to everyone for your kind words regarding the photos (published earlier) of Hopie's Birth Story.  I've never really considered myself much of a photographer; I just like taking photos of my kids...but, obviously, photography and videography share a basic core knowledge about using light and sharing a narrative.  But, my medium of choice for birth story's is video, and, I think you will see why...

(Make sure the HD is on by clicking the "HD" in the bottom right hand corner.)

Hope's Home Birth Story (Part 1)

Dear "Hopie,"

It has been such a wonderful, amazing experience to watch your journey to motherhood.  When we first spoke over the phone about you taking on a part-time caregiver role for Jude and Harvey (in 2013 was it?  Harvey was just 4 months old), you apologized for not being able to start right at 8am that first day, because you were seeing a fertility specialist.  I have been praying for this day for you since that phone call, and here it is. 

When I told Jared I had finally found childcare, he asked what I knew about you, this stranger coming into our home, and I told him you had an inner light that shined bright and strong, and that was all I needed.  

My kids fell in love with you almost instantly, and your grace was a calming presence in our home.  Thank you for loving my children.  I say that knowing you now know, truly know, what it means to be apart from your baby for even just a few seconds, let alone a whole work day.  I always felt comforted knowing they were with you. And the testament to your love in grace is that my children still ask for mommy, daddy, and you when they are upset. 

I was so honored when you asked me to document your delivery, and when you look at these photos, I hope you will sometimes think about the smiles of the two little boys whose lives you shaped before you started you own family.  I am forever indebted to you. 

From one mother to another,

Lauren

Brene' + Taylor

This beautiful couple and their gorgeous wedding day have been on my mind lately since I recently met with Taylor's twin (and I mean tw-win), Jordan and his seriously adorable (and fellow Chi Omega) Kylie.  I am soooooo excited about this wedding!  Jared had a great time filming this one with our friend and college, photographer  Randy Coleman.  I mean, seriously, how attractive is this couple, right?  And so obviously in love.  Congrats Brene' and Taylor!  And thank you for having us as part of your wedding day. 

Jacy + Corbin

Santa came to the Keester house in full force.  We had a wonderful Christmas with love, joy, family, and a few trains/cars/trucks, etc.  I must admit feeling quite blessed when I looked around at my home filled with people I love and people who love my children.   And, if you have been to an event at our house before, you would know there will. be. toasts.... and crying.  I come from a long line of toast givers and share the joy of raising a glass to those I hold dear.  Anyway... as for the business...woah, can you say inquiry season?  So many inquiries, so little time.  Again, so blessed! Such a great problem for our little business. 

Ok! This is a fun group.  Seriously, we had such a good time laughing with Jacy and her family/friends.  This couple is full of joy and full of love.  I just feel honored to have been part of such a great wedding with such great people.  I hope you will enjoy.