Welcome Calum

Eight days ago, Jennifer and Grady welcomed their son, Calum, into the world. At 6 pounds, 13 ounces, he was a little guy, but perfect and healthy and absolutely beautiful. This morning my entourage (Trevor and Wally) and I met the new family at their house for some newborn photos. Sadly, it was the darkest day of the summer, which presents a challenge to an exclusively natural-light photographer, but we cranked up the heat (and the ISO) and caught the following images.

When I met Calum (a traditional Scottish name, I'm told), I was struck by how perfectly round his little head is and how delicate his sweet features are. This is one good-looking boy. Mum and Dad said this was the most alert Calum has been during his first week.

Teeny feet. This was Calum's first time in his crib.

See how pretty? (I'm sorry, but he IS! And I don't think it's a bad thing at all for a boy to be pretty.)

Kissable lips.

Love the prayer feet here and his hands by his face.
Jennifer looks terrific eight days after giving birth. Her profile is breathtaking.

Mum and babe again. I couldn't resist.

Proud Daddy and son. Grady's smile is infectious and I couldn't believe how well Calum was able to focus on me.

Happy, happy family.
And a bonus shot. Lots of grain, but worth it to capture Mickey's kiss.

Jennifer and Grady, your joy is so obvious. Thank you for allowing me to photograph you during this time and share in your happiness. Working with you brightened my week! I hope you see some photos to love.

Another growing family

I'll give you one try to guess this little girl's name.

I met adorable Lily and her family on Wednesday, eight days after she was born. This little one wasn't the sleepy newborn that is so common. She was wide-eyed and watching EVERYTHING for almost our whole session. We finally did catch the above image of her sleeping, and the one below. Love those open lips!

While mama (Amy) nursed and swaddled and shushed and jiggled (Happiest Baby on the Block eat your heart out!), I got to sit outside and watch big brother, Henry, ride his dirt bike. Can you believe this kiddo is only three?

Lily was six pounds five ounces when she was born, but she is one STRONG baby. See her hold her head up off of mama's shoulder to look out her favorite window? Amazing! She already has a look of wonder.

This could be my new favorite mom and babe shot. I love the expression on both of their faces, and Amy's eyes -- oh!

Of course we had to try for some family shots, but you know Henry would rather be riding his dirt bike or pointing out countries on his world map or eating mango or...ANYTHING else. I still like this one. Dad (Doug) has a great smile.
Since Henry was more interested in other things, we let father and daughter have some time together.

And then we brought Mama in. I knew this would be a favorite as soon as the shutter clicked.

Just as we were about to wrap things up (Lily was finished), Henry decided that his little sister WAS interesting and we got this shot -- my new favorite sibling photo. Great work, Henry!

Amy and Doug, thanks so much for letting me help you document this transitional time in your family. Lily is beautiful, Henry is hilarious ("shred it!"), and you both are wonderful parents. Congratulations!