I’m loving these sibling portraits ::

Asleep in heavenly peace.

Soft, gentle, and so, so sweet.

One of the family’s favorite things to do together is make music — dad is an amazing guitarist, so it was really special to him to have this portrait. And the blanket is was made just for Trey — it was warm and thick and incredibly soft!

I never tire of seeing how much mommas love on their little ones.

And even better when dad gets in on it, too! A timeless family portrait, in my book. This is how I’d want to remember the early days….

Such a happy, sleepy peanut.

Thanks, Trey and family, for asking me to capture these early days as a family for you!

This little guy was just seven days old when I photographed him :: beginning to be aware of his surroundings, familiar voices and his momma’s presence near to him. We photographed him at their home, their two beautiful dogs watching my every move to ensure I didn’t make a false step toward their prized new possession.

I love black and white newborn portraits, and they had some lovely ones of their older daughter hanging in their home already, so it was a delight to create these to add to their wall collections, of their newest addition ::

These are the things we mommas tend to forget as our babies grow up. The quickening pace of their breath on your neck as they lean in close. The smell of their freshly-washed hair. The way they pull up their legs in close. These are the reasons we photograph the early days. To never forget their innocence. Our wonder at the miracle and joy for their new life.

He was so content with his momma :: secure, loving, comfortable.

A moment in his life to always remember.

Well, words just aren’t good enough. More pictures, please.

Her momma had this beautiful pink headband and I just. couldn’t. resist!

Sweet baby yawns.

I love this one of mom and her newest addition.

After our lil’ peanut had enough camera time, I ventured outside where her lovely siblings were playing to create some fun, totally in-the-moment portraits of them too. How cute are they?!

The family’s oldest child is so proud of her new sister, and is pretty adorable herself.

A sweet and slightly shy next-to-oldest brother.

And the delightful little mister…whose favorite word was “no.”

Thanks, K family–it was such a delight to meet your new bundle of joy! Can’t wait to see you again soon!

And this time, when he set off for Iraq, he not only kissed his wife goodbye, but their five week old son as well. He’ll soon be joined by his wife, when she too deploys in the coming weeks :: but it’s the tiniest of hands and hearts who will be left behind.

This little sweetheart was all smiles…

Dad had lots of wonderful, quiet moments with his son during the session. Their bond, unwavering.

I love how he responded to Mom’s sweet and gentle voice.

We ventured out for a few outdoor portraits, too, where we wore the little guy out! Such soft, buttery light…

This is, hands down, one of my favorite images of the year. There is nothing better than capturing love as it happens like this. It’s going to be a breathtaking portrait in their home!

Karnes family :: thank you for trusting me to capture this moment in your family’s life together.