Memphis Milestones: Capturing Your Baby’s First Years in Photos

Hello, Memphis! As a mother of 4, and a grandmother of 9, I'm here to chat about something near and dear to my heart—and if you're a parent, likely yours too: capturing every wonderful wrinkle and adorable moment of your baby’s first years. As a seasoned photographer with a love for little ones and their milestone moments, I've had the honor of documenting these early days for countless families. Here’s why and how you should consider doing the same.

The Swift Passage of Time

It's said all too often because it's painfully true—babies don’t keep. One day they're in your arms and the next, they're toddling around like pint-sized tornadoes and then the next thing you know they are starting school. This fleeting nature of infancy is why capturing milestones in your child’s first years is so vital. It's about freezing time, just for a moment, to hold onto their babyhood a little longer.

Why Focus on Milestones?

In the whirlwind of the first years—from sleepless nights to first smiles—every moment feels significant, and yet, it all blurs together. Here’s why focusing on milestones with professional photos can be so impactful:

1. Remember the Milestones: Whether it’s the first smile, the first time sitting up, crawling, or walking, each milestone is a testament to your baby's rapid growth and the unique journey of your family.

2. Share with Loved Ones: In our wonderful Memphis community, family and friends often feel like an extension of our own hearts. Sharing these milestone photos helps bridge distances and deepen connections, making your village feel a part of your child's growth.

3. Celebrate Achievements: Each developmental milestone is an achievement, not just for your baby but for you as parents. Celebrating these can boost your spirit and offer encouragement through the more challenging phases of parenting.

Planning the Milestone Photo Sessions

Capturing the essence of each stage requires a bit more than just a good camera. It needs a good plan. Here's how I approach these milestone sessions:

• Timing is Everything: We aim for specific developmental milestones: newborn, three months (hello, first smiles!), six months (sitting pretty), nine months (crawling champs), and twelve months (the big one!) and then the years that follow.

• Keep it Simple: Simple backgrounds and minimal props ensure that the focus remains on your baby’s features and expressions.

• Outfit Choices: Outfits that are comfortable and complement your baby's current stage can enhance the photos without overshadowing their natural charm.

The Art of Storytelling Through Photos

As a photographer who has seen nearly every iteration of baby antics, my goal is to tell your story through these photos. Each session is tailored to capture the unique personality and milestones of your baby, creating a narrative that feels as intimate and individual as your own family's story.

Why Memphis Parents Choose Kerry Annette Photography

At Kerry Annette Photography, our commitment to capturing your baby’s first years with authenticity and patience is why so many Memphis parents trust us with these precious moments.

As we wrap up, remember that the first years might fly by, but the memories we capture will endure, allowing you to relive those fleeting moments time and again. Whether it's the serene sleep of a newborn or the jubilant jumble of a first birthday or kindergarten graduation, these photos will be your time capsules, treasured for generations.

Looking to preserve your baby's first years with timeless photography? Let’s chat about how we can make these milestones unforgettable!

Why Memphis and Mid-South Parents Love Cake Smash Photography

Hello, friends! As a seasoned photographer with a deep-seated love for capturing life's fleeting moments, there’s nothing quite like the sheer joy and utter chaos of a cake smash session. Today, I’m here to share with you why cake smash photography has become a beloved tradition among Memphis and Mid-South parents, and why it might just be the perfect celebration for your little one’s milestone.

The Joyous Mess

Imagine this: A beautiful cake, artfully decorated and just waiting to be demolished. Now, picture a one-year-old with eyes as wide as saucers, given free reign to dive into that cake with hands, feet, and face. It’s not just a mess; it’s an adorable scene of independence and delight. As a photographer and a lover of all things baby, capturing these moments is so much fun. I let the baby take their time and together we get to watch him/her discover the yummy goodness of CAKE!

Let them get messy :)

This baby girl had no issues with diving right in! Her smash-cake photography session with Kerry Annette Photography was so much fun! She bathed herself in pink frosting and I captured every second of it!

Why Memphis and Mid-South Parents Adore This Tradition

Memphis, with its warm, family-oriented community, embraces the playful and heartfelt nature of cake smash photography. Here are a few reasons why local parents can't get enough of it:

1. It’s a Celebration of Milestones: The first birthday is a significant milestone not just for the baby but for the parents too. It’s a celebration the baby and the parents first year together as a family! What better way to mark this occasion than with a fun event that tells your child, "Life is delicious—and messy!"

2. Memorable Moments: In our digital age, where every moment seems fleeting, Memphis parents cherish having tangible memories. Photos from a cake smash session are vibrant, colorful, and full of life. They capture the essence of childhood—unrestrained joy and innocence.

3. Incredibly Customizable: Whether it’s a cake that nods to a nursery rhyme, color theme or a backdrop that echoes Memphis’ bluesy backdrop, each session is as unique as the little one celebrating their day. Parents love the opportunity to tailor the session, making it a truly personal experience.

4. The Pictures Are Priceless: There’s something inherently hilarious and heartwarming about a baby covered in cake. These photos often become the highlights of birthday parties and the talk of family gatherings, and let's not forget their rightful place in the graduation slideshow!

Setting the Scene for the Perfect Cake Smash

As a photographer who has orchestrated more cake smashes than I can count, here are my insider tips to make your session a hit:

• Choose the Right Cake: Soft, creamy cakes work best for smashing. Avoid fondant-covered cakes, as they can be tough for little hands to break apart.

• Keep It Safe and Sweet: Ensure the cake is baby-friendly. It should have less sugar, soft icing, and non-toxic decorations that are large enough not to be a choking hazard.

• Outfit and Theme: From classic to contemporary, the theme you choose can reflect your family’s style or your baby’s personality. Whether it’s vibrant and lively or soft and pastel, make sure it’s something that will make you smile for years to come.

• The Smash Plan: Some babies dive right in, while others need a little encouragement. A familiar toy or a practice session with a cupcake at home can help make the actual event go smoothly.

Let them eat cake!

During a smash cake session, some babies don’t know how to react when we set them in front of their cake. It is a good idea to give them a little sample before the session.

Capturing Every Giggle and Grin

My goal during these sessions isn’t just to take pictures; it’s to capture a story—the story of your family, your love, and your baby’s first big adventure with food. It’s about the giggles, the tentative first tastes, and the frosting-coated fingers. It’s about creating joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

So, why do Memphis and Mid-South parents love cake smash photography? Because it’s more than just photos. It’s a rite of passage, a celebration of growth, and a delightful affirmation of life’s sweetest moments. If you’re considering a cake smash for your little one, remember: it’s not about the perfect shot, but the perfect moment. And trust me, there’s nothing more perfect than a baby with a cake.

Until next time, keep those cameras snapping and those babies laughing!

Capture Every Moment!

Capturing these fun moments is what a cake smash session is all about!

Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Family in Memphis, TN

Hello, Memphis families! As someone who’s spent decades behind the lens capturing the tender moments of childhood and the unbreakable bonds of family, I know a thing or two about what makes a photography session successful. Today, I want to share some pearls of wisdom on choosing the right photographer for your family. It's about trust, style, and that special something that makes your family’s personality shine through the photos.

Understanding the Importance of Family Photography

Before we dive into how to choose a photographer, let’s talk about why these photos matter. They're not just about documenting growth or change; they’re about capturing the essence of your family at this moment in time. These photos tell your story, they celebrate your heritage, and yes, they even show off those adorably quirky traits that make your family uniquely yours.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Photographer

Selecting the right photographer for your family can be a bit like matchmaking. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Style and Vision: Each photographer has a distinct style. Do you prefer candid, natural shots that capture the spontaneity of moments, or are you enamored with more structured, posed photographs? Look through portfolios to find a style that resonates with you.

2. Experience and Specialization: Not all photographers excel in all types of photography. Some have a knack for newborns, while others shine with family groups. Here in Memphis, where every family is diverse, finding someone who knows how to work with children and capture the warmth of family interactions is key.

3. Personality and Interaction: The photographer’s ability to connect with your family will significantly influence the session's success. You want someone who can make you laugh, put your children at ease, and bring out your best smiles.

4. Reviews and Testimonials: What better way to gauge a photographer's prowess than hearing from other Memphis families? Look for someone with glowing testimonials that highlight not just the quality of the photos, but also the photographer’s manner and professionalism.

5. Logistics: Consider the location, availability, and pricing. Memphis is blessed with beautiful photography spots, from the lush Overton Park to the historic charm of Beale Street. Choose a photographer who is flexible and willing to work around your family’s needs.

Why Kerry Annette Photography?

At Kerry Annette Photography, we pride ourselves on creating a relaxed environment where every family member can feel at ease. We believe in capturing photographs that are as natural and authentic as your family's love for each other. Our extensive experience with families across Memphis and West Memphis makes us uniquely attuned to the rhythms of your interactions and the candid moments that happen in between posed shots.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right family photographer is about finding a balance between artistic style, chemistry, and convenience. It's a choice that will impact how you remember these fleeting years, so it’s worth considering carefully.

As you embark on this journey to find the perfect Memphis photographer to tell your family’s story, remember: the best photos are the ones that bring out your family’s true spirit.

Looking to capture your family's heart and soul in a photo? Let’s connect and make those memories last a lifetime!

What to expect at your session

My first priority is making sure your newborn is comfortable and safe. The temperature in the studio is between 78 and 82 degrees so make sure to wear something light and cozy. I recommend waiting to feed your newborn until you are here in the studio so that he/she will be nice and full during the session. Most of the time a full baby is a sleepy baby. If you are nursing, you will have a private, discreet area so that you can feed your baby comfortably. Once the baby is calm and comfortable, my assistant and I will begin your session. Depending on your preferred session, sessions can last up to 3 hours. There is a sitting area for parents and refreshments are provided.

Viewing your Photos

The normal turnaround time is about 3 weeks; however, sometimes it is sooner. After that, we’ll schedule your appointment to come by the studio and view your images, then place your print order. If you need suggestions, we’ll help you choose the best way to display the finished images in your home.