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Rock Hill SC Cake Smash Photographer | Parker Turns One

baby's first year, Rock Hill South Carolina, Charlotte North Carolina, Cake smash

 

Photographing baby’s first year

What’s better than photographing a newborn? Having the honor of photographing her throughout her first year of life. Photographing baby’s first year is a wild ride watching them grow and learn, seeing those little personalities emerge. It’s such a cool experience for me and for mom and dad also. At no other time during life do we grow and change so much in such a short time. 

baby's first year, cake smash, fort mIll scInterview with Mom:

What has been your favorite part of your baby’s first year?

My favorite part has been the cuddles. She now shows affection and it’s the best.

Tell us about your baby girl, what’s her personality like so far? What’s she up to at this stage? 

Her personality is kind of all over the place. She’s such a calm kid but when she wants something she demands it right then and there.

How has motherhood changed you over baby’s first year ? 

Motherhood hasn’t changed me much. I still like to stay home and still like to go to bed early

In what ways do you think she is like you? And what about your partner?

Everything! The way she side eyes, demanding, she’s also laid back and silly.

What was the most useful baby product you loved?

Kangaroo pouch! When I need to get things done and all she wants is to be held I just put her on and do what I have to do

What was the least useful baby product you tried?

Socks! She will not keep them on…

Any advice for fellow moms or moms to be? What is the best advice you have received on your motherhood journey?

Don’t worry so much! Your baby develops in their own way. Only read the books so you know what to expect and take them with a grain of salt. Everyone has their own opinions on how children should grow just have yours.

How are you feeling about the little love stories journey over her first year? The one year baby plan portrait process? Anything I can do to change or improve the experience?

parker turns one, cake smash, tega cay sc, babys first yearLove it! Have for sure been the best experience. I look back and am so happy we did this!

Looking for a fun super hero themed cake smash idea for your baby’s first year? Check out this awesome super hero session for inspiration!

 

Ready to chat about your baby plan portrait series to capture your baby’s first year? Let’s connect click here

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Fort Mill SC Miracle Rainbow Baby Plus 3 Things You Should Know When Booking A Newborn Photographer

Charlotte Newborn Miracle Rainbow baby girl, Fort Mill SC, portrait

3 things you should know when booking a newborn photographer

  1. First does your photographer have safety training and lots of experience with newborns? Here is the hard truth newborns aren’t intuitively easy to pose. It may look effortless on Instagram but in real life new babies are like all people they have opinions about what you do to them. Some babies love being on their belly others don’t. The question really is does your photographer know enough about babies and their cues to tell the difference? Does he or she know what poses are not safe to do with out a composite? (fyi a composite is where a photographer makes a beautiful image from 2 or more images in post processing) This is the only way to create poses like the froggy or say one where you see an elephant holding a newborn. If your photographer is trying to do these things in one image with one hand run for the hills. That person is putting your child at risk of injury.
  2.  
  3. Second does your photographer have examples of a full newborn session? Not just a few amazing images online. You want to know exactly what to expect from this person for your new baby. Seriously it’s just like when you were looking for a wedding photographer you wanted to see a full wedding album not just the instagram highlight reel. Again if you want to have enough images of your new baby for a portrait album you need to know they can deliver enough beautiful portraits for your album. 
  4. And finally does your photographer sanitize and wash everything your baby touches between sessions? This one gets me fired up. I am a card carrying germaphobe. But especially since the pandemic started they need to be washing all the blankets not just the machine washable ones. We don’t want to be sharing germs and I’m not just talking about viruses in the news. Without a doubt if your photographer photographs babies without diapers on those blankets, backdrops and wraps need to be washed each and every time. because I’m here to tell you babies are messy and naked babies are extra messy, cute as those naked bums are 😉 Also, in case you are wondering if it doesn’t make it through the wash in my newborn studio I just toss it. Not only that, I even wash the little felt rainbows from this rainbow baby session! 

Rainbow Baby Interview With Her Momma:

  • I would love to hear about your pregnancy journey. Have you had any surprises along the way?
    This is my rainbow baby (it’s a girl) after a miscarriage in May 2020.
  • What do you like to imagine for your child’s future? Tell me all your dreams for baby.
    Happy, healthy, well-mannered, well-rounded, and all the photos of her we can handle!
  • What would you like your baby to know about YOU (their beautiful mama!)?
    How very much in love I am with her already. I have prayed for this child for many years.
  • Why are beautiful photos important for you and your family right now?
    Precious and irreplaceable memories in the years to come.

 

And because you are checking out this newborn blog, I thought you might also like a good birth story. All expecting moms like happy ending birth stories (or is that just me?) Anyhow check out Murphy’s story here. 

Ready to book your newborn portrait session? Give me a call 803-336-5125 or head over to the contact form

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Fort Mill SC Newborn Photographer | New Baby Wyatt

 

 

Tell us about the first moments with your new baby?

I don’t know how to describe it other than indescribable. I was so overwhelmed with love for him and love for my husband as I watched him become a father. It’s a surreal experience seeing the product of months of pregnancy and in that moment every expectation and hope you have is surpassed.

New Baby Wyatt, album page, newborn, Fort Mill SC, Charlotte NC New Baby Wyatt, album page, newborn, Fort Mill SC, Marvin NCAny surprises in labor and delivery? Anything you didn’t expect?

Well, I was induced at 37 weeks, spent 3 days in labor and it ended in an emergency C section so that was a surprise. Wyatt’s heart rate kept dropping and there was some concern, but luckily the cord was not wrapped and he was healthy.

What’s the best part of being a new mom?

Getting to love on your new baby

New Baby Wyatt, album page, newborn, Fort Mill SC, Rock Hill SCWhat’s the hardest part of life with a new baby?

Definitely the lack of sleep. Your whole world turns upside down in moments and you just have to find that new normal.

 

What surprises has this month brought you with your new babe?

Mainly how natural this whole parenting thing has come. You really don’t know what you are doing but somehow you just figure it out.

Waiting for your own new baby to arrive? Check out these Folio Boxes!

Thinking about what to order for your newborn session. This momma chose an album of course, but what if you aren’t into albums for your new baby? Check out this alternative folio boxes. My friend Tasha made a great post about them read it here.

I love folio box for parents who want multiple images but don’t want an album or a wall collage. These are also perfect for small spaces, perfect for a book shelf display, a coffee table display or for moms of multiples who need to keep portraits out of reach of wild toddlers 😉 Let me know what you think of these.

-alicia

 

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Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer | Unexpected Surprise

I would love to hear about your pregnancy journey. Have you had any surprises along the way?

 

Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, modern art portrait, black & white

Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Unexpected surprise, pregnancy portrait, color, red hair Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Unexpected surprise, pregnancy portrait, black & white


My partner and I were trying for about a year and in the midst of our infertility work up earlier this year, we discovered we were pregnant! It was truly the happiest moment and though pregnancy has (and will continue to have) it’s challenges, I am loving this journey and watching my body change. We are thrilled to meet our little girl and would love to document this experience!

What do you like to imagine for your child’s future? Tell me all your dreams for baby.


I want my daughter to live a life she’s passionate about, whatever that looks like for her. Her dad and I will be there to support her in every step of the way.

Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, classic & timeless portrait, color lace dress Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Unexpected surprise, pregnancy portrait, color lace dressWhat would you like your baby to know about YOU (their beautiful mama!)?

I want her to know just how truly wanted she is. I want her to know that her Dad and I managed to find our way to each other through one failed marriage and many other obstacles in life, and we cannot wait to be her parents and watch her grow.

Why are beautiful photos important for you and your family right now?


Simple answer: we are terrible at taking photos! We cherish all of our moments together but sadly always forget to document our experiences. I want us to have beautiful photos to document the memory of starting our own family.

Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Modern pregnancy portrait, black & White Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Modern pregnancy portrait, color red hair Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer, Modern pregnancy portrait, black & White

 

Thinking about modern maternity portraits to document your pregnancy journey? Not sure how to display them in your home? Check out this great article from my friend Nani’s blog here. She shares her wisdom on how to decorate with wall art in several different ways. Check it out and leave her a comment if you like it. 

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Fort Mill SC Child Photographer| Kids Joyful Holiday Photoshoot

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY KIDS PHOTOSHOOT NOW

 

ARE YOUR READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

I know these kids are ready, It’s time to update your kids photos with a kids holiday photoshoot here in Fort Mill, South Carolina. I’m offering limited kids holiday photo shoots December 8th, 9th or Saturday December 18th to celebrate your kids in a fun way. 

Grab your matching jammies or holiday best! And let’s create some magic this Holiday Season.

BRING IN YOUR GOOF BALLS, YOUR PARTY ANIMALS & YOUR SHY LITTLE ONES, ALL ARE WELCOME!

Now is the time to capture this stage before they grow anymore! only 3 dates available. Remember you’ve only got 18 summers with your kids before they grow up and leave the nest. 

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY KIDS PHOTOSHOOT HERE

Yes that’s me with my boys because I couldn’t resist jumping into the shoot with them. If you haven’t had an Insley Photoshoot before you and your kids are in for a real treat. We are all about capturing their true personalities and getting those great expressions for your walls. 

How do I do that you ask?

Simple I’m going to ask you all about them and use that information to connect with them at the studio. It’s going to be me and the kids against you. And I mean that in the best way but it’s all about fun. We make break some normal house rules like standing on the furniture or jumping inside but it’s all in the name of a good time. Because the best way to get your kids to smile is by capturing them having fun. Now don’t worry if you have a wild child or a naughty little one. Those are my favorite nuts to crack. And trust me my youngest is a tough nut when he wants to be. As a mom of two boys with 14 years photographing littles ones,  I’ve learned all the tricks to get the best expressions. Remember all are welcome. This isn’t a time to be serious, we can do that for a family shoot. This is a time for them to let loose and share with the world that child like JOY! Are you in?

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY KIDS PHOTOSHOOT HERE

 

Got questions give me a call or send me a text at 803-336-5125 Alicia

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Charlotte Newborn Photographer Little Love Stories: Kelly & Alyssa Dream Baby

Dream Baby, newborn girl, pink, Indian Land sc, Marvin NC, Pineville NC

Interview Before Her Dream Baby Arrived

Tell me your family story!

  • We were surprised to find out we were expecting but are patiently awaiting the arrival of our sweet princess. Earlier this year our three year old told us she met her sister in her dream but she wasn’t real yet. She would not be real until later. About two months later I found out I was pregnant with a little girl.

Describe your pregnancy journey. Have you had any surprises (good or bad)?

  • The pregnancy overall was a surprise but thankfully we are both healthy. COVID has definitely changed things a lot and no one knows I’m pregnant except my immediate family.

What do you like to imagine for your child’s future? 

  • I know this little girl is going to be a light in this world because she has already been such a light during this dark year.

What would you like your baby to know about YOU (their beautiful mama!)? 

  • How much I adore her, how I didn’t plan for her but she is anything but an accident.

Finish this sentence. Motherhood is … 

  • You are beautiful and stronger than you even know

Why are beautiful photos important for you and your family?

  • They are so important to capture these moments in time.

Interview After Alyssa arrived

Tell us about the first moments with your baby?

  • Our first moments with Alyssa were so precious. After she was born they had to take her to NICU to monitor her so initially we could only see her for a second but I was just amazed at how beautiful and little she was. I just kept saying she looks just like me.

Any surprises in labor and delivery? Anything you didn’t expect?

  • The entire experience was very dramatic. I fainted after my anesthesia, Alyssa had turned unexpectedly and labor was delayed and she didn’t cry immediately. I just kept praying let my baby be ok. For our last child, she definitely had a very dramatic entrance.

What’s the best part of being a new mom?

  • The best part of this birth was just meeting the little person that kicked me for nine months. Also learning what people meant by not realizing how much this new addition completed our family.

What’s the hardest part?

  • Making sure everyone feels important and loved.

What surprises has this month brought you?

  • Just so much joy and excitement to a year that carried a lot of uncertainty and hardships.

 

Can you imagine a sweeter story of a dream baby? Me either, Are you expecting? I’d love to help you capture your dream baby’s newborn stage. I’m now booking newborn love stories sessions during the last trimester of pregnancy. If you are expecting a baby now is the time to get in touch. Drop me your contact information below

 

 

Already thinking you’d like a newborn portrait session Check out my friend’s newborn portrait prep guide. It’s a short and sweet article that will help you feel more prepared for your session. Read her article here 

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Charlotte Baby Photographer Little Love Stories: Baby Kam is 2 months old

2 months old, mommy and me, baby boy, Charlotte, NC, Tega Cay, SC, Fort MIll, SC

Katie and Kameron Two Months Old

Congratulations Mom your baby is two months old. How are you feeling after this last month? Physically, emotionally or mentally. (remember there are no right or wrong answers)

  • We are starting to get the hang of his routine! Since he’s sleeping more we’re better rested physically. Now that we’re more confident as parents since we’ve learned his hunger/sleep/I want to play cues it’s easier to handle the ups and downs of the day.

What has been your favorite part of this month with baby?

  • How playful he’s getting and interacting with toys. He looks forward to tummy time and gets frustrated if we pick him up when he isn’t ready for it to be over.

What has been a struggle? Was it a surprise or expected?

  • His two month growth spurt was HORRIBLE. It was a surprise because out of nowhere our happy chill baby was gone. Nothing we did for three days could help console him. He spent a majority of the time swaddled, snuggled, sleeping or eating.

How has your relationship changed over the last few months?

  • Now that Kameron is older and able to go longer without naps and is sleeping better at night, we’re able to do things as a family or just the two of us a lot easier. When my husband gets off work it’s no longer “can you please hold the baby so I can shower/use the bathroom”. We also recognize the need for just the two of us date nights, so we decided we need to do something at least once a month baby-free.

What would you tell a brand new mom about the first months with baby?

  • Don’t be discouraged if something you figured out stops working. Babies change so much from week to week something they like/dislike one day could be the opposite the next. Also parental instincts are real. If you sense you should/shouldn’t do something follow your gut. You might be tempted to ask people but you’ll get 10 different opinions anyways 🙂

 

Curious about the little love stories series learn more here The little love stories series is a great way to celebrate your new baby and capture all those sweet moments during baby’s first year! We book little love stories session during the last trimester of pregnancy. If you are expecting a baby now is the time to get in touch. 

 

Expecting a baby read here on my friend Nani’s blog about Newborn Safety and what professional baby photographers want you to know Read Her Article Here

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A little magic to remind us to be thankful

a little magic to remind us to be thankful, Charlotte NC, Fort Mill, SC, Tega Cay, SC

I was introduced to this amazing girl by the Charlotte chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma society. Talia was the 2021 Charlotte Girl of the Year Honoree and honored hero! They shared this about her story

“In June of 2018, Talia had her tonsils removed in hopes of fixing frequent headaches and Sleep Apnea. Her doctor sent her tonsils out for a biopsy that soon revealed that she had T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. Now, when Talia isn’t doing treatment, she loves to read, play basketball, and spend time with her three younger siblings. We are so inspired by Talia’s bravery on this journey!”

 

a little magic will get her there, Charlotte NC, Fort Mill, SC, Tega Cay, SC
her future is bright, Fort Mill SC
basketball, charlotte player

Talia has an infectious smile. And man does she have plans for her future. She reads any chance she gets, she practices for her basketball career in the immediate future. Plus she’s already preparing for a future in medicine. This young woman is going places and taking names. Talia has a bright future and I can’t wait to see how she changes the world for the better. 

When I asked about her favorite things and she mentioned a few book series she loves. You know I had to create a fun portrait with a little magic 😉 Might be my favorite book series also. Wingardium Leviosa 

-alicia

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Charlotte NC Maternity Photographer | Intimate Couples Portraits: Artist Project Two

I turn forty in just over a week and I want to celebrate the love and compassion I’ve been shown as an artist with some fun artist projects. So these are a double win, I get to feed my creative side and you get a great piece of artwork for your home. 

Project Two: Intimate Couples Maternity Portraits

This is an idea I’ve been wanting to offer for a bit. Here is my vision. Black and white intimate couples portraits, think partner poses that leave no question how you got to this point. Think Hot and Emotional. Most importantly these will be tasteful.  I’ve created images with a similar feel before but always in color that didn’t translate to the black and white medium. 

Here is a Pinterest board I created as inspiration ideas

Check these out and see if this is something you and your partner would love

https://www.pinterest.com/ainsleyphotography/artist-project-inspiration/

Have you always wanted to have an intimate couples maternity portrait? Yes, let’s do this. Fill out the form below and I will give you a call to get started. Have questions, fill out the form and ask them, I’m happy to answer them all.

-thanks for sharing in my fun birthday project.

Alicia

 

as always if you know someone who this would be perfect for please share

 

Expecting a little one check out my friend Olivia’s tips for your newborn session here!

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Charlotte NC Fun Family Formal Portraits: Announcing 1st ever Artist Project

fun formal family portraits, finished portrait, wall artwork, fort mill, sc, Charlotte, NC, Tega Cay, SC, mom and daughters

I turn forty in just over a week and I want to celebrate the love and compassion I’ve been shown as an artist with some fun artist projects. So these are a double win, I get to feed my creative side and you get a great piece of artwork for your home. 

Project One: Fun Family

Formal Portraits

Ok this is one of those things I’ve always wanted to offer and never had the right models for the idea. I’m thinking Suits for the fellas, fancy dresses for the ladies, a simple, high end commercial feel for the lighting and final product. 

Have you always wanted to have that perfect fun family formal portrait for the den? Yes, let’s do this. Fill out the form below and I will give you a call to get started.

Here is a Pinterest board I created as inspiration ideas

Check these out and see if this is something you would love

https://www.pinterest.com/ainsleyphotography/artist-project-formal-family/

-thanks for sharing in my fun birthday ideas

Alicia

 

Thinking about wall art for your next family portrait session? Check out what my professional photographer friend Nani wrote about choosing the right sized art piece for your space here!