I'm finally where I belong

Today I really feel blessed.  I'm sitting on my deck while my baby naps and my oldest is at his nana's swimming......I almost have to pinch myself.  Is this real.  Did this really work out?  Yes....yes it sure did.

I booked 2 sessions today and sent out a gift certificate all for amazing clients who also travel between Edmonton and Kelowna.  I think this move really worked.

Photo by Pink Dragonfly Photography

Some of you don't know but a year ago I made the big move back to Kelowna, BC.  This is really where my heart is.  It's where I want to raise my family.  It's ME!  I wasn't sure how well my clients in Edmonton were going to take the news however.....it's been incredible.  Many of you amazing clients have contacted me and booked sessions for your upcoming holidays to Kelowna.  This makes me smile.

I've been able to help you plan your holidays.  I've been excited for a change of scenery.  It's been fun.  I'm also lucky that my wonderful inlaws live in Canmore, AB.  This allows us to break up the regular trips back to Edmonton.  It's a 10 hour trip back and that's without the insane construction, and with 2 kids being able to go half way and stop for a family visit is wonderful.

So far it's gone really well.  I've been able to fit in my Edmonton clients and I appreciate you all booking ahead.  I appreciate all of you trusting me when I send my assistant Laura if I am unable to shoot your session in Edmonton.  The feedback has been incredible.

This move back has allowed me to be the mom I want.  I am able to be at home with my children and able to homeschool.  I love this as we are able to do school on the beach or even on a trip back to Edmonton.

My next trip is August 4th to photograph a wedding for a wonderful couple who I  have had the pleasure of watching their family grow.  As well as 3 newborns sessions.  I do have the ability to sneak in a couple family mini sessions so if this interests you please contact me today.

Tips for a Successful Newborn Session - Urban Images Photography

First off I LOVE photographing newborns!

Newborn Photography is definately the most
challenging of my sessions.  However it feels 
pretty amazing to be a part of a baby's life 
when they are just days old.

Here are some tips to make our session go as
smooth as possible.

• Location

From experience, babies are best photographed in their own surroundings.  This means I will be coming to you!  Now before you start to stress please don't.  I bring everything to you.  Props, blankets, etc.  Also don't stress if your house is a mess.  YOU JUST HAD A BABY!  I would be concerned if it was perfect.  I've shot many in home sessions in small places or people in the middle of what they felt was chaos.  I don't need a tonne of space.  I will probably be moving furniture and anything that will get in my way.  I promise to move it all back but I really don't want you to stress.  Baby feels it! Just relax.

• Lovely Light

I absolutely adore natural light.  So please before I come be sure to open blinds and curtains.  When I arrive I will walk through and choose locations based on lighting.  

• Crank up the Heat

I reccomend that you keep your home warmer than usual for our session (like a toasty 24 degrees).  Newborns are used to being bundled up cozy and warm, yet now I come in and strip them down for these cute naked baby photos and expect them to love it.  Keeping it warm definately helps and we may be sweating but it helps baby to feel comfortable.  I will also be popping blankets into your dryer to warm them up for your little one.  

• Loosen Up

30 Minutes prior to my arrival please strip down your baby from their diaper and clothes and wrap them up in a blanket.  This allows less editing diaper lines for myself as well as the dreaded strip down.  Make sure to use a blanket you don't mind them pooping in.  

• Sleepy Baby

Now....we all hope for those incredible sleeping baby photos so we do everything in our power to help that happen.  Ensure you try to keep baby awake before I come may seem like torture however I promise it will be worth it in the end.  Be sure to feed baby just before I arrive as well keep it quiet and warm.  Also be prepared to stop and feed during our session.  It's normal in order to get the "milk drunk baby"  It's hard work being a baby model.

• Relax

I can't stress this enough.  Many mom's stress about the photos and I don't want you to.  This is an absolutely important time so take a minute to enjoy it.  Worry about you and getting ready with your hair and makeup and as much as it may seem hard with a new baby, take a minute to get ready or even have someone come into your home to do your hair and makeup.  It's a great opportunity to pamper yourself as a new mama.  We let baby lead the session.  Over half the session is usually changes and feeds however if you don't stress things usually flow smooth.  I work with each newborn.  Everyone is different.  Some absolutely love to be swaddled and in a bucket where as others want to feel free.  When things don't seem to be working I can see mom's start to stress "this is a disasater and we aren't going to get any good photos"  I promise you....I WILL.  Please remember babies feel your stress and anxiety.  So stay calm.  It's important that everyone stay as calm as possible during your session.

• Poop Happens!!!!

So many new parents are so embarassed and uncomfortable however if your baby doesn't pee or poop on my props I will be SHOCKED!  I usually get peed on.  Some of my families who are repeats really have come to learn this and now it's a laugh.  I actually have a family on baby number 4, and the father actually said in the last session "well we know this one is gonna pee on me.....so i'm ready!"  It's usually dad's who are the most uncomfortable so please pre warn them.  

• Mom's

Please do not be insulted if I ask you to leave the room.  Sometimes your newborn just knows your smell and wont settle with you around.  Don't take offence.  It's really normal.

• What to Wear 

Keep it simple.  Solid colors, even just a simple cami is great.  Black does go a long way or even white.  Also be sure to have dad pay attention to details of his finger nails.  Usually dad's hands are something I notice so have them clip their nails and moisturize the night before.  Also be sure no logos or button down shirts.  A simple solid shirt is great.  Even if you feel like you don't want to be in photos much I will probably ask you to help in some way so please take this time to prepare your nails and hands.  

I really look forward to the opportunity of photographing your new little one.  I've caught myself kissing a client's baby on the top of the head and I looked up in shock.  I really do love my job and allowing me to photograph yours, my husband thanks you as I would probably be up to 22 babies in our family.  We might possibly have our own TLC tv show. 

If you have any questions or are interested in booking your newborn session please CONTACT me today.

BéBé D'or Childrens Blankets & Apparel

I'm excited to share this incredible line of custom baby and children apparel. BéBé D'or Children's Blankets & Apparel.  I first found out about this wonderful business at a Craft Show in Kelowna held at Prospera Place.  I met Denise after inquiring about her beautiful haram pants.  She was so busy this day that she literally sold out of everything I wanted, however a quick chat proved to be the best decision yet.  She helped me decide on a couple fabric choices for my first pair of bumpants for my daughter.  She also was amazing as I had been looking for custom teething pads for my Ergo carrier.  We put in an order right there and within a week we received our order and were totally impressed.

Now fast forward a couple months and I followed her on facebook.  She loaded a photo of an incredible NEW Beanie Baby Sun Hats.  I immediately contacted her to order this one as well.  Then we decided to get together and put some of these incredible products on some very sweet models.

She makes these absolutely incredible Dresses.  They are reversible and wrap around.  They are super easy to put on with snaps on the straps.  The quality is phenomenal and patterns are amazing.  The only issue....you won't be able to choose just one.

BéBé D'or also makes Bum Pants and Haram Pants.  The most amazing part.....they can fit up to 3 years.  Talk about buying quality clothing and having it last.  It rolls and unrolls and fits great.

As well these incredible Baby Beanie Sun Hats that are completely adjustable and fit up to 10 Years.  I even purchased one for my 5 year old which he's thrilled to wear and can snug it on to wear in the pool and get it wet! Win Win.  Perfect for these beautiful Kelowna Summers.

Be sure to stop by the Kelowna Farmers Market booth #124 every Saturday.  Check out her AMAZING stuff.  For those of you out of town....she ships as well.  Be sure to visit her page and contact her to order.  You wont be disapointed.

Also, take a moment to follow them on Facebook for upcoming promotions and contests.  She will be giving away a FREE pair of pants or dress of your choice.  So stop by and check her out and be sure to ENTER.  

Teaching my son about the benefits of Rescue..... Sit Pretty Pit

Some of you may know I have a huge love of dogs.  Now what you may not know.

Before photography and having children I owned a couple pet food boutiques.  I also was heavily involved with multiple dog rescues.  I always found myself coming home with extra dogs.  It all began when I had an insane house of 2 English bulldogs and a pitbul.  I was known as the bulldog lady.  Someone was always giving out my name to those who somehow needed help.  Whether they were just looking to see if I had friends or family looking to rescue or whether they were being dumped at my home.  I always seemed to help out.

Our most recent dog passed away from old age a couple years ago and since then we have yet to add our own dog back into our home.  Mostly because we are a very busy family with 2 kiddos and I homeschool.

When living in Edmonton I helped a couple rescues raise money by doing photo's as that was a way I could help out.  Now being back in Kelowna we are missing the joy of having a dog in the family.  However until we are totally ready we will be volunteering.

I homeschool my son and decided that he should learn about volunteering and rescue.  The benefits of rescue and the work that these wonderful people do is mind blowing.  My son was on board to help.  We decided that fostering would be hard because we know we would fall in love and be a foster fail.  So currently we have signed up to volunteer with Sit Pretty Pit .

We started by teaching my son the benefits of rescuing and that these dogs need help and loving homes.  He decided that he was going to save his allowance, collect Canadian Tire money, and take in bottles.  He decided to choose to sponsor a dog.  His choice was Zuko.  Boy is this dude so cute.

Adoptable Zuko

Then Sit Pretty Pit contacted us to babysit one of their foster dogs while the foster parents went out of town.  I figured this would be great for my son to learn how the whole rescue process works. I was wrong! This little doll came to stay with us for a couple days.....and shockingly she hasn't left.  She came in from a cruelty investigation out of Kamloops.  The shelter transferred her to Sit Pretty Pit in order to get her out of the kennel environment.  She was bumped around a bit when the president of the rescue decided to take her and work with her.  She has a wonderful personality.  She's sweet and has an incredible temperment.

 Best thing about her.....she's not a puppy. I've had my share of puppies and yes they are cute as pie however the potty training and puppy phase isn't my favorite.   This doll is 3 years old.  Great with kids, walks well on a leash and good with other dogs.  Could I ask for anything more?

If you are able to help this incredible rescue in any way please don't hesitate.  Even just the slightest bit helps.  Heck....if you are thinking you might be a great forever home for one of these beautiful dogs thats is a plus too.  Check out the dogs available for adoption.

Also be sure to stay tuned on my facebook page because I plan to schedule family photos by donation to Sit Pretty Pit

Chiropractic is not just going for an adjustment.

My families health is so very important to me.  So I was thrilled when my Chiropractors Dr. Travis and Dr. Sarah of Health in Hand Family Chiropractic asked me to do a photo session of some of their clients for new marketing material.

First off there are so many myths surrounding Chiropractic that many of you think that once you get injured that is when to search out a Chiropractic Practitioner.  This is entirely false.  These amazing doctors are part of my regular health care.  I went to visit Dr. Sarah when I realized I wanted to become a mom and she adjusted my pelvis which was extremely out.  I was pregnant the following month so you can imagine how thrilled I was.  From this point on I knew they would be an active part of my families health.

 I was then adjusted throughout my entire pregnancy with my son.  This allowed me to be able to work up until the day I delivered him as well I truly feel it made my delivery so much easier.  Sleep while in the later stages of pregnancy can be a challenge so they ensured I was as comfortable as possible.

My healthy son was born in 2010 and was adjusted at just a few hours old on the way home from the hospital.  At about 3 months he suffered from acid reflux which a doctor prescribed him a medicine.  I was very apprehensive as it wasn't an avenue I was wanting to go.  However I gave into the pressure from the doctor to put him on this medication.  I will never forget what happened next.  10 days of no sleep. NONE!  So I went in crying and Dr. Travis informed me that the prescription I was prescribed did have a side affect of insomnia. We immediately decided to have him regularly adjusted and took him off the medication immediately.  He never suffered from it again.

Then came the birth of my second child.  I was back living in Edmonton however regularly coming back to Kelowna for adjustments.  I had my doctor scheduled to deliver my baby tell me that my daughter was unfortunately breech.  This came as a shock and I was unsure what to do as I was hoping to not have a c-section.   I took a trip back to Kelowna for a week of regulary daily adjustments and attempts to turn baby.  Dr. Sarah and Dr. Travis advised me it wasn't a sure thing but I was willing to try anything.  Guess what!!!! She turned.  She was head down and when I went for my ultrasound after my trip they were thrilled to hear that she cooperated.

Now the wonderful part.  We were able to move back to Kelowna full time and now my family regularly visits Health in Hand Family Chiropractic.  They are an essential part of my families health.  My son even had a ear infection before Christmas and I rushed to the Emergency room as it was Saturday at 5 pm.  He sat crying screaming in pain while I waited for 3 hours.  Worried that all they would do is prescribe him antibiotic I was very conflicted as a parent.  I called Dr. Travis.  His immediate response was NO DRUGS.  We will do an adjustment tonight.  No lies I drove my son there while he cried.  He is always thrilled to get adjusted and this time tears rolling down his face he didn't want to go in.  I promised it would help.  He had a quick adjustment by Dr. Sarah and a special (ear adjustment).  He was not crying as we left.  He was able to go to sleep.  Shockingly he woke up completely fine.  No pain and ready to take on a new day.

My daughter has had regular adjustments however we took some time off over Christmas with busy schedules and visitors.  We also were introducing baby foods to her.  I thought I was doing everything right following rice cereal, oats, wheat, etc.  My baby has always slept through the night and all of a sudden I wasn't sure what was going on.  She was up 3-4 times a night.  I realized she hadn't been in for her regular adjustment.  Also Dr. Travis took the time to run a scan and he said "what's going on with her guts it's her stomach that's bothering her" I hadn't even told him we had started food.  He reccomended not doing any grain and trying baby led weaning.  Literally she slept through the night again and has ever since.  She loves her food and it's much more simple for us to feed her what we are eating rather than making pureed foods.

These wonderful people are a serious asset to my families health.  They not only adjust us but they are my go to for all my health questions. As I continue to grow my family they ensure our immune systems are in check and we are all happy and healthy.

Dr. Sarah and Dr. Travis.....from the bottom of my heart thank you!
Thank you for looking out for our family like your own.

Dr. Travis and Dr. Sarah and their own two children

Visit their website for more information and check them out on facebook for upcoming events.

January is Boudoir Month!!!!

There are many myth's surrounded by boudoir photography.  If you have considered doing boudoir photos before but have yet to book a session this post will answer some of your questions.

First, boudoir photography isn't about women who think they have perfect bodies.  It's about focusing on your assets.  Beginning to be comfortable in your own skin.  My client's don't think they are flawless, but they're confident in spite of that.  Most women who book sessions are just regular women.  They are BEAUTIFUL, not perfect model bodies.  Whether they are doing a session for a partner or are doing photos to feel confident, these sessions are definately some of my favorite.

Secondly,  women think they need to be overtly sexy and these sessions are only for women who can act sexy in front of a lens.  My clients choose me because I am able to make them comfortable and the images I take are tasteful and authentically them.  Acting sexy isn't what I aim for,  I shoot for confidence.  Its my job to pose and shape the body to accentuate your figure.  The best is when a woman laughs during a session and I am able to capture a flirty fun side.  I help you realize which aspects of you are going to best be photographed. 

I begin each session with attention to details.  We become comfortable with one another and I discuss any part of you which isn't your favorite asset.  I ensure straps are in place and tags are cut out.  These little details make photo's wonderful.  Editing is another huge part of boudoir photography ensuring that when you see that image you are absolutely astonished.  I understand my clients are usually nervous on shoot day and I do take that seriously.  Usually those nerves don't last long and once I flip my camera over so you can see an image, the smiles shine and women become even more confident.  The final product is what I strive for.  In the end it's all about the women and bringing their inner beauty out.

 

Thirdly,  many think Boudoir photography is all about sex.  This is however not the case at all.  It's more about self confidence and empowerment.  Honestly many brides I photograph enjoy putting together these images for their groom to surprise him with the day of their wedding.  It adds to the excitement.  I also do mini session's for stagette nights which is always an absolutely blast.  Women get together and do hair and makeup followed by mini sessions and a night out on the town.  

Lastly, boudoir photography is only for women with a signifigant other.  This is absolutely not the case.  Many women think if you are single there is no point.  More than anything I think boudoir photography is a gift to yourself.  It's about celebrating who you are in the exact moment of your life and owning it.  It's about loving yourself and seeing yourself in a new way.  I personally know the benefits of this and it is one of the most empowering things I have done.  

If you want to feel confident, sexy, beautiful and empowered.....boudoir photography is definately for you. 

If you have any questions even the smallest about Boudoir Photography please do not hesitate to email me at info@urbanimages.ca and visit my website PORTFOLIO 

How I balance being a mommy, photographer, and teacher.

From the moment I became a mom I knew I wanted to be an active mom.  Now I don't judge other mom's.  I believe there are many different sides of being a mom.  For me however I LOVE being involved in my kids lives.

When I chose to get into photography it was because I couldn't fathom the idea of putting my son into childcare.  I loved spending time with him.  I wanted to raise him.  I wanted to see him grow.  Photography allowed this plus I was able to work with families and capture moments.  Moments they might not even notice were so important.

Many families don't have the ability to do this.  I take ever day as a blessing allowing me to be a mom.  

Now.  I'm excited to tell you all we HOMESCHOOL!  First off before you think I'm trying to shelter my son from the real world this is absolutely not the case.  He just turned 5 and I just want him to learn about things at a normal pace and be aware of things rather than them in his immediate day to day life.  Also he's ridiculously social so when I hear people say things like "homeschooling makes kids anti-social" it makes me cringe.

Not everyone can homeschool.  However I want you to know as many of you are new mom's that I photograph there are many "options" when it comes to educating these beautiful little souls.  Don't just follow down the "regular path".  Please take some time to make educated decisions on how you plan to educate them.

My way isn't for everyone and I do not judge at all as there are so many options.  I began my hunt online to figure out some alternative options.  I was living in Edmonton full time at the time and they didn't start homeschooling until grade 1.  So I knew I had time.  Since then I have relocated to living full time in Kelowna, BC and when my son just turned 5 this past summer I began looking into school here.  Then I became aware quickly that here they had a Kindergarten curriculum.  I know as a busy mom I wanted to find an alternative that allowed us to do school how it fit into our lives, however still have some structure and guidance from wonderful teachers.  We joined Kleos and when we went to sign up for Kindergarten we met with my son's teacher who actually advised me that based on where he was at she suggested he skip kindergarten and go into Grade 1.  This is something I don't feel would have ever happened if I followed down the traditional school method.

Whichever method you decide for your children just please take some time to make sure it works for your kids and your family.  I see so many posts and comments from mom's in tears not ready to go back to work or not ready for their kids to be in childcare.  Then I see posts from parents struggling with school systems that just aren't working for them.  Please.....take a moment to look at all avenues.

Let's get back to a bit about how our days work.  There is no set time we wake up each day.  This makes for wonderful mornings.  We usually are out of bed by 7 am however there is no packing lunches and hurrying through breakfast.  We enjoy our time together.  We have breakfast and then get ready for the day.  I organise his schooling and we usually spend an hour to two hours on sitting down focused work.  However we also go with the flow.  He has many extra curricular activities.  Swimming, gymnastics, dance, and of course field trips and other meetups with homeschooled kids. He has minimum 30 minute requirement for physical activity each day (this is absolutely no problem to achieve). His baby sister naps in the morning for an hour and that's his time to play in the back yard, have quiet time, or simply just craft or do choose something he wants.  I use this time to respond to clients and schedule sessions.  We also have other homeschool families in the community for us to lean on which is great. One week I do a craft or science project and the next another mom does.  This is where I really notice the "choices" out there.  Even if you don't think you can homeschool full time it doesn't mean that is the only option.

We love to cook as a family and bake which turns into a math lesson with fractions

Things like my ability to book sessions around my schedule and husbands schedule is what makes this possible.  This month we are headed to the Dominican Republic as a family.  I have a wedding to photograph there and my son is able to do school wherever we are.  We are pretty darn lucky I say.

Answering emails and scheduling sessions while having breakfast and staring at a cutie

I do have some mom's asking me for information.  Some of my clients ask a lot of questions.  I get emails and phone calls and want to be here for mom's.  I had a client message me the other day asking why I chose the path I did and that she's been thinking of it however had some questions.  

Don't hesitate to contact me even if it's not regarding booking a session.  Us mommies stick together!