Newborn Workshop {Brevard County Newborn Photographer}

When I decided I wanted to photograph newborns, I knew I needed the right training. I was posing a tiny human and wanted to ensure their safety was my number one priority. So I went in search of a workshop. I found Cherise Kiel out of Arizona. She taught workshops and had one in Jacksonville Fl. This was about 2 years ago. I loved every second of the workshop and learned so much. There was so much information discussed it was overwhelming in a good way.

Fast forward to this past week. As an artist and a business owner I am always looking to grow in multiple ways. I want to push myself to work harder, to learn more and to accomplish big things. So I wanted to brush up once again on some of my newborn knowledge. After all knowledge is power. So when I heard Cherise was coming back to FL, I jumped at the opportunity for a workshop with her again. My sister and fellow photographer, Dawn and I went together for a day filled with fun and lots of learning.

This was exactly what I needed. The first time was great but it was so much information, there was no way I could absorb it all. So this was like a refresher course to fill the gaps where my memory failed me. It was a one day workshop and we had two adorable models. These babies were so cute but they were a little fussy. While Cherise didn't appreciate it, myself and the other attendees did because we got to see how she handled these babies and didn't let an upset baby ruin the session and had other options to complete the session.

If you are looking for a newborn photographer, I strongly urge you to check to see what type of training they have had. Babies are tough yet fragile at the same time. I invest in the time to learn from the pros and get the proper training I need to safely handle your baby. No pose is worth harming your child for my lack of knowledge. I would never aim to put your baby in harms way and to ensure that, I continue to grow in my trade by learning and training often.

 

If you are a photographer and you are looking for newborn workshops, I highly suggest Cherise. She is AWESOME. She too is always growing in her craft and just amazes me with her skills. She is an open book and will answer any question you have. Follow her along on her FaceBook page Cherise Kiel Photography

March Of Dimes Ambassador Family {Brevard County Photographer}

Over the last 4 year I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing families through the March of Dimes. Each year I get to meet the ambassador family and share their story. It is always amazing how each story is different but all have a common ground: babies and the fight of their life. This year's family is no different.

This is Norah's story. Chelsea and DJ McQuaig were high school sweet hearts. They welcomed their first two children, Kylah and Micah, without any issues. Then they were expecting their third child Nora last year. During a routine Dr. visit at 30 weeks, Chelsea was sent to the hospital due to high blood pressure (preclampsia). Chelsea was to remain in the hospital until Norah was born. Chelsea had to stay in the hospital away from her two other children which made things even harder.

 

At 32 weeks, having headache along with the preclampsia, they induced her to prevent her from getting worse and risking Norah's health in any way. Norah was having troubles breathing so they had to use the surfactant therapy (research funded by the March of Dimes). Dr. Vallette was the NICU doctor taking care of Nora. Chelsea and DJ didn't get to hold their baby until she was 7 days old. She remained in the NICU for 3 weeks before coming home.

Today, Nora is a healthy, strong, and happy baby who is thriving and well. She continues to blossom into a beautiful little girl. Without the research and the funding of the March of Dimes, Norah's story may have been different. Their discoveries and dedication to healthy babies saved Norah's life.

If you are interested in getting involved or donating to the March of Dimes here is some information for you to help:
The annual March for Life Walk is April 29th.
I have a team of walkers. You are welcome to join my team or start your own. Donations are greatly appreciated in helping reach our goals together. You can access the walk information and my team information here: MOD WALK

In addition, the March of Dimes holds the annual Signature Chef Auction. I cannot rave about this event enough. Delicious food from some of the top chef's in our area, an auction to raise funds and a get time of networking with others in our area. You can see more information here on how to attend this event. Signature Chef Auction