Portraits by Josée

The Blog has Moved!

2008-12-27T17:25:00.003-06:00

Brrr... chuckles

2008-12-09T16:55:00.004-06:00

Ok, another off-the-topic little story that just made me howl with laughter. This would be the same couple I got that other little story from, the one with the teenie ice cream spoon.

This is how this new conversation went:

Him: "I'm soo cold...!!"
Her: "Really?"
Him: "Yes... I'm SOOO COLD!"
Her: "Maybe you're coming down with a cold or something."
Him: "Maybe I just ate twelve popcicles."

Honest to God. I can't make this stuff up!

**************************************************

2008-12-04T22:26:00.003-06:00

You know someone. You know someone who’s experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can’t afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family’s spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography – $2000's worth, to be exact; this gift would include a session with me, a custom album and a selection of prints.

The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments on a two-million-dollar-home does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in Toronto.

What to do:

* Tell me who you know, what they’re experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well. E-mail me the full story at: josee@joseecaza.com and make the subject line in your e-mail: "A Hero I Know"

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve… get nominating! If you don't know anyone, pass along this e-mail to everyone you know so that we can find that special family together.

Open your heart to someone this holiday season – and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

Coming up for air...

2008-12-02T18:06:00.002-06:00

For just a quick note!

If there are still folks out there who haven't come in for portraits yet and are thinking about it, there are still a few available days to book before the studio shuts down for the holidays. 2009 Pricing will come into effect on January 1st, so if you can sneak in before then, give me a call and take advantage of the last two weeks of the 2008 pricing schedule.

And for my loyal blog subscribers.. don't give up on me yet, I still have a lot of pretty portraits and lovely things to share about the clients I've seen in the past couple of whirlwind weeks! Stay tuned... I'm hoping to start yak-yak-yaking away on here very shortly! :)

Dance Parties & Natural Rubber Non-Toxic Assistants

2008-11-15T16:32:00.003-06:00

This week has hands down been the busiest week of the year for me. My head is spinning with three consecutive to-do lists at all times, and it's hard for me to stop thinking about work even as my head hits the pillow.

How do I keep going? I have this playlist on my iTunes with a dozen songs that I can't help but move to. Whenever I get tired, or just before a session, I crank the "Move it!" playlist and dance around the loft for a solid ten minutes to get my energy back up. It began as a necessary thing to do... but I have to confess I've done it a few times this week just for the heck of it. You should try it sometime!

WELL. It's time I fess up and admit that sometimes (well okay, a lot of times), it's not just me evoking the smiles and giggles from gurgling babies. I have an assistant whose name is Sophie. Funny enough, I never really "hired" her myself... but she comes included with about 99% of families that arrive at the studio with a young baby. She's brilliant with kids. If only she could edit!!

A little midnight pick-me-up

2008-11-12T22:43:00.004-06:00

I usually don't blog much when it comes to my personal life, but I just laughed so hard I have to share it with the whole world. I was sitting here swamped with editing and holiday card designing, and a friend of mine dinged me on Messenger with something funny her husband said to her tonight.

And I'm just all about sharing smiles & laughter. So here's how the conversation went:

Her: I'm going downstairs, you want anything from there?
Him: I have a small request.
Her: Shoot.
Him: Can you please get me some ice cream... but the important thing is that you have to get me teenie spoon. You know, that little spoon. I always eat ice cream with that small spoon.
Her: Ok... Teeny spoon. Got it. So how much ice cream do you want?
Him: The whole tub, please.

I kid you not. I know them too well to doubt any part of that conversation. I should add this man is like 6'2. Did you spit-laugh on your monitor, too? :)

My Daylight Savings Shoot

2008-11-02T14:02:00.005-06:00

Today I met Aiden and Liam for a shoot. Mum & Dad were worried that Liam would be very timid but this little cookie turned into an instant ham for me and breezed on right through the session. Aiden suffered a little because his nap schedule didn't really agree with the daylight savings switch, but I think we managed quite well, all things considered!

When I'm photographing families, I try to do more than photograph what they look like; I want to be able to show what it feels like to be a part of this family. I must have hit the target with these folks because I was smiling ear to ear while going over their portraits... have a peek! Can you feel how much fun they are??

This is where we started to lose Aiden... I just can't resist that baby drama! After that shot though was the moment that made me bust a gut at the session. When Aiden started to lose it, we asked Liam if he could make Aiden laugh, and he happily obliged.. but to no avail! That's when he threw his arms up and gave me that "Sorry! Can't help you!" look, which made me laugh so hard I think Liam might think I'm a little crazy now!

It ain't over till it's over!

2008-11-01T20:05:00.003-06:00

Well, just when I thought Halloween was over & done with, my neighbor Amy tells me about the Pumpkin Parade that happens every year at Sauroren Park in Parkdale where hundreds of people bring over their pumpkins and put them out to line the park. How awesome is that??? I didn't think twice; grabbed my camera and hopped in the car to go check it out. There were over 1200 pumpkins there!

So if you missed it this year, here's a peek of it through my eyes... but I'll see you there next year, right??

Happy Halloween, little frogs & princesses!

2008-10-31T11:22:00.003-06:00

Me & my little surrogate niece Clare did it up in style today. Her mum Natasha made me a hood for my Little Red Riding Hood costume and couldn't resist making one for her little princess too, so I got to hang out with Clare today, and how could we resist snapping a few shots of this??

Thanks again so much, Natasha... and happy candy sorting, everyone!!

Um... if I look totally overjoyed here, it's because I am. I love Clare Bear.

Jingle What?

2008-10-28T23:28:00.002-06:00

Jingle Bells, ladies & gentlemen! I know you don’t want to think about it yet, but before it’s too late, let’s talk about holiday deadlines!

I’ll be closing the studio from December 13th to January 2nd. The calendar on my website was recently updated with all available sessions before the holidays. If you’re expecting a newborn while I'm on holidays, please let me know. I will be photographing newborns while in the city.

Here are the Holiday deadlines:

All sessions with holiday gifting in mind must take place before November 15th
Holiday card orders placed before December 1st
Print & gallery-wrapped canvas orders placed before December 1st
Jewelry ordered before November 15th

I will be shooting after the November 15th deadline, but there will be no promises made for prints or gifts on time for the holidays.

Happy shopping, everybody! Better get on it before the malls get kooky!

Havin' a Hoot!

2008-10-27T22:23:00.003-06:00

Oh my word, I had so much fun this morning with Phin! What a FLIRT, this one! His dads wanted him in here before he cut his first tooth, and we just about barely made it! Check him out... those little teefs are comin!

I must have sat here half an hour trying to narrow down what I wanted to show on here. Between that little faux-hawk and that grin, and those big shiny eyes, I had quite the time deciding what were my favorites! I'm quite fond of the squish-the-papa shots. I'm usually lucky to get a nice cuddly little hand on a parent's face but Phin had plenty of those in store for me today!

Have a look at these... a guaranteed grin, I tell ya.

Wee lil' Josh

2008-10-26T22:05:00.003-06:00

I had a treat this saturday morning when I got to see how much Josh has grown! I met him for the first time when he was a wee lil' newborn, and even got to see him bust a few moves when he was in his mummy's belly!

Look at him now, he's coming along quite nicely if you ask me!

This time his fur-brother Jack was invited along for a few snaps. How cute are they??? Jack is adorable when he gives Josh kisses.

Unbearably Beautiful

2008-10-25T11:00:00.004-06:00

I'm still smiling when I think about Tamara's kids. First of all, I have a new best friend named Sean.

He's adorable, he's clever, and very funny. I adore having conversations with toddlers, they are so expressive with their faces and bodies when they talk. I could have a wall with 36 different beautiful images of Sean when we talked about lunch. But here are my favorite four!

And then there was a little princess named Amelia. Brace yourselves, this one's got eyelashes that go until the end of time. I loved everything about her; those big wide eyes, that little button nose, that cute little rosebud mouth. What a DOLL!!

Over the Moon

2008-10-25T10:51:00.004-06:00

This Thursday I met with two beautiful little spirits named Liam and Dylan. I met Liam for the first time two years ago when he was just a lil' baby cookie. He had the same big eyes as his new little brother, the same chubby cheeks, and the same awesome chub all over. Dylan was easy peasy throughout the shoot, whenever we put him down he was a perfect little subject. Liam was hilarious because my best shots of him came with the help of raisins & crackers, believe it or not!

BIGGER is B E T T E R

2008-10-20T22:57:00.005-06:00

Well, it won't be easy to not make this sound like a sales pitch, but I had to share.

I was unwrapping orders for clients today and out came this enlargement of a really, really beautiful mom shot that I took of Suzanne and her little bee-bop and I have to tell you, when I pulled it out and took it in, I heaved a great sigh.

And that's when I realized that though it's very common for families to purchase large prints of their babies and children on their own, or of their families as a whole lot, it's not common for parents to indulge in a very large print of themselves alone with their child. And because it's not common, I didn't realize how much everyone is missing out! When I saw this print in a large format, the impact that the image had on me as a regular sized print was magnified as a beautiful enlargement.

So think about it. Have you got a nice blank wall that could use a little love? Celebrate your mamahood or daddyhood on that wall, it's doing no one favors by staying blank!

Just one Happy Jack!

2008-10-20T22:50:00.003-06:00

I'd like to think that this is how Jack will react whenever he hears my name from now on:

Ha!! Ok, that's wishful thinking. But I think we can still all agree that me and Jack had a pretty good time this morning chatting and giggling and rolling and doing a little tummy-time'ing.

BIG smiles

2008-10-20T22:42:00.002-06:00

Finlay was like a little bundle of giggles the minute she stepped in here!

This is the kind of shot I live for. My sessions usually all work the same way; I tell parents where to be, and then let them hang out there for a few minutes while I take random shots I'll probably never use, and then after about the tenth shot, mom or dad will stop thinking about how uncomfortable they are in front of the camera and do something really beautiful like catch the scent of their baby's head and breathe them in. It's poetry... I love it so much.

I don't know, what do you think of this? I suspect they may have practiced this little move all night before the shoot!

Natalie's Brood

2008-10-20T22:31:00.002-06:00

Natalie's boys were a perfect mix of everything. First, can we talk about the eyes on Harrison? Good lord. So pretty!! I think he got them from his grandparent, just like me!

Then there was shy & grumpy Sam who liked to dance. How's that for a character? As you know... I love those shy cookies, they're just a perfect challenge, and always come with an opportunity to get one of those really great intense quiet shots. Like this one!

Check this out... I think this is when I cracked the code!

And then there was sweet & cooperative Evan, who may as well have been my little assistant.

He was actually really fun and energetic, but these two shots happen to be my favorite. I love catching kids lost in thought.

How about a shot to illustrate the chaos that ensues around everything during a shoot with more than two kids. Look at this...

Heat

2008-10-20T22:26:00.002-06:00

When Teresa and Elder came to the studio, Teresa seemed a little shy and a little nervous. And then something beautiful happened when I brought Elder into the portraits. I saw this wave of love and relaxation come over her and together, as a couple, they just shone... I have to say, the chemistry between those two raised the temperature in the studio!

I love-love-loved working with them... such a very beautiful couple, I'm completely adoring every portrait from this shoot.

Thank Heaven for itty-bitty-little baby girls!

2008-10-20T22:18:00.005-06:00

Guess what! Paula had her baby, and she is the epitome of perfection. See for yourselves!

Ironman Junior gains a few

2008-10-20T22:10:00.005-06:00

So, remember when we were trying to figure out if Cooper's arm bump was chub or early muscle definition? I think it's settled.

It's chub alright! But I think Jeff's over it and quite enjoying his little buddha baby. And Karen? Well she's just in heaven, of course! How could she not be with such a gorgeous baby?

A little bug named Charlotte

2008-10-20T22:05:00.002-06:00

Charlotte reminded me of a ladybug because she was so cute and delicate and sweet, and then in a flash, she flew about! It's often the way it goes with 2 year olds; they are creatures on the run, looking for adventures and discoveries, and to overwhelm their senses.

I loved this little bug. Check her out!

A Big Awesome Post for a Big Awesome Family

2008-10-20T21:48:00.004-06:00

I met Michelle and Darren after they braved a long one hour car drive with four kiddo's. That's modern-day heroism if you ask me!

This session was total chaos in the best possible way. It's funny because whenever I have sessions with three or more kids, things get loud and a little crazy, and parents are always sooo worried that their kids are misbehaving but in truth, their kids are being candy for the camera because they're being authentic and generous with their spirits, and so are giving me so much to capture.

The shoot was a complete hit. I loved it, it was fun and energetic, and there was so much to shoot! Being a blended family, these siblings had really great and interesting relationships with each other. I really enjoyed watching them play together.

Love this look... it's such a "you think you're smarter than me but you're not" nine-year-old face!!

Princess Safia

2008-10-20T21:40:00.004-06:00

I'm usually very anti prop. A prop has to be pretty clever for me to work with and remain inspired. So when Margaret pulled out the pouffy dress, and we happened upon the feather boa, my first thought was "resist, resist, resist!!".

But it was MAGIC. The dress and the feathers were so perfect and so great at bringing out and illustrating Safia's sweet little personality, I can't imagine what the shoot would have been like without them now!

Safia's got the kind of little soul you wish they sold bottled. I'm pretty lucky to have spent an hour with her and to be able to relive it through all these quirky little portraits!

This is Glee

2008-10-20T20:04:00.003-06:00

It was my second shoot with the Sooknanan's, and the second was just as loud as the first, even though this time there was a brand new little bundle included. Siera and Brandon were the same firecrackers I'd met just a few short weeks before, but this time they were overjoyed with the new addition to the family, and really happy to see me again, so the room was busting with energy!

I have to admit my head was spinning at this session; it was planned at the last minute, and that just a few hours before my flight left for North Carolina, and being the frazzled disorganized artist girl that I am, my bags weren't yet packed. After the session, I literally collapsed on the couch when the door closed while listening the brood trample down the stairs to the parking lot. And I maybe even contemplated for a minute or two why I would schedule something at such the last minute, on such a busy day, with still so many things to accomplish before I left.

But you know what? I'm so glad I did. The portraits are so special, so exciting, so joyful and moving. If they hadn't been taken that day, they wouldn't be just as they are. I love this family for their joy and energy, look at these gorgeous moments I was able to capture...

This is one of my favorite shots of the kids because I can almost hear them laughing when I look at it. They are so much fun!

I couldn't resist posting this... look at Siera checking out her baby sister's little button nose. AH-dorable!

The Stare Master

2008-10-20T19:46:00.006-06:00

It was my third shoot with Shaan and still, he was bent on winning the staring contest we've had going on for a year!

Mahima told me that whenever he's in front of a camera, Shaan goes blank and stares, and I really thought it'd be easier to break him out of it than it actually ended up being... all three times! But who's complaining? This girl loves a challenge! I think I got a nice little bust of energy here while this proud little new walker took off!

My favorite part of shoots with Shaan are the mom shots I get of him and Mahima; it's not always a piece of cake to get very intimate portraits of parents with their children, mostly because of this grown-up hyper-consciousness of the camera, sometimes it's just difficult to let go and forget about the camera. But Mahima does it so well... she just grabs Shaan and loves him right out loud, completely trusting that I'll capture beautiful things. I love it!

Who I am & who I'm becoming

2008-09-30T08:45:00.011-06:00

I'm back! Completely swamped, though at the same time enlightened and inspired. I spent a few marvelous days last week picking the minds of brilliant women and all of a sudden, the mountain I've been trying to climb has morphed into a mole hill and I feel calm and composed, regardless of my unrelenting to-do list.

I have hired two fantastic women to work with me, to make mine and your lives easier. Marcia will be my behind the scenes magician, helping me run the office much more smoothly than I've been able to. Natasha will probably be your favorite; an interior designer, she's going to be going into your homes following your session to help you decide what to do with your beautiful portraits. No more hikes all the way back to the loft for the ordering appointment... now the appointment is coming to you! I'm so excited about her joining my little team; she's pretty much a carbon copy of myself as far as personality goes (friendly, magnetic, funny and genuine).

Until this week, I thought there was no way I could delegate the delicate task of guiding and advising my clients in the selection process because there could be no one that would be able to do it quite like me. Then I thought of Natasha... and I know that not only will she be quite like me in this position, but she'll be even better than me for her interior design skills. I've won the employee lottery as far as I'm concerned!

I met some really great, talented photographers while I was away. One of them was Virgil. He defaulted to my favorite new friend because he took these fantastic portraits of me that I actually really really love... they really reflect who I am as a person and I think really convey my soul & spirit. So for once... here are a few portraits of me!

This is the man responsible for these shots! Check him out if you're photographer shopping in Charleston, South Carolina!

Don't give up on me just yet with blogging about last week's shoots... they're on the blog agenda!

Skipping Town

2008-09-21T19:42:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm a little heartbroken and excited at the same time. I'll be away this week in North Carolina learning great things from the crème de la crème of child photographers south of the border, which is an absolute thrill. The sad part is that I was soooo busy trying to wrap things up before leaving that the blog started to collect dust again and I've fallen behind on sharing some really special things with you.

I met so many lovely little souls this week and I'm dying to show them off on here... I eventually will, it'll just take a little more time. So stay tuned... it'll be worth it!

So beautiful!

2008-09-08T21:51:00.004-06:00

Don't ask me how I get the prettiest pregnant women in the city to photograph... I just do! Paula was certainly no exception. She came over with her very smitten husband and together, they glowed. I love it when hubbies come in, not only because I can get those great romantic portraits, but also because they often have the magic touch when it comes to making mama's smile. I can make someone smile, but it takes love to get a woman to beam like this!

This is my absolute favorite...

The Five Handsomes!

2008-09-08T20:08:00.005-06:00

When I read "five boys" in Michelle's e-mail, it sounded like a lot of kids. But when I saw five boys walk towards me, I couldn't help my jaw from dropping a little. Five. Boys. Wow. I had to ask: "Are you trying to build a hockey team? A band, maybe??"

But after spending just a few minutes with them, I could see how Michelle and John would just keep going when each of their kids are as beautiful and as bright as the next.

I imagine that the biggest challenge when you're a child in a large family is standing out. So my favorite part of this session with Johnny, James, Christopher, Danny & David was making them do just that!

Here are the two responsible for all of this. Modern day heroes if you ask me! :)

This is David. You probably can't tell unless you really look closely, but he's just managed to kick some sand into his eyes, nose and mouth. But instead of calling out for mom or dad, he just lay there in the zone, totally zen, wondering how to deal with the situation.

David again... I love this photograph because Michelle told me that David doesn't go anywhere without his doggy, and that he's a great multi-tasker for it; that he somehow manages to always have something in both hands while trying to do something else. I'm really glad I was able to get this!

Best Pout EVER.

2008-09-08T19:51:00.004-06:00

Brace yourselves. You're about to see the cutest, most adorable pout you'll ever see, courtesy of little Andrew...

It was brief, and I'm so glad I caught that episode! But don't think this is typical of this little flirt! Have a peek at all the other expressions Andrew gave me to capture the day I met him and his parents.

I don't think I can ever get tired of shots like these... I just looove my mama-soothing portraits!!

My Handsome Papa

2008-08-24T19:19:00.004-06:00

I'm touched. I spent a day with my father who was visiting from Timmins this weekend and finally, for the first time, I really feel like I've captured my father perfectly. Here it is!

That's my Papa. So handsome.

A Cherry on Top

2008-08-24T19:06:00.004-06:00

My week this week ended perfectly with a shoot with Anya. I met her parents when they were expecting her and met Anya for the first time when she was a newborn. It's hard not to speak Cliché this week with all of these babies coming back after a year, the fact is that time does fly! I had a quick scroll through my blog today while on this little blogging spree and sure enough, if I go back to about a year ago I see all these tiny little bee-bops that have come back around this month to show me how they've grown.

It's so special to watch families grow this way! Between her adorable little Gerber Baby curls and big brown eyes and that perfect porcelain olive skin of hers, Anya was a lovely little model. The perfect shot came as unexpectedly as most perfect shots do; we were all wrapped up and cleaning up when we turned to see Anya holding her fur-sister's leash... and snap! I've got a new favorite!

Little Sack'o'Sugar

2008-08-24T14:47:00.004-06:00

My session with Micaela I think lasted a little over half an hour. What could I do? She came in like a little storm of giggles and every shot was gold, if I'd have kept going, I would have wound up with much too many portraits and would have killed Paula when she comes over to choose her favorites! And I am not in the business of making moms' lives difficult. :)

It was of course a treat to photograph this little cookie. Take a look at just a few of my favorites... it wasn't easy to choose!

Pink Perfection

2008-08-24T14:21:00.010-06:00

I had a week not long ago where I think I photographed a newborn every other day. I was really missing that this week, and lucky for me, that's when this little gem came along...

And lucky for me, she brought her big brother Spencer. :)

The Atkinsons

2008-08-24T13:46:00.012-06:00

Once in a while there's a breed of family that comes along makes me sigh and think "That's the kind of family I'm going to have." Lindsey's family is one of them.

Lindsey and Michael have this special relationship with their kids where you can tell they're not just crazy about them because they're their children, but they also really dig them because they're interesting little people. There's just a little less coo-ing and babying and more honesty and openness, and that really moves me, and of course, is lovely on camera.

Oh... and they're also awesome because they are one of a mere handful of couples in the past few years (!!) that have asked me to photograph them on their own without their kids. Hooray for love.

My Favorite Baby-Chub Shot

2008-08-24T13:11:00.009-06:00

This is it! I've just got my new favorite baby-chub shot ever, thanks to Elias!

The last time I saw Elias he was just a lil' wee newborn, I can't believe how time has flown and how he's grown! One thing's for sure, I didn't have to work hard to make him smile. Have a peek at these... they're so much fun. I really love that window shot of Elias taking a few clumsy steps forward with the help of Priscilla. What an exciting time in a parent's life to watch their child filled with all that pride and bravery!

Spoiled Rotten

2008-08-24T12:36:00.008-06:00

This week was one of my busiest weeks of the summer, all work and no play for me. But when things are slow or lonely for me on the personal front, I feel really lucky to do what I do because it keeps me smiling. I'll never take that for granted.

I was really very spoiled with a slew of gorgeous babies this week. One of them was Renée, who totally killed me with her smirky smile and that single bottom tooth she just got. I see baby teeth all the time but somehow I guess I only see them where there's two or more; there's something about that single tooth that I couldn't resist. I think it made me think of the babies you see in cartoons.

My session with Renée was easy peasy, and so much fun... have a peek at a few of my favorites.

I know I commonly do this mom window shot, but they all feel so different when I look at them because they portray different people who each have a unique connection. I love absolutely everything about this shot; the little backwards kick Renée has got going on, the little tongue-smirk she's giving me while she's owning the shot, the way her little hands are both in Valerie's hair and over Valerie's brow, and Valerie especially for that almost kiss that's not really a kiss, and this hug that takes a hug to a whole 'nother level; it's the kind of hug only a parent can give where you can tell it's not just the giving of love, but where they are so smitten with their child that they breathe them in when they're that close to them. It's a gorgeous thing to see.

Handsomely Expecting

2008-08-24T12:06:00.004-06:00

I met a very handsome couple the other day expecting what I'm sure will be a very handsome baby I'm going to swoon over when they come back for their newborn session.

And guess what? I've got proof... :)

Look What I Can Do!!

2008-08-24T11:26:00.009-06:00

Kids. Kids are so much fun... all I have to do when they come over is tell them my name, ask them about a few of their favorite things and the next thing you know, I've got a new best friend and little monkey on my hand willing to show me all her best tricks. Like Samantha & Avery! I met them with their mom to capture the last period they'll be a family of four as they're expecting their fifth member shortly.

Needless to say, I wasn't bored for a second during this shoot, and you can see how this was a rewarding thing!

Grandparents (very) Welcome!

2008-08-24T11:06:00.004-06:00

Abbey's grandparents came along for her session and I got these two shots that have me convinced it's official: not only am I open to grandparents coming along to sessions, I'm going to start inviting them!

How precious is this?

Ah, Abbey!

2008-08-24T10:43:00.011-06:00

When Angela opened the door, it was love at first sight for me with Abbey! It's true, I kind of develop photographer crushes on babies that are deadly-photogenic. I can't help it! It wasn't just her eyes and her fantastic little mouth that curled with every feeling, it was that she was like a little firecracker of emotions, and that, for me, is candy to work with. Check her out! She could do no wrong.

Winning Sally

2008-08-24T10:07:00.008-06:00

I often get asked why I chose to work with children and for me it's a no-brainer; children are the most generous subjects; I am kind and patient with them, and love them, and in exchange they gift me with their beautiful little uninhibited spirits that are always so raw in emotion. The most difficult part of my job is waiting for parents to find that abandon while in front of the camera. It's a real treat when while waiting, I finally catch that moment when a parent forgets about me for a split second and just feel the moment they're in with their child. Much like this one, with Jeremy and Sally.

I had a fantastic session with Sally and Nina at High Park. My favorite part by far was winning over Sally, who was soooo shy when she first saw me she could barely bring herself to look at me. By the end of the session, she was glued to my leg and wanted to stay at the park and play. How does my heart not explode when these things happen??

Quincy & Wayne

2008-08-24T09:33:00.008-06:00

I met Quincy and Wayne on the beach and could have easily spent a whole day with those two! They had the greatest rapport together; Quincy completely looks up to and adores her big brother, and it was really sweet to watch and shoot.

At one point I had them both sit on a bench together and Wayne was firing off a funny story and giggling throughout and Quincy was repeating every one of his sentences after he'd said them and laughing herself, and I could barely hold the camera straight I was giggling so much myself! I loved their infectious little personalities, it was a pure joy to spend time with these two little cookies. Here are a few of my favorite shots from this session!

A beautiful start to my week

2008-08-10T13:32:00.011-06:00

Last monday I finally got to meet Stephanie's baby boys. Remember Stephanie? I'd so been looking forward to this session, and although Stephanie came over with low expectations because of her little guys' unpredictable mood swings, the session was even more perfect than I could have hoped.

Mom came on her own, which was a treat for me because I got to help out by rocking and coo-ing one of the boys while we tried to get them both to sleep. And then! Magic. Check it out!

Love Spell

2008-08-01T22:11:00.012-06:00

What made my session with Jakob magical was how completely in love his parents are not only with him, but with each other. I felt like I had newlyweds in the room, it was so sweet, special, and really, candy for the camera. Look at this shot I snuck of Jenny as she looked on at her husband and son hanging out together.

These two are planning on having a large family and I am totally rooting for them; with a love like that they're bound to make some really joyful little people that will spread the happy in the world.

Now let's talk about Jakob! Downright adorable with his little smirks and his "AH" face that made me crack right up! Have a peek at these, they're sure to paste a smile on your face!

A Friday Morning Miracle

2008-08-01T20:18:00.012-06:00

When we were chatting on the phone about her maternity session, I told Rhonda that although it could be very difficult to get a nice family shot with two kids, a husband and a belly, she should bring everyone along and we'd give it a shot... if anything, we would get some great individual shots of each child with mom and her belly.

Then they showed up, and magic happened! Not only were the kids beautiful and animated and so happy to hang out and play, but they were actually so easy to work with and we got some great family shots with Rhonda's bump. I was especially crazy about little Siera, who had so much personality and charisma! She showed up and gave me that awesome first shot that I love getting from toddlers, that ultra-shy look when they're trying to figure out if they like me and trust me. And then within minutes she just exploded into this vivacious little quirky girl that wasn't just a joy to watch, but photographed just beautifully.

I have to talk about Brandon too! He was so cooperative and so sweet and so patient with his little sister, he's only five years old but he acted like he was twelve. I was so impressed with him! I cannot wait to see these little cookies again soon when this little peanut makes an appearance.

Cute as a Button

2008-08-01T19:11:00.009-06:00

It could have been the little button nose itself, or those adorable little smirks and puckers she made when she chatted with me; whatever it was, I was totally smitten with Mia yesterday. What a sweet little soul to have around! I could see within minutes where the enchantment in her parents' eyes came from.

Here are a few of my favorites from my session with Mia. Look at the way she stands with her feet tucked together and one foot always on her tippy-toes... what a cutie!!

Seven Times Lucky

2008-08-01T19:01:00.003-06:00

I spent a morning at the beach with a biiiiig family this week, and let me tell you... at first the thought of photographing 13 relatives didn't thrill me, but after meeting these folks, I was so glad we went ahead and did this shoot, because spending the morning with Sonja and Mikey's kids and grandkids was so much fun I could have stayed there with them all day and not felt the time go by.

I used to think that having kids was the best thing in life. But after seeing Sonja and Mickey with their seven little treasures, I realize now that the best things in life have to be grandkids!

There are soooo many portraits from this shoot, I decided to be fair and post this little compilation to celebrate the art of grandparenthood. Enjoy the peek, you guys! :)

Soul Candy

2008-07-24T16:21:00.012-06:00

I had a bad day two days ago that put a damper on my mood and bled into yesterday and stuck around still early this morning. But then Mylah came over, and I've had a smile on my face since she left!

Danielle and Roger came to me months ago and gave me this money shot that I adore to this day:

I was more than pleased to see them today because after our maternity session, they moved to Ottawa and off my radar, I'd thought, possibly for good. I don't know if they made the trip for me, but I'm glad they made it period because meeting Mylah was an absolute treat. I'm really crazy about alot of these shots...

This little rat-tail is completely for real! When they came in I thought "Oh my goodness, why would anyone give their baby a rat tail!?" but when I laughed Danielle pointed out that it's just the way Mylah's hair grew in, and that she was dying to cut it off but Roger forbade her to. Thank goodness!! What a cute shot.

Unbelievable.

2008-07-24T11:34:00.003-06:00

My sister, Roxy, was a translator a few months ago and not particularly thrilled with her job, so she decided to take a baking and cake decorating class, out of nowhere.

Now she's doing this!

That's right, those aren't real flowers, those are actually freaking cupcakes!!

It blows my mind. I'll post more information when we're finished shooting her portfolio!

Falling in Love All Over Again

2008-07-20T15:55:00.005-06:00

My sister and her husband (aka; Captain Handsome and Plum) came over for a visit on Sunday afternoon when out of nowhere Roxy said “Why don’t you take a few pictures of us?” The last time I photographed them was almost two years ago so I was thrilled at the thought. I plugged in a strobe (what a gray day it was) and had them cuddle up as they would if they were spending a quiet evening in together watching a movie.

I’m pretty confident I got the desired effect because the next thing I knew, they were laughing and kissing and saying “Aww.. this is so nice! Who knew that on a Sunday afternoon after grabbing a coffee we’d be cuddling on Jo’s couch and falling in love all over again!”

I love these two, not just individually but as a couple. They're so into each other, if I wasn't such a romantic I'd probably find them totally disgusting. I’d say as far as the hope to find love goes, they have to be my best inspiration.

J'aime la Plage

2008-07-20T15:32:00.011-06:00

Well it’s late in the season, but this was my first beach session this summer! I cannot believe how much time is flying by this year… wasn’t I just shuffling through snow not that long ago??

I met Dana and the family at the beach up & at 'em on a Friday morning at 7:30am when the light was absolutely perfect.

We had to catch Sarah at two years old before those little chubby thighs turn into little skinny limbs, and before those delicious golden locks grow into a whole head of long hair. Such a fleeting time! I completely fell in love with those little curls at the back of her head. What a pretty little thing!

Mamma Mia!

2008-07-20T15:09:00.006-06:00

I met an incredibly handsome couple for a maternity session on Friday. It'd been a few weeks since my last maternity session and this was quite the way to get back on the wagon!

Sarah's belly was just impeccable. It would have been a travesty not to have it photographed! Here are a few of my favorites.

A little flower named Anita

2008-07-20T14:14:00.014-06:00

Newborn sessions have to be my favorite kind of session this past little while, and I'm so glad I got to photograph a second five-day-old cookie last week. I'm spoiled! I saw Eliza and John with their little gem, Anita, a few days ago. Newborn sessions usually take the longest because we're often waiting for the baby to fall asleep, but if you're going to have to sit around and chat with a couple you don't know that well for up to two hours, wouldn't you choose to do it with a couple who's brimming with joy because they just had a beautiful baby?

My session with Anita was perfect. My favorite part of it was watching John being the expert at calming and putting Anita to sleep. I don't see it very often since dads are usually a little clumsy with this stuff, so it was so special to watch. I had to take a few shots of that.

Have a peek at some of my favorites... they'll make you swoon, I promise.

Hello, little darling!

2008-07-20T13:50:00.009-06:00

What can I tell you about little Kayla? She was a treat to phograph. Cute as a button, gave me a slew of little expressions and poses that were absolutely irresistible, and chipper the whole time we hung out together!

It was one of those easy-peasy sessions that made me look like my job is a little too easy! Here are a few of my favorite shots..

Happy Birthday, Mike

2008-07-20T13:38:00.011-06:00

I met Sheila, Ayden and Mike for a session that was a birthday gift for Mike. I have a soft spot for this shoot because when he came in with his scruffy face and leather boots, Mike kind of reminded me of my dad, and I have to admit it made me a little home sick! Most people think I'm from Quebec because I'm french-canadian, but I'm actually from Timmins (or Shania-land). It's been a while since I've been there, I may have to find the time to make it up there for a visit soon.

If you look at these shots before reading this, you don't need me to tell you how awesome it was to photograph Ayden. I mean, look at that face... he's a little wide-eyed angel and was just candy for the camera. Here are a favorite few from this session... I think I totally nailed the relationship shot I wanted to capture of Mike & Ayden that day.

The Cheese

2008-07-20T13:12:00.008-06:00

Is it true? Am I cheesey? I don't know. There's a fine line between being romantic and being corny, and I was accused to have crossed it when I spent some time with Gabriella and her little guy.

She said it's all about Photoshop. I said it's all about her family and capturing moments when they were being sweet together, and the next thing I knew I was being called corny.

Now all I can do is defend myself with proof that Gabrielle's family is beautiful, and that beautiful photos of them have nothing to do with Photoshop and everything to do with them, and me just catching the moment.

Somebody back me up here!

There's a new goddess in town

2008-07-20T10:17:00.009-06:00

Remember the Gods? Well they had a perfect little baby girl last week and they were brave enough to bring her by at five days old! It wasn't an easy feat for Godric who was put through the ringer with the delivery, but I am so so so thankful she found the strength to come so early, because the photographs are absolutely marvelous and I am so thrilled with them, as I'm sure they will be.

Perfection, this little doll. Absolutely perfect... look at her!

How Can It Be?

2008-07-19T18:34:00.008-06:00

I saw Xavier on his first birthday this week and thought, could it be possible? It's been a year already?? Time is really flying by this year, and the fun part is seeing the same wee little babies show up at my door almost walking. It's like some kind of funny magic!

I had a blast shooting Xavier... He gave me a ton of opportunities to catch those cute little teeth that are irresistible in a one year old. I love how when babies get their first teeth they always jut them out and make the silliest faces!

Love Fest

2008-07-19T17:49:00.013-06:00

When I meet families like Krista’s, I think it’s absurd when I hear them thank me for having photographed them. These children were so gorgeous it was RIDIculous. But what made the session exceptionally great was hands down the relationships between family members in this little troupe. There was so much love and fun in the room it would have been impossible not to get fantastic shots. I think I spent more time trying to pick out my favorites than actually blogging about this bunch! There were so many to pick from.

I adored working with Oakley, a toothy little ham that was such a little model I could hardly keep my camera off of him. He gave me these poses that almost looked practiced!

But Johnny sure gave him a run for his money with those adorable curly locks and those big blue eyes and thick lashes. Ah, boys. They always get the lashes.

Sigh. I love my job, it's way too much fun.

Oh My Word.

2008-07-06T03:06:00.009-06:00

So, I bought myself a new camera last week. And I suffered a bit of buyer's remorse for it. I knew I needed it, and that it would be good for me, but whenever I buy something big & important, I do this thing. It sat in the box for two days until my shoot with Anaya, where I finally sucked it up and took it out for its first ride.

Wow. Now I'm not sure if I'm in love with Anaya because of the new camera or if I'm in love with the new camera because of Anaya; the bottom line is, this session left me inspired and really, really happy with where my work is headed these days. Here are some really beautiful shots from this session. I hope they make you sigh, too! :)

Cherry Bomb

2008-07-06T02:48:00.008-06:00

Sophie is a red-headed little darling that was like an explosion of happiness in the loft! It was late in the day and she was actually tired through the middle of the shoot if you can believe it... if you look at the before-last shot, you'll see she's all glassy-eyed but still brimming! So beautiful, so sweet, and with those irresistible little gerber-baby curls, too. She was simply a treat to photograph. I miss her already!

A Brand New Brother

2008-07-06T02:37:00.008-06:00

Guess what? Riley's a big brother!

I love that shot because it's got double belly buttons! I met Cristian not long ago and I can't believe how much he looks like his brother already. It makes me anxious to see him as a toddler; I can already see the shoot with Cristian as a toddler and Riley, I'm pretty sure Cristian will look like a shrunken version of Riley!

And now for that delicious baby chub!

Aaaahhhhhhh yes... baby drama. I love it!

One Whole Year

2008-07-06T02:20:00.007-06:00

It's so exciting to celebrate my years in business by seeing so many of my first clients come back with their growing little wonders. Kainen was one of them last week! I met his parents when they were expecting him, and met him when he was just a week old. Remember the pug shot with the yawning baby? That's him! Here he is, all grown up a year later...

This is my favorite shot from the whole session...

Mademoiselle Personalité!

2008-07-06T02:11:00.007-06:00

Makayla is a firecracker. That's a fact! I had so much fun shooting her; she was full of quirky little expressions that turned what could have been ordinary photographs into extraordinary portraits that could bring a smile on anyone's face! Have a peek at these... they're my favorite, and coincidentally, all compliment each other so well!

Waiting for Two

2008-07-06T01:55:00.005-06:00

I am going to just squeal with joy when I see Stephanie's name pop up on my call display in a few weeks because that'll mean I'm photographing twins!! Here they are, swimming around and getting ready for their first close-up!

No Auditions Here!

2008-07-06T01:34:00.007-06:00

Someone told me the other day that my clients are so beautiful they look as though they were all auditioned! I guess I am lucky I get to photograph such lovely babies and kids... but really, aren't all children gorgeous?

Ciara's little ones were no exception to this assumption; look at them! They're so perfect.

I *adore* this shot... hee hee! It's an armful of crabbies! This is one of those shots I'm going to love to death and which will most likely get left in the dust. It's funny how smitten I am with the photographs I take of children when they're, how shall I say, not so happy? I keep wondering if this is something that will change when I have my own kids and also may not want to be reminded of the sour moments. I don't know... it's doubtful! I just can't resist the honesty in a shot like this!

Wild Things

2008-07-06T01:25:00.007-06:00

I met Sarah's little girlies not long ago for what ended up being a brief but wild little shoot. The car ride was a little too long for me to have more than a half hour or so with these little angels before all hell broke loose and everyone needed a nap or some lunch, and the tears and cookies started flying! It was crazy that day but when I think about it now I can't help but laugh. I still got some pretty fantastic shots of all of them, and I'm kind of glad I got to catch some of the fire in their personalities... it was totally worth it in the end.

Mila's a Sister!

2008-06-30T14:34:00.011-06:00

I was so ecstatic to hear that Mila just became a big sister, and that I would get to photograph her again with this little cutie. I hold this family really near to my heart, not only because they're great and always a joy to photograph, but because they were with me right from the beginning, when I met Mila for the first time! That was back in the day when I was working hard on getting my feet off the ground while moonlighting as a waitress. I can't believe I'm already at the point where I'm seeing families for the third time now, and watching them grow... it's so special, and touching. It makes me feel like a distant family member.

Have a peek at my first shoot with Mila by clicking here! And here's the second, on the beach... remember that perfect cupcake baby? That was her!

Now look at how she's grown... I can hardly believe how much time has flown!

You know what saves me at almost every toddler shoot?? The sleeping bunny song! God Bless the sleeping bunny song!

This is soooo adorable it made me squeal!

Oh, Ethan!

2008-06-25T10:01:00.009-06:00

My favorite part about Ethan was that he had eyes so enormous that his blinks almost looked like they were in slow motion because of the weight of his beautiful long lashes. Who could resist these?

This was a really nice session with a set of parents completely in love with their baby, which I loooove... because it takes quite a bit of distraction for us grown-ups to stop worrying about how we look, or where we should look, or where we should put our hands and all that jazz that we've learned to worry about when we're in front of a camera. All it takes is a beautiful baby for all of that to go out the window, and for everyone to just be real and authentic, offering me the most precious of moments to capture.

Here's a really fun, silly shot... not much to it artistically, but look at that face!

Death of the Banana Phone

2008-06-23T17:29:00.012-06:00

The Banana Phone died on a Wednesday afternoon two weeks ago. This is how it went down:

Don't be sad; the banana totally had it coming. I had SO much fun shooting Zachary with his mom & dad. They all came in for a maternity session but I have to say, it's not easy to keep myself focused on even the prettiest belly when there's a babe with this much charisma in the room!

Don't worry, I didn't forget the belly... Here are a few shots of beautiful Jillian expecting.

Sweet & Poised

2008-06-23T14:57:00.008-06:00

Not long ago, I had my second shoot with Maeve and Dylan (check out the first shoot), this time at the studio. Dylan remembered me right away and turned into a little maverick for the entire shoot.

But I had to spend a little more time getting Maeve's personality to shine through that sweet and poised exterior she is really really great at maintaining.

A challenge I welcome, because I find it so rewarding to get an array of expressions from an introverted child. I got some really great shots of Meave when she was a little shy and reluctant to open up, and then after a little chat about a few of her favorite things, I got a peek at a more comfortable and relaxed Maeve, smiling with a twinkle in her eye.

This may go down in history as one of my favorite sibling shots, ever!

Smirky Buddha

2008-06-23T14:48:00.007-06:00

I love spending an afternoon with a smirky baby and Aiden gave me just that! Look at this...

When babies' eyes turn into little crescent moons, I all but melt. What else do I love, you ask? Why, the Buddha belly, of course!!

Here are a couple more of Aiden...

Hands Off That Ponytail!!

2008-06-23T14:03:00.011-06:00

It's not often I get an urge to smack a parent's hand out of the way but when Mia's mom reached over to fix her crooked ponytails, I had to chime in! "Hands OFF that ponytail!!"

I had a really good reason, though... This is my reason:

Now you may be thinking: "Josee, those are sort of all the same, did you have to post every single one of those ponytail pictures?" and my answer to this is: "Yes, very yes, they are each more beautiful and unique than the other, and together they work like a little poem that sings of what it is to be a little girl."

I think children are never more perfect than when they've come undone on the outside, because it's proof that on the inside, they are free little spirits that are too busy exploring and enjoying the world to worry about how they look. It's one of the reasons I completely adore photographing children.

Jenny & Michael aren't just blessed with gorgeous little Mia, they also have a little cookie named Carter who was just as lovely and fun to photograph. Here are a few more of my favorites from our session together.

Siiiiiiiiiiiigh.....

2008-06-14T09:38:00.011-06:00

I lost my heart on Friday morning. Jesse James stole it, and the funny thing is he was asleep the whole time! I don't really have words to describe the pleasure it was to photograph him, I can only say that browsing through the photographs has had me sighing and awing, and wondering how I'm going to get my heart back. What a little muse he was with that hair and those adorable squishy lips and those sleepy newborn moves that make you wonder if there's ever again a time in a human being's life where sleeping can feel as comfortable as a newborn looks when dozing.

I'm going crazy here... here are a bunch of my favorites.

I know I've been teRRible at blogging lately; not for lack of wanting to, I can assure you. The truth is I think the last time I was this busy was just before the holidays, and I'm having a heck of a time catching up. But will you ever catch me complaining about spending countless hours working on photographs of beautiful children and sitting with teary parents as they enjoy their angels in my work? Never! Bear with me as I get through the next week and keep an eye on the blog as there are about twenty sessions I should be blogging about the minute I get the chance to. I've been meeting alot of adorable & interesting people that warrant a little chat about.

It's a Newborn Blog-a-thon!

2008-05-25T18:32:00.024-06:00

I saw alot of newborns last week! It makes sense, since I saw alot of pregnant woman just a few months ago! :) Here they are in no particular order...

This is little Taro! A pretty chill little baby, this one... you wouldn't think so judging from that last shot, but I think that fuss lasted just a minute or two. I can't resist those little gums you see when newborns cry, it's just so precious. (I know, only a girl without children would say that, right?)

It was great to see Dax again, too... I was really touched that he remembered me and took to me as soon as he saw me. Kudos to brave mom Mylene who's sure to have her hands full once this new one starts chasing Dax around the house!

This here is little miss Clare, born to Natasha & Brent just a week ago! If you ask me, this little cookie loves being photographed as much as her mom did! :)

And this little number is Isabella, Amanda and Greg's little doll. I caught her on an off day so we'll be meeting again this week for a few more shots, but I had to post these... I just looooove this family shot below where dad's looking over at mom.

And finally, last but certainly not least, is this little cutie-patootey called Ilona. Usually I spend a session looking for quirky little expressions and faces, but Ilona stuck her tongue out at me during the entire shoot so instead of looking for faces, I was shooting between the faces she was making at me! It was so cute, I'd do it all over again.

I (heart) Shaan

2008-05-25T17:36:00.008-06:00

It'd only been three months since I'd last seen Shaan, so I didn't realize how much I could miss him. I DID! He'd grown so much, and he grew the most fantastic head of hair to go with those amazing big eyes of his and is accumulating the most irresistible baby chub!

I adore working with Shaan, he's so expressive, and his mom is always really great at giving me these really great affectionate moments that are just eye candy. Here are just a few of my favorite shots from my session with Shaan...

Shooting the Gods

2008-05-25T17:08:00.004-06:00

I met Godric and Godfrey not long ago for a maternity session. They were referred to me by Amanda & Greg, who told me that they refer to these two as "the Gods"; so when Godric and Godfrey are throwing a dinner party, how could Amanda & Greg not dine with the Gods? It's hilarious, I love it.

And I loved this couple, too, and their adorable little Charlotte who's one of the most affectionate and cuddliest dogs I've ever met. Here are a few of my favorite shots from this session.

The Prettiest Belly

2008-05-17T22:55:00.009-06:00

What can I tell you about Eliza that you won't already think when you look at her portraits and think "Wow..."? She was positively radiant! I met her and John just a few days ago and was smitten with this couple from the start. I have to admit, I have a weakness for maternity shoots with blondes. It's because I'm a light junkie, so when everything on my subject glows, including hair, I'm in heaven! Have a peek at these favorites of mine, I dare you not to "awe!" :)

And the award for Most Romantic Daddy goes to....

2008-05-17T18:28:00.012-06:00

Jacen, hands down. The same dad who brought us this shot:

makes a comeback with this one:

I just have to tell Jacen where to be and let him be, and he gives me the sweetest most loving moments to shoot.

I've been seeing the Baxters since Ava was just a baby and I absolutely adore them... they're a beautiful family through and through, and I'm always moved by the images that come from our sessions together. Kudos to them and especially Katy for bringing me little baby Evy at just four days old! I know it's terribly difficult to plan a photography session so early in a baby's life but I think (and hope you'll agree when you see these images) that it's so, so worth it! The newborn stage of a baby's life is such a fleeting time, I believe it should be documented in a beautiful way. Here are my favorite moments from my session with one of my favorite families. Look at these kids... could they be happier??

Introducing Max!

2008-05-17T18:04:00.011-06:00

In all his itty-bitty glory! Usually it takes a while to wait for a newborn to fall asleep during a session for a few of those angelic sleepy shots.. but Max wouldn't wake up! He came over out like a light, and a good half of the session was done with him dozed off. I can't complain, sleeping newborns always make for beautiful photography. Many parents are concerned about not seeing their baby's eyes when they're this young and tiny, but I think it'd be a shame to miss capturing this time in a baby's life over a detail that will change in time, anyway. I think newborn photography is about capturing the most precious and tiniest time in a baby's life, as well as capturing bonds that are so new and so charged with emotion.

I loved my session with Max and his parents. You know that sleep you get on a lazy Sunday, and you wake up and the stretch is just as delicious as the sleep itself? Newborns look like they get this sleep every time they go down... it's so beautiful.

HAH-PITCHOOO!

2008-05-17T00:08:00.006-06:00

I love catching a good sneeze... they're so cute and funny in photos!

Sometimes the most gorgeous babies show up at my door and I see them and think "Oh my word, really??" because they feel more like little gifts than work! Isabella was absolutely one of these cases. Look at those eyes!

No Such Thing as a Bad Day

2008-05-16T23:48:00.009-06:00

Yes it happens, sometimes babies are just not happy about being disturbed for a photoshoot. But when parents are trying not to stress and are panicking about the possibility of their session going way wrong, I'm busy shooting what have to be the best parenting portraits I could get. Because while baby is fussing, mom and dad are at their parenting best, soothing & cooing their babies with all the love and tenderness only a parent could have.

My session with Jude was one of these sessions, and I'm completely thrilled with what I captured that day. We of course got those golden moments were this little man was at his best... but we got these parenting shots more beautiful than I could ever had hoped for, too. Some of these I just don't think I would have gotten if Jude had been all peachy keen for the duration of the shoot.

My very favorite is the long shot of mom cuddling Jude to sleep. It's just sooo romantic, it feels like poem about motherhood.

Joanna's Angels

2008-05-16T22:22:00.007-06:00

Meeting and photographing Joanna's little cookies was all-around fun and almost too easy... both of them took to me really quickly so we had a whole hour of just fun & games, and I got some really precious portraits of them. My favorites? The upside down "I'm the Big Brother" shot, of course...

Even better is the classic baby-new-to-walking stumble-strut... look at that tiny toe touching the floor, does it get cuter than that?

But the best has to be this one, for me:

It's warm, intimate, there's so much love in it, and it's the moment just before Jasmine takes that little teddy bear and rubs her nose in it before dozing off for a nap. There are some things I'm not able to capture in children because two hours isn't enough to catch every habit and quirk, but I'm so pleased I caught this one. Gives me warm fuzzies to look at it.

Here are a couple more stars from this shoot...

Have you been?

2008-05-16T22:08:00.006-06:00

Hello Sunshine is a fantastic and clever little store at the corner of High Park & Bloor St West. When I ventured in to see if they might be interested in hanging some of my work in their store, I was pleased to find out it's not just the store that's cool; the owners of the store, Christina & Delko, are awesome, and their kids are a joy! I got to photograph them together on a beautiful afternoon.

So I'm thinking, if everything that is inside Hello Sunshine is cool, then I'm cool by default now, aren't I? (hee hee!) If you haven't been to this place, you're really missing out. And the next time you do go, tell Delko & Christina I said "Hi!"

Happy, Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T17:14:00.004-06:00

Click Here, all you beautiful Mammas!

Tickle, tickle!

2008-05-06T22:26:00.008-06:00

I often get asked "what do we bring" when my clients inquire about a session. Here's the best thing you can bring to a session:

That's right, the tickle. The world's most classic and consistently successful move is the best thing you can bring to a session. It evokes smiles, laughs, grins, giggles, squirms and chuckles, and it's impossible to leave at home.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from a session I had with Ani's little cookie... quite a charmer, this one.

I really love this mom shot... it's so romantic. (Sigh! Look at that little hand!)

The World's Tiniest flirt!

2008-05-06T21:56:00.008-06:00

I met Graydon just before going on vacation and he was the wee littlest flirt I've ever met! Look at this... every time he saw me and the camera, no matter what was going on, he just perked up!

I have to say though, that my favorite part of this session was his mom; she has to be the cutest mom I've ever met. Her baby talk is so adorable I was squint-smiling the whole time, I loved it. Without further due... my favorites!

Peek-a-boo! I see two!

2008-05-06T12:17:00.013-06:00

Well! There's one thing I know for sure: Cathy & Jon will never be bored, ever again!

They along with their little pumpkin Sydney welcomed Jack & Lucas two months ago and now I don't doubt it's a party every day at this house. We had many laughs together the day of our session and it didn't take me long to fall in love with their energy and all of that personality. Did I mention how much I love twins? I love twins. Love 'em!! Here are a few of my favorites from this session...

Colin + Sarah

2008-05-04T11:56:00.021-06:00

They say that couples who laugh together, last together. I believe that because of Colin & Sarah, friends of mine who were married last week in Mexico on a gorgeous day.

I am sooo happy I went along for this ride because it was a thrill to witness & capture. For Colin & Sarah, of course, who were made for each other and always have me doing that head-cock punctuated with an "aww" when I see them together. But I really also fell in love with their family and friends, who were warm, fun and hilarious people that made me feel like family all week. I was sorry to see half of them fly back to Vancouver at the end; wish I could have stuck a few in my pocket to hang out with in Toronto!

The one thing that made Colin & Sarah even cooler than they already are, is that they went along with a "trash the dress" shoot after the wedding day, which had me photographing them in all sorts of places compromising their spotless wedding outfits. But what a turnout... I'm absolutely ecstatic with the images from this day. They made me smile, laugh and cry. I hope they do the same for my old friends, and my new ones. Here are a few of my favorites...

Hola! From sunny Mexico!

2008-05-02T09:45:00.003-06:00

Well I am almost at the end of my holiday and will be returning home in two days. Apologies to those who have been trying to reach me this week; I promised myself a whole week away from the internet while on vacation, if only to assure myself I am nor a work or an internet addict (hurray, I´m somewhat balanced!). I have mixed emotions today; half of me will (of course) miss the beach, the lounge chair and the pile of books next to me, making me a little emotional about the departure. But the other half of me misses home, my friends, my puppy-doll and work. As I thought about that this morning I got a warm feeling of gratitude for being someone that can say they miss work... what a great career I have.

I am in Mexico with friends who were wed here a few days ago, and will have some gorgeous images to share with you when I return, along with a few from sessions I wasn´t able to get to before the trip. I´m really looking forward to getting back in touch with you all!

It's raining boys!

2008-04-25T01:59:00.009-06:00

Whenever I book a shoot with 2 or more boys, I wind up with a bit of an overwhelming "phew, what have I gotten myself into" feeling when they all come busting in with all that energy. But it doesn't take long for me to remember why that energy is just gold. Sessions with multiple kids are always a challenge (because it's difficult to keep everyone in the same immediate area) BUT what they are fantastic for is that without fail, the kids are always amazing at feeding off of each other and more than ever, I'm able to be an observer without having to rely on myself or mom & dad for entertainment. In the end I have these portraits that are just so great, organic and true to the spirit of my little subjects.

Here are a few of my faves from my session with Joanne's little guys. I'm so thrilled she brought them to me!

It's a wee lil' baby flirt!

2008-04-21T21:57:00.007-06:00

Shooting Reagan was just plain fun! This little flirt came in with pockets full of smiles and all sorts of moves to show off. This is one of those cases that gets dangerous for me because when it's easy breezy and just fun, it's hard to stop and I wind up going a little overboard with the number of shots I get! But who could complain, really? Have a peek at some of my favorite shots of Reagan with his parents... check out those eyes and that little kissy mouth. What a cutie-pie!

Oh and there's another reason I adored Reagan... He rocks it like he means it!

Let's gasp together, shall we?

2008-04-14T20:18:00.003-06:00

I was working on the final edits of Katy's maternity photos tonight when I came across this one shot again... I held my hand to my heart and gasped. I just love it so much, it emanates love and tenderness, and it's just so beautiful. I had to post it! How did I manage to miss it when I posted sneak peeks of this shoot?

Sunny Mexico

2008-03-31T10:10:00.003-06:00

I will be away on vacation from April 25th to May 6th, so if you have a time-sensitive session to schedule, please don't hesitate to book it as soon as possible.

The Next Great Thinker

2008-03-27T21:05:00.010-06:00

Remember Josh & Tracy?

Well look at the beautiful little baby boy they made!

I met this little marvel just a few days ago and what's there not to love? All itty bitty and cuddly and I swear, smiley. He had two looks for me; smiley bliss....

and the suspicious thinker. Look here, as this little guy seems to be growing more & more suspicious of me...

Maybe it wasn't suspicion, after all. Maybe he was busy resolving the world's problems already. He could be our next great thinker!

How relaxed are my sessions?

2008-03-27T20:41:00.006-06:00

Apparently very, very relaxing!

(Hee Hee!!)

"Whoah Momma!" Eyes

2008-03-27T17:11:00.008-06:00

When I met Zachary last week, all I could say when he came in was "Whoah! Look at those eyes!" They're enormous, crystal-clear little windows into one happy baby!

I had a great time during this session, which featured some of my favorite baby things:

The flirty over-the-shoulder gaze:

Fantastic baby-chub:

The daddy crush:

The inexplicable & unsolicited undeniable posing:

The tongue smile:

The giggle-shriek:

And all-around great time with this little fella.

Havin' a Hoot with a Doll

2008-03-27T15:41:00.007-06:00

I met Grace not long ago and she was such a treat to photograph! She came in like a little ray of sunshine with her moms and I think if she was a cartoon, would've spun rainbows and little birds around the room. It was one of those sessions that was so breezy it felt like it ended too soon. I wouldn't of minded keeping that little cookie around for the remainder of the morning!

Here are a few of my favorites from this session...