Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Sitting Baby Photography Session Tips {Photography Tips for Photographers}

Sitting Baby Photography Session Tips

baby photographer 6 month old collage

A popular milestone to capture for my clients after the newborn session is when the babies are sitting, usually somewhere around their 6month mark for full term babies. This can be a successful and fun session if things run smoothly and babies stay happy.

Please follow the link below to read my article on The Perfect Pose website with tips for keeping the sitting baby sessions smooth and capturing a variety of images.

Beautiful baby model here is little Miss Eliza, one of the studio's Blooming Babies!

Tips for photographing a sitting baby!

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Baby Photography Workshop Giveaway {Newborn Photographer in Maryland and DC}

Announcing our Baby Photography Workshop Giveaway!
baby photography workshop banner


It is just too easy to enter!
Head over to our Facebook page HERE for the details.

On March 29th a winner will be announced!

Workshop seat value: $900
Location: Edgewater, MD 21037

What is included?
  • 1 day small group workshop on April 28th from 9-5, snacks & lunch
  • Training for: business, marketing, sales, session prep & setup, shooting & session flow, posing, post processing in Lightroom and Photoshop
  • Our workshop workbook of all covered topics to reference later
  • Rita's custom templates for her baby announcements and most popular album
  • Rita's custom actions
  • Posing guides with setup and lighting details for all first year sessions--newborn, smiling, sitting, standing/Birthday**


Why do I teach?
I have been asked numerous times why take time out of a successful portrait business to teach other photographers...well I was a self taught photographer for most of my career and it took years of trial and error and practice to improve and learn. I offered to intern for established photographers when I didn't have the finances yet for workshops but nobody wanted to hire me--they told me the market was saturated, there wasnt room for more photographers, that it was a hard business to be successful so find something else--yes the professional industry told me these things. Talk about discouraging, well with the support and encouragement of my husband, family, & friends to push through and learn. Through the years I have improved and built a successful profitable portrait business and wish to help in the success of those seeking to fulfill their dreams in this business.

Why small group?
I have mentored photographers over the past year one-on-one and have found great satisfaction in giving back and helping those starting out where I did myself years ago. But with a new baby and my portrait business being very busy I have less time on my hands. So this year I have decided to offer small group workshops, adding more to the curriculum and allowing aspiring photographers to walk away with what they need to start on the right foot in a baby photography business. I still have limited one-on-one openings if you do prefer that type of learning environment.

Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is ideal for photographers wishing to learn more about photographing babies, start a baby photography business, improve your business, or add babies to your already established portrait business.

Please visit our website for a portfolio of images and more information on the studio and my work.

baby photography workshop banner
**all posing guides are scheduled to be released by May 20, 2012.

*edited to update giveaway announcement date.

Friday, February 24, 2012

A Big Sister was born {MD Newborn Photographers}

Marina with her little sister Lillie!
newborn with sibling

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Bitsy Baby Photography on Pinterest

Bitsy Baby Photography Inspiration on Pinterest

Yes we have a photography inspiration board on Pinterest and would love to meet you there! Here is the link, pin us, follow us, and be inspired.

baby photography inspiration on pinterest

Pinterest actually offers so much more than photography inspiration including DIY crafts, recipes, entertaining and decorating ideas, style & clothing inspiration, and so much more.

If you are not already on Pinterest and would like an invite, send us an email and we will get you one :)

Happy Pinning!

About the Artist: Rita Lawrence is a professional baby photographer specializing in the season of newborn baby portraits to the one year old birthday milestone. Through her baby photography workshops she also teaches photographers how to start and run a profitable Baby's First Year business such as hers. Workshops are in a small group setting and offer a complete curriculum for business, hands-on session/model experience, and post-processing training in Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. Check out the website HERE for more information on these baby photography workshops.

Using ISO in the Auto Mode {Basic DSLR Photography Tips}

Do you photograph in the Auto Mode?



I remember when I really started getting serious about photography, when I decided to properly learn how to use my DSLR camera and quite waiting for those lucky accident shots. I had to start slowly--one detail at a time and I started with learning the ISO feature while still shooting in fairly auto mode. I'll cover some basic details here if you are ready to take a step forward with your DSLR camera but still not ready to move completely out of the Auto Mode.

First take out your camera....



Now look at your Mode Dial and be sure you are on the Program Mode (the letter P) and not the Auto Mode ( green box or says Auto). The Program Mode gives you some control but the camera still takes care of a lot for you.



Now go into your ISO settings ( if you dont know how to do this look at your manual under ISO or google "how to change ISO on _____ and insert your camera model name").



Put the ISO setting on 100. Now prepare a sample subject, a bowl of fruit, flower, sleeping baby whatever is easiest. Take a photo.



Now go back into the ISO and increase the number to 200. Take the same photo.



Continue these steps increasing the ISO each time until you get to the highest number.



Now go back through your images on your display or computer and you will see that as the ISO number gets higher the sensor is more sensitive and therefore more light is available for your photo.



Try this a few times in various lighting situations and it will help you become familiar and comfortable with changing the ISO.





About the Artist:

Rita Lawrence is a professional baby photographer specializing in the season of newborn baby portraits to the one year old birthday milestone. Through her baby photography workshops she also teaches photographers how to start and run a profitable Baby's First Year business such as hers. Workshops are in a small group setting and offer a complete curriculum for business, hands-on session/model experience, and post-processing training in Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. Check out the website HERE for more information on these baby photography workshops.

What I love for Pregnancy - Third Trimester {Maternity Photographer DC}

A few things I love for pregnancy now that I'm in my third trimester!

maternity photographer Maryland

Aveda
All Mamas know the further along we arrive in our pregnancy the more uncomfortable and in need of pampering we are! We feel muscles we never knew we had and sometimes have issues that are a little too personal to talk about. For me at 37 weeks along now the main issues are my sore back, swollen feet, and hands with severe carpal tunnel symptoms. So let's jump into how I get my mind off things lately. The quality of Aveda products surpasses anything else I have tried and because I am highly sensitive to chemicals and fragrances Aveda is perfect for me. So for some pampering during my pregnancy (or anytime!) here are a couple things I can't live without.

Caribbean-Therapy Body Scrub
I use this as part of my relaxing hot bath routine--at least a couple times a week. It is like going to the spa in your own bathroom; so renewing and refreshing and leaves your skin so smooth & smelling nice! Tune into Pandora (the ESP Deep Relaxation station), relax in a hot bath and before getting out use this scrub =)

Prenatal Massage
I have always gone to my local Aveda salon for massages but during pregnancy when your belly is growing they even have a table that accommodates the baby bump :). You are transcended into another world of peace and relaxation.

Citizens of America Jeans
I'll be honest these are the only pair of maternity jeans that fit me well now, I wear them nearly daily and switch with leggings on my wash days :). I do wish the bellyband was higher because I don't like the line across under my shirt and if I roll it down its not tight enough...but their so comfortable I'll just take the line. They can be dressed up or down and just feel so darn good on! I got mine at Appleseed Boutique, and their worth the price!!

What To Expect
If you are like me, you have a zillion questions during your pregnancy about symptoms, baby's growth, birth, epidurals, cervical checks, Dr visits, cord clamping, breast feeding, and the list goes on and on. I have done quite a bit of research and found Whattoexpect.com has much of the most up to date general information to answer many of my questions. They also have a great online community where you can connect with other Mamas!

Prenatal Belly Art / Intuitive Henna / Belly casting
Christalene is one of the kindest souls I have met and offers some of the most beautiful work. She offers prenatal services that make any baby shower fun and unique.

Baby To Be Images Sonogram Center
It is an amazing experience to meet your baby before your birth! Linda Rihani makes that possible at her 3d/4d sonogram experience where the whole family can join in on the oohs and aahs of your sweet baby while still in your womb! We went in to,"visit" Lillie several times through my pregnancy here :)

Lil Lamb Shop
As your baby gets closer you will need to do some shopping!! Don't miss the The Lil Lamb Shop nursery and baby boutique, they have an online store now too :)


Birth Information
Now I respect a mother's choice to get an epidural but I will admit I am a fan of a natural birth. I will not get into all the details here but if you hope to give birth naturally, or with little intervention, here are a couple links for support and information.
Natural Birth Blog

Article in Journal of Perinatal Education about Natural Birth

Local Birthing Centers
Special Beginnings Birth and Women's Center
Bay Area Midwifery

Birth Management without Medication
Annapolis Hypnobirthing

I used Hypnobirthing to manage my labor drug free with my first baby and will be using the same technique with this one too. I went to Kim at Annapolis Hypnobirthing for a refresher class and with continued practice will prepare for a gentle Hypnobirth.

Please click on the links within this blog to access any of the information mentioned above and share this post with your pregnant friends and family =)

Best to you, Rita

Saturday, February 4, 2012

My Maternity Portraits {Maternity Portrait Studio Annapolis}

I love the fact I always have the camera and am rarely the subject, however I could not pass up having my very own maternity portraits. And I like all styles of maternity portraits and wanted a variety so I went to see a friend at her studio in Annapolis and my studio partner took a few shots in the Bitsy Baby studio.....then when it snowed my husband snapped a couple shots outside too =) This pregnancy season is short and will soon be over and I am so thankful I'll have these wonderful memories of what I looked like while carrying my child, a reflection of the deep gratitude I have for this blessing.


36 weeks pregnant in the winter =)

maternity photographer DC
maternity photography Maryland

maternity portraits

maternity henna photography


maternity photographers DC

maternity
big sister love

my daughter and I


Can you tell I don't like looking at the camera =) =)

Surprise Baby Sprinkle for Me, Annapolis Photographer is having a baby =)

I feel so loved, I am so so thankful for my beautiful wonderful friends. They gave me the sweetest surprise Baby Sprinkle. The first ever surprise anything I've had! And lucky for me it was at Baby To Be Images Sonogram Center so I got in one last 3d/4d sono to peek in at little Lillie who is still baking in my belly =) My friend Christalene brought my beautifully decorated belly cast (perfect nursery decor) and pampered me with a prenatal henna too! Here are a few shots my friend took of us that day. I wanted a photo with everyone since many of us are military families and some will be relocating soon. Thanks to you all for making this season so sweet and lovely for me and Lillie!!

SURPRISE!!!
elevator surprise!

baby sprinkle collage

Baby Michael {Newborn Photographer in Maryland}

Meet Michael, he was my last newborn photography session until my own little sweetpea arrives! What a squishy sleepy little babe he was too, thankfully very sleepy because these days at 8 months pregnant I am not as agile and energetic in the studio =)

newborn baby photographers Maryland

newborn baby photographer DC

baby photographers in DC

About the Artist:

Rita Lawrence is a professional baby photographer specializing in the season of newborn baby portraits to the one year old birthday milestone. Through her baby photography workshops she also teaches photographers how to start and run a profitable Baby's First Year business such as hers. Workshops are in a small group setting and offer a complete curriculum for business, hands-on session/model experience, and post-processing training in Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. Check out the website HERE for more information on these baby photography workshops.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

The First Newborn Photography Session {Maryland Baby Photographers}

The First Newborn Session: How to make it go smoothly

Congratulations! You're having a baby and making sure everything is ready before the arrival of your bundle of joy. Your hospital bag is packed, the car seat installed, crib assembled, clothes washed, and parenting books read...but what about the pictures? Have you scheduled your first newborn photo shoot yet? Use these tips to make sure your session goes as smoothly as possible and you end up with the precious pictures you imagined.

newborn photographers mentoring



Schedule Early: Many couples schedule baby's photo session after the baby arrives. Yet, many sought after photographers including myself book appointments several months in advance. Scheduling an appointment before baby's arrival is the best way to ensure a true newborn photo session. We will reserve for your baby's due date – and once your baby is here we set the firm date typically 5-10 days after birth.


Morning Appointments: The early hours are the happiest for newborn babies. Select an early appointment to ensure your shoot goes smoothly and peacefully. This is not always possible depending on the demand of your photographer, however, if the option allows, choose the morning. In the Bitsy Baby studio all newborns are scheduled mid-morning to ensure the optimum experience for your session.


Clothing Optional: Many parents may want to spend hundreds of dollars preparing for their newborn's photo shoot. Yet, buying an entire new wardrobe is not necessary. The 'bare baby' picture is usually the favorite one of parents and one that will be treasured for generations to come. Consider using a variety of accessories at the photo shoot. Special blankets can provide colors and textures that will enhance the photo's appearance and just add to the heirloom nature of your portraits. Though it's the fad at the moment, many props are generally not necessary as you want the focus on your baby.


Full Tummy: This can be a little tricky for new parents; however a full tummy is always best before a photo shoot. A well fed baby will give you a content, sleepy, little one, ready to pose for the camera. We usually recommend feeding before you leave for the studio and then we will add any needed feedings throughout the session. Be sure to bring an extra couple bottles if you have them though all baby photographers will give time for nursing if needed as well.


Turn up the heat: Keeping room temperature in mind is important for baby's photo shoot. Your baby will be more comfortable with a warmer temperature. A warm baby will curl up and pose for a picture perfect session. We usually say if the adults are sweating then the baby is comfortable ;) so dress light or in layers.


Essentials: Of course, don't forget the essential baby supplies. Be sure to have pacifiers and bottles. 'Clean up' items such as burp cloths and wipes are also necessary for this shoot but typically your photographer will provide these items. Being prepared for all scenarios will keep you and baby calm during the first photo session.


Relax: Yes, everyone wants the perfect holiday card or birth announcement. However remember, sometimes wide awake babies create the most precious and memorable shots. Let your baby decide if he or she feels like smiling or sleeping and go with it. You'll love the pictures no matter what. Your baby will feed on your mood and energy so be sure to stay relaxed and calm.


Keep these tips in mind as you prepare yourselves and baby for their first photo shoot. It's a momentous occasion that will last forever, however sometimes the more natural the better. Have fun and enjoy this special occasion with your new baby!



About the Artist:

Rita Lawrence is a professional baby photographer specializing in the season of newborn baby portraits to the one year old birthday milestone. Through her baby photography workshops she also teaches photographers how to start and run a profitable Baby's First Year business such as hers. Workshops are in a small group setting and offer a complete curriculum for business, hands-on session/model experience, and post-processing training in Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. Check out the website HERE for more information on these baby photography workshops.

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We specialize in maternity photographs, newborn and baby photography, family photography with babies. Bitsy Baby Photography offers professional photography services in Edgewater, Annapolis, Baltimore, Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia and all the surrounding areas. Please browse through the Blog Archive to the right for photography tips and samples of portrait work. Please also take a look at the website portfolio here:
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