If you’re a new parent, chances are you’re running on very little sleep, managing a million little things, and wishing you could freeze time—even just for a moment.

That’s where newborn photography comes in.

But here’s the truth: this experience should never add to your overwhelm. That’s why I’ve designed my Spring Hill studio to be a calm, cozy space that feels more like an exhale than a production. It’s not about perfect poses or Pinterest pressure—it’s about slowing down and savoring what’s real.

What to Expect When You Arrive

When you walk into the studio, you won’t be rushed into a shoot. I’ll spend a few minutes just chatting with you while your baby gets used to the space and the energy. I keep the room warm and peaceful—on purpose—so everyone can relax and settle in.

Once baby is comfortable, I’ll start capturing a few gentle moments. I follow their lead, always. Whether they’re sleepy, alert, fussy, or want to be held the entire time—it’s all welcome. My approach is baby-led, meaning I move at their pace, not mine.

You can sit back, breathe, and soak in the moment.

What I Provide (So You Don’t Have To)

My studio is stocked with:

• Soft, natural wraps and swaddles
• Posing pillows and simple sets
• Wipes, diapers, and a quiet space for feeding or breaks
• A curated client closet for you and baby (more on that in a sec)

You don’t need to bring much—just the basics and anything sentimental you want included. If you’ve been gifted something special, like a family quilt, heirloom bracelet, or even a letter to your baby, let’s include it. That’s where the real magic happens.

The Client Closet – My Favorite Studio Perk

I know styling yourself in the first few weeks postpartum can feel overwhelming. That’s why I created a client closet with handpicked pieces that photograph beautifully and feel good on your body.

I have:

• Soft, flattering dresses in neutral tones
• Textured swaddles and wraps
• Coordinated headbands and tiny newborn pieces

If you’d like to use anything from the closet, just let me know ahead of time. That way I can have a few options pulled and ready for you when you arrive—steamed, styled, and stress-free.

Tips to Prep Before Your Session

Here are a few things I recommend to make the day smoother:

• Try to keep baby awake for an hour before you arrive
• Feed your baby right before the session so they’re full and sleepy
• Dress them in a simple button-up or zip-up onesie to make undressing easier
• If your baby was recently circumcised, I recommend waiting 5–7 days before coming in

But most importantly: don’t worry if things don’t go exactly to plan. I’ve photographed babies who slept the whole session and babies who stayed wide-eyed the entire time. Either way, we’ll get beautiful images.

This Isn’t Just a Photo Shoot—It’s a Memory

Every newborn session is different. Some are filled with laughter and others are quiet and tender. Some parents cry (in the best way). Others just sit still and breathe while I work.

Whatever your session looks like, my goal is the same: to help you remember this tiny chapter of life just as it is. The swaddled stretches, the yawns, the soft way they fit perfectly in your arms.

If you’re ready to create something meaningful, I’d love to photograph this season for you.

Thank you for reading my blog. I love sharing what these sessions look and feel like. If you’re interested in booking your own newborn experience, click here to get in touch.

You just had a baby. You’re short on sleep, your arms are full (literally), and the idea of “being prepared” might feel… a little ambitious. Take a deep breath—you don’t have to do it alone.

My Spring Hill studio is designed to be a soft, welcoming space where you can show up just as you are. But if you love a good checklist (or just want the day to run a little smoother), here’s my go-to guide for what to bring to your newborn session.

Your Studio Newborn Checklist

1. A Pacifier (Even if They Don’t Normally Use One)

Sometimes babies get fussy or need a little extra comfort between poses. Even if your baby doesn’t usually take a paci, having one nearby can help me calm and settle them quickly.

It’s not required—but it can be a total game-changer.

2. A Sentimental Item (Optional, but Beautiful)

If you have something meaningful—like a baby blanket from your own childhood, a special teddy bear, or a gift from a grandparent—bring it! I love finding ways to incorporate sentimental pieces that tell your family’s story.

3. Whatever You Need for Feeding

Whether you’re nursing, pumping, or bottle-feeding, I’ll pause the session anytime your baby needs to eat. A full belly makes for a much sleepier baby—and that means more of those soft, snuggly images.

• If you’re using formula, bring an extra bottle or two
• If you’re nursing, feel free to bring your favorite pillow or cover
• 💡 Pro tip: Feeding your baby right before we start helps them settle in quickly

4. An Extra Outfit—for Baby and You

Babies spit up. It happens. Bring a backup onesie or gown for your little one just in case, and I recommend a neutral shirt for you or your partner too—just in case baby leaves a little love on your shoulder during snuggles.

I’ll provide all the wraps and accessories, so no need to pack much!

5. (Side Note) If Your Baby Was Recently Circumcised…

If your baby has been circumcised, I recommend waiting 5–7 days before your session. This gives their body time to heal and helps keep them comfortable during posing. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to walk you through it.

What I Have Ready at the Studio

I’ve stocked the studio with everything you might need, so you don’t have to stress about packing it all:

• Soft wraps, swaddles, and posing pillows
• A client closet with flattering, flowy dresses you can borrow
• Wipes, blankets, and cozy comforts for baby
• A private, quiet space for feeding or snuggling between setups

A Quick Note from Me

The best sessions aren’t about perfection. They’re about presence.

I’ve had parents show up feeling a little frazzled and leave with full hearts and a gallery of images they love. Bring what you can, and I’ll take care of the rest. We’ll follow your baby’s lead, take breaks when needed, and move at a pace that feels calm and easy.

You don’t need to do anything fancy—you just need to show up. I’ve got you.

Thank you so much for being here. I love sharing stories and tips that help you feel more prepared—and more seen. If you’re ready to plan a session that feels true to you, click here to get in touch.

When you’re getting ready for a photo session—whether it’s branding, boudoir, maternity, or something just for you—there’s one element that can instantly elevate the entire experience: professional hair and makeup.

Not because you need it.
But because it lets you breathe, soften, and settle into the moment with confidence.

A great makeup artist doesn’t just help you look put together—they help you feel ready. And when you feel good before you even step in front of the camera?
It shows up in every photo.

Meet Kierra – A Calming, Grounding Presence in Riverview, FL

Kierra is the owner of Kies to Beauty, and she brings so much more than brushes and blush to the table. She has this grounded, encouraging energy that makes my clients feel at ease the moment they sit in her chair.

Whether it’s your first branding session, a postpartum glow-up, or a boudoir experience after years of pouring into everyone but yourself—Kierra gets it. She listens. She hypes you up when needed. She adjusts without ego. And she always enhances what makes you you.

There’s no “makeover” energy—just alignment, softness, and a little glam that fits your vibe.

Why the Right HMUA Matters (and What to Look For)

Makeup for photography is different than what you’d wear for a night out. A skilled artist understands how your look will translate on camera:

• How to highlight without harshness
• What lasts through lighting, flash, and time
• How to avoid SPF flashback
• The balance between glow and glam

But more than technique—it’s about trust.

You’re already showing up in a vulnerable space. You’re letting yourself be seen. The right artist makes you feel like you’re in safe hands—not like you’re playing dress-up in someone else’s face.

Hair & Makeup Isn’t About Perfection—It’s About Relief

Adding hair and makeup to your session isn’t a luxury—it’s support.

It means you don’t have to stress over your eyeliner, your curls, or whether your concealer will last. You get to walk in feeling prepared, cared for, and already a little pampered before I even lift the camera.

You sit back. You breathe. You soften.
And the energy that creates? It radiates in every photo

Tips for Choosing a Makeup Artist for Your Session

If you’re booking someone for your shoot, here’s what I recommend asking yourself:

• Does their portfolio match your vibe? Look for clean, consistent work that enhances (not hides).
• Do they have photo session experience? Lighting and camera-ready makeup is its own thing.
• Do they make you feel safe? You want calm energy, not chaos on your shoot day.
• Do they collaborate with you? Great artists take your lead and help you shine—not just paint over you.

Why I Love Pairing Glam with My Tampa Studio

My Tampa studio is one of my favorite spaces for branding, maternity, and lifestyle portrait work. It’s got clean light, warm styling, and the kind of calm vibe that makes everything feel effortless.

Paired with professional hair and makeup?
You get a gallery that moves from soft and candid to sharp and scroll-stopping—with no stress in between.

I’ve had clients use it for rebranding shoots, soft postpartum portraits, and bold boudoir—all with Kierra’s beautiful glam giving them that extra confidence boost

Why I Keep Coming Back to Kierra

Kierra has worked with so many of my clients, and every single one has walked away feeling seen. She adapts to the energy in the room—some people need calm and quiet, others need a full pep talk with lashes—and she does both beautifully.

Her work is clean. Timeless. Elevated. But more importantly? She helps you feel like the best version of yourself.

And when you feel like that?
You show up differently. You shine.

Thank you for reading my blog. I love sharing what goes on behind the scenes and the people who help make these sessions feel effortless. If you’re thinking about booking a session—or you want in on the next one with Kierra—click here to get in touch.

And don’t forget to join my email list to get early access to session openings, mini events, and special glam collabs before they sell out.

This session was everything I love about what I do—capturing big moments and little details, all wrapped up in the people who matter most. We combined two of my favorite things in one shoot: a first birthday cake smash and a multi-generational family session. And honestly? It was such a beautiful reminder that milestones don’t just belong to the little ones—we get to honor the whole family.

We photographed this session over the course of two separate days, which, let me just say, was 100% the right move. Because let’s be real: one-year-olds don’t have the attention span (or energy) for a full-blown photoshoot with family and a cake smash. Splitting the session gave us the space to be present and relaxed—and that always shows in the final images.

The first part of the session was focused on the family: grandparents, parents, and the birthday girl all together in the studio. The love in the room was immediate and easy. You could feel the pride, the joy, the full-circle energy of seeing generations gathered together in one frame. These are the kinds of photos that don’t just sit in a gallery—they become part of your legacy.

And then came part two: cake smash time. If you’ve ever considered doing one for your baby’s first birthday, let this be your sign. It was equal parts adorable and hilarious. Frosting-covered hands, a little confusion, a lot of giggles—it was the kind of chaos that’s completely worth documenting. These photos will be the ones you pull out when they’re ten, when they’re twenty, when they’re celebrating their own babies someday.

One of the best parts of doing this session in the studio was the flexibility. We weren’t worried about light or weather, or about finding a location that worked for grandparents and littles alike. The studio gave us everything we needed: soft natural light, access to the client closet, a calm environment, and an easy place to reset in between. It’s perfect for milestone moments and family sessions alike, especially when toddlers (or grandparents!) need a break.

When you’re planning a session like this, I always recommend thinking about color coordination and comfort. Neutrals, warm tones, and textures work beautifully on camera and pair so well with studio backdrops. But above all, pick pieces that feel like you. This session had a mix of cozy, elevated, and fun—and it captured the spirit of the family perfectly.

Here’s what I’ll say if you’ve been thinking about doing something like this: don’t wait. Whether it’s your baby’s first birthday or your parents’ first time in front of the camera in years, it’s worth celebrating. These moments come and go so quickly, and having photos of your people—all your people—is something you’ll never regret.

These images were filled with so much joy, pride, and sweetness (literally). A baby covered in cake. Grandparents holding hands. Parents watching it all unfold. It was everything a session should be: real, heartfelt, and totally unique to the people in it.

Want to Document a Milestone and Your Legacy?

Let’s capture the chaos, the sweetness, and all the love that lives in between.

Thank you for reading! If you’re looking for a Tampa photographer to help you preserve generational memories in a cozy, natural studio setting—I’d love to connect. Let’s capture your legacy together.

Click here to get in touch →

Let’s talk about indoor family sessions—and why they are, quite honestly, the unsung hero of photography options. While outdoor golden hour gets all the hype, studio sessions deserve their flowers too. Especially if you’re a parent trying to wrangle tiny humans, navigate nap schedules, and not melt into a puddle in the Florida heat.

This session reminded me of how powerful it can be to keep things simple. We stayed inside, leaned into natural light, had direct access to outfit changes, snacks, and AC… and still captured connection, laughter, and all the sweet chaos that makes your family yours.

Look, I get it. “Indoor” doesn’t always sound exciting at first—but if you’re parenting in the real world? It’s a game-changer. Here’s why: No weather reschedules. Rain? Wind? Humidity? Doesn’t matter. We’re inside. Nap-friendly scheduling. No waiting for golden hour—you can book around your baby’s best time of day. Bug-free zone. That’s right—no bug spray, no bites, no swatting. Access to the client closet. You don’t have to panic about what to wear or change in your car. Everything’s right there.

This kind of session gives you flexibility and comfort. It’s low-stress, clean, cozy, and still just as meaningful.

You might be surprised at the variety we can create in one indoor space. This session had: classic family portraits with everyone snuggled on the bed, solo shots of the kiddos playing in window light, candid moments of giggles and in-between hugs, soft, moody images using different corners of the studio, and even a few quick outfit changes (thanks, client closet). It’s not about having a million props or backgrounds. It’s about light, energy, and giving your family space to be themselves.

Studio lighting tends to be soft and neutral, so outfits that reflect that same tone always work beautifully. Think: warm creams, light browns, muted greens, dusty blues, soft blacks, and cozy textures. The goal? Coordinate without matching. Keep it relaxed. And if you don’t know where to start, I’ll send over my pre-session style guide—and you’ll have access to the client closet too, which has tons of studio-friendly options ready to go.

There’s something sacred about slowing down. About giving yourself permission to enjoy the moment without worrying about where the sun is or whether your toddler will melt down in the parking lot. This family came in open, relaxed, and real—and it showed. We laughed. We took breaks. We captured the moments that mattered most. No chasing light. No fighting bugs. No hauling snacks across a park. Just love, documented with care.

Thinking About an Indoor Family Session?

Let’s make your life easier—and your photos more meaningful.

Indoor sessions are perfect for Florida families who want timeless photos without the weather stress. If you’re interested in booking a family photography session in Tampa, reach out here!
Click here to get in touch