Hi again, everyone!
 
Let me stop for a second to tell you that I am seriously the luckiest photographer in the world. My clients are always so wonderful to work with. That's true of my session with the Trattles family, too!
 
I met up with them in December at the studio because let's face it the weather in December in MN isn't perfect for outdoor photo-taking. While the weather was chilly outside, it was nice and cozy for the kids and parent in the studio. It was the Trattles family that made this shoot such a treat though. 
 

 

The Trattles family consists of Scot, the sports junkie; Heather, the bookworm; Jordayn who is the oldest son and a music prodigy, Frances, the middle, is an energetic girl full of imagination, and Sullivan, Sully for short, is the happy baby of the family.
 
I asked mom what they enjoy doing as a family activity “our enjoyment is spending playtime together indoors or outdoors. Just being able to play and have fun together,” says Heather.
 
As you can see from the comments above and the photos below, this family is not only photogenic, but also a close-knit group who clearly love spending time together. Scot, Heather, Jordayn, Frances and Sullivan are lucky to have each other.

As you can see from our session highlights below, they are a fun family!

 

Welcome back!
 
Let me begin by saying that I had the greatest time doing the session I'm about to post. This was the first time I've worked with the Trattles children and I savored every minute of it. We had a relaxed session with no real idea in mind. A go with the flow, organic, session. NO STRESS, which makes for happy kiddos and parents.

We had Jordayn, who is the quite type and a musical prodigy, Frances, who was celebrating her 4th birthday and was not shy about talking about herself, had lots of stories for me. Sullivan, Sully, was 7.5 months of squish. You know I LOVE a squishy baby. PLUS he had the best faux hawk I've seen on a little guy.

 

 

Quite an age difference between the kiddos, but that doesn't stop the love that they have for each other. Clearly, Scot and Heather have done a marvelous job raising them. Hopefully I'll get to work with them all in the future again.
 
 

Well Friends, we made it through another year.  Here we are, ready to start anew. New goals both professional and personal.

Here at Michelle Towne Photography we have already put some changes in place. What changes? Well... you have been asking, so we have made some changes. We now offer sessions with a digital collection. SAY WHAT?! That's right. Those of you who have been wondering if our sessions include anything, well now some do.

We have upgraded THREE SESSION OPTIONS for you:..

FAMILY: http://www.michelletownephotography.com/family.html
FULL FAMILY SESSION with DIGITAL COLLECTION ~ 60 minute session for up to 5 people in studio /outdoor (if weather permits). INCLUDED: 15 Digital Files with permission to print.

NEWBORN: http://www.michelletownephotography.com/newborns.html
Full Newborn Session with Digital Collection~  fine art on/ in props & poses (all props and styling provided). This session option also includes parents and siblings  INCLUDED: 15 Digital Files with permission to print.

CHILDREN: http://www.michelletownephotography.com/children.html
FULL CHILDREN'S SESSION with DIGITAL COLLECTION~ 60 minute individual children's session in studio. 3-4 props, use of backdrops, unlimited posing and clothing changes within the time frame. INCLUDED: 15 Digital Files with permission to print.

Don't worry though, those of you who still want to choose what you would like, we have left our normal session and print packages as options.

We now say a sad goodbye to the 2018 Family Representatives. You have seen their faces many times over the last year and have watched their family grow and change. I can't believe how much the kids have grown and changed over the year. Don't worry though, you will still see them every once in a while.

Thank you so much Rauch Family for a wonderful year full of memories captured!

With the 2018 Family Reps heading out of the spotlight, that means a NEW FAMILY is in. I would like you to say HELLO and for you to meet the Ihrke Family. Josh, Camie, Hannah and Gretta are a cute little family of 4 who are ready to take on the role of Michelle Towne Photography's 2019 Family Representatives.

We are excited to work you Ihrke family and to create timeless memories for you throughout the year.

Hello, readers!
 
As we roll out 2018, I'd like you to meet sweet 8lb baby Jackson, the adorable son of Emily and Bo. This little prince has only been on Earth for a short period, but he is such a naturally beautiful baby. I absolutely had to take advantage of those good looks during this session.
 
Seriously -- look at him. As a mom myself who has children way past the newborn stage, Jackson was after my heart the moment I saw him. That flaky skin, his creamy skin tone, and natural glow make Jackson a serious contender for pretty much any “cute baby contest” in the country!
 

 

Because I wanted to highlight baby Jackson's good looks, I chose to keep props and background noise to a minimum.

I LOVE his flaky skin, Yes, I know some people don't but, let's remember these little ones have spent 9 months in a water sac. This flaky skin shows itself around 5-7 days. showing us that your baby is already changing and growing, then it leaves us NEVER to be seen again. They grow so fast! Enjoy the time you get to snuggle. Smell them at every chance.
 
 

 

 See you next time!

Hey guys!
 
Today I have a real treat for you, which comes in the form of the mighty 3 year old Gavin. You can tell from the pictures that this kiddo is a sweet and hilarious little dude..
 

 

 

Because of the time of year here in MN we are stuck inside so a studio session for this young man is what was on the menu. However, there are a lot of perks to doing studio sessions, no bugs, kids do not have to be cold/ hot, an array of backdrops and props to use, plus kids tend to be more comfortable in a smaller setting.

If this kiddo looks familiar, we have photographed him and his siblings before. Also, if you have been in the studio and looked at our wall board of cards that clients have sent us... this is the little dude who is being LICKED by his older brother. Yep, we captured that and it's still one of our favorites!

One thing that we highly agree with Emily, Gavin's mom is "Have patience with your kids. We have such an idea in our head, but especially for my 3 year old I had to LET GO and lower my expectations. It's okay that he was spinning in circles- he is three and Michelle was still able to capture the picture." 

This couldn't be more true. We have such an idea in our minds of what our children should do, Yet we have to remember they are the age that they are and they are WHO they are. Relax, enjoy your children. Someday they won't be so little anymore.
 
As always Emily, did an awesome job choosing outfits for his session to bring out his beautiful blue eyes. We were also able to incorporate is birthday shirt that was made by a very talented person with Specially Made By Sarah.
 
Okay, moving on to what you've been waiting for. For your viewing pleasure, the rest of the FUN portion of G-Dudes session~~ CAKE!!!
 

SAVE $50- $70 on select sessions. Hurry though only a few sessions available at the savings!

BUY your session NOW, Schedule LATER during 2019.

Book your Baby/ Child/ Family Collection with Digital Files here and save $50!

michelletownephotography.bigcartel.com/product/baby-child-family-session-digital-collection

Book your Full Newborn Collection with Digital Files session here and save $70!


michelletownephotography.bigcartel.com/product/full-newborn-session-digital-collection


Book your Pure Newborn Collection with Digital Files here and save $50!


michelletownephotography.bigcartel.com/product/pure-newborn-session-digital-collection

Doo doo doo doooo! Introducing...  BABY GAVIN!!
 
I'm still flying high from one of the most amazing newborn shoots.  The handsome little guy in front of the lens is the son of Jessica and Byron. He was so calm and squishy and he took the Pure Newborn session like a champ.
 

 

Speaking of which, Jessica was so much fun to get to know. I could have talked with her all day! She is so sweet and calm with her babies. Big sister was with too and she did such an awesome job waiting for her brother to get his pictures taken.
 
As for baby Gavin, he was a little angel and slept peacefully through the posing portion of our 2-hour session. I'm not gonna lie. When he showed up bright eyed and alert, I thought the session might have turned out a little tricky, but Jessica was able to keep him calm and relaxed.

Jessica says that our session together was very low pressure and laid back. Which is how we want everyone to feel when they walk through our doors. Prior to our sessions, we send a prep guide to help things run smoothly and give some extra tips to our parents. We want everyone to enjoy our no pressure newborn sessions.
 
Time for a little aww moment: “He looks just like his sister did as a baby! So much hair!” says mom. Isn't that precious? Gavin is such a lucky kiddo to have such a sweet set of parents!
 
Okay, no more talking (or would that be typing?). Check out little Gavin for yourself!
 

So we meet again, dear blog readers!
 
The topic of discussion for today is none other than the One Year Old Easton.

I was over the moon when I got a call from Emily saying she wanted to book a cake smash session for E-man. I have done several sessions with this family over the last 5 years ranging from extended family, maternity, birthday/ milestone, holiday minis, mommy & me and birth sessions. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching this family grow and mature.
 
I asked recently why they decided to book another session with Michelle Towne Photography and simply stated “You are amazing. You listen to my input, know what I enjoy and are just a joy to be around and work with!” says Emily. I'm so honored!
 
Easton, who is the star of the show in the post, is the youngest of 5!
 
As expected, Mom did a wonderful job preparing him for our session.. Emily always comes with an array of clothing options which is great because the kids and myself can help choose the best outfit to go with their personality. Sometimes we choose a top that will bring out the color of the kiddos eyes, sometimes it's based on what they are currently into such as "Baby Shark."
 
Because my last session with Easton went so well, I knew it wouldn't be any different this time around. And I was right! Check it out for yourself:
 

 

Hi ladies and gentlemen!
 
We've got some serious reason to celebrate! The beautiful momma  is ready to have her a little prince or princess, due in only 10 short days. If that isn't reason to do a happy dance, I don't know what is!
 
I had the privilege of photographing Ashley at the beginning of November in the studio  and she was just as lovely as can be.

I asked to what was one piece of advice you would give to other expecting mothers for their session and she said "Just embrace every moment of it and listen to the photographers pointers! SMILE!

Well you can certainly see she took her own advice. Her smile is radiant and she is glowing.

 

 

She's a natural beauty and it shows through the lens.
 
I asked something special that dad has done for her during this pregnancy.. BACK MASSAGES! “Back massages have been this mama's best friend! So whenever daddy has offered to give one, each has been very much appreciated,” says Ashley. That's so sweet!
 
As you can see from the pictures below, Ashley was the perfect soon-to-be mom. She certainly has embraced the beauty of pregnancy and the changes that a woman's body goes through to grow such a little miracle. Any photographer would be lucky to photograph her. And that baby bump couldn't get any cuter!
 
The proof is in the pictures!
 

The holiday season is upon us! Looking for the perfect gift for your friends and family? Get sentimental this year with personalized presents from your photo session! We offer a wide selection of products. Check out these ideas:
 

1. Coffee Table Book
2. Playing Cards
3. Ornaments
4. Photo Blankets and/or Pillows
5. Calendars (These come in either 12-month Wall or Desk format)
6. Canvases or Framed Prints
7. Mouse Pad or Laptop Decals
8. Phone Case
9. Coffee Mug
10. Customized Tote Bag
11. Notepad/Stationery/Stamps

 
For more information on these products, please email us at michelletownephotography@gmail.com and let us know which products interest you.

So we meet again, dear blog readers!
 
The topic of discussion for today is none other than Jace. A super fun kiddo from Buffalo. If his face look familiar to you, it's because I've photographed this kiddo before.
 

 

I was over the moon when I got an email from Liz saying she wanted to book a session with her young man. I remember when Liz booked me to take their Watermelon Mini Session, I was happy to know that they enjoyed me as much as I enjoyed them!
 
Jace is ALL boy and strong willed. He is very photogenic and has a fun, spunky personality.
 
As expected, Mom did a wonderful job preparing Jace for our session. She chose colors that are great for him and we were able to bring out his beautiful brown eyes. She didn't bring any props, but brought a bribe (toy train) that made it into some of his photos  He is train obsessed!
 
Because my last session with the Jace went so well, I knew it wouldn't be any different this time around. And I was right! Check it out for yourself:
 

 

Welcome back all,
 
I recently had a stupendous session with the Dierkes family. I've said it before and I'll say it again – I truly have the best clients ever! This family was no exception, either. Even though the location was changed and the weather was cold, they took everything in stride!
 

 

We met at Mill Creek Park I love shooting at Mill Creek because it allows several options for water, grassy areas and trees with in a small walking area for young kiddos.
 
For our shoot, the Dierkes's chose colors from a color scheme from Michelle Towne Photography's suggestion to find something that went along with the fall colors. The outfits they chose really made for some amazing photos with the fall colors.
 
It truly was an amazing photo shoot. And if any of you are considering a family session or are prepping for an upcoming session, heed the words of Tahlia:
 
“Be open and go with the flow. If you are open to Michelle's wisdom, it will go quickly and smoothly. Also, just be yourself,” she says. Solid advice!
 
Okay, on to pictures of the Dierkes family!
 

When it comes to family picture day, a lot of stress is typically associated with days leading up to the session. We’re here to help you relax and be prepared all at the same time. Here are some tips:

1.    Find the outfits you want everyone to wear a month in advance and set them aside somewhere safe. Then try them on a week ahead of time to ensure everything still fits comfortably and that you didn’t miss any stains or holes that you couldn’t see until they were being worn.

2.    As soon as your family changes out of their photo attire, make sure it is clean and pressed to be ready for the big day. Set the clothes together (sorted by person) and place them somewhere free from harm and dirt. Be sure to tell everyone that these are picture clothes and not to be worn until picture day. This will help to be sure that no articles of clothing go missing. Don’t forget about shoes, jewelry, belts, and other accessories.

3.    About three to four days prior to the session, start talking with your husband and kids about the session and what will happen and how they should behave. If you plan to use a bribe, now is a good time to set that in place. Continue to talk to your children daily to prepare them for the session.

4.    Two days prior to the session, pack a bag of everything you will need on picture day – snacks, props, bribery, etc. and put it somewhere you can grab it and go. Be sure to include wipes in case things get messy, an extra hairbrush, and other “emergency” items, such as bobby pins and a backup lipstick.

5.    On the day of the session, make sure everyone is well fed, but not overfed. We don’t want sick little tummies from overeating, but we don’t want anyone getting “hangry” (angry because they are so hungry) either. Do not get your family dressed in their photo clothes until after they have eaten and brushed their teeth. This will prevent spills and other messy accidents.

6.    If you have young children, avoid any colored drinks the day of the session until after we are finished. Also, get them to wear a bib or drop cloth if they drink anything on the way to the session to save their shirts from wet spots or stains.

7.    Once you get to the session, try to relax. If you have set a bribe, please let me know so I can use that throughout the session if the children get restless. Trust your photographers - know that I will take care of things and will deliver amazing photos of your family.