Just the Girls | Goodrich, MI. Child Photographer

My favorite sister trio returned to me this year for another photo shoot.  I had a lot of fun with them last year, and this year was no different.  They looked so cute in their coordinating outfits.  I think their mom, Sarah, knew that the vibrant pink is right up my alley.  Little Ella was not really into the session at all until we found a nice flower box to play peek-a-boo with, then she was all smiles.  In the meantime, she made her own fun by running around behind the scenes while I shot her older sisters, Abby and Olivia, which made for one of my favorite shots of the whole session.  :)

There are a few perks to being friends with your photographer, and one of them is getting sneak peaks before your sneak peak is actually posted online.  One downfall to being friends with your photographer is that she can put off posting your preview, to spread out her blogging, without fear that you will hurt her, because you have already seen a few of your pics.  ;P

Sorry for making you wait Sarah, but I know you'll forgive me.  :D

Contact Carri at:

email: carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

phone: (248)678-3601

Let's Get Together......Yeah, Yeah, Yeah | Flint, MI. Family Photographer

Social media has become a part of everyday life for many people, including myself.  It is a time drain as you get sucked into reading the musings of your peers, sharing little stories, and let's face it.....watching funny cat videos.  (You know you've done it.  lol).  Well, social media may be a black hole of wasted time more often than not, but it also serves a higher purpose by reconnecting people who have lost touch with one another.  It has done this for me countless times, and though it is nice to catch up in the cyber world, it is even better when your reconnection leads to an actual in-person gathering.

That is exactly what happened to me this past weekend.  I was recently reconnected with a group of old friends, with whom I attended church when I was younger.  Michelle was one of the people in that group.  She and her family used to transport me and a few of my siblings to and from church when we were little.  I was literally just a kid then, and I looked up to Michelle as a sort of older sister type figure.    It has been more than 12 years since I last saw or spoke with Michelle or her family, so it was exciting to find out that she is now married with two kids and living a happy life.  Needless to say, when she asked me to do a photo shoot with her son and daughter, I was thrilled to have the chance to see her again, and to meet her beautiful family.

Her son, Andrew, is just the handsomest little 8 year old!  He is charmingly shy with a smoldering stare that is sure to make the ladies in his future melt like butter.  Hadley is a charismatic 6 year old, who has the cutest toothless smile, and doesn't even have to try to find a cute pose for the camera because she is just naturally photogenic.  I even got to meet their 5 month old horse...uh, I mean puppy.  Maggie is the biggest 5 month old ANYTHING that I have ever met, and she is just so pretty.  She even sat still for a shot or two with the kids.

This shoot was supposed to be just about the kids, but I made sure to let Michelle know that I was more than willing to do a family photo while we were out, but she assured me that she just wanted photos of the kids.  As we were nearing the end of our shoot I made one last ditch effort to convince mom and dad to join in the fun because I think it is important to snag at least one image that includes the whole family, since in normal day to day life, there always seems to be someone missing in home photos.  We are never guaranteed another day to find the perfect coordinating outfit, have a fantastic hair day, wait for that untimely pimple to fade, lose a few pounds, sleep away the dark circles under our eyes, etc.  These are only some of the many reasons that some of my clients have given me for not wanting to be included in the photos I take for them, but I assure you that as time passes and memories fade, a photo of you with your babies will mean MUCH more to you than the memories of unwarranted insecurities. 

I hope that you love all of your images Michelle, especially the family photo.  You have a beautiful family, and I am so glad that you chose me to share this time with you all.  

Contact Carri at:

email: carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

phone: (248)678-3601

Addi Turns One!!! | Astonished Auntie Photographer, Flint, Mi.

I cannot believe that a whole year has flown by already, but here it is.  Exactly one year ago today, I became an auntie again, to another beautiful baby girl.  Addison Riley was born at 6:43am, and instantly put smiles on the faces of those who were there to see her.  That trend has continued on through the year as she has grown, because you just cannot look at this girl without smiling.  Not only is she adorable, but she is also smart, and silly, and such a ham.  I love being an auntie to three beautiful nieces, and I cannot wait to celebrate Addi's first year with her.  

Happy First Birthday Addi Ooo!!!  I love you!

See Addi as she has grown, from birth to one year, through the photos I have shared here.

Addi's Arrival

Newborn

4-7 Months

9 Months

ONE YEAR!!!!!

My Little Bit Of SUNSHINE On A Rainy Day | Ortonville, MI. | ChildPhotographer

Sometimes I wish that I could keep my clients on-call for those moments when the planets align, and the perfect opportunity to photograph someone arises.  Alas, it is unreasonable for me to expect anyone to be able to QUICKLY get their children ready at the snap of my fingers.  (I think all of us moms can attest to the fact that it is nearly ALWAYS an absolute IMPOSSIBILITY.  Lol).  Lucky for me, I have a very willing, (most of the time), and very cute little girl at my beckon call.  ;D

This past weekend, I was sadly forced to cancel two sessions, due to rain.  :(  It was unseasonably warm, and would've been perfect for photographing some little beauties, but the rain just would not let up...........until............much later in the day it miraculously stopped.  Knowing that there was no way to know how long the break would last, and coming to grips with the fact that I cannot get clients to a location at the drop of a hat, I enlisted my own beauty to help me satiate my need to shoot that day.  

So, I snatched up my baby girl, still in her jammies (aka, undies, lol), enjoying a lazy day at home, and I put her in a new combo of two separate outfits that have been hanging around for a while.  I must say, I like the way it turned out, but that may be because Maddie could make a garbage bag look cute.  She got ready so quick, and even let me curl her hair.  Unfortunately, the curls didn't last long in the damp evening air, but she looked adorable regardless.  Tell me if you cannot tell that she LOVES hamming it up for the camera.  She has her moments, like any other kid, but she is just so naturally spontaneous.

Since this was an impromptu shoot, we hadn't planned a location.  Luckily, if you're really looking for it, you can find beauty in just about any location.  These photos were taken in two unassuming locations that we happened upon while quickly running an errand before our spur of the moment photo shoot.  I pass both of these spots on a daily basis, and I must admit that I didn't notice either of them, or how beautiful they are, until I was looking for the perfect spot.  Wouldn't it be great if we all took more time, day to day, to actually LOOK at the beauty around us?  I thought that my creative eye was turned on by default, (I am constantly eyeballing cute shooting spots), but even I have overlooked some of the natural allure that my local surroundings provide.

I am sad that my sessions had to be canceled that day, but I am forever thankful that I have been reminded to open my eyes.  And I am grateful that I had my mini me to add a little bit of sass to the mix.  :)

I love this shot!  My perfect little model.  :)

That's one of my favorite smiling faces EVER!

(There are two more at home that aren't quite as thrilled about being in front of my camera, but that doesn't make me love their smiling faces any less.  :)

Contact Carri at:

Email:  carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

Phone:  (248) 678-3601

And the Winner Is.......... | Ortonville, MI. Toddler Photographer

I recently participated in a local trade show, Septemberfest, that takes place annually in our town.   I had such a great time, and met so many locals, and even ran into more than a few acquaintances that didn't even know that I am a photographer.  (I guess I need to mention that more often, lol).  Anyway, during the show, I had a raffle for a free session, and I am happy to report that the winner of that raffle is the proud mama of an adorable little boy, Koltyn.

Koltyn was so much fun to shoot and we couldn't have had better fall colors and lighting than what we found at Depot Park, in Clarkston.  This little guy is so energetic and just wants to go go go.  It is so fun to watch him toddle on his freshly matured baby legs.  He was such a little stinker as he teased me with his hat.  I would ask for it, and he would quickly pull it away and look at me with the funniest little scowl on his face.  Then he would smirk and extend it back out toward me just to snatch it back again and give me that same serious face from before.  After all of that, he was so sweet when he came up behind me, while I was crouched down, and gave me the biggest hug!  I just melted.

I would've loved to just take him home with me after the session.  We could've cuddled up on the couch and watched the Lions play on a Sunday afternoon.  Ok, so I'm not a HUGE football fan, but I would watch it with this little guy, while he wore his super cute, personalized, Lions jersey.  I'm guessing there is probably some daddy baby cuddle time for him on Sundays.  :)

I really loved photographing this little cutie, from his beautiful brown eyes, that just sparkle when he smiles, to the little whorl of hair that sits perfectly on his forehead.  I cannot wait to see him again.  Thank you to Erica, Bryan, and Grandma for being so great, and being the best assistants.  You have such a beautiful family!  I hope you love these.  :)

Mama didn't want to be part of the photographs that day, but I am so glad that I captured this little moment between the two of them.  Erica, you are beautiful, and you can just tell that Koltyn loves you SO MUCH!!!

Oh yeah, THAT'S the face!  What a stinker.  lol

Contact Carri at:

Email:  carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

Phone:  (248) 678-3601

Cousin Campout | Burton, MI. Infant and Toddler Photographer

I woke up Saturday morning to a beautiful warm summer day......a perfect day to photograph some happy babies. By the time we arrived at the session location, it was apparent that it was going to be much more than just "warm". It got sweaty-hot fast, and though all of the adults were very aware of the heat, by some miracle, the kids were unfazed by it.

I was so excited for this session because it is a returning client and friend. You might remember these girls from the hot air balloon shoot last year. They were so fun to work with then, and I couldn't wait to see how much they have grown now. I was also eager to meet the new addition to the family, Evan, who made his arrival soon after our previous session.

These adorable cousins were so funny to watch with their different personalities, and their ever-increasing mobility. Everybody got a bit of a workout keeping up with them all. Not to mention the workout that, the stupendously chivalrous, Mark got by helping me carry my many props through the park. (Thank you for that!!!!)

With some help from my baby wranglers, we got some beautiful images of these little cuties. Emily, it was so nice to see you and all of your family again. I can't wait to share more with you, but I hope this will tide you over for a little bit. ;)

 

......and, just because we ALL know that it's not always all sunshine and rainbows.........especially at the end of a hot summer session.  lol

This one cracks me up because we have three different emotions shining through.  We have Evan in the middle, just as happy as can be, with his skeptical sister, Emma, looking at him like he's crazy.  Then, we have sweet little Mae, who is just SOOO over it.  Lol.  They were all little troopers.  :)

Contact Carri at:

email: carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

phone: (248)678-3601

California Girls | Michigan | Family Photographer

When I first reconnected with my old friend, Tiffany, on Facebook, of course the first thing I did was check out her photos to see what has been going on in her life, and I got my first glimpse of her beautiful family.  Tiffany and I were friends years ago, but we lost touch and have not seen each other in over ten years.  While playing a bit of catch up, I found out that she has two precious daughters, and now lives in California.  I was grateful to be able to connect online, but I was also sure that I would not have much of an opportunity to have the privilege of meeting her girls in person.  Needless to say, when I got a message from her asking if I would do her family photos for her while she was in town, I was elated!  I couldn't wait to see her again, and to meet her babies.

We had a perfect location chosen, and beautiful weather, so I knew that we would have a fantastic shoot.  When Tiffany's girls stepped out of the car, the first thing I noticed was how much more beautiful they are in person.  I mean, they are ADORABLE in the photographs I saw online, but in person, between their sweet sassiness and their glowing personalities, (not to mention their incredibly cute little faces), they are absolute perfection.  And their mama looked amazing too!We were fortunate enough to be granted permission to shoot in the gardens of a beautiful local garden called Heavenly Scent Herb Farm.  From the moment we stepped onto their property it was more than apparent that A LOT of work and love goes into every inch of the grounds.  From the fabulous flowers that adorn every corner of the farm, to the tiniest details, like the sneaky little fairies hiding in the whimsical fairie garden, there is not one nook that has gone untended.We had a lot of fun exploring the gardens and stopping to capture some images along the way......with the help of Tiffany's ever talented brother/reflector-holder, Jon.  Thank you so much for your help Uncle Jon.  I might have to take you with me to all of my sunny sessions.  ;)  And Tiffany, I really had a blast hanging out with you all.  I hope you and the girls love your preview.  I cannot wait to share the rest with you.  :)

Contact Carri at:

email: carrimullins@carribethphotography.com

facebook: www.facebook.com/carribethphotography

phone: (248) 678-3601

It's not an addiction, it's true PASSION!

I am a hardcore photography FREAK. I spend more time than I would like to admit looking at everything related to being a photographer, and running a photography business. I have spent countless hours looking at the work of hundreds of very talented photographers, and I spend days, even weeks, knitting things like hats and cocoons that I might be able to use in future sessions. Out of ALL of the things that I love so much about photography, there is one genre that has taken hold of me, and refuses to let go. NEWBORNS!

I L-O-V-E newborn photography. My mind can go on and on for hours, days, weeks, just thinking about photographing newborns. I cannot go anywhere without seeing things and thinking how great it would be to use them in a shoot with a teeny tiny, squishy little baby. I actually have to sit down and write out a game plan for newborn sessions because I have too many ideas to pack into one shoot.

Photography is a HUGE part of my life. I would even say, shamefully, that it does distract me from my family at times. My husband is truly supportive in what I do, but often comments on how I am addicted to photography. I would like to refute that comment by saying that the time I spend looking at and learning about photography is not because I am addicted. It is just a testament to my undying PASSION for the art of it all........but newborn photography specifically. I wouldn't be opposed to admitting to a not-so-slight obsession, but it is my passion that drives that obsession. I noticed this week that I actually get a knot in my belly when I look at newborn photography, because it ignites a fire in me, and I am always itching for another chance to do what I love best.

I wish that everyone had at least one thing in life, that they had a passion for, in the way that I do for newborn photography. My passion for newborns drives me everyday to become a better, more creative photographer. Right now I am not the biggest, most well-known photographer in my area, but I know that someday I WILL be known for what I love. There is no other job in this world that I would rather do, and I am so thankful that I have the opportunity to do something that makes my heart so happy, and brings joy to others at the same time.

Little Mr. M. and Miss S.

These two little cuties are the lucky winners of my spring contest. We managed to dodge the rain the morning of their shoot, although little Miss S. had A LOT of fun with the tinkerbell umbrella that I brought to protect her from the potential rain. Lol. They are both so adorable, and Miss S. was looking especially cute in the dress that she won from the contest. The dress and headband were generously donated by Pick Your Pocket Studio. They create some of the cutest apparel and accessories around. You can check out their facebook fanpage here.

We had a great morning, and even got a bit of exercise while hiking through the park. So, all in all it was a productive day, and we managed to get some super cute images during all of our fun.

Thank you so much to Pick Your Pocket Studio for the beautiful dress and matching headband. :)

Contact Carri at:

email: carribethphotography@yahoo.com

phone: (248) 678-3601