Meet Leo

Bright & Airy In-Home Newborn Session, Alamo, Texas

Baby Leo recently joined his beautiful family. He has a big brother and two sweet parents who are currently over the moon with how chill this little guy is.

Big brother M was telling me all about his brother and his favorite movie soundtrack… I’m a fan of Mulan too, kiddo. :)

While we got acquainted, talked about movies and that darn trouble maker in Mulan, we also snapped some sweet photos of this new family of four.

The beauty of having me come to you is that your toddler feels at home, gets to show off their favorite monster truck and you feed your sweet new little one on your own time and in your own space.

It’s truly a joy to welcomed into your lives for a brief moment to watch all the beauty unfold. It fills my soul with memories of those early days with my littles too.

So thank you G Family! It was wonderful to meet you all. I hope we get to catch up again soon!

Baby Leo, you rocked your first photo shoot.

If you’re interested in a session with your new little human, I’m here for it!

Reach out to book in advance or shoot me a message last minute… many times I stay flexible for my birth clients and a random spot opens right up. :)

~Norma H

9 Things To Do Before Your Photo Session

McAllen Photographer | Fall Photography Sessions

Fall is the PERFECT time to head outdoors and get those family portraits done in the Rio Grande Valley. Maybe it’s time to update that family photo or you are looking to revamp your headshots. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the most of your session, whether you've booked with us or one of our many talented RGV photographers.

1. Be sure you and your photographer are on the same page when it comes to your ideal portrait session. Does your photographer stick to traditional poses? Do you want candid shots? Talk to your photographer about your vision, this will ensure you both know what you want out of your session so you can achieve amazing photographs to adorn your walls at home.

2. Drink lots of water in the days leading up to your session. Water can help keep your skin healthy and supple and it will keep you hydrated… we all know that this RGV heat can be pretty brutal. You don’t want to feel completely drained and dehydrated at your session. We want you to feel your best!

3. Choose your outfit in advance and make sure that your choices are comfortable. Do you have an inspiration photo in mind? What does that outfit look like? If they are soft and elegant? Chose neutral colors with soft, flowing fabric. (Such as creams, very soft pastels, oatmeals, light browns, tans, grays, and slate blues.) Want more spunk? Choose coordinating colors (but avoid anything too matchy, matchy) with bold accent colors. Don’t forget accessories, sometimes these can be that pop of color or that sentimental touch to complete your look. Need ideas? Pinterest is always super helpful. Don’t be afraid to build that inspiration board just for this session.

4. Sleep, sleep, sleep… oh, and did I mention sleep? Getting a full night’s sleep before your photography session can help you feel rested and energized. Well-rested usually leads to a more enjoyable experience and who doesn’t want that, right?

5. Wearing make-up on the day of your session? Test out your look a couple of days before. Most times, less is more and whatever normally works for you will work on the day of your session.

6. Bring a cheer squad! A close friend and relative (or two) – people who will surround you with nothing but positive vibes during your session with your photographer. These folks will help you laugh naturally and keep your session relaxed and fun. That’s always the goal. If you’re having fun, your images will show it.

 7. Keep a backup plan in mind. Sometimes the weather goes bad on the day of your photoshoot or something happens last minute. It’s ok, you have a backup plan and all is well with the world. If you’re booked with us, you know that we have babies to welcome to the world so we likely have a backup day in mind already. (#woohoo!!)

8. Eat. (The term “hangry” comes to mind. I’m sure you’ve heard it, right?) Ensuring you have a filling meal or snack before your session will set you up for success. Full bellies equal happy kids + happy adults… that’s the goal. Everyone will be more willing to cooperate if they are in a good mood.

9. Smile, relax and put yourself in the hands of your photographer. Have fun, share your story, get your family to cooperate with some praise, go with the flow and let the session unfold naturally. Chances are, you will have a great time and love the final images!

If you still have questions, remember to reach out (to us or your own family photographer.) We are here to help and make this process fun while capturing the memories that will get passed down for generations.

xoxo,

Norma H

Birth Story: Leonardo

Birth of Leonardo | Rio Grande Regional Hospital, Labor & Delivery Photos in McAllen, TX

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The birth of Leonardo was eagerly anticipated by his two wonderful parents. Beverly and Jorge met me early in their pregnancy. They had found my work online and expressed how much this little one meant to them and how important it was to document this journey.

Their life was already filled with joy with their son L.A. and now they were so excited to welcome this second little one. We had fun filming their gender reveal a few weeks back. Did you get to check that out? Here’s the link to that wonderful moment!

Time seemed to pass us so quickly and before we knew it, we were all gathered again. This time, surrounded by hospital sounds and in a room filled with love and anticipation.

Beverly calmly took on each wave that brought her closer to baby Leonardo… Jorge lovingly whispered in her ear, made her smile, and reassured her through all her labor. It was such an honor to be present for this moment between them. Documenting their story was a beautiful way to be reminded of how special life and love can be.

Leave this wonderful couple some love in the comments. I’m sure they will see them and be inspired by your words of encouragement as they adjust to life as a family of 4.

Welcome to the world, Leonardo! You are so loved.

Are you considering birth photography? Let’s chat about how we can document your family’s love story.

~Norma Hess