When should I book my Billings, Montana Newborn Photographer?
When should I book my baby’s newborn photo session?
Should you book while still expecting or after baby’s arrival?
Can’t believe you are already thinking about newborn photos?? What a fun and memorable time! Maybe you are wondering if you should book while pregnant or wait until the baby is here. Ideally, you want to book in your second or third trimester but if baby has already made their appearance don’t worry!
Big brothers give their new baby sister a kiss!
HOw many days old should my baby be for the session?
is there a window of time i need to think about?
Like I said before booking before baby has arrived makes things a little bit easier, but I understand life gets in the way, and well… stuff happens. Booking during your 2nd or 3rd trimester makes it easier for your photographer to fit you in the schedule. I personally only take on 3-4 newborns a month, so I can accommodate all my newborn clients no matter what day they decide to make thier birthday! Don’t fret if baby is already here, just email, call or message asap, so I or your photographer of choice can check the schedule.
At the studio, I take newborns between 8-14 days… typically.
I try to aim for that sweet spot and here’s why…. the first week you and your baby are acclimating to each other, the new environment, maybe even healing a circumcision. Giving birth is no small feat so I also like to give mom a week to recover. Oftentimes, besides the doctor’s office, Littles + Bigs Studio is the first outing!
My baby is older than 14 days, is it too late?
Can I still get newborn photos?
It’s not too late! Phew… so baby is the curliest and sleepiest during that 1-14 day window above, they are slowly (some more rapid) adjusting to life outside the womb. So that’s why it’s the sweet spot, or typically “easier” to pose those fresh ones. BUT, newborn sessions can 100% take place after that timeframe even up to 3-4 weeks old. They may be a little more alert and teensy more irritated that I am touching them while they are trying to sleep, but I have learned tricks and techniques that work! I just let the parents know we maybe have more open eyes in the photos and cozy wrapped images to keep them calm and happy :)
So there you have it, the ins and out of booking your newborn session! If you are pregnant, have a baby or know someone, tell them to not to wait to reach out as soon as possible! Warmly, Whitney
Vintage Christmas Truck Mini + More
Hey hey!
It’s been a busy year full of photography sessions and planning for the crazy months ahead! But I've been thinking about you! And I miss you! I know I haven't been very active online on my social channels but things have been as busy as ever behind the scenes.
But I have some very exciting news to share with you…
Holiday mini sessions are ready for booking as I type this! I know it's bananas to say that planning for the holidays is in full swing over here at Littles + Bigs Photography, but just like Hobby Lobby, the Christmas decor is ready!
The first option. I have a red and white color 1965 vintage truck decorated with greenery & creams and pops of color, and a snow machine unless Mother Nature decides to help out. This one is for all the lovers of vintage and nostalgic holidays out there, and I truly can't wait for these! The kids always have such a blast playing in the snow! Great for up to 5 family members. Date for these will be Nov 4.
The second option is a classic and a favorite, held in the studio. Think white cozy couch, XL Christmas wreath, and a bonus wintery scene backdrop to choose from. The studio will be snuggly warm no matter what the weather is like outside and will be decorated for the holidays. This is a great option for little babies if the cold weather outside is a worry. Great for up to 3-5 family members (depending on the backdrop chosen) Date for these will be Nov 11.
Last but certainly not least is all about the babies. It's the Hot Cocoa Mini Session that will surely put a smile on that sweetheart of yours. Set with a festive gingerbread village and a giant hot cocoa cup with marshmallows. Baby will have a jolly good time! Nov 12 in home studio Laurel, MT ( very limited).
Families, couples, or just the kids. All are welcome!
I look forward to seeing you soon!
13 Morning Sickness Hacks that don't include Unisom or B12
Momma, you are so happy that you finally have the special news that you will soon hold a new baby. BUT blanketing that happiness is the heavy, and down right awful morning sickness aka ALL DAY SICKNESS.
I reached out to fellow moms and asked them, what do you suggest to try and we have a list for you!
Now remember this is not a one size fits all, if something doest work, move on and try something else. Even a moment of relief is worth anything!
1. Grapefruit
2. Grapefruit chapstick
(Berts)
3. Water pick (I swear it’s the most relaxing thing getting water sprayed in your mouth 🤣)
4. Coldish showers
5. Freezing grapefruit juice into popsicles
6 ice water, but only sometimes, other times it makes it worse
7 Blending favorite soda with ice and making a slush
8 ice pack to snuggle 😂
9 Dancing to favorite music (mine 2007-09 hiphop club music, don’t judge) 🙆🏽♀️🙅🏽♀️
10 Sticking with the same meals that work
(Egg on bagel w/ Mayo for breakfast, veggie soup for lunch, and dinner… I just avoid meat)
11 Sea band
12 Sniff rubbing alchohol
13 Not eating after 6pm, naps, and HOT showers
If you have something else to add, please share the wealth of knowledge with us!!
Good luck momma, I know it’s hard but once that baby comes out, I know you would do it all over again even thought it SUCKS! xoxo - Whitney
How to prepare and what to bring to a cake smash photo shoot?
9 Image mockup. “Storyboard” by Littles + Bigs Photography
I love being a part of milestones, from newborn, to tummy, to sitting but one of the most fun ones is the cake smash and splash!
A cake smash session is a session where your baby can show off all that they are! At one years old your baby has a big personality and this session will let that shine through and capture it!
The first year flies by so fast and I know it’s important to try and capture as many memories as possible during that time!
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CAKE SMASH SESSION?
The portrait
All cake smashes include a portrait part before we bring out the cake. I like capturing all the details and letting baby explore a little bit! I have mom bring 2 outfits for this part so we can get some variety!
The cake smash
I take the work out by providing the cake! A simple white cake with soft whipped frosting! I choose this cake time and time again because it’s the perfect consistency for baby fingers. White frosting doesn’t stain or add any unnecessary food colorings which can cause allergies, especially in young children.
If the baby has any allergies we can arrange the cake to accommodate the needs or to choose to use fruit or an alternative favorite!
The Bath Splash
Each cake smash ends with a spash! This tends to be everyones favorite part. A mini claw foot tub filled with perfectly warm bath water. Babies will enjoy playing in the perfect sized tub!!
It is completely up to you if you want to use a swim diaper or birthday suit! Baby is always seated so nothing shows from the waist down.
SO WHAT IS THERE THAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO YOUR LITTLE ONE'S FIRST BIRTHDAY CAKE SMASH SESSION?
You have already noted the towel but is there anything else you need on the day?
We often say bring baby's favourite toy or a song on your phone. The things the baby loves are great but we keep these treats hidden for the very last minute since the little one would most definitely want to hold onto that toy and will focus on the screen too much rather than interact, have fun with the cake or the water and will get upset if the treats are then taken away.
Since it is a cake smash and we want the baby to have a little taste of it some baby puffs and other little snacks that baby likes that look similar to the white cake are really handy. Sticking them into the back of the cake encourages the baby to touch and explore the cake and helps us capture some great pictures even if sometimes the baby is not that much interested in smashing or eating the cake.
A cup or bottle with water or milk nearby in case the baby needs a short break or is thirsty - and trust me, they usually do and who wouldn't be after having the whole cake in front of them for the first time!
Since it is a cake smash session, as it stands in the name itself, letting the baby loose on the cake can sometimes get messy, really messy! Some babies don't quite get the hang of smashing right away so you may need to get your own hands into the cake to get them started. This said a change of shirt for yourself including a new pair of socks is a must in your bag. Regardless of how the baby feels about the cake pretty much all sessions end up with them crawling or running away all covered in icing and cream! What is more, one moment the little one will happily (or not so much!) tuck into the cake, the next he / she might need a cuddle from Mum and that is when a change of clothes come in handy especially if you have already planned a nice day out for some meal after the session!
What I provide with your session
Our studio prop stash is always growing and what we provide will depend on your chosen theme / style but this is what is generally included with the session:
A custom colored and themed organic balloon garland
A white floor
Frosted white cake
A matching cake stand - mostly wooden and baby friendly
A wooden spoon
A bathtub with warm water
What you bring along
Baby snacks, puffs etc. (white or close to white)
Baby's water/ drink
2 towels
A change of clothes for yourself and the baby
Swim diaper (optional)
Some pain relief if the baby is teething (ideally just before the session)
A favorite toy
A favorite song / show on your phone / tablet
When to book the session for?
Some customers choose to have their baby's cake smash session on the actual date of their first birthday. Some want the images for the party invites or social media shares on the day so would book a session for around 3 weeks before the date to allow enough time for the editing process.
This said, cake smash sessions are best booked well in advance to allow enough time to prepare and style so contacting us at least 2-3 months before the date is perfect! However don’t hesitate to see if I have openings!
We can style the set up to match your party theme or you can choose any other theme / style you like.
Even if your baby has turned one a month or two ago or is turning two it is never too late for a cake smash! Remember, they will never be that little again and 5 or 10 years from now you will be most grateful that you got yourself together and did it rather than missed at all.
Best timing?
We start all sessions at 10am but are flexible and could move it to 11am if that suits baby's nap times better. The sessions can be moved to 10am or 11am closer to the date when you know baby's nap patters better.
Eating before the cake smash session?
By all means do not keep the baby hungry however if the session time is closer to the baby's snack time or if the baby only had half of the snack before the session they will be more interested in trying the cake which is the aim of the session and all those fun filled pictures.
Is there anything else to do or prepare before the cake smash session?
The biggest tip that can be given before any important photo session is to relax! I know it is often easier said than done and we have all been there but the baby can often pick up on stress and how you feel, and we want them to come happy, positive, eager to play and enjoy their photo shoot.
It is totally normal to go all Instagram crazy and have multiple outfits in mind and high expectations however remember that it is the baby who runs all the show.
Some babies really love people, new places and mess and would dig into the cake right away while smiling for the camera at the same time, some would be shy or overwhelmed by a new place and new experience and would need some encouragement or even an extra power nap to get to their normal selves.
To help the baby with textures you can give him / her some cold mashed potatoes to eat / play with few times before the session as the texture and the temperature of a cold mashed potato is very similar to a cake buttercream / icing and cake sponge with filling.
Not a fan of the cake?
Not a problem! If for whatever the reason you have decided a cake smash is not for you, do reach out for a chat. We can always arrange something alternative and not less fun at all like a donut smash, paint splash, watermelon, strawberry party or even a pasta fiesta if you like!
If you want to book please contact me for more information! Contact
Thank you!! Whitney
Littles + Bigs Photography is located in Billings, Montana. I service Billings, Laurel, Red Lodge and the Shepherd areas.
Why photos of your baby are so important the first year.
Big brother already protective of little brother
Nesting and prepping for the baby are all very typical things I was doing last year in anticipation of our second baby. You could find me in the garage cleaning it out. Or on the countertop painting the ceiling, ya know, important things our newborn will surely notice. I look back now and wonder what goes on in a woman’s body to do such strange things haha! Tell me I am not the only expected mother to do that!
Really, in the end, all that matters are the memories that you make. I am here to tell you momma I am 6 months into our first year and it has gone SO FAST. So here is my promise to you as your photographer and friend.
All the sleepless nights, and caffeinated mornings, will wiz by with your new squishy little love. Who might I say will soon be rolling, sitting, crawling, and WALKING! My ultimate goal is to freeze these moments in time that you will never be able to get back. I want you to see a canvas, or hold an album in your hand to take you back to that moment in time.
First photo as siblings.
Details you think you would never forget, fade. Photos bring life back into those years past and you can, even for a short moment relive that tiny human.
I will create something you can keep forever and preserve your gorgeous little baby.
The soft fuzzy hair, big yawns, and sleepy milk-drunk goodness of a newborn is quickly replaced with the star-fished fingers of a sitter and get away attitude of a year-old babe!
Newborn sessions with Littles + Bigs are so much more than getting your photos taken. It in itself is the first chapter in your life as a family or a family with this precious new sibling.
Your bundle of squish is my actual client and the focus will be on them! I customize each session with help from you. I will know the details of your nursery should you have them, how you met your spouse, and your favorite icecream and football team!
Sleeping newborn baby boy.
I consider myself a seasoned newborn photographer (almost 5 years). Going on 7 years of motherhood. I can say with confidence that your baby is safe and secure in my studio.
My studio prides itself on making this experience relaxed and memorable for parents, and I’ll have your favorite drinks in the fridge and snacks. So leave it up to me to prep. All you have to do it show up and get relax.
Big yawn for this little squish!
Ideally, I would love to book you in the second trimester. I only take on a limited number of sessions each month and a fraction of those are newborns because of the nature of the sessions. New babies are typically in the studio between 7-14 days old ( adjustments are made when babies arrive early and late). I am so thrilled you would consider me and look forward to hearing from you!
How to add a Newborn Photography Session to your Baby Registry
As some of you know, I am having a little one myself this coming July, we are so excited and have decided to wait until we have the baby to find out if it’s a boy or girl. This is so fun, but also makes registering for baby things very difficult! What do I need? what do I want? When it comes to making life even the tiniest bit simpler I’m in. It dawned on me that while all the stuff is so amazing and great to have, the one thing I want is to remember how my baby looks those first few weeks.
So I went ahead and made a way to register for a newborn photo session! What is so cool is if you make your registry using babylist.com or something similar, you can add links from anywhere! I’m using babylist.com and love adding links from different shops while keeping it all in one place.
One of the worst parts about registering and buying all of this **totally necessary** baby stuff is that you’re done with most things in 3-4 months. Seriously, it goes into storage or you sell it if it’s your last baby.
Do you know what doesn’t get sold, or grown out of and DOES last literally forever? PHOTOS. Photos of your squishy little tiny baby. PLUS everyone can contribute a little bit without having to buy a whole session if they don’t want to!
How to add a gift card to your registry:
Click HERE to copy the digital gift card link
Go to your online registry (like babylist.com) and add the link to your registry
You may want to include my website information to get an idea of what they are helping pay for!(https://www.littlesandbigs.com)
3 Tips to Soothe Your Newborn
Your new baby is crying, and you have already attempted the obvious. Clean diaper, check. full tummy. check, not too warm or cold, check. Despite your earnest attempts to calm your fussy newborn, they are still crying. What do you do next, or what can you try next?
Hi! I am Whitney and while most of the blogs and Pinterest posts floating around are from seasoned mothers, nurses, or child care providers, I am a newborn photographer, and my literal job, is to capture your newborn in the most precious way, and that requires them to sleep. Over the past 4 years of being the go-to Billings newborn studio, I have learned a trick or two to soothe an irritated fussy baby.
So here are 7 tips to soothe your fussy newborn baby.
Dim the lights
Imagine being face up staring into bright overhead lights, when you are overly tired. Ya, not fun. It’s not fun for babies either. So turn off the overhead lights and try a low lit lamp or other soothing lighting. Bonus if its a yellow/red hue. Studies have shown these colors mimic sunset and can increase natural melatonin in people of all ages, including your new baby!
White noise
I have had my fair share of white noise machines and apps. This baby shusher is a fan favorite in my studio. So do yourself a favor and order it asap! It plays consistently for 1/2 hr and has an adjustable volume. The bonus is that you can turn it on/off with one hand.
Swaddle them
Seems like I am stating the obvious BUT I have had parents come into the studio saying the newborn does not like to be swaddled. This is usually not the case. What I see is that new babies don’t like the act of being swaddled but once they are wrapped and cozy they settle quite nicely. I prefer a nice stretching wrap, like this one. The traditional muslin wraps will work too, but they aren’t as parent-friendly. I find the stretchy wrap gives babies enough wiggle movement so they can find a comfy position and feel secure ( just like in mommy’s tummy).
I hope these tips help you get some much needed stress relief. As always if your baby won’t settle don’t feel bad about reaching out to your health care provider. We never should ignore our parental instincts!
xoxo - Whitney
Why Hire A Professional Newborn Photographer?
Why hire a professional newborn photographer?
It’s a question I am frequently asked and I like to encourage new parents to take pictures of their new baby at home because those are special in their own way! (Just remember to get them printed occasionally haha)
My job as a professional newborn photographer is to use my experience to take gorgeous, timeless images while using the correct light, professional equipment, angles, and props.
You may have already heard this, but in photography, lighting is everything when it comes to great images. During the sessions, I am very aware and have complete control over each lighting, I have studied light and am aware of how it must fall, and how intense it needs to be to keep your baby’s natural skin tones, and features.
Each newborn prop and textile I select is carefully chosen to insure safety, and quality and beauty.
As a professional photographer, I use the correct editing tools to finalize each photo. Polishing each image so that they print beautifully is my end goal!
If you are interested in learning more about a newborn session in Billings, MT, please connect with me!
FAQ - What to Expect When Hiring a Newborn Photographer | Billings, MT Newborn Photographer
Frequently asked questions about booking a newborn session.
Hi momma! Today I want to post a blog to tell you what to expect when booking a newborn session with me.
One of the first questions that people often ask is how the booking process works, and when to book the session for your new baby.
I usually advise to book your session why you're still expecting. That allows us for the most flexibility when choosing a date after baby’s arrival.
I take a limited number of babies each month and that allows us to book a session within the first two weeks, whether they are early on time or late. We all know we can’t tell them when to come!
I love being able to offer that flexibility booking while you're still expecting and putting you on the calendar and work with you when the baby is here.
When the baby arrives I asked that you contact me within the first couple of days you could do that by email text or phone call. Which ever is best. Some prefer that their partner contact me. I know you'll have a lot going on!
Then we will schedule a date within the first two weeks of the new baby’s arrival (give or take a couple of days).
Typically babies are very sleepy during the first two weeks and super curly and malleable. Now don't worry if you've missed the time to book. We will talk about different expectations depending on your baby’s age. You will get gorgeous images of your newborn baby.
The session fee, prep guide, contract and questionnaire are all digital and can be completed with your phone. This is so convenient considering your other arm might be holding a baby.
You can pay the session fee online, without even getting up from your seat. I take credit card, check or Venmo (with request).
The prep guide goes over what to expect and how to prepare baby when coming into the studio or lifestyle session in your home. It will touch on the temperature of the home or studio. If siblings are involved I go over that process as well. What to bring, or what to have. Finally it will go over what to wear.
I won’t go into too much detail but I want to tell you a little bit about the guide. Basically you don't need to bring anything to the session at all. Just to you, your family and the brand new baby. I have every prop imaginable including wraps headbands, posing blankets, outfits etc.
However, if there is something special that you would like to include in your newborn session please let me know what it is and bringing along!
All sessions are styled by me so that everything coordinates. When you hang photos on the wall you want to make sure that everything looks cohesive. Again if there's anything special just let me know and we can customize your session so that it fits your family perfectly.
Once the session is complete within the first two weeks you will receive an email to choose a time and a date for your ordering appointment. I do ask that all decision-makers are present at the appointment. You will get to see a full gallery of your newborn images. And then choose which collection or products fit your style and needs. I have a special tool that allows us to see what images would look like on a wall, even on a wall that is in your home!
Once you have made your selections I will hand edit each image. You will receive you final images via an online gallery within a week and your printed products within 3-4 weeks.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!!
Sincerely,
Your newborn photographer,
Whitney Jones
Newborn's First Photos: Should you hire a professional or DIY?
So you’re pregnant, and your weighing your options on what to do once that tiny human decides to show his or her face. Well, you’ve come to right place…
You could, ask Uncle John with the nice camera to come snap a few of your new little baby, but they deserve better than that! Alternatively, your iPhone does have a pretty dang good camera, but still, it is not the same. What if you went and bought a DSLR yourself ? But then you’d have to learn to use the thing and endless hours of how-to photography videos on Youtube, a giant, wordy camera manual, and editing software to buy… never the less, learn to use!
Ugh. That sounds painful. You’re busier than a bubble bee in spring dang nabbit!
Light bulb 😅 you could hire a professional to have these memories preserved in the right way, capturing your child while they are at the tiniest they will ever be. This never happens again, your child will never be this small, and in just a few weeks, they will be so different.
When you make the decision to hire me, you will have images that will never go out of style, timeless, and custom to you and your new baby. No guesswork, just come to the studio, or let me come to you.
I will promise you, you will NEVER regret investing in your baby.
Let me take care of keeping these memories for you. I’ve spent over 5 years now perfecting my craft for newborn photography and it would be the ultimate compliment to allow me to take photos of your new little baby.
When you know your due date, connect with me, so we can get you on the calendar, usually in your second or third trimester. I can’t wait! xo Whitney you’re curious photographer for cheeky mamas who want to relive the magic of their littles.
How to take amazing cellphone photos of your littles!
Now more than ever we are using our phones to document our family. So I thought I making a little video might help break down how I do it and my thought while I snap some quick photos of my kid!
5 tips for amazing cellphone pictures of your kids!
Avoid harsh light, diffuse it with a white sheer curtain or shower curtain. Harsh light can and will blow out the highlight of the image and you can actually loose part of your photo.
Get on there level, don’t over pose. This is the number one mistake when photography children, don’t over pose, they will loose interest, or give you one of the fake smiles, so they can be done quickly. Instead, find an activity they love and move around were they are, get down on their level. Stand on a chair and shoot from that vantage point.
I love showing how small my kiddo is so stand back and use the negative space to really give perceptive. Speaking of different vantage points, back up place kids in the right or left of the frame to give you some negative space.
Slow shutter speed with an app called Slow Shutter to show movement. Creates a really cool blurry artistic photography.
Edit. Clean up those horizontal line. Last thing straighten the horizon or the line in the background of the image, it makes for a polished image.
HAVE FUN! if taking a photo of your kid becomes a chore, don’t do it, hire a professional photographer and know that you'll have memories of your little ones as they grow!
xoxo- Whitney
Making Friends in Billings MT | Your Billings, Montana Photographer
𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁?
You’re totally not alone. We’ve all been victim of the myth of easy friendship. The reasons range from thinking “I’m too busy” or “I don’t know how to start a conversation”
𝗟𝗲𝘁’𝘀 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿.
I’m definitely a girls girl, and I NEED girlfriends to hang out with, laugh with (not to brag but I’ve got some incredible mom jokes), and vent.
I recently read an article that friendships can help reduce the chance of cancer?! 𝘜𝘮𝘮𝘮 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸?
Ps. Idk if you knew this, but If you’ve been photographed by me more than once, we’re friends.
A little about yours truly | Billings, MT Photographer
𝗢𝗸𝗮𝘆, 𝘀𝗼 no one asked but here’s some tidbits about me😂
1. I’m 34 and I have duplicated myself once, her name is Briar and she’s definitely a payback child, but Lord, did I need her.
2. The reason behind my motivation to start my photography career is her. Before I had Briar I was flighty, unintentional, with little direction. Motherhood was the kick in the pants and I can’t say it enough, shaped me into a me that I’m proud of. Love you Doodle 😍
3. I met the man of my dreams shopping for old barn wood. His unwavering support is what pushed me to finally believe in myself and what I could accomplish. The man did start two businesses, and has never once starved or lived in a van by the river. 😅 #winning
4. I love tacos 🌮 yes even more than Dragons.
5. I’m a morning person, and I get kinda chatty around 11pm, afternoons suck unless there’s a pool or campfire involved.
6. Photographing growing families and watching tiny babies, turn into toddlers, who become big sisters and brothers, is literally my favorite thing in the world. Those of you who have let me document all the milestones, thank you!!!
7. (insert polarizing statement) I’m a cat person
😬
Classic Lifestyle Newborn Session Billings, Montana
I was asked to come to their home to photograph the newest addition to the family. Greeted by one adoring sister and momma, I was so excited to see them in simple creamy white clothing. I love adding siblings into the mix and a lifestyle session is my favorite way to do that. It didn’t take long for me to realize how much the older sisters adored their new baby! To top it off daddy couldn’t resist a photo with the tiny little hands and fingers. Momma loves black and white so we created something extra special for her to hang on her walls. I am so excited to see all the gorgeous prints and storybooks that will be cherished forever.
Award Winning Salsa Recipe | Keeping it spicy in Montana
How To Make Award Winning Salsa – I am sharing my secrets to making The Best Homemade Salsa Recipe. So easy you can make it in 5 mins.
The Secret to making the BEST Homemade Salsa:
Salsa made with just fresh ingredients can come off laking in flavor… Lacking depth. Salsa made with canned ingredients alone can taste store-bought, and preservativie.. (not a word but you get it)
Through many trails and errors I have come to the conclusion that you need both fresh and canned ingredients to make the best homemade salsa recipe.
Here is everything you need to make the most delicious salsa in your own kitchen:
Canned diced tomatoes – 1 - 16 oz can - no draining necessary
Yellow onion – Half of a large - peeled and quartered
Garlic cloves – 2- peeled, crushed
Jalapeños – 2-4 (adjust to your liking of spiciness) chopped
Cilantro -1/8 cup - chopped
Fresh lime juice - half of a lime
Ground cumin- 1/2 TBS
Pepper - 1 tsp
Salt - 2 tsp
How To Make Salsa
Prepare the veggies and add to your food processor (no food processor, just chop and dice until you are happy with the chunkiness) along with lime juice and seasonings.
Add more cumin, pepper, and salt to taste, refrigerate until chilled.
Devour it.
Add this salsa over eggs, on your fajitas, tacos, nachos or just dive in with tortilla chips!
Let me know how it turns out!
Let me lose more weight first; Mommy + Me
Want to hear a sad story, meh, me either. So let's skip it. Awhile ago I had the pleasure of taking pictures of one of the cutest girls ever baby Joey! (blog coming soon). Her mommy the extraordinarily talented Tracy Moore, not just here but all over the world, offered to take some pictures of me in return (umm heck ya!).
Want to hear a sad story, meh, me either. So let's skip it. Awhile ago I had the pleasure of taking pictures of one of the cutest girls ever baby Joey! (blog coming soon). Her mommy the extraordinarily talented Tracy Moore, not just here but all over the world, offered to take some pictures of me in return (umm heck ya!). You want to know what my first thought was? Honest to goodness my first thought was that I wanted to lose more weight before the session and to push it as far back as I could, and then immediately heard a little voice say, that's not what you preach sister (buzz off voice).
I always tell my clients don't wait! Your kids don't care, they just want their mommy in the pictures ! Yet here I was feeling exactly the same way. It sucked. Really, why was that my first thought, and NOT how great would it be to have pictures of us together while I can still hold her in my arms, while she still calls me mommy, while twirling in pretty dresses is fun? Man oh man, luckily Tracy being the boss lady she is put me down and squeezed me in her very tight schedule for a week and a half away (oh $h*#). That was that.
Fast forward to now and yes I did watch what I ate and worked more than usual but the focus became more on how awesome it is to have a little one to do mommy and me's with and of course our outfits! Picking out clothes is a whole other topic and can cause a lot of stress but it doesn't have to (future blog post FOR SURE).
End results. PURE MAGIC. I'm living, I'm breathing, I have a beautiful baby and family and THAT should be celebrated simply because one day my future generation will cherish these and I will cherish these forever as I grow older and want to revisit the time when I could still hold her in my arms, and when she called me mommy and we twirled in our pretty dresses. Thank you Tracy you are incredible. xoxo
The Round Family | Billings, MT Family Photographer
Surround yourself with the ones you love and the ones who love you. Some may take that as a simple saying others may live it. This family session was just that.
Littles and Bigs Photography | Billings, MT Family Session
Surround yourself with the ones you love and the ones who love you. Some may take that as a simple saying others may live it. This family session was just that. When Dave first contacted me he wanted to gift his sweetheart something she had been longing to do, and that was get her family together and capture those memories we all know are all too fleeting.
Crazy how the one person can create so much! Pam definitely wanted to remember her family just the way it was this day. Cooler than most days in May we headed to Riverfront Park with my 70-200 creamy, dreamy lens and shot away. I knew our time was limited with the littles so didn't waste any time. We laughed as each family was in the "lime light" and the others helped getting those natural smiles and laughs that only people who have known you since birth can get! It was going well until the littles were done, it happens!
Few weeks after their session I went over and we watched the slideshow, watching Pam and Dave's facial expressions I could tell they were touched seeing all her loved ones together. It's probably my favorite part of the session besides the taking the pictures. Here's a clip of one of the printed photos.
“Cheers to happy babies and happy families”