As a mom of three very active and busy kids, a husband who travels and a full work schedule, I understand how important it is to make life special, but easy. Documenting your family should be a relatively simple process.

There is no more important year than the first of your child’s life. As you transition into motherhood (or to an ever-growing family), you will watch your child change from a tiny babe in your homes to a walking, babbling, chubby little person. As a mother and photographer, here are a few important milestones you’ll want to be sure to photograph.

While each of our experiences are valid and unique, we share this in common: we all deserve a moment of relaxation. Allow me to introduce to you my maternity portrait experience.

Despite my awe of this beautiful transformation my body went through, I unfortunately didn’t always feel that pregnancy glow. So here are my top 5 reasons, from the nostalgic to the practical, every pregnancy should be photographed.