Now that we are on the other side of our last major adoption hurdle… we can finally begin to slowly start sharing some pieces of our family with you. So today I wanted to start by sharing the first official family photos we had taken while we were up in Michigan.

Now this was kind of a scary situation for me… because as a photographer – I knew how much I was going to want those precious newborn pictures and I knew how important it was that we do them right away. When we thought we had been matched with a mom in Chicago last October – I was elated to think that I could go to photographers I know from around here. But since we had to travel up to Michigan and we were stuck there until our Interstate paperwork went through, I didn’t know anyone who could capture these portraits that I so very much wanted.

But thankfully – one of my artist communities rose up and helped us out! I put out the word in the group that we were in Detroit and were hoping to find a photographer ASAP to capture our sweet baby girl. And guys – I was floored by all the people who stepped up and offered to capture Marlee’s newborn portraits. To be honest – it was a bit overwhelming – we had dozens of names to sift through to try and find one that was in the right area for us, who had availability that matched our schedule of running to lawyers, and doctors and what not, and who’s work I felt confident in. And there were honestly quite a few that were perfect!

It was so hard to choose, but ultimately – I ended up choosing a photographer that I had actually just met at a conference a couple months prior. Trae was nearby, available, specialized in newborns, and most of all – she was someone I already knew. Honestly – I wasn’t worried before our session… mainly because we were coming as we were. It’s not like I had the ability to pack all my makeup or curling irons or anything like that. And honestly I hadn’t planned any outfits for photos either. The truth is we went up there with so much hope and apprehension that the thought that we’d be getting newborn portraits didn’t really even cross my mind when we were packing. Plus – we had to pack fairly light because there was only so much room in Ryan’s truck cab.

Luckily Trae was super helpful and accomodating and made sure we got those portraits I had been looking forward to for years. What made this especially special was that it was our anniversary. Every year on our anniversary, I’ve done a quick little mini shoot of just me and Ryan to document us through our married years. So to be able to have our portraits taken as a family of three after waiting so long – well it was the best anniversary gift ever! So here’s a little peek behind the scenes at our session with Photography by Trae

And here’s a peek at a few of our favorites from Marlee’s session

And yes – I’m already planning out big wall arrangements for our beautiful family portraits. Because I know how important it is for Marlee to see the photographs of herself in our family. To visually see where she belongs and to see those who love her always. Once I get that all done – I’m sure I’ll share it too because I’m pretty excited about it! But for now I thought this would be a fun little inside peek into a very special day for our little family!