Eugene, Oregon baby and child photographer: Harbor is two!

This is my niece, Harbor. As the proud auntie I know I’m probably a tad prejudiced, but isn’t she a doll?

Harbor recently turned two years old—she’s getting to be such a big girl—and celebrated with a mermaid-themed birthday party, hence her sparkly mermaid costume. It was great to have my sister and brother-in-law bring Harbor to my photography studio in Eugene, Oregon for a special birthday session. It’s so much fun to share my talents and interests as an award winning photographer with members of my own family. 

Harbor had a wonderful time dressing up as both a mermaid and a princess—two of a little girl’s favorite things—and posing for the session. We chose lots of fun, bright, girly colors for the mermaid pictures, and used shimmery fabrics to emphasize that under-the-sea feel. Looks like a school of fish is going to come swimming by any second, doesn’t it? Although we wanted to use the mermaid theme to capture the memories of Harbor’s second-year birthday party and to reflect her current interests, I thought some more neutral shots would be nice too, so we switched to softer pinks and whites for the rest of the baby and child photography portion of the shoot. It gives a pleasant springtime feel—a much-needed mood boost in the chill of January. As you can see, Harbor had lots of fun playing with the flowers! 

For the family pictures we decided on some very dark colors that were more in keeping with the winter season, while still evoking feelings of warmth and comfort. I love the old-fashioned feel that all the wood and deep shades lend to the photos. The background is both dramatic and muted at the same time, and provides a lovely contrast to the reds, greens, and whites in the forefront. 

Aren’t they a beautiful little family? The individual shots of Harbor and her mom and dad turned out beautifully and highlight those special daddy-daughter and mother-daughter relationships. I love being a family photographer—and never more so than when I’m taking pictures of my own family!

For those wondering about the props in the family portion of the session, I should explain that my brother-in-law is a pilot, so we always try to incorporate something relating to aviation in all of Harbor’s sessions. This time it was a wooden airplane rocker that her Papa got her for her birthday. Such a beautiful toy—simple and sturdy—again bringing out that slightly old-fashioned touch. And I really like the splash of color added by the globe and the suitcase. No question about it—this girl is all set to go places!

I loved spending time in the studio with some of my favorite people in the world! We had a fantastic time, got some great shots to capture these special moments of Harbor’s growing up, and created wonderful new memories in the process. I hope you’ve enjoyed meeting my niece and her parents through these photos!