Newborn photography is a special and unique experience that captures the beauty and innocence of your baby in their earliest days of life. It's important to choose an experienced photographer who has a keen eye for detail, a gentle touch, and the expertise necessary to ensure your baby's safety during their photoshoot. In this blog post, we'll explore why choosing an experienced newborn photographer in Houston, TX is so important and why you should consider booking Taryn Melgoza Photography for the very best newborn portrait experience.

Safety is the Top Priority

When it comes to newborn photography, safety should always be the top priority. Newborns are delicate and fragile, and it's essential to ensure that they are handled with care and attention during their photoshoot. An experienced photographer will have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely pose and photograph your baby, using the proper techniques and equipment to ensure their comfort and well-being. For each newborn session with our studio, I work with my amazing assistant Stacy, who helps to provide extra support and spotting during prop poses.

Years of Experience Photographing Newborns

Experience is key when it comes to newborn photography. An experienced photographer will have an understanding of the unique challenges that come with photographing such young and delicate subjects. They will have honed their skills over the years and will have a deep understanding of the best poses, lighting, and settings that will bring out the beauty and innocence of your baby. At Taryn Melgoza Photography, we have been safely posing and photographing newborns for over 10 years and have a wealth of experience and knowledge that we bring to every session.

Portfolio and Style

When choosing a newborn photographer, it's important to look at their portfolio and website to get an idea of their style and what they can offer. A good photographer will have a diverse portfolio that showcases their talent and creativity, and their website should provide a clear idea of the services they offer, their pricing, and their approach to newborn photography. At Taryn Melgoza Photography, our portfolio showcases our expertise in capturing the beauty and innocence of newborns, and our style is inspired by the beauty and simplicity of natural light and organic elements.

Match with Home Decor and Lifestyle

The style of your newborn photographer is also important when it comes to hanging prints in your home or nursery. You want to choose a photographer whose style matches your home decor and lifestyle so that the art blends well in your surroundings. This is why it's important to choose a photographer who understands your vision and who can provide images that reflect your unique style and aesthetic. At Taryn Melgoza Photography, our style is inspired by the beauty of natural light and organic elements, making our prints the perfect addition to any home or nursery.

In conclusion, choosing an experienced newborn photographer is essential when it comes to capturing the beauty and innocence of your baby. We pride ourselves as being one of the best newborn photographers serving the Greater Houston areas, offering over 10 years of experience, a commitment to safety, and a beautiful and timeless style that will preserve the memories of your baby's earliest days for years to come. Contact us today to book your newborn portrait experience with Taryn Melgoza Photography!

As a photographer, it's always a joy to see the growth and development of my subjects over time. And this 18-month-old baby boy's portrait session was no exception. Since capturing his newborn photos, I've watched him grow into a sweet-natured, curious, and incredibly happy little boy. It's been an honor to photograph him and his family, especially since I've known his mom since elementary school.

For this session, we kept the style clean and classic, using white walls and light blue clothing to highlight baby boy's bright personality. Mommy also joined in for some shots, and the connection between them is absolutely precious. With his infectious smile and amazing blonde curls, this little guy was a joy to photograph.

One of the highlights of the session was undoubtedly the little boy's beautiful blonde curl. That amazing curl added an extra element of fun and character to the portraits, making them even more special. I always strive to create fine art portraits that capture the essence of my subjects, and in this case, that included highlighting this baby boy's gorgeous hair.

Overall, it was an honor to be able to create these portraits for this family. As a fine art baby photographer in Houston, TX, I take pride in capturing moments that will be treasured for a lifetime. From a sweet-natured baby to a curious and happy little boy, I'm so grateful to have been able to document this special time in his life.

I would love to photograph your baby’s major milestones and help you document these feeling yet beautiful moments! Contact me today to schedule a portrait session on our studio calendar.

As a photographer in Houston, TX, I am always excited to capture the joy and love of a growing family. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with this beautiful family from League City, TX, and their two precious little girls. Big sister was so sweet and gentle with her new baby sister, and it was a joy to capture their bond in these newborn portraits.

The colors used in this session were soft creams, whites, and just a touch of lavender and pink to add a feminine touch. These colors perfectly complemented the delicate beauty of the new baby, and created a peaceful and soothing atmosphere for the portraits.

At the beginning of the session, baby girl was wide awake which made for some amazing open eye portraits. We even captured a few sweet sleeping smiles which are always our client’s favorite images!

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with this family and I am looking forward to watching their baby grow over the next year. As a part of my Baby Plan portrait collection, they will have the opportunity to capture all of the special milestones and memories of their new little one.

It is truly an honor to be a part of capturing such precious moments in a family's life, and I am proud to offer the best newborn photography in Houston, TX. If you are expecting a new arrival, I would love to be a part of capturing this special time for your family. Contact me today to schedule your own newborn portrait session.

CONGRATULATIONS! You are about to embark on the most beautiful journey!

Bringing a baby into the world is a wonderful life event that should be captured. It’s a time you are going to want to remember and share with your little one once they are a bit older. If you are thinking about or have recently booked a maternity photo session then the below tips should come in handy as your prepare for your session. 

WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY MATERNITY SESSION

I prefer to photograph all maternity sessions between 28 and 34 weeks, when your tummy will have “popped” and have a beautiful shape. By booking your maternity session during this time you are also past the discomfort and bloating that happens earlier in the pregnancy, but before the end of pregnancy when ankles and feet start to swell. I suggest contacting me around 15-20 weeks to book your session on our calendar as we typically book up about 1-2 months in advance.

PAMPER YOURSELF AND FEEL YOUR BEST

I always recommend professional hair and make-up for my mommy clients! Professional artist know how to make you look and feel your best for your portrait session and it takes the stress off of you having to do your hair and make-up by yourself. I have several preferred hair and make-up artists I am happy to recommend.

Treat yourself to a neutral or light colored manicure 1 – 2 days prior to your maternity session so that you can take some beautiful shots with your hands on your tummy. And we know how important it is to moisturize those knees, elbows and belly but we recommend you do so 1 – 2 hours before the session to avoid any shininess or sticky clothes.

PROP IDEAS

Most maternity photos are captured with few props as I aim to make the focus on connection, your belly, and your beauty of the moment. But, I am happy to incorporate a few small props into your session if you have certain ideas! Cute baby items such as shoes, onesies, or a baby book are popular items to include. The same applies to family heirlooms. If you have a special locket or photo that you would like to use, let me know so we can be sure to incorporate it into your portrait session.

More and more moms are using their ultrasound photos in their photo sessions. If you aren’t too sure whether you want to use it or not, bring it to the shoot anyway and decide on the day.

WHAT TO WEAR

Take the time to pick the right outfit for the maternity shoot. You should of course be comfortable but make sure that your clothing doesn’t detract from your tummy’s shape and your natural glow. I have a large collection of beautiful maternity gowns that are available to my clients. You are welcome to schedule a consultation to visit the studio and try on our wardrobe options!

Please avoid wearing any tight fitting watches or bracelets that might leave marks on your skin. Simple jewelry is best so it doesn’t distract from your natural beaty.

Avoid large, bold patterns or clothing that is too loose. Look for long maxi dresses that cover your legs but offer some flowy movement for a dreamy look in your photos. Empire waists, flowing tops and wrap dresses are perfect for enhancing your shape.

I CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU!

Are you ready to book your maternity session and document these beautiful moments and memories before baby arrives? Contact me to set up your appointment today!

Let’s face it. Post-partum bodies leave us feeling like a stranger when we look in the mirror (if you choose to look in the mirror, that is). Some things are bigger, some smaller, weight shifted to weird places, and bits hanging lower than ever before. And where exactly did all of that extra skin come from?

If we’re being honest. We are not feeling our cutest in the first two weeks after giving birth to a child.

And fun for you – that is the exact time frame the newborn photographer needs to photograph your new baby. It is SO easy to dismiss the idea of getting photos of yourself with your newborn, but I’m here to tell you to GET IN THE PHOTOS.

Hear me out on this one. I know you are sleep deprived, stressed out, dealing with post partum issues, clothes not fitting, learning about your baby and finding yourself as a new mom (or mom to multiples)….but I can promise you, taking those photos is WORTH IT.  You will look back on those photos and LOVE that moments that were captured. 

Why You Should Get in The Photos

1. It’s hard to take a selfie with you and your baby in it. A cell phone photo can’t capture the emotion you feel when you look at that precious child in your arms.

2. Your baby will never be this size again. You’ll always want to remember how small they were in your arms. Mom brain makes you forget things like their flaky skin, tiny feet, and the way their tiny hands wrapped perfectly around your finger.

3. Genealogy and heritage. Decades from now, your descendants will enjoy seeing photos of you and your family all together.

4. Getting professional photos of yourself can make you look and feel amazing – there’s just something about getting your hair and makeup done that can really lift your spirits.

Yes, you will see things you don’t love about yourself, but there is no amount of money or time that will ever get you those priceless moments back. That’s why it's important to document it and preserve it. And if I’m the one photographing you and your family, my sole goal in the lifestyle portion of the session is to make you feel comfortable, beautiful, and show you in your best light.

Ready to get in some photos with your new precious little angel? Contact me to set up your appointment today!

I’ve heard it said before that if it doesn’t scare you, it isn’t worth it. And if I’m being honest, creating a course from scratch and launching it out into the world was absolutely terrifying.

But I’m so glad I did. I’ve felt this calling to help make the lives of moms everywhere easier and this is another step towards that.

In this course, moms are learning how to:

• Find great lighting in any situation

• Compose a good photo

• Get an authentic smiles from their kids

• Get their partners to take photos of them (that they actually like)

• Edit their photos easily (without using filters that wash them out)

• And they even get free presets to apply to their images to take them from *yawn* to *wow*!

So the course was created and sent out into the world. But what did people really think about it?

Well, the verdict is in! Moms everywhere are loving the iPhone photography course where I teach moms how to take better photos of their kids!

Don’t believe me? Check out what these moms are saying…

“This course was great! I feel like all moms of littles should have this knowledge in their back pocket. I love how Taryn broke down the course enough to understand but was in depth enough to transform my photos. I now have a different way of approaching photography with my kids and can’t wait to use these techniques in the future.” – Ashley

---

“The course was easy to follow and I was able to watch at my own pace, between drop off and pick ups at 3 different schools! My favorite thing about the course was being able to go back and reference the techniques/talking points, as I’m a visual learner and seeing/hearing it more than once really sinks in for me.” - Andrea

---

“Taryn’s cell phone course is really great! As a mom of 4 kids and a photographer myself, I know it can be hard to take good pics of your kids. It covers everything you need to be able to understand how to take a great image. Highly recommend if you want to take your cell phone images up a level!” – Aly

Now it’s YOUR turn!

Are you ready to take a leap and try something new?

Want to find out more info about what all the course entails? Go here:

Ready to get the course for yourself? Go here and let’s get this party started!

For many people, pets are furry members of the family.  It comes as no surprise that they want to include their pets in their photos. Including your pets in your photo session does require a little extra preparation but it is something I always welcome and encourage!

Below are a few tips to prepare you for your photo session with your pet.

To capture the best looking photos, we will need to get your pet to sit still and behave. Pets can get very excited when new people are around so let your pet become acquainted with me and the new environment beforehand. Bring treats and toys that your pet enjoys so that you have something to use to grab their attention if necessary.

Keep a leash or harness ready, just in case. Even though your pet might be well trained, it never hurts to be prepared. You may also want to arrange your poses so you can hold onto your pet securely without it looking like you are hanging on for dear life. I will help you with posing so that the final image looks natural!

If you know that your photo session is going to take some time, give your pets the chance to take breaks, walk around and drink water. You won’t be able to force a pet to sit still if they are thirsty or agitated. It’s a great idea to bring an extra set of hands or helper to watch the pet for any photos we take that don’t include the pet.

As a pet owner you probably know how perceptive your animals are to energy and emotions, so it’s important that you are relaxed when you get to your pet photo session. If you really want to keep your pets relaxed too, try and arrange your photo session in a place where your pet will feel most comfortable such as your garden or a park.

For the best results, working with a photographer like myself, who loves animals and has previously worked with animals will make for an easy and enjoyable portrait session. I am an avid dog lover and always welcome any pet to join in your family portrait session!

Are you ready to book your family portrait session including your beloved family pet? Contact me today to get started! If you found this article helpful, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter.

“Your kids are only little for so long.”

We hear that a lot as parents, don’t we? And sure enough, the days are long, but the years pass by so quickly. The only way we really have to remember those little moments with our kiddos is when Facebook brings up those memories from years past. It’s a heart-warming feeling, isn’t it? Seeing their little hands and feet, snotty noses, and cranky faces too. We moms want to remember it all – because yes, it does pass more quickly than we realize.

It's said that we are the most documented time in history, i.e., we have more photos of our kids, pets, and daily lives than any other time before us. Technology is at our fingertips and so readily available. But how many of those photos do you actually like? How many of those photos ever leave the camera roll on your phone?

Maybe it’s because you don’t think your photos are good enough. Maybe it’s because you can’t get your phone to take pictures like what you’re actually seeing with your eyes. Maybe you just have sucumbed to the idea that you’re no good at taking photos.

We hear you and we’re here to help.

If you’re struggling with taking good photos of your kids or pets, then get ready because I’m about to introduce you to something that’s going to rock your world.

I’ve been taking photos professionally for over a decade now and it all started because I was like you – I wanted to take better photos of my kids on a daily basis.

And now, with the help of this course, YOU CAN!

I’m so excited to announce that Taryn Melgoza Photography is now offering an online photography course for moms. This course is for anyone who wants to learn how to get amazing, high-quality photos out of that camera in your purse.

This cell phone photography course for parents includes:

• 45 minute detailed video with step by step instructions

• An explanation in all things lighting

• The art of composing a good photo

• Getting authentic smiles from your kids

• How to get your partner to take photos of you (that you actually like)

• An easy approach to editing (without using filters that wash you out)

• 7 Presets that will take your photos from *yawn* to *WOW*!

Are you ready to learn how to get great, authentic, fun photos of your children? Click the link below to get your hands on this course that’s made just for YOU!

FAQ

What if my kids won’t cooperate?

With this course, we keep ALL kids in mind! Whether your child is in the terrible twos, awkward pre-teen years, or somewhere inbetween – this course will show you how to get REAL photos of your kids that you’ll love.

I’m not a “techy” person. Will I understand it?

Absolutely! In this course, we take all of that technical mumbo jumbo professional photographers use and make it attainable and easy to understand. There’s step by step instructions and examples with every single point made, so you really can do this!

I want my husband to take more natural photos of me with he kids. What’s the secret to getting him to do that?

Oh girl, we’re going to break it down for you so that you’ll be able to tell him exactly what you want and make it as quick and painless as possible for him!

I don’t have a lot of time to devote to this. Can I take breaks?

Absolutely! This course is designed to be broken up into small, achievable segments that you can watch while you’re sitting in the car rider pick up line, doctor’s office, or after the kids have {finally} been put to bed.

Have we convinced you yet? If you’re ready to take better photos of your kiddos, click the link below to get your work at your own paced course today!

Have you ever wondered what spurs on a photographer’s passion? Below are just some of the many reasons why I love my job as a professional photographer and wouldn’t change their job for anything in the world!

1. Photography changes how I see things. I notice colors, textures, flowers, trees, people, shapes and light every where and know how to document these things in a way most people never see them.

2. I see so much beauty all around me. Even the most mundane object can become beautiful when I photograph it in a creative way. Many photographers love their job because they develop a fascination with the world around them by viewing it through new eyes.

3. It's an amazing creative outlet. I get the chance to put a little bit of who my clients are into each photo that I take. Anyone can click a camera's buttons but not everyone can truly make a photo come to life and create a beautiful cherished memory.

4. It's a challenge. Creating amazing photos that capture the magic of everyday life doesn’t come without hard work, dedication and imagination. There is always something new to explore and a new way to take the same photos. It’s a job that never gets boring!

5. I get to meet new people all the time. As a photographer, I get to work with people from all walks of life. Getting to know someone new is a part of the process of bringing someone’s personality to life through in a photo. It also makes the job a lot more fun!

6. The flexibility is great (most of the time). Being a full time photographer means I get to set and work my own hours. Finding balance as a business owner is something I always struggle with, because I lovvvvve what I do! But knowing I can set my own hours doesn’t mean I’m always successful as finding that healthy balance between work and life. This job as a photographer and business owner is definitely NOT a laid back profession. As your photographer, I am always aiming to perfect my craft, take on new challenges and strive to help my clients achieve the perfect portraits. I want every single client to ADORE their photos and cherish the memories we created for a lifetime. THIS is why I do what I do and would love to be YOUR new family photographer! Contact me today to chat!

When you decide to pay for a professional photo session, know that when you hire me, you are hiring an individual who is passionate about what they do and is willing to go the extra mile to help you create beautiful photos that you can treasure forever.

I love this family so much! I met Morgan in a study group at Texas A&M and we’ve been friends ever since (almost 20 years if you’re keeping track of my college graduation)! The good old days of college, with little responsibility except to show up to class, study, and make good grades…those were such gloriously easy days….now back to reality!

Morgan and I have kept in touch through facebook over the years and I was so excited for her when she announced her very first pregnancy after years of waiting and prayer. God is so good and faithful! When I first received her inquiry for newborn portraits for baby #1, I seriously did a happy dance! I was so thrilled for their family and for the chance to photograph her new baby girl! Well, fast forward 3 years and I’ve been blessed to photograph ALL 3 of their precious miracle babies’ newborn portraits. Meet Hayden, the caboose for this stunning family.

This session was done in my Pearland studio with a combination of both posed newborn photos and lifestyle family photos. I love my studio space because it allows me to offer both types of photos to clients giving them the most gorgeous newborn session galleries.

I would be honored to be your forever photographer and capture your most beautiful family moments. Contact me today to book your studio newborn session!

What a gift it is to be able to celebrate your baby’s first birthday with family photos and a cake smash!

I encourage all parents to participate in their baby’s first birthday session. First, because it’s so important to be photographed WITH your baby! Get in those photos and make those memories! Second, your baby will be much more comfortable during the session if mommy and daddy are with them in the photos. Many times they have “stranger danger” around one year of age so they need a little reassurance from their parents to know this strange new lady with the camera in front of her face (ME) is a friend!

This session was scheduled in our Pearland studio because mom had an amazing theme in mind for her baby girl’s cake smash, and the best way to make it happy was in the studio! Outdoor sessions are always lovely, but sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate OR creating a particular theme in an outdoor setting just isn’t possible. The studio gives me more control over the environment to be able to create an amazing birthday set up for you baby’s milestone moments!

Scroll down to see te Mermaid themed cake smash and how adorable this baby girl is!

If you found this article helpful or inspirational, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter.

WHAT IS A LIFESTYLE NEWBORN PORTRAIT SESSION?

I think lifestyle newborn portraits are a beautiful way to document your family in the comfort of your own home! The focus of my lifestyle sessions centers on capturing the natural connections of you as a family with no use of props and very little baby posing. While I will rely on gentle guidance for posing my parents and families, my main goal is to photograph the love between you, and the awe your family shares for the new baby.

WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A LIFESTYLE NEWBORN PORTRAIT SESSION:

• if you are utterly exhausted from the first weeks at home with a newborn and leaving your house feels daunting

• you prefer natural, candid moments captured during your newborn session

• you want posing guidance without feeling overly posed or staged

• real, authentic moments that help you remember this season

• you want photos that focus on connections

• you have a beautifully styled home and baby nursery

THESE SESSIONS DO NOT INCLUDE:

• traditional posed newborn photos that include sleeping babies, props and specific outfits. This style of session is a posed newborn session done in my Pearland studio.

• the use of any props. since i focus on the documentary side, i will not be posing your baby in any baskets, blankets or bowls.

• specific outfits, hats or accessories. instead, baby will stay cozy in a swaddle, onesie or other special outfit that you supply

WHERE DOES THE LIFESTYLE NEWBORN SESSIONS TAKE PLACE?

Lifestyle newborn sessions take place in the comfort of your own home. These sessions typically involve using areas of your home that have the best natural light…which can include baby’s nursery, your master bedroom, or your living room. Lifestyle sessions are meant to capture life in your home as it is in this moment: full of excitement, joy and love. A clean area in your house always photographs best so don’t be afraid to shift around baby items to create a tidy space for photos. I’m happy to help move items around as well.

We offer on-location hair and make-up by our preffered HMU artist Ashely Granados so let a professional help you look and feel your best for photos! We LOVE helping clients feel their best version of themselves so that their photos showcase this positive energy. By letting us come to you for your lifestyle newborn sesison, we will take the exhaustion that come with the newborn phase of life and photograph it in a way that helps you remember the sweetness of this passing season.

WHEN SHOULD YOU BOOK YOUR NEWBORN SESSION?

I recommend booking 2-3 months before your due date. This will ensure I have availability for your due date window (two weeks before and after your due date), and give you enough time to prepare. When you book your newborn session with me I provide you with a welcome and prep guide to help you get things ready before baby arrives.

Contact me today to schedule your Houston Lifestyle Newborn session. I’d love to add you to our calendar!

Top 5 Tips for Making a Photo Session with Kids Easier

If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session.

1. Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it into because she won't sit still. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff.

2. Make it fun. Let the kids have a couple “fun pictures” where they get to pick their own pose or props. You get to keep the more serious photos while they get to keep their silly photos. This way everyone wins.  If you are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm.

3. Be prepared.  If you're going to be out for several hours, ensure that your children are well rested and have had their nap. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If you are having your own photos taken too then you might want to bring a babysitter or family member along to watch the kids. If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues or a first aid kit so bring that along too.

4. Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and your photos will look fantastic.

5.  Have a chat. Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions.

At Taryn Melgoza Photography, we have over 10 years of family portrait experience and our goal is to make your family photo session as smooth and fun as possible! We all know that photo sessions can feel daunting and overwhelming, but by implementing a few tips and tricks and hiring an experienced photographer, it can actually be a very enjoyable experience that creates both a memorable and beautiful moment!

What a privilege it is to document a baby’s first year of life! This family booked one of our Baby Collections that included their newborn session, a sitting milestone session, and a one year session. I got to watch as the family grew and changed together over the course of this first year and let me tell you, it was truly magical to witness!

First birthday sessions can be done either in my Pearland studio or in an outdoor setting. Both location options are beautiful choices, but the studio is nice because we don’t have to worry bad weather, bugs, or the Texas heat. The studio also allows me to set up these whimsical prop scenes, like the very popular carousel horse!

Fun fact - this carousel horse was purchased at an antique show about 7 years ago after searching for many years. Believe it or not, carousel horse props are in high demand! When I originally purchased it, it was painted red and silver…not really my preferred color scheme or photography style. I repainted the carousel horse by hand soon after I purchased it and love the way it turned out!

Happy first birthday to this sweet baby girl!

Christmas card season is here. Are you ready for your Christmas family photos? This guide will show you what to do (what NOT to do) when it comes to planning your Christmas outfits for your family.

What to Avoid

Before we get into what you should wear, let’s talk about what you shouldn’t wear to your family photo session. You’ll want to avoid everyone wearing the same colors (i.e. everyone wearing black). Matchy-matchy is more likely to make the photos look older in style than they actually are. Your outfits should coordinate in a way that adds to the overall look of the photos – not be generic.

Keep Your Photo Location in Mind

When thinking about what to wear, you’ll want to envision the setup of the props, colors of the trees (or lack thereof), and your family’s surroundings. For instance, if you’re heading to the Christmas tree farm, you’ll probably want to steer clear of wearing green and wear complementing colors instead, like red, navy blue, metallics, and tan. Christmas is a time of year to have fun with your wardrobe, so let’s have a little fun with it!

Pick Mom’s Outfit First

Let’s face it. Us moms are hardest on ourselves. So let’s make sure we look great before trying to plan the rest of the bunch. I always say to start with mom’s outfit and work from there because if you’re able to find a dress you love and feel great in first, chances are you can find coordinating outfits for the rest of your family members pretty easily.

I recommend a maxi dress for mom. They provide great movement for photos and they’re flattering on every body type. When in doubt, opt for a maxi dress.

Pick 2 or 3 Colors That Go Well Together

The colors you wear can help enhance or detract from the photos, no pressure or anything!

You’ll want to start by selecting two or three Christmas colors as your color palette. Think of the colors of the winter season and those classic Christmas colors. You don’t have to do the traditional red and green colors either! It’ll easily tie the family together without everyone looking too styled. When in doubt, tan is always a great neutralizing third color.

Instead of giving you vague ideas as to what works and what doesn’t, I thought I’d show you some inspiration (and even link the clothing items in my Amazon storefront directly so you can easily find them). After all, you’ve got more pressing things to do than to pick out outfits that will work together and I’m here to help! Here are a few ideas of colors that go together that are perfect for Christmas family photos.

Christmas Outfit Ideas

*Please note that as an Amazon affiliate, I earn commission from any qualifying purchases.

I hope this guide on what to wear for a Christmas family photo session helps you choose your family’s outfits and gives you some peace of mind so you can look forward to your session!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter.

So you’ve done it. You’ve booked your photographer for those yearly fall family photos. Then the panic sets in. What on earth do we wear for the family photos?

If this question invokes a sense of anxiety, panic, and dread – then this guide on what to wear for your family pictures is just for you!

For this round of family photo clothing ideas, we’re focusing on some ideas specifically for fall. Fall is a really popular season for photos. The weather is generally pretty mild, the colors of the leaves are changing (hopefully we get a little color here in Southeast Texas anyway), and those Christmas card photos aren’t going to take themselves. Here’s a few things to keep in mind when selecting what you’re going to wear for your family photos this fall season.

What to Avoid

Before we get into what you should wear, let’s talk about what you shouldn’t wear to your family photo session. You’ll want to avoid everyone wearing the same colors (i.e. everyone wearing black). Matchy-matchy is more likely to make the photos look older in style than they actually are. Your outfits should coordinate in a way that adds to the overall look of the photos – not be generic.

Keep Your Photo Location in Mind

When thinking about what to wear, you’ll want to envision the setup of the props, colors of the trees, and your family’s surroundings. For instance, if you’re heading to the pumpkin patch, you’ll probably want to steer clear of wearing orange and wear complementing colors instead, like tan, brown, maroon, navy, or mustard. Fall has such a great range of colors available to us, so there’s a wide array of color options we can draw from.

Pick Mom’s Outfit First

Let’s face it. Us moms are hardest on ourselves. So let’s make sure we look great before trying to plan the rest of the bunch. I always say to start with mom’s outfit and work from there because if you’re able to find a dress you love and feel great in first, chances are you can find coordinating outfits for the rest of your family members pretty easily.

I recommend a maxi dress for mom. They provide great movement for photos and they’re flattering on every body type. When in doubt, opt for a maxi dress.

Pick 2 or 3 Colors That Go Well Together

The colors you wear can help enhance or detract from the photos, no pressure or anything!

You’ll want to start by selecting two or three fall colors as your color palette. Think of the colors of fall, the colors of leaves when they change colors in the autumn season, and those warmer tones. Those fall colors are the ones you’ll want to gravitate towards. It’ll easily tie the family together without everyone looking too styled. When in doubt, tan is always a great neutralizing third color.

Instead of giving you vague ideas as to what works and what doesn’t, I thought I’d show you some inspiration (and even link the clothing items in my Amazon storefront directly so you can easily find them). After all, you’ve got more pressing things to do than to pick out outfits that will work together and I’m here to help! Here are a few ideas of colors that go together that are perfect for fall family photos.

Fall Family Outfit Ideas for Photos

Whether you’re into mustard, maroon, navy, or sage green, we’ve got all the ideas for you here on how to pick the perfect coordinating outfits for your family.

*Please note that as an Amazon affiliate, I earn commission from any qualifying purchases.

I hope this guide on what to wear for a fall family photo session helps you choose your family’s outfits and gives you some peace of mind so you can look forward to your session!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter.

2022 FALL MINI SESSIONS OPEN SOON!

Mark your calendars and get ready to book your Fall Mini Session when they open this coming Monday September 12th at 9pm to newsletter subscribers. If you aren’t already subscribed to the newsletter, what are you waiting for?! These mini sessions typically book very fast, and spots are extremely limited this year so I encourage you to set an alarm!

Here are the *official* mini session dates for the Fall:

• Red Truck Pumpkin Minis - Friday 9/30

• Outdoor Family Minis - Saturday 10/29

• Red Truck Holiday Minis - Saturday 11/5

• Formal Holiday Studio Minis - Sunday 11/20

Keep reading for more details on dates, locations and themes.

Red Truck Pumpkin Minis - Friday September 30th
This year I'm adding the vintage red truck to this set up!  Just imagine...the vintage red truck, lots of pumpkins, and a variety of fall colored mums...all the gorgeous fall vibes in one set up! The image above was taken a few years ago, so this year's set up will look different, but it gives you an idea. Fall clothing, halloween costumes or adorable themed jammies are welcome!  These minis are for children only.

• 10 minute sessions and 5 digital images

• $295 plus tax

Outdoor Family Minis - Saturday October 29th - Out Under the Trees Farm in Angleton, TX 

These minis are for families and will not include any holiday props...just a natural location, gorgeous evening light and your beautiful family.  Out Under the Trees is located in Angelton, TX about 40 minutes south of Pearland and offers a variety of scenery for family portraits (the greenhouse is a client the favorite!). 

• 15 minute sessions and 10 digital images 

• $495 plus tax

Red Truck Holiday Minis - Saturday November 5th
These minis are family friendly and holiday themed using our vintage 1951 red Ford truck, Ruby!  Add in a gorgeous sunset with just the right amount of holiday decor and you have the perfect classic Christmas family photo. These have historically been very popular with clients...set your alarms! 

• 15 minute sessions and 10 digital images 

• $495 plus tax

Formal Holiday Studio Minis - Sunday November 20th
These sessions are perfect for clients who prefer a more formal family portrait.  The set up this year will be similar to last year with some new Holiday touches, and will take place in my Pearland studio.  They are clean + classic and ideal for those who want to avoid the outdoor elements (bugs, rain, heat). 

• 15 minute sessions and 10 digital images 

• $495 plus tax

A few additional notes...

• Don’t forget to join the newsletter!

• If Mini Sessions aren't your thing and you prefer a more relaxed and personalized family portrait experience, I still have a few openings for full Family Portrait Sessions this fall. Send me a message soon to reserve portrait session as my fall calendar is filling quickly!
  

  Now let’s keep our fingers crossed it actually FEELS like fall when these minis actually happen! :-)

Having a baby? Congratulations! This is one of the most exciting times of your life. But it’s also one that requires the most planning, and when you’re planning their bedroom, the details matter. Presented to you courtesy of Taryn Melgoza Photography, here’s a quick rundown of ways to make your nursery safe and secure without sacrificing style or comfort.

Start With a Blank Slate

For the safest and most attractive nursery, start with a completely empty room. First, clean everything. Follow this up by painting your baby’s room in your color of choice, making sure to avoid extremely bright and bold colors that might make it difficult to sleep.

Next, inspect the room for safety and comfort. Are lamps and cords out of reach? Are there any cracks in the walls or windows, or outlets that need some attention? Get in touch with a professional handyman service to address any problems you find (making sure you check their ratings, reviews, and prices beforehand, of course).

A few other important tasks to take care of in your baby’s nursery are to install guards on the outlets and secure HVAC vents to the floor. This can help avoid electrocution and cut fingers.

The Bare Necessities

When your goals include both safety and aesthetics, a minimalist mindset is key. While there are some items you really should not do without, there are many others that have no place in your baby’s nursery. According to Overstock, a crib, bedding, changing table, dresser, and rocking chair are among the most important items for a nursery. However, what you do not need are things like a low-hanging crib mobile, a Bumbo seat, a bouncer, or a walker. Each of these items is unnecessary, expensive, and potentially dangerous.

Saving on Style

A nursery can be costly but you can easily save money without sacrificing safety or style. If you have already begun with a minimalist mindset, you're a step ahead. A few tips to shave your baby budget include:

●      Make a budget. Make a list of exactly what you need and how much you’re willing to spend on each item. Rank each in order of importance and only splurge on the top necessities. Register for more expensive items, such as the crib and baby monitor.

●      Use personalized artwork. Photos of stuffed animals, your baby's clothes, and maternity pictures look at home in any nursery.

●      Repurpose furniture you already have. While you’ll need to buy the crib new, you can use an old dresser or other accents. (Pro tip: Secure all furniture to the wall.)

●      Organize everything. The more organized you are, the less chance you run into of having to re-purchase items you already have. Plus, keeping things organized and clutter-free can work wonders on your stress and anxiety.

●      Outside the box. If space is an issue, it may be wise for a small remodel or to build an addition to accommodate a nursery. Connect with a local contractor to get an estimate. This may be an instance where you need to remortgage your home, so calculate costs to determine whether this is the best option.

Your baby’s nursery should grow with them. Starting with a blank slate and putting thought into what you are going to put into the nursery will ensure that you stay within your budget and buy only those items that enhance your little one’s health and safety. When you’re not 100-percent sure what, exactly, your nursery needs, don’t be shy about asking other mothers. There are plenty of online groups and websites that can walk you through the process.

Taryn Melgoza Photography has been doing this for over a decade now, creating beautiful, timeless portraits of your new babies and families while keeping the whole experience easy and fun. Reach out today to get started!

Have you ever seen a more beautiful family?! There is no greater compliment than when clients return year after year to have me photograph their family’s major milestones…like welcoming twins into their family! These sweet babies were a dream to work with and were very cooperative and sleepy for their session, which means I have tons of gorgeous images to share.

A fun fact that I’ve learned about photographing twin babies, they love to be posed close together and touching. I have learned that being close helps them to stay calm and settle into a peaceful sleep. When they are in the womb, they are squished together in a very small space. I believe they find comfort outside of the womb being near each other. What an amazing bond they share, even before birth!

As a pregnant woman, finding ways to build confidence and live your best life is a must. However, it can also be challenging, particularly when you’re experiencing the stresses that come with pregnancy. If you want to get on the right path, Taryn Melgoza Photography shares some tips that can help.

Find a Fitness Routine That Works for You

When you’re pregnant, your health — and the health of your baby — is a top concern. In many cases, experts recommend getting 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days, if not every day, during the week.

However, you need to choose the right fitness routine during your pregnancy, too. Usually, your first step is to speak with your doctor. They can tell you if there are any special considerations to keep in mind and can also make recommendations about suitable activities.

If working out wasn’t part of your routine before, you may want to start by walking at a moderate pace as a form of exercise. Water aerobics is another solid choice, as the water can reduce stress on joints.

Pilates or yoga classes that are designed for pregnant women are also worth considering. They require very little equipment and often focus on gentle movements.

If exercising was part of your routine before, then you can likely continue with similar activities as long as your pregnancy isn’t complicated or high-risk. However, you may have to adjust your approach as your pregnancy progresses.

Update Your Diet for Your Pregnancy

In some cases, you may need to adjust your diet during pregnancy. That way, you can maintain your and your baby’s health, keep your energy levels up, and otherwise live your best life.

As with exercise, it’s smart to speak with your doctor about your nutritional habits. They can let you know if any changes are essential. For example, there are certain foods you should avoid during pregnancy. High mercury fishshould be eliminated from your diet, as well as raw or undercooked seafood, meats, and poultry.

Raw or runny eggs are also risky, so it’s best not to eat those, as well. The same goes for unwashed fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurized foods.

While alcohol is a complete no-go, limiting caffeine is also wise. There isn’t a clear line when it comes to how much caffeine may be safe, so many doctors recommend avoiding it entirely.

Finally, you want to be cautious about herbal teas and supplements. Some herbal teas and supplements are unsafe during pregnancy, while others may be fine. As a result, you’ll want to consult with a medical professional before consuming any while pregnant.

Manage Stress, Prioritize Rest

Being pregnant puts a lot of pressure on your body’s systems, and as your baby grows, you’ll be managing a variety of emotions and physical symptoms, which is why it’s so important to make rest a priority. You’re likely going to feel a different kind of fatigue than before you were pregnant, so listen to your body. You may be unable to take naps during the day, but you can go to bed earlier, and you can implement bedtime routines that pave the way for a good night’s rest.

Reducing stress is also important, since it not only affects you but the baby too. Sleep and regular exercise can reduce stress, but consider also protecting your personal time, asking your friends and family for help, and trying to manage any work-related stress that could adversely affect your health.

Sometimes it can be helpful to consider professional help in the form of therapy when striving to minimize stress. Traveling more than is strictly necessary, however, can be challenging, especially close to term. Fortunately, a convenient appointment with an online therapist makes things easy. Instead of venturing out, you can meet with a licensed therapist in the privacy and comfort of your home. And online therapy is often less expensive than a more traditional in-person appointment.

Consider a Career Change

When you’re pregnant, it’s normal to reevaluate various aspects of your life. If you’re worried that your career doesn’t provide you with enough flexibility to raise your child the way you’d like, then it could be time to make a change.

One excellent option is to launch your own business. By starting a venture, you remain in control. As a result, you may have an easier time maintaining work-life balance, ensuring you can be an involved parent while also earning a solid income. Juggling a baby and a business will definitely be a challenge, but the autonomy that comes with being a small business owner can be well worth the effort.

Pregnancy can take a lot out of you, which is why it’s so important to make your health a priority now and after the baby arrives. Take the steps above to stay active, eat healthy, get enough rest and live the life you deserve. Reach out to Taryn Melgoza Photography to capture those precious newborn, pregnancy, and family moments.