Rochester Minnesota Birth Photographer: Adam

I'll never forget that night. The night you came into the world and took your first and very difficult breath. Your mama was so strong (although her vocals said otherwise). She called me at 10:50pm saying you were on your way. It was just the beginning, it could be all night. I said I'd try to sleep, but I knew I wouldn't. I slept on the couch in my clothes so I could leave quickly. At 11:50 I texted that I was attempting sleep, but it wasn't going well. The adrenaline was too much. I knew you were coming and I was so excited to be there. Then at 12:50, I got a text. 7cm at Methodist, call Art. So I did. I called your Papa to see how it was going. Clearly I needed to leave now because you would be here soon. I arrived at 1:08. Navigating through the quiet hallways from the parking ramp to the room seemed to take forever. I wanted to run, but my camera and bags weighed me down. The elevator was stuck, so I took the stairs. Soon, I found your mama. Not happy about the pain, but so strong and so able and so ready to meet you. Your papa was there trying to help, but knowing there wasn't much he could do. Your grandma was there, tears streaming down her face as she also felt helpless to take away the pain. Soon it was time to push. 1:15am. Your mama just wanted you out. It hurt, but she knew it was temporary. 1:25am your beautiful head emerged, but with a cord snuggly around your neck. Your body followed and you let out one large scream and then silence. A scary silence. After a quick peak you needed a little help, but it was just a little and soon you were telling the world that the bright lights were not what you were used to. You longed for the touch of your mother. Your papa cut the cord skillfully. And soon you were in the arms of your mama and eating soon at her breast. She laughed that she didn't know what else to do to comfort you so she did what she knew best, holding you. You soon snuggled in the arms of your papa and studied him and your grandma too. Not sure who they were but knowing the comfort they brought. You cried during all the weighing and measuring, but only a hand was needed to soothe you, just the slightest touch. Soon, my job was done. The whole time I was shaking with excitement and emotion. I had tears streaming down my face. I had no idea if my camera was in focus or not, but just that I was there and that was an amazing thing. Thank you Ali and Art, you are amazing friends to allow me to share in such a moment with you both. I'll be forever connected to you both and to Adam and I am grateful for that. Enjoy my story in photos.






*Bliss Photography currently offers a Bliss Beginning session in the first 48hours following your birth. I do not currently offer traditional birth photography, but hope to in the future!

Rochester, Minnesota Photographer: Happy Mother's Day!

I witnessed my first birth this year. Ok technically 3rd, but the first that I wasn't the one in labor. I had the pleasure of being present for little Adam coming into the world. Adam is the third child of one of my closest friends. Watching her strength, resilience, perseverance, and her primal connection to that child the minute he arrived was something I'll never forget. Mothers are amazing creatures. Whether they became mothers by growing a child in their wombs or growing a child in their hearts, they have a connection that can't ever be broken. Happy Mother's Day to you all. I don't expect you to be the kind of mothers who succeed at every Pinterest project, handle every tantrum with ease, or don't have an evening filled with exhaustion. We are mom's of truth, mom's with faults. But we are mom's. Our kisses on boo boo's actually heal them, our hugs at bedtime create sweet dreams and we are the ones that just get it. Whether we have parented for only a few weeks, only a few years or for a lifetime, we are mom's. and that is a pretty amazing thing to be.

























And a rare capture of me with my kids

Minnesota Children's Photographer: David 5 years

When Sandra was pregnant with David we met at a childbirth class. Since then I've had the privilege of watching David and now his sister Rosy grow up through my camera. David is now 5 and I just love his silly faces. We had way too much fun during our session!

Minnesota Maternity Photographer: Angie

The lovely Angie. She was just gorgeous and so fun to work with. We had a great time chatting during our session. I love being able to get outside if even for a short moment in the cold.

Minnesota Maternity Photographer: Ali

My friends should know by now that if they come by for a playdate, if they are ready to pop any day and if they have a couple of sweet girls, there just may be a photo shoot. They need to be prepared at all times! I hauled Ali down to the studio for a quick session with her and her girls before their first little boy came out to play. She is currently 6 days overdue, the longest she's gone. I think it's time little guy. Your eviction notice has been served.

Lincoln, Nebraska Newborn Photographer: Norah

I may have to make this a Part 1, because there is still more to share! Earlier this month I traveled with my mom for a whirlwind trip down to Nebraska to visit my new Great Niece. Gosh that makes me sound old, but then again I'm only 10 or so years older than her dad. I couldn't believe how full my van was with the backdrops, blankets, hats, props, etc. That's a lot of stuff for one little tiny baby. It was a crazy 16 hours in the car with my mom and a fun 3 hours with little Norah.




I've photographed a lot of babies, but none with platinum blonde hair and so much of it! We got in a bit of snuggling even.





She gave us so many smiles, even one when she was awake in my mom's arms!



Her mom and dad are huge Harry Potter fans, so I couldn't wait to do this fun set up for them using their well loved books.


We had blankets knit by her great grandma and her grandma, I think this little girl is loved!


Even a hat that was worn by her great great grandfather!





I've been having fun with these before and afters lately!


and a quick little behind the scenes video!