It is always an incredible privilege to be able to capture a child’s first breath. It’s an even bigger privilege (and an honor, really) to be able to capture these moments for a fellow photographer. Earlier this week, I was allowed this incredible opportunity. Courtney is one of the wonderful women I have come to know through my journey in this industry. I am blessed to say that I am a part of an amazing group of women who are supportive, uplifting, and encouraging…something that is sort of rare in our line of work. Tate is also a part of this group, and together, she and I documented the birth of Courtney’s third child, Judah. We had a day full of laughter…and an evening full of tears – happy tears, of course. It was nothing short of amazing! Here is little Judah’s story…

They are such a fun couple – I thought it was appropriate to lead with this shot. Sums up the playfulness that was had throughout the day…(well, until Courtney started contracting ;)) Cool, calm, and scarily collected.It’s almost GO TIME…SHOW ME THE BABY!
Ice chips & a little love was all this little Moma needed…At 6:04pm, precious Judah Jay arrived and took his first breath…There wasn’t a dry eye in the room…
Welcome sweet baby boy! You are BEAUTIFUL.Courtney and Jeff had a precious nurse that day. She was wonderful!Handing baby to Daddy to give to Mommy for the first time. I love these images together….what a precious, precious gift that a man can give a woman. Totally smitten. Something about the bond between a father & son….will get you every time 🙂 And it was finally time to bring in Judah’s big brother & big sister! The moment Courtney had waited for…her children meeting their newest sibling for the first time….They came bearing gifts! The look of awe on their faces was so priceless….Shiloh took my breath away….she was like a doting little Mommy almost instantly.Aaaannnnd she couldn’t wait to get her hands on him! This image absolutely warms my heart.
Big brother Salem was so calm and gentle….Can we take him home Mommy? 🙂 Judah had a little something for his brother & sister too!Kisses for all!And so it is….a precious little family of FIVE. Congratulations Courtney, Jeff, Salem & Shiloh. What a blessing it was to watch your family grow!