I Have Experience
While I’ve been a photographer for almost 10 years, I’ve had many jobs in my lifetime that have led to me being the Washington, DC newborn and family photographer I am today. I’ve always loved kids – even as a kid – and ALL of my jobs leading up to NPS Photography involve working with littles. I thrive when playing with kids, teaching them and spending time with them – I was just born with that nurture gene.
My Work History
So what jobs have I had that contribute to my love of photographing babies and young kids?
#1. The first job I had, at age 11, was babysitting. Yes, you read that right. I was 11 years old. While I’m not even sure that is legal today, it was the ‘80s, baby, and I was a sitter in high demand.
#2. As an older teen, I was nanny to four kids under 8 for two consecutive summers. I took care of everything for these kids, from transportation to snack and meal prep to planning – and cruise directing – fun activities and events for them for each day and week.
#3. Every Sunday for three years running, I worked as a Sunday School Nursery worker at Christ Church in Georgetown. What a blessing it was to spend time with all of those itty bitty babies while their moms and dads attended church services. And it probably goes without saying that it set me up quite nicely for my newborn work!
#4. For over five years, I worked as a camp counselor and junior camp director at Creative Summer at Holton-Arms School. Working primarily with children from ages 3-6, I planned and managed all aspects of their camp activities and spent tons of time with these little tykes.
#5. I am also a teacher by trade. I have a degree in elementary education, and taught first grade to kids in the 5-7 year age group. Trust me, when you’re a teacher, you can handle anything! 🙂
#6. Last but not least…the role that has set me up BEST for working with families and small kiddos, is MOM. I’ve raised three beautiful boys, who are all into young adulthood now, meaning I’ve seen ALL the ages and stages, and there’s very little that will rattle me. I promise, whether boisterous, bouncing, sassy or sweet, your kiddos are in a judgment free zone with me!
I’ve Seen and Dealt with it All
While it’s rare that anyone asks for a photographer’s resume, my work history informs so much of how I approach working with young families. Moms, I know you get nervous about your kids and their behavior during a photo session, and I want to alleviate those concerns. I have so many resources from my vast experience working with kids in my back pocket, and I pull out all the tricks so you don’t have to worry. Hope to see you and those kiddos at a session soon!
