Personal: Celebrating our first year as a family of four | Charlottesville Family Photographer

It's safe to say I've put more thought into the photos surrounding Oliver's first birthday than I have his birthday party — but hey, that's second-kid-pandemic life for ya, right? I've also learned that creating the memories is more important than stressing over a perfect party.

In this post, there are two collections of images. The first is a little family session I did myself (with the help of my husband Tyler and our 4-year-old Tuck). Yes, I could hire a photographer like myself to take these for me (and certainly do from time to time). But to be honest, I love the idea of using my talent and art to give my family tangible memories. (I also did our own newborn session, if you want to take a look afterward.)

I chose an evening that wasn't too cold and a location right in our own neighborhood. It was beautiful, and the lingering snow and frozen lake made it feel a bit more magical. 

The second set of images is something special I wanted to do with just Oliver and me, in a cozy little window-lit corner in our home. He and I have spent nearly every hour together since his birth, and I wanted to honor that with something that felt more intimate. Thank you, Tyler, for always being up for taking the camera.

Now, let's go stress a little about that party... 

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Laura Richards is a newborn and family photographer and filmmaker based in Charlottesville, Virginia. She specializes in lifestyle and documentary photography, family films, and heirloom print art. Check out 7 reasons you'll love your own LRP experience here.