Today is a very out-of-the-ordinary post for me! Although I absolutely ADORE babies and love looking at newborn photography, I am simply not a newborn or baby photographer. Most people don’t realize that newborn photography is definitely an art unto itself, and requires lots of practice, training, and the right toolset to properly execute. It is not for the faint-of-heart! I have so so so much respect for newborn photographers!

That all being said, I DO make it a rule to “never say never” which is how I ended up in the home of former ECP couple Shelby and Patrick last week. You see, a couple of months ago, Shelby had emailed me informing me that she was due to have a little boy at the end of January, and wanted to know if I could fit in a portrait session! I was beyond thrilled to receive the ask, and once I recovered from my excitement for the couple, I heartily agreed!

Although I specialize in weddings nowadays and don’t do a lot of family portrait sessions, let alone newborn sessions, this opportunity was far different. One of the cornerstones of my business is that I establish and nurture a relationship with brides and grooms starting from the very first point of contact. Photographing Shelby and Patrick’s beautiful baby boy was just another way for me to do just that – I was able to celebrate the joy of a growing family and let them know that I still care about their lives. My heart for each of my ECP couples goes way beyond the wedding day, and I hope that shows for each and every one of them!

I had such a great time capturing these sweet moments with Shelby, Patrick, and “Baby G.” Not to mention, I got my baby fix – although I’m hankering for more! (I’ll just leave that little hint right there for you all!) At one point, I held their precious child in my arms and simply said, “Now I see why newborn sessions take so long. I just want to stay here all day and cuddle him aaaall day!”

Congratulations, Shelby and Patrick – I am over-the-moon happy for you and your beautiful family!

Emily Chappell is a Columbia Wedding Photographer and Greenville Wedding Photographer, in Columbia and Greenville, South Carolina. She also specializes in wedding photography in Charleston and is a destination wedding photographer who loves to travel. Contact Emily Chappell Photography for more information about Columbia South Carolina Wedding Photography in Columbia, SC.