Madelyn has been my neighbor since before she was even a thought in her mommy & daddy’s minds.  She came in to this world almost one year ago, and to celebrate the occasion, we went to Downs Park to snap some photos of the birthday girl (and mommy & daddy, too).

Maddie’s mom wanted to get one shot of her for a photo birthday invitation.  I thought, “Oh, that’s cool.”  But when Colleen told me about her idea of a collage of photos surrounding the “one photo” I thought, “Whoa, that’s an awesome idea!”

Well, we found “the one” shot, plugged it in to an invitation, and then agonized over finding only 12 more photos to surround it.  Maddie has been such a blessing and light in her parents lives that it was hard to pick only 12 photos representing their best year ever.

Here’s a sneak peek at their photo session and, if you’re good, and scroll all the way down, you can peek at her invitation too.

Happy Birthday Madelyn!

If you don’t remember Madelyn Serene, then click on her name to refresh your memory.  She is the first newborn I ever photographed, and my neighbor.  Well, she’s like 8 months now and so big!  She has such a sweet personality that my girls gravitate towards her every time she’s outside.  Maddie’s mommy & daddy got her a “car” recently and we snapped a few shots of her riding on it.  It’s super cute, pink (of course!), and great for little ones.  Here’s Madelyn riding on her car!

And just for fun, here are two photos to show just how much Maddie has grown up!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgUvAKCVmX8]

I had the pleasure of shooting my first newborn session with my newest neighbor, Madelyn. (Don’t you love that spelling?) Madelyn’s mom & dad, Colleen & Jack, are dear friends and neighbors of ours. When I found out Colleen was expecting, I was excited to ask her if I could attempt a newborn session with her daughter. She said yes! This is a little preview of one of my favorite shots of the day. The cute fabric ball is one of many things Madelyn’s grandmother made for her. (blankets, quilts, bedding, crib bumper, etc!) You can definitely tell she is her mom & dad’s pride & joy! Thanks for letting me practice, Jack & Colleen. I’ll have more photos for you shortly.