Houston Newborn Photographer - {Andres + Pablo - 7 Day Old Twins}

I had the privilege of working with another set of newborn twin boys last week! And just like last time, it was amazing! Andres & Pablo were perfectly content posing for the camera and slept through the majority of the session. We took several breaks for nursing and changing - and their grandmother even made lunch for me! Mom & Dad, I hope you love your photos! I am looking forward to coming back in a few weeks to photograph the boys with their sweet sister, Camila!

Houston Baby Photographer - {First Birthday Cake Smash Session - James}

I had so much fun working with little James! Here are a few of my favorite shots from his cake smash session! The adorable little lion cake was created by Suzanne Faubert, aka The Cake Fairy! Mom & Dad, I hope you enjoy these images of your sweet little guy!!

That last shot is a pull back from the set up - I just want you guys to see how far that cake was flung around the room!!! James had a great time smashing his cake...almost as much fun as I had photographing him!

Houston Baby Photographer - {James' First Birthday Photo Session Part 1}

I was thrilled to work with James last week to photograph his first birthday session! James recently received a few original Tonka trucks from a family friend and mom brought them along for our shoot! They were an awesome touch and they allowed me to capture James doing what he does best - exploring and learning through play! I am posting our outdoor shots today - check back later this week for a look at his cake smash session!

Houston Newborn Photographer - {Laila: 9 Days Old}

Laila was a photographer's dream baby! She was super sweet, very relaxed, and slept...like a baby! Here are some sneak peeks for Mom & Dad! I hope you guys love them!!! Thanks so much for allowing me to capture your baby in her first days of life!!!

Houston Newborn Photographer - {Parker + Peyton: 3 Week Old Twins}

I've been busy editing photos from my session with Parker & Peyton. These little guys were so sweet and patient! Every time I open a new photo, I find myself smiling! I really enjoyed working with your boys, Mom & Dad! Here are a few more sneak peeks!

Houston Area Photographer - {Let's Talk Editing}

What is your favorite part about Jill Ward Photography?
What is the most difficult aspect of your business?

These are questions I am asked time and again.
I love meeting new people, usually at very special times in their lives.
The special looks that are exchanged between a couple expecting a child.
The sparkle in the eye of a little birthday boy or girl.
The drooly laughter of a baby who has just reached a fabulous milestone.
Brand new babies, days after entering the world.

I love it.

The most difficult part of my job is editing the photos.
What you see in your online gallery, your proofs, my blog - these images are generally not exactly what I capture on the camera. Depending on the type of session I am shooting, I take approximately 300 - 500 photos! I have to whittle than number down to 20 - 30 for editing and presenting to clients. Once I've picked the best of the best, I start editing.

What does that mean?

Sometimes it is simply brightening a photo - bringing out the midtones, darkening blown out areas, lightening shadows. The basics. Other times, more work is needed.
I usually spend about 15 - 20 minutes on each picture - playing with different editing tools until I get the look I want to achieve.

Here is an example of an SOOC (straight out of camera - no editing) and a final product! As you can see, a lot of the background "noise" was deleted, tones were adjusted, and a few more tweaks to make the image come alive. All in all, I spend anywhere from 5 - 7 hours just editing a single session!
I hope that helps answer a few questions about what goes on behind the scenes at JWP! Have a great Easter weekend!

Houston Family Photographer - {Yogi's Sneak Peek}

This sneak peek goes out to my new friend, Yogi!
He is the furry little guy in the back with the sweet smile and bright eyes! Yogi recently had two new members join his family and he couldn't be more proud! Congrats, Yogi!!! Let Mom & Dad know more sneak peeks of those precious boys will follow soon!!

Houston Maternity Photographer - {Michelle + Lamar}

I had a great time photographing this awesome couple tonight! They are obviously in love and anxiously awaiting the arrival of their little girl!! Enjoy your sneak peeks, your online gallery will be available soon with more images!

Houston Area Product Photography - {Pinkie Twink}

I was honored to photograph this gorgeous dress made by Sharon Hollingsworth, owner of PinkieTwink on Etsy. Sharon has been making dresses, skirts, and ruffle pants for my little Cammie for a couple of years now. I tell you from experience, all of her items are made with the utmost care and precise attention to detail. We love our PinkieTwink items!!! I believe this dress is a must have for hot Houston summers!!! Thanks for sharing your newest creaion with us, Sharon! I hope you love your photos!