This is my first blog, ever.
I was never a part of the Xanga or Blogger era. And when friends suggested I try Tumblr, the task seems so daunting.
Nowadays, even when I try, I don't feel capable. In the last eight years, the only consistent form of writing I have maintained is to compile pharmacy policy and procedures, operational emails, and medication instructions with just enough characters to fit on a prescription label - any sort of creative writing is as foreign to me as an archaeological remnant from a previous life. It is why I am nervous and excited to take on this blog. It is challenging me to find that part of my brain which has been neglected because I was too busy making room for organic chemistry, therapeutics, pharmacy laws and regulations, so on and so forth. It's exciting to be able to exercise my artistry and creativity again.
Now, back to photography. My friend, Leah, asked me to photograph her first born son. Although we missed the first month window, where Baby To slept deeply for those Anne Geddes inspired sleeping poses, I was excited to get my third experience at photographing babies. Leah is the best client one could ask for. She has a San Francisco apartment with incredible windows for natural lighting. She did her homework ahead of time and created a Pinterest board of inspiration photos to share her vision with me. When I arrived, I had five different textured blankets, two different wicker baskets, and a set of adorable baby diaper design to choose from (by the way, Ross is a great place for discounted baskets and blankets - the one I ended up using as a blanket was actually a shag bath mat for just $11.99).
Both Baby To and Jakey (Leah's four legged son) were a dream to photograph. As an aunt to four little ones and a mother to a Maltese-Shihtzu, I knew unpredictable was to be predicted at this session. Admittedly, I was also apprehensive about my own abilities and worried about how the lighting would turn out considering I only use natural lighting and haven't had any prior indoor photography experience with a client. However, it is these first time experiences that have taught me tremendously. In between burps and feedings, I managed to squeeze in a little glam time for Leah because, really, all mamas deserve a little vavavoom! I hope she won't kill me for publicizing this but you know a Mom is excited when she sends you a selfie while breast feeding at 11pm, long after the shoot is over. That may have been the best part of my day.
I was so engrossed in the photo session that I had missed my planned lunch at Swan Oyster Depot. All who knows me knows that there are very few things I'm willing to miss a good shuck for. Fortunately, it was well worth it.
Here are some of my favorite images from the session.
Thanks for taking the time to visit my blog.
Till next time, Ngoc.
