Carolinas Newborn Photographer // The Cintron Family // Clover, SC

My husband and I moved into our Charlotte, NC home six weeks before my daughter was born. It was January and cold and so we didn’t get out and meet our neighbors until it started to warm up and of course by that time, we had a newborn as well. When we finally met everyone on the “sac” we knew we had made the right choice on a home. There are so many kids around us always in and out of our house and the other houses on the block and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Spring quickly moved into summer and we were celebrating the fourth of July when I met the sister of one of my neighbors. She was a few days past her due date and pretty miserable in the heat. I was excited though because I knew how close in age our kids would be! Her and my neighbor are close so I knew she would be over often and the kids would be able to play together. Time truly is a thief because before I knew it, Amy was pregnant again! This time, I was invited in to document this incredibly important time for this family. 

Baby girl N was born right around Thanksgiving and I arrived at their Clover, SC home for her documentary newborn session on a day when big brother was home from school which was an added bonus. 

When I photograph a family at a time like this in their lives, I understand and honor its fragility. I take great care when telling the unique story of each family. I include things like toys combined with diapers and feeding times for baby, at the same time as feeding time for the adults and older children. The connection between each person in the family is precious. I think it is extraordinary.  

Other activities that I love to document include bathtime! Typically, newborn baths take place in the sink because they are just so tiny and it only makes sense to use the sink. We have used our kitchen sink countless times to clean our kids. As they got older, they would sit on the edge while we cleaned them up after a morning of painting or a messy spaghetti dinner. Maybe it is partly my nostalgia taking over that I love the sick baths so much. 

During this session, because big brother was home, I was looking forward to capturing the dynamic between the two. I could tell early on that he loved his baby sister more than anything. He truly enjoyed spending time with her and felt comfortable taking care of her while mom and dad did a few dishes and prepared lunch. 

As I talked with mom and dad about various topics, I made sure to show them how well they were doing as new parents once again as well as to show them the amazing connection they are creating with baby N. 

This family means a lot to me and I hope to return to document everyone again soon.