Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Why Every Pregnancy and Newborn Experience Deserves to Be Documented by Glen Carbon IL Maternity Photographer Conner James Photography

For each and every one of us, our lives are special. Our lives are unique. And our lives are precious. We only have one life and none of us know how long or how short it will be. In saying that, many people treat their lives as they would treat a significant celebration. When we celebrate, we all want to take pictures because it’s important to us and our families and our friends that we remember that time. It’s important that we capture those moments. It’s important that we freeze those memories - so they can never be lost and never be forgotten. Wouldn’t you say this is the same for the time(s) a woman is pregnant or once a beautiful newborn comes into the world? Edwardsville, Illinois photographer Christine Loomas of Conner James Photography would agree; and here’s why.

When it comes to pregnancy and newborns, every experience is one-of-a-kind that deserves to be captured and remembered. At any given moment, these times may seem to go on and on and on until you blink - and they’re gone. Well, they’re gone physically, but they can live on in your heart with the help of professional newborn photographer Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois. Christine possesses a natural talent for “seeing” and “grabbing” the moments mothers and new parents alike want to hang onto. There’s truly nothing more beautiful than a new life. And whether photos are taken during maternity or once a newborn has made its grand entrance into the world, the journey up to that point is sacred to that family. 

A great example of this is the story of John and Jane Doe. They tried to conceive for 10 years before seeking help from fertility specialists. Though difficult, John and Jane worked with a photographer who agreed to go on every single step of their journey toward parenthood. This journey lasted three years and consisted of endless doctor appointments, blood work, fertility shots, injections, egg retrievals, embryo transfers, negative pregnancy tests and lots of tears. You might be wondering, “Who in the world would want to have photos of all this? It’s sad and painful and above all, depressing.” In a word, yes, it is all of those things. But to John and Jane it was an altering life experience that they KNEW would eventually have a happy ending. And the journey toward achieving that happiness, no matter how long or how sad or how painful - was absolutely worth capturing for them. Because when the day came that they finally received good news, that the pregnancy test was positive, that they were going to be parents - their photographer was there to capture it. All of their raw emotions - the happy screams, the tears, the laughter, the hugs, kisses and absolute joy - was documented. So one day when they are telling their child about their journey, they have every single piece of it captured in hundreds of photographs. It’s their story and their experience. And it was unique and worth capturing through photos.

So, if your pregnancy and/or newborn experience is one you don’t ever want to lose, times you never want to forget, moments you know you’ll want to reflect on and cherish as you grow old - contact Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography. Your life will be filled with moments that will flee, but photographer Christine will make sure the moments you want to stay, always remain.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Conner James Photography Inc](https://www.youtube.com/@connerjamesphotography)

2.[Edwardsville Arts Center](https://edwardsvilleartscenter.com/) – There might be potential inspiration or opportunities to exhibit your work.

3.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

4.[Edwardsville Neighbors](https://edwardsvilleneighbors.org/)

5.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

The Role of Photography in Celebrating New Beginnings by Edwardsville IL Photographer Conner James Photography

If you think back to when the very first camera was invented, in the 1800s, it was a pretty simple device - something that could capture and reproduce an image. That was really all anyone at that time needed. In fact, that was all anyone needed for over one hundred years. The sole point and purpose of a camera was simple: to capture or freeze a moment in time; a moment that could be reproduced, if needed.

As with anything, over the course of time things change. From polaroids to iPhones, I’m sure no one ever thought we’d be able to take and manipulate photos with our cell phones - not to mention the incredible developmental journey of professional photographers. And in present day, one of the most sought after pros specializes in maternity and newborn photos. If you’re searching for the best of the best, search no further than St. Louis newborn photographer, Conner James Photography.

Newborn baby girl laying down oh her back wrapped in a green wrap. Edwardsville IL Newborn Photographer Conner James Photography

Edwardsville IL Newborn Photographer Conner James Photography

Maternity and newborn photos don’t just celebrate your baby’s new life, they symbolize the start of a whole new chapter for your family. Christine Loomas of Conner James Photography in Edwardsville, Illinois believes photos can tell stories that words cannot. When Christine is taking maternity photos of a mother-to-be, she aims to capture a moment or an expression that tells a story. Carrying a baby is such a precious and magical time for a woman. There is a beauty and love within her that words just can’t explain. But through the right photo, one taken by a seasoned maternity and newborn professional,   

One really great thing about photography is that it has the same significance from culture to culture. When a family has maternity and/or newborn photos taken, they will forever have one moment (or a few if they’re lucky) captured in time. A moment they can preserve, cherish and treasure for years to come. Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography prides itself on giving families wonderful memories they can relive over and over again and again. They will be able to reminisce on those special times whenever they want, day or night. Christine has said that her clients come from all walks of life. And while everyone is so incredibly different, they all have one exact thing in common - their want and desire for beautiful maternity and newborn photos.

To many, photos are more memorable than words. If you ask professional photographers who are truly dedicated to their craft, they are likely to say that photos display unspoken words, unwritten details, and the inner expressions of their subjects. The beauty of a photograph is that it allows us to review and interpret what we see without anyone else interfering and telling us what we are “supposed” to see or how we “should” feel. Edwardsville photographer Christine of Conner James Photography devotes herself to capturing new beginnings her clients wish to celebrate. They can also rest assured that Christine’s work will capture the unique love a mother and a family hope to commit to memory for a lifetime

Outgoing Links:

1.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

2.[City of Edwardsville IL](https://www.cityofedwardsville.com)

3.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

4.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

5.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

6.[Expertise](https://www.expertise.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

How Professional Photography Captures Moments That Last a Lifetime by Glen Carbon IL Newborn Photographer Conner James Photography

One of the happiest times of your life is finally happening; you’re pregnant! There will be many beautiful, amazing moments you’ll want to remember forever. So, you begin your search. You scour the internet high and low, seeking out the perfect professional photographer. You know what you want in a real pro; someone who can capture the true love and natural beauty of these moments - someone who will flawlessly create timeless images you can and will treasure for a lifetime, and beyond. Look no further than Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

Being pregnant, you’re likely excited and anxious to freeze this time in your life. And once your bundle of joy arrives, you will certainly want the same. Carrying and bringing your newborn into this world is magical. So magical that you don’t want to make the mistake of using an amateur. In doing so, you take a lot of risks - risks that aren’t worth the money it could cost you in the long run. Bad work means unhappy clients who often don’t pay, and they will surely not recommend that photographer to anyone else. By hiring St. Louis photographer Conner James Photography, you run zero risk. Owner and photographer Christine Loomas has over a dozen years working behind the camera with both maternity and newborn photos. You can rest assured that she will capture exactly what you want - the first time. You won’t need to go back for another session, find and hire a different photographer, or try to DIY a photoshoot. Everything you want, you will receive and even more with Edwardsville photographer Conner James Photography.

Try to think of it this way. Professionals possess something no amateur ever will. They have an eye, a craft even, to flawlessly execute the images they see in their head. They have a vision and they go after it, full throttle, producing high quality photos almost every single time they get behind the camera. Christine of Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois says it best - she gets her shots right 99% of the time when she’s behind the viewfinder, not when she’s editing. If she doesn’t capture exactly what her clients want while she’s shooting, she’ll keep shooting until she does. Even if her clients requests are vague or nearly impossible, Christine makes it all come to life, simply and beautifully. 

Professional photographers like Christine of Conner James are one in a million. She doesn’t wait for inspiration in her work, it just naturally comes to her while she’s working. For her, the photos she takes are her masterpieces. She has an impressive knowledge of how to use the right lighting, filters, angles, and posing to create the most emotional images. By selecting Conner James Photography in Edwardsville, Illinois you will receive images that truly inspire everyone who sees them. Your maternity and newborn photos won’t be everyday photos that could have been taken on an iPhone. In Christine’s Glen Carbon, Illinois home studio, she’ll create true hero photos that you, your children, grandchildren, extended family and faraway friends can look back on for years - and remember with a full heart and a warm smile.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Troy, Maryville, St. Jacob, Marine Chamber of Commerce](https://www.troymaryvillecoc.com/)

2.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

3.[Maternity Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/maternity)

4.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

5.[Once Upon A Child Edwardsville](https://www.onceuponachild.com/locations/edwardsville-IL)

6.[The Cup](https://cravethecup.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Ideas for Displaying Your Maternity and Newborn Photos by Edwardsville IL Newborn Photographer Conner James Photography

You’ve recently just had your newborn photos taken by a newborn photographer in Edwardsville, Illinois. When you finally get your proofs from Glen Carbon photographer and owner of Conner James Photography (Christine Loomas), you ooooh and aaaah at the beautiful pieces of photographic art before you. As you’re browsing, you begin to think about how and where you want your precious new photos displayed. So many new and cool ideas are trending right now; where should you even begin? Read on for some really amazing ideas for showcasing your photos.

The Kitchen. This isn’t your normal “go-to” location for photos. It’s the kitchen. We cook there and we eat there. That’s it. Right? Not so much anymore. The kitchen has become one of, if not THE MAIN focal point in every home. For more and more families the kitchen is just as much a family gathering/hangout space as is the family room or TV room. Regardless of how large or small your kitchen is, you can buy or even make magnetic photo frames for your refrigerator. Place photos in window sills or even hang a few floating shelves for added display space. Have a baker’s rack in your kitchen? Stagger some different sized photos in the bare spots for some extra flair. Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Christine of Conner James Photography loves this idea and makes sure to always give this display tip to her clients. 


Coat Hooks. This one may sound strange, but really, it’s a genius idea. We’ve seen many families abandon the old school coat closet and switch to a more modern way of hanging coats, bags, purses, keys, etc. Hence, the coat hook. But wait, there’s more creativity in the mix. Let’s say you have four coat hooks by your front door. You can print and hang a framed photo of your newborn along the top of each hook for a super precious and really sweet way to show off your baby’s pictures. You could do a 4x6 over one hook, a 5x7 over another, vertical, horizontal, and so on. You get to adore your sweet baby’s face every time you grab your keys to run out the door and every time you hang your coat when you come back in. Now that sounds like a win-win to me! And if you ask Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Christine of Conner James Photography, she gives this idea two very well-deserved thumbs up!

Staircase Display. Oftentimes I feel like staircases are dark, narrow, uninviting parts of a house. There’s really nothing to them; they just lead you up and back down again. A means to an end, so to speak. So let’s change that. Print a couple different sizes of your newborn photos and create a warm, welcoming staircase display that is simply darling. You can have one really large photo printed as the focal point and then another half dozen of all sizes surrounding it. Go vertical and horizontal. Be a little different and use square or oval frames. Add even more variety by mixing up the frames. Don’t just use a natural wood frame for every photo; try some gold or white even use mattes. By doing this, you’ve completely transformed the staircase space. Adding a photo display along the staircase just makes a house feel more like a home. St. Louis baby photographer Christine of Conner James Photography is a big fan of staircase displays and recommends it as an ideal way to brighten up what would normally be a pretty boring space.

Include Personal Decor. If you’ve decided to make a wall gallery with your photos, adding some personal decor is a must! Imagine that you have a number of photos, all different sizes and in differing frame types and shapes. Go a bit wild and add something fun that isn’t related to photography at all. How about a rustic clock? Or a wooden sign with a meaningful word or quote? Maybe even a longitude/latitude piece to memorialize a significant location? You can choose things that match your family's style and/or room theme. The more you personalize your wall gallery, the more meaningful it will be; hence creating a one-of-a-kind space for your most unique and precious photographs. Glen Carbon photographer Christine of Conner James Photography sees this idea trending with more and more families. It’s simple, it’s unique, and no one will be able to duplicate your personal creativity!

If you’re still looking to book that newborn photographer, check out Conner James Photography in Edwardsville, Illinois. You’ll be glad you did.

Outgoing Links:

1.[We Rock The Spectrum Edwardsville](https://www.werockthespectrumedwardsville.com/)

2.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

3.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

4.[Conner James Photography Mentoring](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/mentoring)

5.[The Cup](https://cravethecup.com/)

6.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Preserving Family History Through Professional Photography

When you look at a photo, any photo, what do you see? Do you see a precious newborn with its family? Do you see an elderly couple celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary? High school graduations? Birthdays? Regardless of what the photos are, they all have something in common. They provide a glimpse into lives past. Places, events and times that may otherwise be lost and forgotten never will be through professional photography. If you’re ready and wanting to book a true professional to capture your most sacred moments, check out Edwardsville, Illinois photographer Conner James Photography. 


Staying Connected. Individuals are using photographs now more than ever. It’s so easy to share our experiences and connect with friends and family through photographs via text message, SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, etc. Not only is it effortless to share photos with others worldwide, but we now also have the ability to share them with relatives we have never met. Think about it, if you have second or third or even fourth cousins who live in Greece, and you get connected through social media, you can send and share photos that you may not have ever been able to. Your daughters wedding day, your grandson's first day of preschool, your Granny's 90th Christmas - having professional photos of life events like these may seem weird, but it’s not. They’ll help us remember those special occasions long after they've passed. St. Louis Photographer Conner James Photography works pure magic behind the camera. Owner and photographer Christine Loomas captures the moments you want to remember; moments that provide valuable insight into your family's history, relationships and culture. 

Documentation. Think about some of the best and greatest times of your life. Which ones were you able to capture through professional photography? It’s not that cell phone photos or friends taking pictures with their Nikon aren’t great photos. They may very well be excellent photos, BUT, they aren’t professional. If you want to ensure that some of the most special days, events, moments etc. are beautifully and flawlessly captured - you need to call Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois. Owner and photographer Christine Loomas lives for capturing the moments that turn into memories in a matter of seconds. Something you believe you’ll never forget, will truly never be forgotten with Chrsitine behind the camera. 


Visual Legacy. When you think of a family, you may think “everyone is different but they are all pretty much the same.” But more and more these days, that’s not the case at all. There are so many marriages that mix cultures, customs, traditions, and general ways of life. With professional photography, you can capture and preserve celebratory events that will tell those stories year after year after year. Edwardsville photographer Christine Loomas is the owner and photographer of Conner James Photography. She guarantees her work and knows you will relive the most special moments that make up your family's life when she’s the one behind the camera lens. Regardless of what your or your family’s life looks like, Christine’s photographic masterpieces will ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and learn from the visual legacy you leave behind.

Stop worrying about forgetting the best times of your life. With Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois, details of your past will never fade. The professional photos you will receive will blow your mind. And you can rest assured knowing your most precious memories will be reviewed, re-lived and cherished - long after they’ve passed.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Conner James Webpage Newborn portfolio](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/newborn-family)

2.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

3.[Conner James Photography Inc Tiktok](https://www.tiktok.com/@connerjamesphotography)

4.[We Rock The Spectrum Edwardsville](https://www.werockthespectrumedwardsville.com/)

5.[Play It Again Sports Edwardsville](https://www.playitagainsports.com/locations/edwardsville-il)

6.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

7.[The Cup](https://cravethecup.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

The Emotional Value of Capturing Maternity and Newborn Photos

Whether you are pregnant or have just given birth, welcoming your newborn into the world is a precious and magical time. You are smitten; completely in love. And you don’t want to miss a single second of this new life. Every little yawn, stretch and sneeze is a treasured moment to be cherished. Preserving the smallest of details is what every new parent looks forward to. Because you only get this time once. This is why both maternity and newborn photography is an important investment every family should make. Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer and owner of Conner James Photography, Christine Loomas, will beautifully capture the early days of your newborn's life leaving you with only the best memories.

Newborn photos are so precious for so many reasons. They freeze moments of true beauty in time. And with newborns being “newborns” for such a short while, all new parents wish time could stand still with their baby. Not to mention, newborn photos will likely be shared with future generations which is a beautiful way to cherish and honor the miracle of life. Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Christine Loomas of Conner James Photography doesn’t just snap a few pictures. She creates art. Her photos are true, creative, artistic masterpieces that are one-of-a-kind. In her home-studio, Christine works diligently to tell the unique story of your family’s journey into parenthood.

When your family invests in newborn photos, you’re capturing more than just the celebration of your baby’s new life. Create an even more in depth memory by including your whole family in the photos. Talented newborn photographers like Christine Loomas of Conner James Photography flawlessly reveals the connection between you, your newborn and their siblings. Her images will showcase all of the beauty and love that has your heart full during this special time in your lives.

Second, third and fourth time parents are no strangers to just how quickly time passes. It can be sad to think about how fast some of the most precious moments in our lives become long gone memories. But, by having newborn photos taken by Glen Carbon, Illinois photographer Conner James Photography, the beauty of your newborn memories will last a lifetime. It doesn’t matter if the photos are of your fifth or sixth baby, you should embrace the beauty of newborn photography. Because those little lips and that adorable nose will be grown up and gone before you know it.

For St. Louis baby photographer Christine of Conner James Photography, her newborn photos tell stories. When she embarks on a newborn photo session, she devotes herself to telling that family's story of unconditional love and devotion. When her clients receive their photo gallery, much of their feedback is the same - they say the magic behind Christine’s artistic masterpieces are mind-blowing. That the way she showcases the love and the beauty of a new family reminds them why they embarked on the journey of parenthood in the first place.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2.[City of Edwardsville IL](https://www.cityofedwardsville.com)

3.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

4.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

5.[Edwardsville Arts Center](https://edwardsvilleartscenter.com/) – There might be potential inspiration or opportunities to exhibit your work.

6.[Glen Carbon Centennial Library](https://glencarbonlibrary.org/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

The Importance of Professional Editing in Maternity and Newborn Photography by Conner James Photography

You’ve been shopping around for maternity and newborn photographers and have finally made up your mind; Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography. Owner and photographer Christine has a portfolio that turns more than just a few heads. Her work impresses and sets examples for competitor newborn photographers throughout the Midwest. You could be wondering what it is about Christine’s work that sets her apart from other baby photographers. Maybe it's her instance ability to create the most amazing composite images. Or her one-of-a-kind vision for creating the most unique set-ups. Perhaps it’s her genius editing techniques. Keep reading to learn what makes this Glen Carbon photographer the best of the best.

Editing. Christine knows editing. It’s a whole other language and one she speaks fluently. But how does editing make this photographer in Edwardsville stand out among the rest? Well, editing is the critical final step in all photo sessions. It’s not just “enhancing” the final images as many think. For Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography, it’s giving each image the final finish that is consistent with the Conner James brand and style. This is something Christine has perfected over a dozen years and something that truly sets her apart from other baby photographers. 

With Christine being triple certified in newborn safety and posing, she or one of her three assistants is always supporting the newborn during photo sessions. That being said, there is a set of hands in every single photograph she takes - until she gets to editing! Once this gifted St. Louis photographer works her magic, you would never know there were hands, arms, sometimes even half of a person in her photographs. She can “erase” everything that normally wouldn’t belong in an original photo.

Glen Carbon baby photographer Christine captures as much natural perfection as she can through her lens. She only relies on editing to enhance the beauty of her newborns. Though her home-studio boasts top-of-the-line lighting, editing still helps by correcting any issues and by enhancing colors. Christine goes above and beyond with her editing talent. She knows just how far to elevate the natural beauty of her subject while also preserving the authenticity and integrity of each photo.

Think about that awful pimple you have on the day of your maternity photos. Maybe some skin discoloration you normally wouldn’t have but your hormones are in charge. And what about your newborn? These precious babies almost always have blotchy skin and marks that most parents would like removed. Sound complicated? Not for this Edwardsville photographer! It’s almost like watching Cinderella’s fairy godmother with her magic wand. All of mama’s and/or baby’s best features are highlighted with just a few quick clicks to ensure the final product is flawless.

So, rest assured. Because when you use St. Louis newborn photographer Conner James Photography, your photos will be bold. They will be unique. They will be beautiful. And most of all, they will be professional masterpieces you can look back at year after year.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2.[Troy, Maryville, St. Jacob, Marine Chamber of Commerce](https://www.troymaryvillecoc.com/)

3.[City of Edwardsville IL](https://www.cityofedwardsville.com)

4.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

5.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

6.[Once Upon A Child Edwardsville](https://www.onceuponachild.com/locations/edwardsville-IL)

7.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

8.[Edwardsville Neighbors](https://edwardsvilleneighbors.org/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Choosing the Perfect Time for Maternity Photos: Edwardsville IL Photographer Conner James Photography

It’s one of the happiest times in your life. You’re pregnant. You’re glowing and over-the-moon in love with the baby your body is creating. During the hustle and bustle of preparing for your newborn, you’ve made a point to book Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography. Owner and photographer Christine specializes in maternity and newborn photography, she even has her own home-studio in Edwardsville, Illinois. Not only is she a pro at what she does, but she also helps guide you through this exciting time. Because when it comes to newborn photography, you have questions - lots of questions. So take a few minutes for an easy read while this Glen Carbon photographer walks you through a few things she is most commonly asked.

Christine is often asked: “What are the best stages of pregnancy for maternity photos?” The St. Louis newborn photographer recommends having your photos done between 30 and 36 weeks. That’s if you’re having one baby and you are not a high-risk pregnancy. So, around month seven and eight your baby bump is typically round and pronounced. It’s pretty clear that you’re expecting but you’re not heavy to the point that you’re uncomfortable. Some maternity sessions can involve quite a bit of movement so you want to avoid doing anything that could induce early labor. But not to worry, Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography is an expert at posing and staging all mama’s-to-be.


Another question Christine hears is: “When should I book my session if I’m having twins?” If you’re pregnant with multiples, things change a bit. Your baby bump will be much more prominent at a much earlier stage in the pregnancy. St. Louis photographer Christine recommends having your maternity photos taken between 24 and 30 weeks. Some mama’s expecting multiples start to show a pronounced bump as early as 18 to 20 weeks. While Glen Carbon photographer Christine can make magic with maternity photos at any time, she still suggests you pay attention to your body. The longer you wait with multiples, your body will have to work harder to fight fatigue, swelling, uncomfortability, etc. Multiples almost always deliver early so try to plan this milestone photo opportunity accordingly. 

“Should I do things differently if I’m considered a high-risk pregnancy?” is one other common question Glen Carbon newborn photographer Christine hears. She notes that it’s definitely something to factor into your photo scheduling. You’ll want to go over your condition with your doctor so you can plan an ideal and safe time to have your maternity photos taken. Being high-risk can (but doesn’t always) put some limitations on your photo session. The good news is Edwardsville baby photographer Christine has great flexibility with her home-studio in Edwardsville, Illinois. So, if your doctor gives you location, weight or movement limitations - don’t worry. Christine will still be able to work absolute magic so you (and your bump) look simply gorgeous.

Last but certainly not least, Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Christine gets asked: 

“Can I take my maternity photos if I’m past 36 weeks pregnant?” Of course you can, however, Christine makes sure of a few things this late in the game. In her Glen Carbon, Illinois home-studio, she goes above and beyond to ensure that mama is comfortable, cool, and hydrated during the entire photo session. A number of breaks are taken so mama can rest and snack as she needs to. But to sum it up, as long as mama-to-be is mobile and feeling up to a maternity photo session, it can and will be done - professionally, simply, and beautifully by St. Louis newborn photographer Conner James Photography.

Outgoing Links:

1.[Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2.[Maternity Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/maternity)

3.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)

4.[Edwardsville IL & Glen Carbon IL Chamber of Commerence](https://www.edglenchamber.com)

5.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

6.[Glen Carbon Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/store/256-glen-carbon-il)

7.[Expertise](https://www.expertise.com/)

8.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Glen Carbon Newborn Photographer: What to Expect During Your Baby's First Photoshoot with Conner James Photography

Now that your precious newborn has finally entered the world, you’re ready to capture every single sweet moment. If you’ve scheduled your newborn photo session with Edwardsville photographer Conner James Photography, you’re in great hands! Owner and photographer Christine is more than just a pro in newborn photography. Get comfortable while she tells you what to expect during your baby’s first photography session.

What is the process during a typical newborn photoshoot?

Once the family arrives at my home studio, I undress and swaddle the newborn in a colored wrap of the parent’s choosing. My studio is heated and kept that way during the entire photoshoot. I do this by design to keep newborns very warm and very comfortable. The warmer the baby is, the better they will fall asleep (if awake) and stay asleep if already catching a snooze. A sleeping newborn makes for a better session and better photos.

Photo sessions are two hours long. In that time I will change the newborn’s wrap up to three times. Nearly 100% of the time, the newborn stays asleep during all wardrobe changes. I attribute this to:

1). The baby having a full belly, and

2). Keeping the studio extremely warm

I will try to get each newborn photographed in 5-6 different studio props while they are wrapped. The end of each session is when I take nude photos (per the parents request). Newborns burn calories to keep themselves warm so I have an assistant making sure there is adequate heat directed at the baby during all nude sessions. After being a professional newborn photographer for nearly 13 years, I’ve learned how to move quickly while still achieving the parent’s dream of flawless, beautiful newborn photos.

What suggestions do you have for keeping the baby calm and comfortable?

I stand by three of the same answers for this question. If parents want their newborn to be calm, comfortable and sleepy throughout the photo session, the baby MUST be:

Freshly fed

Successfully burped

Kept very warm

I understand newborn’s can be finicky with feedings. They can cluster feed, eat several ounces then spit it all up and want more right after, etc. New mom’s can’t help this, and that’s okay! But if mom’s can get their newborn to eat even a little bit right before the photo session, it’s a big help. Sometimes, all the baby needs is a little bit to top them off.

I also need to stress how important it is that the newborn gets burped and actually burps. Many times my newborns may need a quick meal but don’t get a good burp or two out. This typically turns into a very gassy, uncomfortable, fussy newborn that won’t and can’t fall back asleep. No matter how well they are wrapped or how warm they are, a gassy baby will never be a settled baby. If my newborn is fed and burped, parents can leave the “keep the newborn warm” part to me! Because once they hit my super warm studio, it’s all sweet dreams from photo start to finish!

What types of props and settings do you use to create such beautiful images?

In my many years as a newborn photographer, I have gathered some of the cutest, most unique props and backgrounds. Everything from adorable wooden beds and hammocks to crescent moons, dreamcatchers and baskets. I love to showcase just how tiny each newborn is and that can be easily done by placing them inside of a bucket or a bowl. When I start my sessions with a newborn, I don’t go in with a plan. I just let my creativity fly and spark new ideas for capturing the most beautiful milestone of that new life. Chances are, if the parents want it or dream it - I can achieve it!

So, there it is! Just a few things to expect during your newborn’s first photoshoot. If you haven’t already, book your spot with the expert - Glen Carbon photographer Conner James Photography.

Outgoing Links:

1. [Collinsville, IL Chambers of Commerce](https://www.collinsvilleil.org/business/chamber-of-commerce)

2. [Once Upon A Child Edwardsville](https://www.onceuponachild.com/locations/edwardsville-IL)

3. [Expertise](https://www.expertise.com/)

4.[Professional Photographers of America](https://www.ppa.com/)

5.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

6.[The Wooden Nickle Pub and Grill](https://www.woodennickelglencarbon.com/)

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Christine Loomas Christine Loomas

Preparing for Your Maternity Session: Tips for Expecting Moms by Edwardsvile IL Photographer Conner James Photography

You’re well into your third trimester and it’s time for your maternity photoshoot. This is usually a thrilling and nerve-wracking time for mom’s. These photos will likely be looked at for years, shared among family and friends and quite certainly placed in that precious baby book. So, naturally, mom’s have some questions about this photoshoot. Should it be done outside or in a studio? Should partners be involved? What’s good to wear? How about hair and makeup? The list goes on; but don’t worry, we’re here to help.



Wardrobe: What you wear is so important, in fact, what you choose to wear can make or break your maternity photos. Since we are trying to showcase your bump, you’ll want a dress, skirt or blouse that is nicely fitted at the bust just above your bump. A flowy, floor length dress that flatters your silhouette is the most popular among moms-to-be and we couldn’t agree more! It’s always so pretty to see maternity photos of a woman in something she can play and twirl in. Glen Carbon, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography makes this really simple. Owner and photographer Christine has a selection of gorgeous gowns that are comfortable and flattering. Not to mention they will make you look and feel simply beautiful.



Hair: You certainly want your hair to look fabulous for your maternity photos. And with our recommendations, it will! If you have longer locks, you have a few really fantastic options. Long, loose waves are a win-win. They are gorgeous and add an incredibly romantic vibe to your photos. Pulling your hair to one side with a loose braid or twist is another one of our favorites! To make this look even more unique, use a messy bun or ponytail to pull everything together. If you have shorter hair that may not leave much for styling, you can wear a crown of flowers or greenery (super gorgeous). Even one simple flower pinned behind your ear is incredibly sweet and adds a dainty bit of femininity to your overall look. There are some pretty crafty people who make headpieces (specifically for maternity photos) to make hair styling easier and more unique for your shoot. And Edwardsville, Illinois newborn photographer Conner James Photography can help you make these decisions based on the type of theme you want.




Makeup: Keep it simple and fresh. Apply matte makeup, nothing shimmery, shiny or glittery. In maternity photos, you want it to look like you're wearing makeup while also not wearing any at all, make sense? We suggest applying your makeup in natural light. Those fancy light-up mirrors might make it easier to see but the bulbs don’t reflect the true color or tone of your skin. Also, we recommend neutral colors in your eye shadows. Avoid dark, funky colors that can make your eyes look small while also pulling attention away from your beautiful bump. Eyeliner and mascara should be used to accentuate your eyes only - not overpower them. If you need some personal guidance, baby photographer Christine of Conner James Photography in Edwardsville, Illinois has you covered!

Aside from your wardrobe, hair and makeup - relax and enjoy yourself. Maternity photos, no matter how many times you have them done, are precious and unique. So, when you’re planning this milestone photoshoot, you only need to make one phone call. And that’s to Conner James Photography in Glen Carbon, Illinois. 

Outgoing Links:

1.[Maternity Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/maternity)

2.[Happily Ever Photo](https://www.happilyeverphoto.com/)

3.[Village of Glen Carbon IL Website](https://www.glencarbonil.gov/)

4.[T&C Ultrasound](https://www.tncultrasound.com)

5.[Conner James Photography Inc Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/connerjamesphotography/)

6.[Book Now Webpage](https://www.connerjamesphotography.com/booknow)





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