Since I joined Peter as a photographer in 2004, I have often toyed with the idea of creating a new division of Holcombe Photography capturing the transformational time of pregnancy and the first year of life. Just like a wedding, it is a time of transition that is surrounded by intense emotion and that emotion is what I love capturing in a photograph.
In 2007 we found out that one of our very favorite wedding couples, Kim and Lucas, were expecting their first child. We were so honored that they asked us to document both their pregnancy and the first year of their baby’s life. We have photographed numerous babies over the years at various stages, but had never thought about telling the story of the first year of life.
I photographed Kim early in her 8th month of pregnancy and had so much fun celebrating this time in her life, her radiant beauty and great expectations. As I talked to Kim and Lucas, and listened to what they were thinking as their due date approached, it reminded me of the wonder and anticipation that is inherent in this metamorphosis. I asked Kim and Lucas to begin keeping a journal of their experience to include with the photographs.
When Lauren arrived, I photographed her as soon as possible so I could capture that precious infancy where toes and fingers are so tiny, and she was still curled up as she was in the womb. This is such a fleeting time, and I am thrilled with the simplicity of the images and the gentle innocence this session captured.
We also photographed Lauren at 4 months, 7 months, 10 months, her fist birthday party and 12 months. As I designed Lauren’s book and began to incorporate the journal entries from Kim and Lucas, I witnessed a story unfolding that moved me to tears again and again – both Peter and I said repeatedly that we wish we had created something this special for our daughter!
Thank you Kim and Lucas for giving me the opportunity to bring to life an idea I have been cultivating for years. As a result of your trust, I am thrilled to announce the launch of a new division of Holcombe Photography: The First Year Collection specializing in telling the story of the first year. I will be accepting 10 commissions for First Year Collections in 2010.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! I LOVE it. I am sooo happy right now I could cry. This is the best gift I can think of to give Lauren and I’m so blessed to know you guys!
Kathy - That album is amazing! What a beautiful gift for that family. You have over a year invested in that project, and now you have a great marketing piece. Best of luck with your new endeavor!
What an amazing piece of work to document Lauren’s first precious year of life. It moved me to tears!! Kathy I enjoyed the wedding collection you did for Kim & Lucas, the album for Lauren is amazing, good luck with your new adventure with future projects.
What a beautiful photographic memory of Lauren’s first year. I wish I had your first year compiled into a book like this–it’s so hard for a busy mom to take time to make a book. This is a true gift for Lauren AND her Mom and Dad.
Love,
Mom