Ellen Dykstra is a professional photographer specializing in artistic, pure and simple newborn, maternity and baby photography in Kalamazoo and Portage Michigan

05.02.18

happy, smiley Greyson at the sitting stage

Greyson was at that perfect age for pictures- sitting up confidently, not afraid of strangers, and generally happy. That’s why photo sessions of 6-8 month olds are my favorite after newborn photo sessions. They’re so interested in the world and so eager to engage with people, and their general good moods usually mean lots of happy expressions. And that’s just how Greyson’s pictures went. He didn’t mind his clothes being changed, didn’t mind being put down away from his parents, and didn’t even seem to notice the hats we put on his head. A perfect subject! Here’s just a sampling of his photos:

six month old pictures galesburg michigan photos of six month old boy comstock michigan once we were done with the outfits his mom had picked out, we took him down to a diaper cover. True to form, he was happiest with fewer clothes on. And it doesn’t get any cuter than seeing those little toes and chunky baby thighs!If your baby is at that adorable sitting stage and you’d like to get photos of it, contact me.

These sessions are done at your home, and I bring everything we need. I even have some cute hats and diaper covers that you’re welcome to use. They’re quick (less than an hour) and babies are generally comfortable in their own homes, so keeping them happy is easy!

05.01.18

at home maternity pictures | beautiful expectant mom

At home, the most comfortable place to be- that’s where we took third trimester maternity pictures of the beautiful expectant mom. She’s expecting her second son in about a month, and her first son, Eli, bounced in and out as we were chatting and taking pictures. His mom wasn’t sure if he would agree to be in a picture, but he warmed up quickly and I love the results. He is such a cutie and is so excited to have a new brother. Judging by today, his brother is going to be talked to and played with a lot! Here’s Eli, listening for his brother-

preschool boy in maternity picture with mom and we persuaded dad to join in, too-

family maternity pictures and a clothing change- these gorgeous gowns are from Sew Trendy, and designed just for maternity pictures. I have a wardrobe of dresses and maternity accessories, and it’s fun to use them as a supplement to your usual maternity wardrobe for your maternity photo session-

If you’re pregnant and thinking about having maternity pictures taken, contact me for more information. I’d love to set up a session just for you and your family!

A good time for maternity pictures is between 32 and 35 weeks of pregnancy, when you’re ‘well-rounded’ but still moving around comfortably. Sessions can be scheduled months in advance, and maternity/newborn packages are available.

04.30.18

adorably chunky Jeremiah

Weighing in at over 9 lbs, Jeremiah had the most adorable rolls and chubby cheeks. He just couldn’t be any cuter in the curled up newborn poses that show off how well filled-out he is! I love the hint of a smile in the first one-

chunky newborn in basket battle creek newborn photos black and white chunky newborn Congratulations, O. family, and thank you for sharing him with me!

If you are interested in a newborn photo session, contact me here.

These pictures were taken in Jeremiah’s Battle Creek home, and I travel throughout southwest Michigan for newborn sessions.

04.11.18

Mom & me mini sessions | mini photo sessions Kalamazoo

Mini sessions are back by popular demand! They were a huge hit last year and it was such a fun morning.

Are you almost always the one behind the camera? I’m so happy to announce a day of mini sessions to celebrate moms and get you in the picture with your kids! These will be short, casual sessions to capture loving, hugging, kissing and fun between you and your kids. There will be a bed to hang out on (and maybe even to bounce on) as well as another area for spring pictures.The pictures (hint, hint) would make a great Mother’s Day gift idea.

mom and me mini session photos

Mini sessions are right for you if:

you want to get out from behind the camera and be IN the pictures with your kids
you’re ready for some unposed, informal, interactive pictures (you know, that show what you and your kids actually do together)
you’d like to celebrate the bond between you and your kids
you’d like an ‘in-between’ session- not as many pictures, but something different than a normal photo session
your kids don’t have the attention span for a full photo session, but you’d still like some updated pictures of them

The sessions will be held in a beautiful downtown Kalamazoo studio on Saturday, April 28th from 8:30 a.m to 11:30 .m.. Sessions will be 15-20 minutes long, and include 3 digital images. The price is just $125. You’ll get an online gallery with 5-10 images to choose from. Quick, fun, and a great deal!

There’s plenty of street parking available in front of the studio. I’ll send some clothing suggestions for you and your kids, and have some clothing available for moms and kids (mostly girls, though!) if needed. The goal is to make these mom and me mini sessions as easy and stress-free as possible for you!

To register, contact me here

Call me at 269-267-7083 with any questions.

04.09.18

alivia | newborn pictures to celebrate spring

There’s something about spring and babies that just goes together. Alivia was born just as the crocuses were poking through the ground and we were all ready to see the last of winter. So I brought flowers to help celebrate the first signs of spring and this beautiful baby girl, and they were a perfect combination. Here’s just a sampling from our time together:

flowers surrounding newborn in basket baby girl in pink with flowers baby girl with beautiful mom baby with flower crown Here’s to more spring weather and spring babies!

If you’re expecting a new baby and would like information about newborn pictures, contact me. I’d love to personalize a session for your baby!