Why Documenting Your Maternity, Newborn, and Family Is So Important
Life moves fast. One minute you're feeling those first little flutters of your baby kicking, and the next you're chasing that same child around your living room while they giggle in a tutu or superhero cape. These moments—both ordinary and extraordinary—make up your family’s story. And they deserve to be remembered.
Alyssa Charboneau is a newborn and family photography serving areas in and around Las Vegas.
Life moves fast. One minute you're feeling those first little flutters of your baby kicking, and the next you're chasing that same child around your living room while they giggle in a tutu or superhero cape. These moments—both ordinary and extraordinary—make up your family’s story. And they deserve to be remembered.
Mt. Charleston Family Session
As a photographer, a mother, and someone who values beauty in the everyday, I believe deeply in documenting these fleeting chapters—maternity, newborn, and family life. Here's why:
1. You’ll Never Regret Being in the Frame
Moms are so often the ones behind the camera, documenting the milestones and the messes—but rarely stepping into the photo themselves. These seasons—your glowing belly, the sleepy newborn snuggles, the wild toddler years—are part of your story too. You deserve to be seen and celebrated.
Afternoons in the Meadows of Mt. Charleston are magic.
2. Tiny Details Fade Faster Than You Think
That scrunchy newborn face, the way they curl into your chest, the milk-drunk smiles, the wispy hair—all of it changes so fast. A newborn session freezes these details in time before they become a blur. It’s not just about the posed photo; it’s about the feeling of that moment.
Twirling is a must with toddlers.
3. Maternity Photos Celebrate the Beginning
Even if you’re not feeling your best during pregnancy, this time is sacred. Your body is doing miraculous work. Maternity sessions aren’t about perfection—they’re about honoring the anticipation, the connection, and the transformation. It’s the beginning of your baby’s story and your next chapter as a family.
Will be use wildflowers at Mt. Charleston? Always.
4. Family Photos Are Your Legacy
Photos aren’t just for now. They’re for your kids to look back on one day and say, “That was my childhood. That was how much I was loved.” Your home will change. Toys will come and go. But framed family images—those last.
Classic family images in black and white.
5. You Deserve More Than Just iPhone Photos
There’s nothing wrong with quick snapshots, but there’s something magical about intentional, artful photography. It allows you to pause. To reflect. To step away from the noise and truly connect as a family. It’s less about being "perfect" and more about preserving what’s real.
A playful family session in Las Vegas.
Let’s Tell Your Story
Whether you’re expecting, just brought your baby home, or are deep in the joyful chaos of family life—I’d love to help you preserve it. My sessions are relaxed, playful, and full of light. We’ll create images that feel like you—beautiful, timeless, and full of heart.
Let’s document your story. It matters more than you know.
Lifestyle family session in Mt. Charleston.
Las Vegas fall family pictures.
Wardrobe styling is important, and I can help!
Stress Free Fall Sessions
Family sessions can be stressful. I’ve been there with my kiddos. However, I have a few important tips to follow. From locations, to style, to timing. Here’s what is most important for you family session.
Family pictures can be so stressful. From picking locations, to coordinating outfits that match but aren’t matchy. As a mom of three, I honestly don’t think we’ve ever gotten to a session without yelling, frustrations, and running around last minute looking for shoes and bows. I get it. However, I’ve learned a few things that help our sessions run a little more smoothly year by year.
First, location! I always hang wall art of my family’s portraits on walls in our home, so I want our images to go along with the design aesthetic in our home. That means I pick locations based on the colors at the location. Also, pick a location that reflects your families personality. Are you a hiking outdoor family? Then Red Rock or Mt. Charleston are perfect. Do you like a more modern aesthetic? Then a dry lake bed or a studio are great. Is your family vibe more urban, funky, or are you new to Vegas and want to show it off? Let’s head downtown, with fun murals, a parking garage, and street portraits. (It’s amazing the views from a parking garage) There are lots more places to consider, these are just a few. Talk with your photographer and check out their work at your favorite locations,
Second, let’s talk wardrobe. The number one rule any photographer will tell you is, start with mom. You are the center of your family’s universe, start with yourself and what you fell the best in!! Go ahead, put yourself first! (It will be fine 😉) Keep in mind the colors of your loaction. Then, once you’ve nailed down an outfit for yourself, work on your kiddos. I prefer colors not to match, but to compliment each other. Maybe I will wear a dress with a colorful print, but one kid will each wear a dress that is solid, the other with a simple print, with colors that compliment my outfit. Also, don’t stress they boys outfits. Classic shorts or pants with a nice shirt is simple and timeless. (Another tip, let the boy(s) bring their favorite baseball cap to wear towards the end to show off their personality.)
Finally, plan to get there early. This is from experience. Personally, when it comes to family pictures, we are never on time. This is rude to the photographer. They have blocked out a certain time for you and as a client you need to respect that. Also, the time you are late is coming out of your session, especially if you are doing a mini session with another client right after you. So do as I say, not as I do. You’ll be way more relaxed knowing you’re not late. And, when mom is relaxed, everyone will follow suite. Lastly, have fun and enjoy your kiddos. You’ll be so happy to have these images on your walls for decades!!
