NOW BOOKING! Remainder of 2020 and Studio Sessions!
Yep, that's right! I've opened a photography studio at 112 S. Cypress Street in Downtown Hammond, just down the street from Louisiana Children's Discovery Center and The Red, White, and Brew.
I'm currently booking up for the remainder of 2020! If you'd like to reserve your spot for personal, family, or business portrait work in 2020, click here to contact me and get on the calendar. Let's make some magic!
Yep, that's right! I've opened a photography studio at 112 S. Cypress Street in Downtown Hammond, just down the street from Louisiana Children's Discovery Center and The Red, White, and Brew. After offering various types of photography "pop-ups" at local businesses, such as one thirteen restaurant and Local Honey this past year, I decided that a professional photography studio offering a wide range of creative photography services and price points was just what our city needed. In addition to full portrait sessions, I'll be offering a very select number of mini sessions each month!
In all seriousness, whether it's for family photography, a new baby, documenting the years of your children's growth, or even elevating your business and brand image through photography, I’m grateful you're interested in having me photograph the things that matter most to you.
Here are a few details about my studio offerings...
PLEASE NOTE: PRICING FOR A FULL STUDIO SESSION IS PRICED AT $150 FOR THE SESSION FEE.
PRINTS, HI-RESOLUTION DOWNLOADS, AND PRODUCTS PURCHASED SEPARATELY.
Want to schedule a session, but not ready to invest in a full session? Or perhaps you'd just like a few updated photos for social media or your kids' yearly growth...
Mini Sessions are a great option! Starting in June 2020, Kali will be offering a very select number of mini sessions each month. We know professional photography is a luxury, especially in these trying times, so we've decided to offer a select number of budget-friendly sessions each month. These sessions are intended to offer a quick, painless quality photography option for everyone!
PLEASE NOTE: PRICING FOR A FULL LIFESTYLE PORTRAIT SESSION IS PRICED AT $250 FOR THE SESSION FEE. PRINTS, HI-RESOLUTION DOWNLOADS, AND PRODUCTS PURCHASED SEPARATELY.
I'm currently booking up for the remainder of 2020! If you'd like to reserve your spot for personal, family, or business portrait work in 2020, click here to contact me and get on the calendar.
Let's make some magic!
Now Offering: STUDIO SESSIONS!
So, it’s been a little quiet over here because I’ve been working on something super exciting…
I’m now offering STUDIO SESSIONS in the cutest little studio space located in Downtown Hammond!
So, it’s been a little quiet over here because I’ve been working on something super exciting…
I’m now offering STUDIO SESSIONS in the cutest little studio space located in Downtown Hammond!
After 9 years of photographing weddings + families and welcoming my own little girl this year, this felt like the most natural next step for my career and family. I’m thrilled to be offering various types of portrait sessions and photography-based events in the studio.
Stay tuned over the next few weeks as we share sneak peeks of the studio space (it’s in the works as we speak!) and details about TONS of events we have planned already for Spring + Early Summer. Think…mini sessions, Spring photo set-ups, Mother’s Day portrait events + more!
Summertime Mini Sessions
I'm offering Summertime Mini Sessions on Friday, May 31st and Sunday, June 9th before the summer heat hits in full-swing! If you've ever wanted to do a full session, but it just wasn't in the budget, or if you just want a fun little session with friends or loved ones documenting this season of life, let's play!
I'm offering Summertime Mini Sessions on Friday, May 31st and Sunday, June 9th before the summer heat hits in full-swing! If you've ever wanted to do a full session, but it just wasn't in the budget, or if you just want a fun little session with friends or loved ones documenting this season of life, let's play!
Sessions are an ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICE of $200 (plus tax) for both the session and FULL edited gallery download and will take place in Downtown Hammond. This includes a 20-minute session and a gallery of the downloadable, edited hi-resolution photos. These sessions are open to ANYONE! Families, children, engagements, maternity, couples, you name it!
Psssst, my full-priced sessions typically last 30-45 minutes when toddlers are involved, so this is a pretty sweet deal! If you’re worried about if we will get everything in just 20 minutes, we will—it’s actually a perfect amount of time to snap some lighthearted photos without anyone getting too stressed about the camera being focused on them.
Here’s a peek at some of the locations we will be utilizing for the sessions. I also have a few more gorgeous spots around downtown that aren’t pictured here.
A non-refundable retainer of $50 required for booking. Email marketing@kalinorton.com with your first, second, and third time preferences or any questions, availability, and reserving your spot!
Time slot availability is as follows…
Friday, May 31, 2019
9:00 am
9:40 am
10:20 am
11:00 am
11:40 am
1:00 pm
1:40 pm
2:20 pm
3:00 pm
3:40 pm
4:20 pm
5:00 pm
5:40 pm
7:00 pm
Sunday, June 9, 2019
9:00 am
11:40 am
1:00 pm
1:40 pm
2:20 pm
3:40 pm
4:20 pm
7:00 pm
Welcoming Beniah: Hammond Newborn + Family Photographer
As I looked around the room, I just soaked in the bodies present and the ways each individual was participating differently. It was a group of individuals that functioned like a well-oiled machine, yet had never even been in a room together before that morning. Harmoniously working together for one cause, to show that mama how beautiful and strong that body of hers is.
“I now treasure pregnancy and birth like never before...for the miracle it truly is. I’m convinced I’ll be a basket case of tears and gratitude at this baby boy’s birth. I literally cannot wait to worship through it all.”
- Ashley, 16 wks pregnant with Beniah
Documenting Ashley’s birth was so special to me, as she had shared with vulnerability and grace her journey through three miscarriages in the year prior to her pregnancy with Beniah. The beautiful thing about someone sharing their journey through grief is that it allows humans to feel connection in places and people that they may otherwise have had no common grounds. It’s the ultimate ice breaker for that soulful feel-good human experience.
While I myself couldn’t relate to Ashley’s particular journey through her miscarriages, I know many women who can. More so, I found her sharing her grief at all to be so very brave and inspiring, as she humbly shared pieces of her heart that are very personal. And you know what? No one’s loss is identical. The part it all has in common though, is that it will show us all the most breathtaking parts of life if we let it. I’m so grateful for those with the courage to share big pieces of their journey.
“I’ve learned that I’m worthy even when I can’t do everything, like make a baby, perfectly. My significance is not defined by my performance or works. “
Grief is a funny thing. Some do it silently, some with a group. Some do it through jumping head-first into new experiences, while others process with Netflix binges and particularly unhealthy choices. While some of these things may lead to a quicker resolve than others, that’s the beauty if life experiences like grief; there is absolutely no one right way to walk through it.
In one of her social posts while pregnant with Beniah, she was reflecting on her past year of loss and I just love the graceful wisdom + strength in her words:
“Through it all, I’m so grateful. Such a weird thing to say. As much as I long for my babies, I’m grateful for the unexpected impact they’ve had on my life.”
I spent that morning with Ashley, Jared, and the kids just soaking in a little of each of their personalities. After I left, she wrote this:
“We just finished our family photoshoot, and I feel like it was the first one where I was free to let each kid be themselves, dress like themselves, and just be.
Sounds silly, I know? But so often moms, including myself, feel the need to control and be ‘picture perfect.’
Forget that. The world needs real. And the world needs each person’s unique fingerprint. So this photoshoot was an actual joy and FUN! Crazy to think our next one will be with Baby Beniah in my arms! “
Fast forward a few weeks. Nine days past Beniah’s due date to be exact, when Ashley rang my phone just a couple of hours before sunset.
While I was super pumped about Beniah’s arrival, I was also selfishly pumped that the lighting gods were in my favor and we just might have a baby’s arrival at the EXACT time of day we had joked about him wishfully coming in the weeks prior. A natural home birth at sunrise with the most prepared, calm team. My heart was bursting with joy for Ashley and Jared. The soothing way a rainbow makes your heart feel quiet joy after a gloomy summer rain storm, that’s how that morning made me feel...
The thing I love about births is that I really have time to sit, talk with, and observe such intimate moments in the most unobtrusive way. My role is not to make myself known, but to observe the who the people in front of my camera are and capture a bit of the life legacy they are building through their expression, emotion, and experience.
As I walked into Ashley’s bedroom, I stepped over a sleepy Alayna who kept a watchful eye on her mama during the entirety of the morning. It was so cool to me to see her take in everything that was going on. To see the natural capability of a woman’s body right in front of her six-year-old eyes, there’s not much that will ever teach her those things about the strength and beauty she has as a woman in the same way.
It’s just before sunrise and Ashley’s birth team has almost completely arrived and gotten things set up. I stay in the soothing dim light of her room as her doulas rotate warm towels and maneuver her into different positions for comfort. Jared and her mom take turns providing soothing touch, conversation, and music. The room and the team around Ashley in this moment were so calmingly in-sync. It was such an experience just to watch.
Just as the sun was rising, Ashley and her team moved into the living room, where she birthed for a while in the water. I always find myself so intrigued by water portions of births!
As I looked around the room, I just soaked in the bodies present and the ways each individual was participating differently. It was a group of individuals that functioned like a well-oiled machine, yet had never even been in a room together before that morning. Harmoniously working together for one cause, to show that mama how beautiful and strong that body of hers is.
This photograph is one of my favorites from that morning, as Sarah, Sam, and Alayna watched their mom in her early stages of active labor. If you look closely, you can even see that the family dog was curious as to the events taking place inside. He peered through the window during a couple of moments in the birth for a little comical relief!
As Ashley labored in each location, it was as if I was watching a different chapter of her birth unfold. As she moved to the bed, the sun was pouring through the windows and I was still just blown away by the series of events unfolding in her living room that morning.
From the bed, to the birthing stool, floor, and back to the bed, Ashley was getting so close, yet also filled with inevitable exhaustion. Minutes later, her midwife instructed her that Beniah was nearing his arrival.
A few more laborious pushes and she grabbed her long-awaited baby boy.
And guysssssss….this is where I don’t need to narrate much more because this boy’s arrival says it all…
Stay tuned. I’ll be sharing a little of their current life with Beniah home in a future follow-up post!
Ledge | Northshore Louisiana Newborn Photographer
“If you remember, I told you I was going to marry you the day I was chasing you around the tree in my mom’s backyard. I was nine years old that day. Here we are over twenty five years later driving to Florida with our baby in the backseat. “
“Who would have thought that when we were 8 years old going swimming, spending Halloweens together, eating snowballs, and going to yard sales with our parents that we would end up together?
I kinda did, because if you remember, I told you I was going to marry you the day I was chasing you around the tree in my mom’s backyard. I was nine years old that day. Here we are over twenty five years later driving to Florida with our baby in the backseat. “
Terry shared this post recently to Vanessa on his sentiments about life with her, and well, it’s far better than anything I could articulate about the team they are
Without a shadow of a doubt in my mind, I know that his little guy here has a mama and daddy with intentions in teaching him about the world, possibility, hard work, and success. You see, Ledge’s dad Terry is quite a familiar face in the BMX world, and his dedication for his craft and family alike shine forth in his warm persona, achievements over the past two decades, and admiration from his peers.
As I photograph families, I love to observe the little nuances in personality that create their dynamic. From the first encounter I had with Vanessa and Terry and with each since, I’ve watched how seamlessly they flow as a team, and more so, the respectful admiration they share for one another.
From a warm welcome to impeccable home decor, that morning spent with Vanessa and Terry allowed me to observe and capture their biggest joys during this season of lif.
“Watching you smile everyday with him makes my life complete.
Happy anniversary. I’m so excited to have you and Ledge in my life forever. I am far from perfect, but I promise I’ll spend the rest of my life trying to be the best person I can be fore you and our little buddy. I love you.”
(Terry in aforementioned anniversary note to Vanessa)
In addition to impeccable taste in home decor, Vanessa has an eye for creating pretty things. I couldn’t help but to appreciate the chic geo design of these coasters she’d made.
As Vanessa and Ledge took a nursing break, Terry showed me the front room of their home, which holds a giant wall mural with over a decade of Red Bull portraits done of Terry by the ever-talented Robby Klien. Terry expressed to me that he thought it’d be cool to incorporate Ledge into that somehow, so we had some fun styling him up in a little Red Bull gear alongside Robby’s artwork.
Vanessa and Terry, thank you for entrusting me with the task of capturing such a fleeting era of life for your family.
Little Surprises | A Personal Note
Ohhh life, you're full of pleasant little surprises. This one's definitely one of my favorites...
Ohhh life, you're full of pleasant little surprises. This one's definitely one of my favorites...
Thank you Lauren Carroll, for using your talents for the best things and always capturing life's moments in the most lighthearted + genuine ways.
New Home + Anticipating Baby #2 | Hammond Family Photography
Documenting pre-baby lifestyle sessions for both expecting couples and expanding families is something I’ve done quite a bit more of lately, and I truly love the meaning and authenticity behind the moments we capture in these shoots. There’s just something about having visual snapshots of those days before lives and hearts forever shift, mold, and expand in new ways. I hope you enjoy a little peek into Heidi and Austen’s life and growing family!
I’ve said this before, but truly, watching friends raise babies, whom I knew in adolescence, college, or any other era of life prior to the current is such a fun experience. Heidi and I had literature classes together throughout our college careers. After college, Heidi travelled and worked teaching ESL abroad for several years. I always enjoyed keeping up with her adventures on social media and was particularly flattered when she booked a family session with me. Watching the ways my friends put their heart and soul into the little humans they bring into the world and the ways they cultivate their flourishing personalities is incredibly interesting to me.
This past summer, Heidi and Austen eloped for an intimate wedding ceremony in Costa Rica. They’ve also had an exciting year of a new home purchase and the anticipation of baby #2, Leif. We decided to do this shoot in their empty new home that they had not yet moved into. I look at these photographs and think about the nostalgia they’ll bring to Heidi as she looks back on this time of firsts for their little family.
River is at such a fun age, and what a memory to capture his last months as an only child. Documenting pre-baby lifestyle sessions for both expecting couples and expanding families is something I’ve done quite a bit more of lately, and I truly love the meaning and authenticity behind the moments we capture in these shoots. There’s just something about having visual snapshots of those days before lives and hearts forever shift, mold, and expand in new ways…
Life moves + changes ever-so-quickly and documenting truly authentic and personal parts of it for my clients forever feeds my souuuuuuul. Heidi and Austen, I cannot wait to document many more exciting firsts for your family.
Grace, Giggles, + Full Hearts: Simpson Family Home Session | Fairhope Family Photographer
"We may not have chosen our situation but we have the power to choose our perspective, and perspective is everything." - Barbara Hill
I've known Jess for quite a few years now and one trait, in particular, has always left me inspired by her: her grace. There's something to be said about the pricelessness of a graceful woman, and more than near any soul I’ve ever met, Jess exhibits grace and strength in her life journey in a way that leaves me ever-inspired.
When she was a teenager, Jess was involved in a car accident that left the lower portion of her body paralyzed, leaving her unable to walk, much less participate in many experiences in life involving the use of her legs. I met Jess long after this accident occurred; however, as I have watched her endure several other life struggles and transitions, including a season of life as a single mother to two boys, I've always been profoundly inspired by her positive attitude, her encouraging words towards the growth and journey of those who may have slighted her, and her exhibition of sheer grace.
A while back when she'd told me about the gentleman she'd met and the ways his personality, love, and lifestyle seeped into and filled the vacant pieces of her own heart, I knew she'd likely found her match. After meeting Cameron and his two littles and seeing the bountiful ways in which their families have blended, I know without a shadow of a doubt that my girl is living her best life.
After many years of feeling compelled to photograph Jess and that graceful spirit, I'm so grateful that I was approached about doing so recently. I hope you enjoy viewing their session as much as I loved documenting it.
Cameron came into the marriage with two beautiful littles, as did Jess. They recently welcomed sweet Mila into the world, completing their perfectly blended family. I love how much all four of Mila's older siblings adore her in their own ways. While the two younger boys, Orion and Anthony, are best at being little boys and playing amongst themselves at this age, I loved watching Mila's eldest siblings, Geof and June, as they each requested a little alone time to love on her.
As you can imagine, a house of five littles contains A LOT of energy. This is another reason I love in-home sessions. These boys were having a ball and playing the entire time, making it so fun for me to capture their natural personalities and ages.
Jess also has impeccable taste in both style and home decor, as you can see. Head on over to my Insta, where I've tagged all of the cute boutiques she shopped at for the session!
I asked Jess to share with me a little about her sentiments towards her motherhood journey. This is what she had to say:
"Motherhood has been pure beautiful messy chaos. I am so thankful that these little ones chose me to be their mama in this life time. Watching them organically growing into the adults that they will one day become is such an honor. My heart is so full."
As expected for any little boy, taking photos was not the most entertaining of things on Anthony's agenda that day; nonetheless, it never fails that I get my most favorite photos of a session from the child most disinterested in participating. Perhaps it's that I pay more attention to them in fear that I won't get enough content, or perhaps its just that their natural, spunky personality shining through feels so organic -- either way, I'll take it.
Jess, thank you for allowing me to document + share a little of your home, heart, and story, and more so, all of the ways your existence brings light into this world. Here’s to the women around us that lift one another up, push them to test their boundaries, and create the legacies they want for themselves...
Now Offering Birth Photography! | New Orleans Motherhood Photographer
For anyone who keeps up with my posts regularly, you know the strong pull my heart has always had towards capturing the essence and experience of women. I cannot fully explain it, only that I know in the depths of my soul when I photograph a woman who opens up to me or lets me peer a little into her vulnerability, that there is no other place in the Universe I'm supposed to be more in that moment. Whether it's a high school senior, a bride, a boss girl, or an expecting mama, the women and stories that have found themselves in front of my lens over the course of my career have left me impacted in the most unusual and profound ways. For much of my career, I'd never had any stronger pull to any particular type of womanly experience--and while I still very much love photographing ALL types of milestones, I've noticed an ever-growing tug in my gut over the past year or so. During this time, I've noticed a particular and welcomed shift to clients desiring me to document their journey through motherhood. (This is in addition to weddings, of course, which I still very much photograph). Perhaps, and likely, this has to do with my age and place in my own life (no, I'm not quite ready to be a mama just yet), but, this particularly strong pull towards motherhood portraiture and the intensity of emotion captured through the experience is something I know I'm meant to delve into deeper.
After years of inquiries, pleas, and suggestions that I fearfully turned down, I have now decided it's time for me and this camera of mine to extend my services to include birth photography and/or hospital photography. 
Motherhood photography encompasses a wide scope of experiences. Currently, I document many mama moments from maternity, newborn, to growth and regular family lifestyle portraiture sessions and have many clients who purchase my Motherhood Collective which allows comprehensive documentation of these. With this, I'll now be offering the option to add birth photography or the option to hire me exclusively for your birth experience or time in the hospital with new baby.
Many families are interested in documenting their birth experience; however, some instead prefer to have the experience documented during the first few moments of life after the birth. Whether you'd like me to document the pushes, tears, and intense emotion of your birth or the tender moments together within the first 48 hours following, I am available for either form of documentation.
As this is a brand new venture for me, I'm offering introductory pricing to the first 5 bookings for Birth Photography or "Fresh 48" After-Birth Photography. If you are interested in having me document this part of life for you, please contact me at kali@kalinorton.com for more detailed information + pricing.
Milk Bath Maternity | Awaiting Ivy: New Orleans Maternity Photographer
"I guess I always believed the moments that would one day end up defining me would be loud. They'd be noticeable. I pictured fireworks. I thought I would definitely be able to point the moment out from all the rest if you put them side-by-side in a lineup. I'd be able to stand there, on the other side of the glass and say, 'That one. That one was loud and big and mammoth and I knew it would change my life.' But you can't put moments in a box. You can't keep people forever. Those moments are meant to happen and disappear." Excerpt from If You Find This Letter by Hannah Brencher.
How eerily true is this? I think it's so easy for us to be ready for what's next in life, that we so often don't take the time to fully embrace the seasons we reside in in the present. Whether the season be happy or sad, it's a natural part of the human experience to wonder, plan, or anticipate what's ahead. When I first read these words when reading Hannah's book, they stopped me in my tracks. Umm, hello reality check. Moments, seasons, experiences exist for us to feel what we feel from them in those moments and mold us into the future human we evolve to.
As Danielle got out of her car and greeted me, it was the first time I'd ever met her. It only took a few sentences of dialogue between us for me to notice the calm, peaceful personality she emanated. After spending that afternoon with her and looking through her photographs, I was able to put my finger on what was so alluringly tranquil about her--she embraces the now of this beautiful season of life she is in, awaiting her daughters, Ivy and Lily.
It wasn't until after her session that Danielle shared with me the news that she learned weeks ago that she lost one of her girls, Lily. She is currently still carrying both girls. I had no clue of this while photographing her, and now looking at these photographs radiates her strength during this season in a whole new light.
I cannot begin to fathom both the fear and excitement she has for her delivery next week. Observing the contentment and love for that beautiful belly and the spectacular ability her body possesses during these months was so incredibly empowering. Nine months, a "moment" so inherently special to her, Lily, and Ivy alone, that she can never replicate in this exact way again.
The morning of Danielle's session, there was a stirring in me to do something more than just dreamy, creamy photographs of her in a field. We'd never spoken other than through email before, but as she picked up the phone and I introduced myself, the conversation went a little something like this, "I know we've never met, but umm, are you down for a milk bath?"
I'm incredibly glad she was open to the idea, because the way they display the beauty and strength of her body during this season of life is so profoundly breathtaking to me.
Danielle, I have no doubt that you will execute motherhood just as gracefully as you do the road leading to it. Thank you for allowing me to capture your strength and beauty during this stage of life for you, Lily, and Ivy.
Sunset Session on Navarre Beach | Dougherty Family: Navarre Family Photographer
“Here’s the thing, effective parenting and, more specifically, effective discipline, don’t require punishment. Equating discipline with punishment is an unfortunate, but common misconception. The root word in discipline is actually disciple which in the verb form means to guide, lead, teach, model, and encourage. In the noun form disciple means one who embraces the teaching of, follows the example of, and models their life after.”
― L.R. Knost, The Gentle Parent
It may seem strange that I'm quoting from a parenting book when I am not even yet a parent myself, but after coming across a quote from one of L.R. Knost's books on Instagram a few weeks ago, I was instantly drawn to read more of the words she'd strewn together about parenting, love, adulthood, and life. I have not yet actually read these books, but after perusing through and bookmarking much of her work online, I know that I will find her book in hand when the season of parenting arrives for me.
Nonetheless, the above quote does have everything to do with the intricately woven hearts and ever-developing personalities of our dear friends Brooke and Shane and the family they are rearing together. I have known Shane for almost a decade, as he is one of Preston's longest and dearest friends from 3rd Force in the Marine Corps. As with most long friendships, we've experienced quite a bit of life with Shane over the past decade. He recently returned home from a deployment and this past week we got to spend some genuine, quality time in Navarre, FL with him, Brooke, and the kids. From getting all of my baby cuddles and coos in with Miss Maggie, to spending some genuine girl time with Brooke, I felt like I got to truly soak in the love, life, and discipline that make up their little family.
From watching Shane discipline the boys with friendly wall squats and sit-down talks about "why" a reprimand occurred, to observing Brooke gently work at relinquishing the reigns of parenting three children alone for nine months, Preston and I both left with observant, full hearts at how beautiful the two of them execute parenting together.
“Our children are children for such a small season of life. Let their laughter ring out, their imaginations soar, their feet stomp in puddles, their hands clap for joy. Too soon they will grow up and out of their youthful exuberance and zest and settle into the life and routine of adulthood.”
Welcome to the World, Sweet Girl | Kate: Mandeville Newborn Photographer
“Life is amazing.And then it's awful. And then it's amazing again. And in between the amazing and awful, it's ordinary and mundane and routine. Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That's just living heartbreaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it's breathtakingly beautiful.” ― L.R. Knost
Clean, unadulterated, beautiful new life. This is absolutely my favorite part of documenting these moments, especially for first-time mamas. I hope you enjoy a peek into Allison's life as a new mama as much as I enjoyed documenting it.
To Live, Will Be An Awfully Big Adventure | Awaiting Baby: Lincoln Maternity Photographer
“To live, will be an awfully big adventure.” - Peter Pan With Peter Pan as the theme for baby boy’s nursery and having watched my sweet girl take leaps of faith, even in extreme fear, in her life, I found this quote only fitting for the introduction to this post.
Stacy and I met via a random phone call during a time of need and transitional period in both of our lives. We instantly “clicked,” but little did we know at that time, just how much value we would find in each other’s friendship from almost 1,000 miles apart. Over the past five years, not much has kept us from keeping in touch weekly on the deepest, darkest, and happiest of sentiments. Here's to a lifelong friendship of growing old and phone calls that start with a huge sigh and "Okay, don't judge me..."
Baby It's a Wild World | Shiloh + Keane: New Orleans Motherhood Photographer
My dear, in the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love. In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile. In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm. I realized through it all that--in the midst of Winter, I found there was , within me, an invincible Summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there's something stronger--something better, pushing right back. Falsly Yours, Albert Camus.
I'm going to get real for a minute. I LOVE every bit of my career, but to say being a creative has it's highs and lows would be an accurate statement. Often times, the highs and lows of your own emotions seep into your work in both the best and worst of ways. The urge to create something inspiring that isn't a replica of someone else's, but entirely original, that invokes feeling--that's what it's all about.
Capturing Shiloh's journey through motherhood so organically did something for my soul, y'all. Something it desperately needed.
The 2016 Holiday Sale is HERE!
It's pretty rare that I run a sale, so I wanted to do something this year that extends to EVERY SINGLE CLIENT I've ever had. Yes, that's right...even those of you with long-archived photo galleries. In an effort to encourage my sweet clients to print those gorgeous family heirlooms we work so hard to create, I thought I'd offer some pretty significant savings to help you get those images off of your computer and onto your walls and albums--where they belong!
I've noticed quite a few companies this year not only announcing, but offering their black Friday sales starting as early as yesterday. I think this is a FABULOUS idea. Personally, I've felt like the focus on holiday shopping instead of leisurely and lazy downtime with family on Thanksgiving Day was getting to be a bit much. So, with that being said, here's the "Black Friday" sale I'll be offering until Wednesday, November 30th. So, whether you have someone to buy for that you think may love preserving their family heirlooms OR you are that person, this is for you. (:
If your sessions have expired with me, fear not! For this sale period ONLY, I'm reopening ANY requested galleries that have ever been photographed with me. If you have an expired gallery that you'd like to make an order from, send me over a quick little email to kali@kalinorton.com and I'll be happy to reopen it for you at no additional archiving fee!
+++ OFFER VALID UNTIL WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2016 AT MIDNIGHT CST.
Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
Messy Sheets and Newborn Cheeks | Keane: Hammond Newborn Photographer
"It's all messy--the hair, the bed, the heart, life..." Shiloh posted this quote along with a recently taken photo of her and her little babe, and oh my heart, I couldn't shout it from the rooftops more. The more I adult, the more I learn to love the ooey gooey imperfect mess of love and life. I have adored watching her adapt to motherhood in all of its perfectly imperfect facets and learning curves--and swooning over every hiccup and drool of the little life in her hands along the way.
I’m not sure why, perhaps because Shiloh and I are alike in so many ways, but something felt different in me as I watched her go through pregnancy and the sweet love she has for her little bear. Shi, you kick ass at a lot of things, but watching you become a momma might just be the most natural thing I’ve ever seen you do.
You may recognize her name or face as well from my recently styled holiday sessions. Shiloh is immensely talented with an eye for styling. In fact, stay-tuned for updates in the future, as she and I are trying to figure out how to offer more of her styling and consulting within the realm of the photography experience I offer my clients.
We went for much more casual feel for this newborn session. I’ve wanted to do an “at home” shoot like this for a while now, but sometimes changing the way you offer a style of art for clients can be a little scary. So many fears run through your head like, “Will they like the concept? What if they hate it because it’s not like the other newborn sessions I’ve shown? What if they don’t like that every hair isn’t in place?”
Truth be told, I enjoy THIS type of photography far more than the kind where every hair and thread of clothing is perfectly placed. Organic emotion and an accurate portrayal of a particular stage in life is what fills my soul—it’s truly the type of work that makes me proud to offer as heirlooms for my clients.
Shiloh was stressed, as most of my new mommas are, that she didn't feel as "put together" as she normally would feel for a shoot. Really though, there is so much irrevocable beauty and glow in a new mom that I don't think she could have done anything differently. Can I get an "Amen?!"
This is Luna, Aster's much more shy, cat-like big sister. She was not quite as thrilled to be a part of this family party on camera. I think she was just playing modest...
Keane, however, had no problems hamming it up with his inherited perfect hair from his momma and height from daddy.
Shiloh and Daniel, here’s to your sweet, happy little family of three...and your perfect hair. Definitely, your perfect hair.
The Importance of Tangible Photographs: Preserving Memories in Albums
With technology being as essential as a body limb in today's world, the debate between photo releases, preserving print images, and it being the responsibility of a professional photographer to educate the client on the importance of tangible print images is one that never seems to find a conclusive resolve. I posed a question regarding this topic on social media recently, despite the fact that this debate makes my stomach turn with anxiety. Yes, I said anxiety. Let me explain. It churns my stomach that I'm not offering the best for my clients, or that I'm not pushing them to preserve their family heirlooms in a tangible manner, OR simply that I'm not offering the exact product that perhaps fits their needs. After my social media post, what I learned is that most of my clients DO want the option for digital high-resolution images. Nonetheless, most also stated that they rarely get around to printing the images we plan, capture, and document so meticulously. Of course, this made me rack my brain to try to find a cost-effective option that would allow them to somehow receive both components at a price that both values the quality of the work and their pocketbooks.
While quality albums will ALWAYS be a bit of an investment, I want them to be something my clients feel is within reason of their normal photography budget. With that being said, I'll be offering exclusive ADD-ON album pricing to my Lifestyle Collection offerings. This pricing will be exclusive to collections where the high-resolution download is purchased OR a minimum print order has already been met. Essentially, you're getting more bang for your buck. (; 
If you'd like to know more about this exclusive pricing, please contact me via email at kali@kalinorton.com.
Happy Fall, Y'all!
Classic Holiday Sessions | Exclusively Styled by Shiloh Latham: New Orleans Family Photographer
Holiday photo sessions are ALWAYS a hit among my sweet clients, but this year I'm thrilled to be collaborating on an offering with my incredibly talented friend to style the most epic, classy, and exclusive setup. For those who know my style and/or work with me often, you know I'm NOT a fan of super prop-driven or posed images within my style of photography. I love the organic, candid, soft emotion that captures the essence of relationships--something that can be admired timelessly for years to come. With that being said, my extremely talented friend and stylist, Shiloh Latham, will be designing a kick-ass setup for these sessions. Without giving too much away, I can tell you it will be a mix of a little bohemian, some classic creams, and a slight holiday and of course "cozy" vibe. The setup will have the option of more of a boho flair with deep Fall colors, more of a neutral scene, or just classic, no-prop-at-all images. All of these will be in the same general vicinity, so we can even do a mix of all of them!
++Although these sessions will be styled with more props than my average shoot, it will reflect the same organic, emotion-driven feel of my usual images.
HERE ARE THE DEETS:
Holiday Sessions are photo shoots with yours truly for a $100 session fee and include a private 20-30 minute session and a private online viewing gallery for ordering any and all holiday photos in time for Christmas (prints, holiday cards, downloads, etc).
MANDEVILLE, LA – FOUNTAINBLEAU STATE PARK
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2016
10:15 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:15 AM, 11:45 AM, 12:15 PM, 12:45 PM, 1:15 PM, 1:45 PM, 2:15 PM, 2:45 PM, 3:15 PM, 3:45 PM, 4:15 PM
(Scroll below for answers to some FAQs)
How many photos can we expect in our gallery during a 20-30 minute session?
Generally, my full Lifestyle Sessions last only about 30-45 minutes, so even though these are considered "mini" sessions, you will have at least 30 edited images to choose from in your final gallery--very likely, more than that. (:
Will you be offering weekend sessions on any other dates?
No. I actually rarely EVER photograph on weekends, especially in the Fall, due to the busy wedding season. This will be the only date offered for Fall WEEKEND sessions, AND at exclusive pricing.
How many people are allowed in the session for the $100 session fee?
Immediate family only. Should you want extended family in photographs, each family would pay an individual $100 session fee. This would extend the time of your session for each $100 paid. Essentially, they would be booked as separate sessions, just back-to-back to ensure all necessary groupings. If this is of interest to you, it's highly encouraged that you book ASAP before back-to-back time slots are filled.
How do I secure my spot?
To secure your spot, please email me at kali@kalinorton.com with your first, second, and third preferences for time on November 6th. I will email back a contract. Because these sessions are offered at a reduced rate, the entire $100 session fee ($108 with tax), is due at the time of booking. BOOKING IS ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS.
What does my $100 include?
The $100 includes the 20-30 minute session fee and your edited, online gallery for viewing. This session fee is an EXCLUSIVE price offering. All prints, enlargements, albums, and high-resolution downloads will be available for purchase within online galleries. My average family invests about $500-600 in a Lifestyle Session. Due to the exclusive session fee pricing for these sessions, you can expect a LESSER total investment than an average Lifestyle Session. For mini-sessions, my clients generally end up with a total investment of around $350.
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For those of you who want beautiful photographs, but are wanting a more exclusive experience, please contact the studio to discuss a full lifestyle photo shoot for you and your family. Limited availability for October, November, and December.
*Note: ALL orders from Holiday Exclusives MUST be placed by MIDNIGHT on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2017. No exceptions.
And Then There Were Three | Welcoming Sibley: Baton Rouge Newborn Photographer
“I never knew how much my heart would be filled by a little girl until she was here.” These were Taylor's words to me as I walked into her home to meet baby number three for the first time.
Taylor and Blain decided to be surprised by the sex of their third child. With two boys, Taylor was presumptuous that she was about to have more football and race cars in her future. Little did she know, Miss Sibley was growing in her tummy and ready to add a little sparkle to this family of boys.
Life looks like a plethora of newborns these days, but when that means my days are filled with baby snuggles and watching my sweet friends grow their families, I cannot complain. You may recognize Taylor and her boys from this shoot, or several others I've posted to the blog over the years. I’ve been photographing them for years, watching their little family grow as little personalities develop in her boys.
Blain and Gant are so smitten by their little sister. Watching them give her the softest kisses and hush one another to not wake her was priceless.
Taylor and Blain, I cannot wait to document so many more sweet moments for you.
Welcoming Duke | Mandeville Child + Family Photographer
"And even though I'm unsure about most things in life, I am certain that I love you and will continue to love you forever." I'm at the age where an increasingly large number of people closest to me are sporting the cutest baby bumps and in an ooey gooey mess of loving on new little life that has rocked their entire world. It's one of the most breathtakingly beautiful things to watch from the sidelines of their new ways of life. The baby fever is REAAAAAL, friends. That's all.
Duke is perfect. Motherhood is the most stunning thing ever. Swoon swoon.
Dixie is still trying to figure out what's up exactly with the cute poop and spit up monster is that mommy now cuddles all of the time.
Happy Thursday, friends!