My sweet baby girl is already three weeks old.  I know she’s still a newborn, but I can’t believe how fast the time is going.  Her beautiful little face is filling out, her neck is getting stronger and she’s spending more time awake and alert.  Life with a newborn is terrifically exhausting, but at the same time I wish this precious phase lasted a little longer.  Before I know it she’ll be crawling after her sister and laughing with her brother.

With all that in mind, I was delighted to welcome the very talented Naja Lerus into my home last week.  As an infant, child and family photographer, she specializes in capturing this very special and fleeting time in a young family’s life. She spent more than three hours in my home, patiently waiting for just the right moments to snap a picture of our tiny Vivian.  By the end of the session, the kids and I considered Naja to be part of our family.

I’m pretty sure Naja is a certified baby whisperer.  Vivian can be a bit fussy, but Naja knew just what to do to quiet her down.  I felt no need to apologize whenever Vivian needed to nurse or a little wipe of her bottom – Naja understands that babies are on their own schedules. I think that’s why she is so good at what she does.  Her gentle patience pays off.

Someday much too soon I know I will look at these pictures and feel tears well up inside.  My precious baby girl – so tiny and new and perfect.  Newborns are only new for a little while, so I feel especially grateful to Naja for sharing her talent with my family.  These are pictures I will absolutely treasure for my whole life.

If you live in the Chicago area and you have a little bundle here or on the way, invite Naja to take some photos.  Her immense talent and patience and generous spirit radiate, leaving you with images to proudly share with your great-grandchildren someday. Plus, she is a fellow mom with a true love of life!

Check out Naja’s website: http://www.najalerusphotography.com/

Join Naja on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NLerusPhotography