North Louisiana Lifestyle Family and Newborn Photographer

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Seth is ONE | North Louisiana Photographer

I can’t believe little Seth has graduated his first year portrait plan. Oh how fast time flies.

It is such a joy to get to photograph these precious growing babies. Preserving these memories for mamas makes my heart sing. It is a joy that never gets old. Babies change so much in their first year, it’s just crazy. Having special portraits at each big milestone is so very, very special.

I was so blessed to be able to capture their maternity portraits, newborn portraits, and 6 month portraits.

When Seth was still in his mommy’s belly, we met at SAU campus for their maternity portraits. One year later, we are back again for his first birthday portraits. I just love the way this worked out.

We were initially going to meet at a baseball field for his first birthday portraits but with the rain that we have constantly been having, everything was so wet. Last minute we made the call to switch to SAU campus and I’m honestly so glad we did. These images are so precious.

Little Seth, you’re a sweetheart. The many faces you make are so stinking adorable. You are the sweetest baby boy. Happy first birthday, little man.

February 21, 2023
Why is it so important to BE IN photos and not just take them? | Shreveport, Louisiana Family Photographer

As a photographer in the Shreveport Louisiana area, I have taken my fair share of portraits. I get to capture moments and memories for growing families that could be so easily forgotten if it weren’t for the photographs to remember the details.

I not only find value in taking portraits for others, I also realize the value to be IN the photos too.

You see, as a mom, we are always the ones taking the photos. We have cute photos of the kiddos and dad but so few of us with them. Or even more so few of just us and the hubs. Why? Well, who’s going to take it??? Or maybe we don’t like the way our bodies look after having kids. Maybe we just don’t even think about it.

The beautiful thing about family photography is that you don’t even have to think about it! I will direct every single moment of your session.

But why is it so important to actually be in photos?

Well, let’s think about when you were growing up. Do you remember what your parents looked like when you were 3? I sure don’t. But I can look back at the countless images my mom has taken and printed and I can see what they looked like.

I can see moments of them with me on my birthdays, helping me put together my new toys. I can see the joy on my face in one photo where my dad is helping me with a fishing pole.

It is so important for our children to have a legacy to look back on and see these special times in their lives that maybe they wouldn’t remember if it hadn’t been documented. But what’s even more special is that if in those same photos they can see mom and dad, loving them and loving each other.

This is what family photography is all about.

Book your family or newborn session here

February 1, 2023
Three pieces of advice for a new mama | Ruston Louisiana Newborn Photographer

Being a new mama is hard, I know! There is so much that changes- your body, your sleep, your eating; literally everything changes. I don’t ever pretend to think that I have it all together or that I know more than anyone else; trust me when I say, I don’t.

Hey, sweet friend! I’m a mama and a newborn photographer in the Ruston Louisiana area. I specialize in in-home newborn photography with a lifestyle approach. This type of photography absolutely fills my cup and brings me so much joy. I have had the amazing privilege to work with some amazing mamas in the surrounding north Louisiana areas and if there was any piece of advice I could give them, this is what I would say:

The first thing I could ever tell a new mama is to give yourself grace, upon grace. I heard this before and it stuck with me- you have never been this mama before. You may have been a mom of one or two, but you have never been a mom of three. This is all new.
This applies to even if this is your first baby. No matter how many times you bring a new baby into the world, it’s always going to be a new experience. Give yourself grace.

The second thing I would say is to see a pelvic floor PT. You will thank me later if you follow this advice. Bringing babies into the world bring a lot of trauma to your body. Working with someone specialized in the areas of diastases recti and pelvic floor will help with all things recovery! Learning to use your core again after having a baby is SO empowering!

The last thing I would say, or recommend, would be to enjoy every minute. Now, I know, I know, every minute isn’t enjoyable. Trust me, I know. I have been there. There are a lot of moments that you are just wishing you could get some sleep, wishing the crying or fussing or whining would stop. But also trust me when I say, it goes by so fast!! Like, unfairly fast. When you are in the think of the newborn and baby raising, it feels like you will be in this stage forever. But before you know it, they are off to school and not needing their mama anymore. I think we can all do better at enjoying the moments a little bit better. The baby sleeping on your chest, the snuggles and cuddles, how you can fix everything with a little kiss. The innocence of babies.

If I could leave you with some final words, I would say that you’re doing an amazing job. And I really, really mean that!

January 23, 2023
Moriah turns 8 | Shreveport Louisiana Photographer

Sweet Moriah turned 8 and that calls for birthday portraits! We went with downtown Shreveport as our location because her mama wanted more architecture. Moriah wanted a Japan themed party so we made sure to include some of that in her outfit selections.

Moriah is such a sweet, quiet girl. She wouldn’t hurt a soul and she’s friends with everyone. She’s one of those girls that’s easy to love and she loves you right back. She’s more on the reserved side and maybe won’t show her emotions as strongly as others, but she is truly a sweetheart.

We love you sweet Moriah and wish you he happiest birthday party this weekend.

January 17, 2023
Now offering fresh 48 sessions | Ruston Louisiana newborn photographer

As a newborn photographer in the Ruston Louisiana area, I knew it was time to begin offering fresh 48 sessions. These precious sessions are done in the hospital, up to 48 hours after your baby’s birth.

These are so special and incredible. Your baby changes so much within the first year and even more so within just the first few days.

To me, the hospital stay can feel like a blur. You don’t hardly remember the details. Documenting this special time will forever keep those special details close to your memory.

Contact us to book your fresh 48 today!

January 6, 2023
Wade Family | North Louisiana Photographer

Meet the Wade family! They are such a sweet family. And what adorable kiddos!

I’m sure you recognize a few members of this family from past sessions. I can’t express how thankful I am for repeat clients. It means so much to me!!

This session took place on the coldest day ever. Ok, maybe not.. snowpocalypse of 2020- shudders… Anyways, this day was cold. You get the idea. We raced through this session in record time because these babies did not need to be out longer than necessary. I knew I could get what I needed, I just had to move quick. And hey, moving quick keeps you warm. Haha!!

Everyone handled the cold so well! I was so proud of the kiddos. Little Easton was having a hard time warming up to me so I decided to let him throw leaves at me. Boy was that a good idea! He loved every second of that! Haha!! It’s so fun to figure out ways to get little ones interested in photos. It almost never fails that games are the way to do it. Make it fun and they will like you. That’s my motto anyways.

I hope you enjoy this session! It was a good one!!

https://courtneydexterphotography.pixieset.com/booking/

December 23, 2022
2022 Recap | Shreveport Louisiana Photographer

The 2022 family and newborn portrait season has come to an end. It was CDP’s best year and I can’t tell you how thankful I am for that. You’ve all been so very supportive and loving. Trusting me with your most precious moments is such an incredible honor.

From anniversary portraits, newborn portraits, weddings, and more; 2022 was one I will never forget!

I believe my ability to serve you and your incredible families has grown and developed even more in this year.

I dove into off camera flash to incorporate in lifestyle newborn sessions and learned it’s not as hard as I thought it was.

I was able to invest more into my business by upgrading my gear (that’s been needed for a long time!) and I can say that was a great decision.

I was able to travel for sessions and bring my family along to enjoy a little get away together.

I set a goal for the amount of income I wanted to reach for the year and because of your unfailing support I nearly doubled that goal. I am humbled and honored by each and every one of you. I can’t tell you how much this year has meant to my family.

I am trusting God for the year ahead, knowing that if I follow where he leads, I can’t fail. No matter what happens in 2023, I trust in Him. May God richly bless each and every one of you for the love that you have so graciously shown me.

To book your session in 2023, start here

December 22, 2022
Christmas with the Dexters | North Louisiana Photographer

Ok, this session holds a special place in my heart. I LOVE lifestyle sessions in the comfort of your home. They are just so special to me. No one has a location like yours. No one has photos like yours. They are so special because they are in your safe place. Your reprieve from the world. Sometimes you worry there maybe isn’t great light at your house, but we can bring the light!

This session took place on a dark, gloomy day in North Louisiana. If you’re from around here then you know the type of weather we have had. We need the sun!! On days like this you can reschedule, but you’re not promised another day will have sun shine. This is why I have been pushing myself to learn off camera flash. Am I perfect, heavens no. But I am learning! And these are beautiful. So I say that is a win!!

We got the kiddos all cozy and let them decorate the tree, make cookies, and just have fun. This is easily my most favorite, FAVORITE time of year!

I have loved photographing these absolutely adorable, sweet kiddos over the years. And yes, I’m partial because they are my family. But who cares?! They are still some of the sweetest kids you’ll meet!

December 21, 2022
Oglesby Family | Family Photographer in Shreveport Louisiana

The Oglesby family is such a special family! You can’t help but love them. They are so fun and full of life! You are sure to leave with a smile on your face after a visit with them. Not only that, but they are Godly. The love of Christ truly shines through their lives. It is a joy and honor to know them and call them friends.

We met for their session out on Lake Bistineau. This is definitely one of my favorite locations. It is so beautiful and gives you all the southern Louisiana feels. The moss in the trees add such beautiful touch to the images as well. I just love it!

This was a mini session so we worked fast but I am so proud of all that we got accomplished in such a short amount of time. I love them all and I know they do too!

Book your family session here

December 19, 2022
Rico Family | Family Photographer in Shreveport Louisiana

These precious kiddos brightened my day! They were so sweet and full of energy. I loved every single second of meeting them. Their mama is a long time friend of mine and was in my wedding. Being able to photograph her precious kiddos was so special to me.

We met on a gloomy day just outside of Shreveport Louisiana. It was gloomy, but it felt great outside! This usually helps make the kiddos happy. Too cold or too hot is not fun for anyone!

One thing I like to do with littles that have never met me before it introduce myself to them without my big camera. I want them to get used to me before I pull out the big black thing they have to look at. I always get down on their level and try to let them know I am their friend. It can be hard for them at first especially if they are more shy. But almost always they warm up and we have a wonderful time together!

After we have let them warm up a little, I’ll bring out my camera and if I can tell one is a little more weary of me and my camera I’ll let them look at it and even help me take a picture. They always love this!

I’m a big believer in not rewarding with snacks during the session because this typically ends in them wanting more and more. Instead I try to reward with games. If they will give me a good smile, I will let them run and play. It’s a win, win!

These same tactics worked with these precious kiddos and I think it’s safe to say we left as buddies. I love getting to serve all these precious families in this fun way!

Book your family session here

December 16, 2022