If you’ve ever looked into booking a newborn photography session, you may have noticed something surprising—sessions can last anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours (sometimes even longer!). And your first thought might be: “Why does it take that long just to take photos of a baby?” The short answer? Because your baby is in charge  […]

There are few moments in life that feel as sacred as the first 48 hours after your baby is born. Time stands still… and somehow moves faster than it ever has. A Fresh 48 session is a documentary-style photography session that takes place within the first 24–48 hours after birth, typically at the hospital or […]

Welcoming a new baby is a beautiful, emotional, and exhausting season — and the idea of having photos taken at home can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re wondering “Do I need to clean my whole house?” or “What if my baby is fussy?” take a deep breath. In-home newborn sessions are meant to feel slow, […]

Your Stress-Free Photography Experience in Oakdale, California Hi there! I’m Kristen Porter, a documentary-style photographer based in Oakdale, CA, otherwise know as the Cowboy Capital of the world! In addition to the Oakdale area, I serve Modesto, Ripon, Escalon, and the Central Valley. I specialize in family, maternity, and newborn photography. I love capturing connection […]

There’s something about that very first meal after having a baby, it just hits differently. You’ve spent hours (maybe days!) working harder than you’ve ever worked in your life, and now your body is craving something warm, comforting, and satisfying. You might be asking, “Kristen, why are we talking about sandwiches?” Look, I don’t know […]

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor & Delivery You’ve been counting down the weeks, watching your belly grow, and feeling those sweet little kicks — now it’s almost time to meet your baby! One of the last things on your to-do list before labor? Packing your hospital bag. As a Central Valley […]

What to Expect During Your Family Photo Session: Tips for a Fun, Stress-Free Experience Are you planning your first family photo session and wondering what to expect? Whether you’ve booked a professional family photographer before or it’s your first time, this guide will help you feel prepared, relaxed, and excited for your session. As a […]

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most magical milestones. As a newborn photographer, I absolutely love capturing these tender early days for families throughout the Central Valley, including Modesto, Ripon, Escalon, and beyond. If you’re wondering what a newborn photo session looks like, here’s a little guide to help you feel better prepared […]

One of the most common questions I get as a photographer is: “Where should we take our photos?” And honestly? The Central Valley is full of hidden gems and wide‑open spaces just waiting to be part of your story. Whether you’re dreaming of a wild outdoor adventure, a cozy in‑home session, or something totally unique […]

5 Ways to Get Your Partner Excited About Maternity or Family Photos I get it. We’ve all been there, you’re super excited about booking a maternity or family photo session, and your hubby? Not so much. Maybe he feels awkward in front of the camera, or he just doesn’t see the point. First, let me […]