richards bay photographer

Deandre ➳ Newborn by Abigail Smith

There are some stories that feel like they come full circle, and baby Deandre’s newborn session was one of them. Just a few weeks ago, I had the honor of capturing his mother’s maternity session—her hands resting gently on her belly, her eyes filled with quiet anticipation. And now, here he was, nestled in his parents’ arms, no longer a dream but a reality, a tiny miracle wrapped in warmth and love.

Newborn sessions are always special, but there is something even more meaningful about including parents in these moments. The way Deandre’s mother gazed at him, the way his father held him —it was a reminder that love expands in the most beautiful ways. In those early days, life moves in a blur of sleepless nights and endless cuddles, but photographs have a way of holding time still, of preserving the emotions that words cannot fully express.

Deandre, so small in their arms, already carried so much meaning. His name, often associated with bravery and strength, seemed to fit him perfectly. Though just beginning his journey, he was already the heartbeat of his family, the newest piece of a love story that would continue to unfold for years to come.

At the end of our session, we decided to have a little fun, capturing the most adorable baby mug shots of Deandre. His tiny expressions, ranging from sleepy curiosity to an almost serious little pout, had us all smiling. These were the moments of personality shining through—the glimpses of the boy he will become, the little spark that makes him uniquely him.

One day, when Deandre is no longer this tiny, when his parents can no longer cradle him in their arms quite as easily, they will look back at these images. They will remember the weight of him against their chest, the softness of his skin, the quiet wonder in his newborn eyes. And they will know, as they do now, that he was always deeply loved.

Deandre, may you grow strong and kind, always knowing that from your very first days, you were the center of a love that will never fade.

Mason & Olivia ➳ Christmas Baby Portraits by Abigail Smith

There’s something magical about the joy of Christmas, and capturing cousins Mason and Olivia together made this season feel even brighter. These two little ones brought so much personality to their Christmas baby portrait session!

Mason was an absolute bundle of energy, full of smiles and laughter that lit up the room. He loved every moment of the session, his playful nature shining in every photo. Olivia, on the other hand, was more reserved, her sweet shyness adding a soft and tender touch to the portraits. Together, their unique personalities created the perfect blend of festive cheer and heartwarming sweetness.

What made this session even more special was knowing how excited their grandparents were to see the final images. These photos will surely be cherished keepsakes for years to come, celebrating not just Christmas but the beautiful bond between cousins.

Mason and Olivia, you made this holiday season unforgettable with your smiles, laughter, and love. Wishing your family a Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and wonderful memories!

Azharuddeen ➳ Cake Smash by Abigail Smith

Sharing the sweetest celebration: a forest location cake smash for the adorable one-year-old, Azharuddeen.🌿🎂

Azharuddeen looked so cute in his stylish attire and with some prompting, he dove into his cake flinging pieces of it into the air. He had us all laughing as he delighted in the messy, joyous chaos of his very first cake smash.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this unforgettable milestone. Your love and laughter filled the forest with warmth and happiness, and I'm honored to have been there to capture these precious memories for you.

If you're looking to celebrate your little one's first birthday, why not consider a forest-themed cake smash? It's the perfect way to create memories that you'll cherish for years to come.