We had rescheduled countless times, but finally got a gorgeous day for Kalia’s 2nd birthday session a couple of weeks ago. The terrible 2′s were alive and well here. She did not sit still for longer than 10 seconds, IF that much. I was able to catch her in a few split seconds of stillness and those shots were gems. She’s so spunky, independent and adventurous…Love her! Well, I love this whole family as I’ve been photographing them now for a few years and it’s like hanging out with old friends. See you soon Tara! ♥ Vanessa

Picture this….

…it’s Thanksgiving Day and all your Holiday shopping is done!

…it’s crazy on the streets and at the mall…and you don’t have to deal with it!

…you can relax and really enjoy the season

All that can be a reality when you try these …

It was 1985 when I first met Sandra. We were in Junior High School together (or middle school as it is called now). Having just arrived from Panama, I barely spoke English but that was no deterrent for Sandra who was, and still is, the type that helps those in need and is open to new friends and experiences. We became friends almost instantly. Ten years ago (almost to the day), I quit my corporate job and embarked on the quest of getting back in touch with the artist inside me, which had laid dormant for many years. Sandra and I took up the task of reconnecting with our ‘inner artists’ by going through the book “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron. At the time, I was only looking to reignite that spark, that passion, that had always been inside me, never imagining that I’d become a full-time artist. She was there when I took my first steps back to a life of beauty and art, clicking the shutter hesitantly in Miami Beach. I am now thrilled beyond words to be documenting her life ten years later as she embarks on another wonderful stage of life…the forties ;) …and motherhood. Can’t wait to photograph her and her sweet hubby…and of course baby when he arrives. In the meantime… Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

Yes, it’s now FOUR boys! You’ve met Nancy and the boys here on the blog before…and now another sweet bundle of joy has arrived. Baby Nicolas was a surprise for both Mom and Dad, but a welcomed one nonetheless. Their three boys were rooting for another baby brother and they were thrilled to get their wish. They had decided not to find out the gender until the baby arrived, so once it was confirmed that it was another little brother, big brother Gabriel announced “we are now 5 Guys!”. So funny. I’ve been privileged to photograph every one of the boys, including their Baptisms, and I’m beyond honored to be there again for this amazing family. Nancy, your strength amazes me every time. See you soon. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

At last we got to complete Dylan’s first birthday session! The rain was the main culprit as to why he’s already (I think) 15 months. This day was almost a wash out as well, but the sun held out just enough to allow us to get these beautiful shots at the beach. Dylan is not much of a smiler, so I’m thrilled to have gotten a few of him doing just that. Photographing this family is always a ton of fun. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

It was an absolute honor documenting this moment in time for this Mom and her two gorgeous, smart and confident daughters. I had photographed the girls over five years ago, including a Bat Mitzvah and graduation! Now one has already graduated college and moved to New York, the other is also away at college, and it’s rare when all three are together like this. So Marjorie decided to do a photo session with her girls because it could be that the next professional photo session would be a wedding, and then it’s just crazy. I love how casual and relaxed they are, no hoopla about hair or make-up, just them. That second shot in BW is my favorite followed closely by the laughing-with-eyes-closed which is adorable. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

Such a big name for such a little guy, but Arthur made his name proud. He was King and was not going to do anything anyone wanted him to do. He was awake most of the shoot and a little upset that I was interrupting his regular schedule. We were able get a few great shots at home and opted to continue the shoot in the studio the week after. At the studio he was much the same except for a small 10 minute window where he fell into a very light sleep. That’s all we needed. Love the family shot where he’s looking straight at Daddy. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

I went over to this wonderful family’s home to photograph their newest arrival, Trevor and the moment Mom opened the door I had the feeling I had met her before, like I’ve known her for a long time. But I could not remember from where. I mentioned it to her and she had the same feeling. We have yet to figure out how it is that we know each other, but we figured out how to get some beautiful shots of both boys and of the whole family. Love this first shot, so tender. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

It’s almost the end of June and it’s hard to believe how fast this year is going. It’s more palpable to me every time I wrap up a Chichi Baby Collection with the first birthday session. You’ve seen Veronica on the blog over the last year as she’s reached all her first year milestones. She’s now walking, her little personality is setting in and she’s even more adorable than she was the first time I photographed her. She wasn’t a fan of the sand on her feet – which almost ended this session – but persistence paid off and it was all smiles at the end. Here are a few…enjoy! ♥ Vanessa

My Baby, that’s what Meu Bebê means in Portuguese. Anna and Rafael are Brazilian transplants that moved to Miami a couple of years ago because of his work. I was very impressed by Anna’s English (having only lived here for two years) and as I mentioned that to her, Rafael said to me “she impresses me every day”. Wow. They oozed love for each other and for their coming bebê. I’m looking forward to and honored to be documenting their baby’s first year of life, and witnessing more of this gorgeous couple as they become a family. Enjoy! ♥ Vanessa