Shadeleaf Studios » Raleigh Durham Photographer, Shallyse Gastelum, Newborn, Children, and Family photography

Baby “N’s” parents are big NC State fans, so it was no surprise when they asked if his 3-month portrait session could take place on campus. They wanted to make sure the bell tower was featured in some of his portraits. I’m not really attached to any particular college campus (even though I  grew up in Utah, I could never really get into the BYU vs. U of U debate), and from a strictly photographic standpoint, I love the NC State AND the UNC campus – sorry, I just can’t seem to pick a favorite.

The last time I saw this little man, he was a tiny newborn. I was sooooo surprised when I saw him at his 3-month session. He’s grown so much in just a few months. I love his sweet chubby cheeks, his super-blue eyes, and his yummy baby rolls. I’m so excited that he’s participating in the Milestones plan and I’ll have two more chances to document how much he grows and changes in his first year.

He was such a little trooper during our session. It was rainy, hot, and humid, but he didn’t complain at all. We had to wait for the rain to subside before we could photograph him near the bell tower, so we plopped him in a basket in some good light and he charmed us with his ever-changing expressions. It was tons of fun to watch him interact with his parents – they love him so much, and you can tell that he adores them as well.

Here’s his first series of portraits on the NC State campus. His next two sessions will take place there as well, so that the bell tower can be a running theme throughout his first year portraits.

I think he has the sweetest eyelashes…