BTell us a bit about your approach to the work you do, your time in the business and a few personal facts about you.

I have been a newborn and family photographer in Austin, Texas for the last 6 years. My love for photography began early in my teenage years when I bought my first camera. I loved shooting macro images and experimenting with light and texture. For schooling I decided on a  Bachelors Degree for Business Administration so I could successfully run my own photography business. I am in my sixth year of business and feel like with the combination of experience, trial and error and the birth of my son, I found my true style in lifestyle newborn and family photos. I approach each session with the goal to make my clients feel comfortable and well taken care of. I launched my [LIFE]  Sessions this year to feed my creative side that longed to capture my families during a time that may seem mundane to them, but they would absolutely want to remember in the future. Being a mother, I understand now the long days, but the rewarding times in between that should absolutely be documented. There is something so absolutely creatively freeing about sitting back, and letting a session unfold – both for myself and for my clients. I also dove into the world of video with these sessions and have loved adding this as an option for my clients and also creatively for myself.

What makes you the most nervous during a session?

Since I work mainly with small children I am always acutely aware of when the time is coming that we will hit their “wall” of tolerance. This aspect does tend to make me nervous, but I have learned to make the most out of the time we have together, and keep a few tricks up my sleeve. 

What about this session was most memorable?

I have know this family since their oldest was a baby (5 years!) and have had multiple photo-shoots with them. They hired me when I was still just starting out, and have stuck with me since which is such a huge compliment. They were eager to jump on board with an in-home [LIFE] session having so many “regular” sessions with me. I loved it when dad brought out his guitar, and sang a song he wrote for his wife to their boys. It was incredibly special! Little bro also jumped into the pool for the first time on his own that day, which his parents were incredibly proud of. Watching families just in their own home, during this very exact stage of life, especially when small children are involved so memorable to me. It can feel like such a long season, but also it’s so short all at the same time. All of a sudden they outgrow super-heros, legos =, cuddles and bedtime songs, and you have no clue when they day will be.  And though you’ll be on to a different memorable stage, you are still leaving a beautiful stage behind as well. I know next time I see this family (when they welcome a new baby this winter!) most of the stages the boys are in right now will be gone.

Were there any hurdles?

Mom kept thinking that they were too boring too do a session at home like this, so I made sure I reassured her they were doing great. I also tried to move the session forward so we weren’t spending too much time on one certain thing, which was totally okay with the boys! 

Your best photographer/session advice?

No matter how long it takes, keep working towards finding your individual style. Presets/actions, poses, and clothes can all be copied, but at the end of the day what makes your photographer heart happy will continue to create a happy business for you. You have to love, believe and own what you are creating as an artist. Lift others up as you would want to be lifted up and remember “comparison is the thief of joy.”

What is one goal for your business ?

To continue to evolve as an artist, trust my vision and be able to better serve my clients and myself year after year. 

What gear was used to achieve these?     

Nikon D810, Nikon 24-120, Sigma 35mm Art 

Any presets used or hand editing?                                                                          Emily Lucarz Clean Set

ABOU THE ARTIST :

I’m Alissa Cordoba, photographer at Little Dreamers Photography in Austin, Texas. I am a wife, mother to a little boy and native South Dakotan. I specialize in newborn and family photography that is unfussy, bright and playful. I am a left-handed introvert who enjoys time at home, a great meal and creating art that makes others happy. 

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