First Birthday Cake Smash | Jackson, Michigan Child Photographer

I don't typically do cake smash sessions... not because I'm against them, but I just haven't thought about offering them.   My daughter just turned one (where does time go??) and we decided to do a quick little cake smash with her.  It was so cute to see her try to eat her little cake.   This will definitely be an option for clients doing 1-year sessions from now on.  SO FUN!

Matilda Jane Mini Sessions: Part 1 | Jackson, Michigan Child Photographer

It's no secret... I've fallen head over heels in love with Matilda Jane Clothing.  90% of the time Amelia is wearing at least one piece of Matilda Jane.  You can't beat the quality and comfort- and originality!   I hosted my first trunk show in February and offered those who shopped at my trunk show a free mini session for their daughters in their new Matilda Jane Clothing.  The mini sessions were SO fun!  

If you're unfamiliar with Matilda Jane and want more info on purchasing, let me know!  Send me an email- I'm hosting another trunk show in May (the 16th) and I'd love to help you shop!

So... here are a few of the cuties I photographed last week:

Summer Schedule (attn if you need a weekend session!)

Surprisingly (and fortunately!) my summer calendar is booking up already.  AND I've already had inquiries about fall sessions.  WOOT WOOT!   Getting super excited for the busy summer season.

I forced myself to sit down the other day and block off some weekends for my family, so that I'm not working/traveling to sessions every weekend this summer.   This means I'm going to have limited weekend availability throughout the summer, so if you absolutely need a weekend date- the sooner you book the better. 

During the week, however, my schedule remains flexible.  

So.... tentatively here are the weekends I am booking sessions:

May 25/26 (both days still available)

June 1/2 (Sunday booked)

June 15/16 

June 22/23 

July 6/7 (Saturday booked)

July 20/21 (Saturday booked)

August: (dates pending)

It's never too early to book your session... summer or fall!   

I am also opening my winter 2013-2014 calendar up for newborns.   December I will ONLY be taking newborn session.   

For more session information email me at nicole@nbarczak.com .   Don't forget to check out the website as well: www.nbarczak.com and "LIKE" me on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/nbarczakphotography .  

Holden Beach, North Carolina Family Session | Nicole Barczak Photography

While on vacation, I met up with Jaime and her family to do a family session.  Let me just say- I could live at the beach.  All the time.   To be honest with you, the week was chilly.   I don't think the weather was above 63* all week.   This day in particular was really chilly- in the 50's.  But, the sky was gorgeous and so was the family, so really what more do we need?   They were SO FUN!   I was so anxious to get home and get them into Photoshop so I could play around with them.   Be prepared:  I will be sharing many more!  

I am going to be scheduling some Michigan faux-ocean Beach Sessions (aka: Lake Michigan HAH!) this summer, and later this fall.  Would anyone be interested?  

Snowflakes and Purple Balloons | Jackson Michigan Child and Family Photographer

Super quick session with this awesome family tonight.  Little George has curls to die for, and was such a trooper in the cold.  He didn't last long, but it was long enough to get some great images.  I was excited when Kate told me they were wearing pops of purple, so I stopped by the Ballooney Bin and picked up a bunch of purple balloons.   George lost interest after the wind blew them into him one too many times, but they were perfect while they lasted!

Stepping into the frame

I've said it before.... as the photographer of our family I am rarely in our images.   And sadly, our last "family picture" was nearly 2 years ago!  How awful is that!?  (You know, the cobblers children have no shoes....).  

For spring break we are having an official family session on the beach in North Carolina.  And can I be completely honest for a minute?  I've contemplated canceling this session about a dozen times.  

Do you want to know why?

Because I'm insecure.  I'm insecure with how *I* look and how *I* will be portrayed in these images.   How ridiculous is that?!   After having Amelia last April, I've been unmotivated to exercise and lose the rest of the "baby weight", and so now I'm facing this session with an extra 20-30lbs than I normally am.  This gives me anxiety.  I'm terrified of seeing the final product- of seeing MYSELF.

I know I'm not the only one.

I came across this post on another photographers blog and realized... it is time.  It is time for me to shove that insecurity aside and step into the frame.  Because you know what.... in 10, 15, 20 years... I'm going to be so thankful that I did.  I will look back on those images of us as a family, of ME with my children, and my heart will be full and happy regardless of what my body looked like on the outside.

Are you ready to step into the frame?  Are you ready to be photographed with your children?   Check out the Mommy and Me sessions this spring.

The Birth of Jake Anthony | Jackson, Michigan Birth Photographer

"Shooting a birth is like getting an inquiry from a bride saying that she wants you to come photograph her wedding, but isn't going to set a date. She'll just call you whenever. And when you ask her how many hours of coverage she would like, she says she's not sure, probably around 24, but maybe only 2. And you ask her when she'd like for you to start coverage and she says she wont know, but probably around 2am. And also, that she doesnt want any use of flash. So when you ask her if there will be bountiful natural light she says that she'll be getting married in a dark closet with no light whatsoever. And, she's going to want the images right away to send out announcements. AND you're not going to be able to use them anywhere on your website or blog because she wants to keep her privacy intact. We'd all be quoting this bride $50,000.00." --Lexia Frank


I saw this quote on Facebook from a WPPI speaker and amazing photographer, Lexia Frank.   How true is that?   Birth photography is definitely an investment, both for the client and for the photographer (in time and talent!).  The timeline is non-existent.  The lighting conditions are harsh.  The hours are unpredictable.  Clients who choose birth photography value this moment as they valued their wedding.  It is a once in a lifetime event- something that will never, ever be relived except through images.   And why not have the best possible images to relive the event?    


Jake Anthony | Nicole Barczak Birth Photography from Nicole Barczak on Vimeo.

For more information about birth photography, please contact Nicole at nicole@nbarczak.com.   FAQ and common birth photography information is also available on the website www.nbarczak.com.

Nicole Barczak Photography is a birth photographer in Jackson at Allegiance Health and in Ann Arbor at Motts U of M.  She is available for photographing hospital births, home births, at birthing centers, natural deliveries and c-sections.

Mommy and Me Mini Sessions

Mommy and Me Mini sessions make great Mother's Day gifts for the special Mom (or Grandma!) in your life.  And the images from these sessions make great gifts as well! 

Saturday, April 27 
(rain date will be Sunday April 28)
4:30:  BOOKED
5:00: BOOKED
5:30: BOOKED
6:00


Option 1:  $75
-20 minute session
-8 images presented in a private online gallery
(On location in Jackson. Location to be determined.)

Option 2: $250
-20 minute session
-8 digital files delivered electronically with rights to reprint. 
(On location in Jackson.  Location to be determined)

Sessions will be first come, first serve. Limited spots are available, and a wait list will be created once initial spots are booked. 

Session fee is non-refundable and can only be rescheduled to another mini-session time/date.  

Sessions will be booked back to back.  If you are late, you will only have your remaining time to complete your session.  

To schedule your session contact me at nicole@nbarczak.com

Hope Stitch Love

This winter I've had the pleasure of working with another local artist, Jessica, who owns the Etsy shop "Hope Stitch Love".   She crochets for a cause.... her proceeds go toward the Susan G. Komen for the cure in honor of her sister, Julie, who is currently battling Stage IV breast cancer.   Her hats are adorable, and she can take custom orders!   Check out her Etsy shop here:  Hope Stitch Love or find her on Facebook:  Hope Stitch Love

Mommy and Me Sessions!

It's just about that time!  Last year I was unable to offer Mommy & Me sessions as I had just delivered sweet baby girl, Amelia.  I'm so excited to do these again.  As a mom, I know I'm RARELY in pictures... and the ones I am in?  They're selfies...aka... hold your arm out, "c'mon kids- squiiiish in! EVERYONE LOOK!" and the angles are awful, unflattering and rarely is everyone in the frame as well as looking cute.  This is YOUR time, Moms!   Put yourself first... treat yourself.  Mommy & Me sessions make GREAT Mother's Day gifts, and feel free to bring along YOUR mom as well for a multi-generation session!

I have decided to put together a monthly mailing list for those who are afraid of missing updates via Facebook or email.  I will never share your email nor will I spam you a ridiculous amount of times a month.  I'm thinking possibly 2 times a month "newsletter" type email.   If you're interested in signing up, it is super easy. The form is ----> HERE.  

Benjamin Joseph | ACPCG Photographer

A few years ago I joined the American Child Photographers Charity Guild (ACPCG) as I was moved to offer my services to families with children facing unthinkable circumstances.   It has been 5 years or so and I have not received a call to donate a session for ACPCG.  Part of me was thankful, as I felt I was secretly so nervous about how I would handle a child facing potential death, or one that had passed away.  I have babies of my own, and as a mama I know my worst fear is losing one of my babies.  I didn't want to see another parent hurting that way.

Two weeks ago one of my clients delivered her sweet baby boy, Benjamin.  He was already known to have two heart conditions, and his parents had been working with the best doctors ever to have a game plan for Benjamin after he arrived.   Sadly, once he was born it was realized his conditions were much worse than anticipated.  I spent days praying for them and thinking about the struggles they were facing, the decisions they would have to make.

On Sunday evening I received a call from Megan.  When I saw her name on my phone I knew what she needed.  I took a deep breath.   I didn't expect that my first ACPCG session would be for someone I knew.... my own client- someone I called a friend.  Before I headed to the hospital I kept wishing that this wasn't on my agenda for the day.  But I knew that it wasn't about me.  My feelings and thoughts and worries and anxiety needed to be pushed aside so that I could do my job for Megan and Eric.  I had a great conversation with a friend on my way to the hospital.  She told me.... just pray.  Ask God to use you. Pray for them with each image you take.  And I did.   I prayed that God would use me to tell Benjamins story. That He would use me to document these heartbreaking last moments.  With each shutter click I prayed and imagined His arms around them as they loved on their sweet baby boy, as they cried for him.   I have never felt so honored to do something for someone else.   I got to stroke this sweet boys hair.  Touch his button nose.  I cried as he was held in his mamas arms.  I watched him open his right eye for the first and only time.  I captured the unremarkable bond between this family as they pulled together and prayed for Benjamin's arrival into the Lord's arms.

This was the hardest session I have ever had to do.  But, I would do it again in a heartbeat.   As a mama, I know the pricelessness of images and how much it would mean to me to have someone be there for me.

Megan has given me permission to share images, and I would like to share just a couple.  If you are a photographer and feel a pull in your heart to offer services for families in need, I urge you to do so.  If you know someone who is in need of a session for a child facing uncertainty, please check out the ACPCG for an affiliated photographer in your area.

Jake Anthony | Jackson, Michigan Birth Photographer

Another amazing birth.  This one was a planned c-section.  Mama called me the day before and said "Are you ready?"  Heck yes I am!  Even though I was unable to be in the OR as Jake entered the world, I armed his daddy with my camera (I made sure to get the settings just right before handing it over, so he could literally just press the shutter) and he was able to capture some great shots for me.  As you can see, there is not a lack of emotional images of tender moments from Jake's first few hours of life.   

So, if you're considering birth photography and you know you'll be having a c-section, don't write it off completely.  There are still some amazing moments that are begging to be documented.   

I love being a fly on the wall during and after a birth.... capturing these kind of breathtaking moments, watching this new little being- just minutes old- capture everyone's heart.  This next shot of Jake and his daddy... hands down, my favorite image from his birth.  

Winter Mini Session | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

I woke this morning to gorgeous, huge snowflakes falling from the sky.   Immediately I knew it would be gorgeous for a winter mini session.   I was so excited when the Dobbens contacted me for a last minute winter mini session.   It was COLD this afternoon... 19*!  I, stupidly, underdressed and froze my katoosh off.   It was worth it, though!  Just look at this gorgeous family!   It is hard to believe that their oldest boy was in my 2nd grade class when I student taught 7 years ago!  Talk about feeling OLD!    Thank you, Dobben Family, for toughing the cold with me and letting me capture your beautiful family!

Wonderful Winter Sessions | Jackson, Michigan Family Photographer

Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour." -John Boswell

The Birth of Aaron Oliver | Jackson, Michigan Birth Photographer

I had the privilege of photographing sweet Aaron's birth into this world.  If I haven't said it before (and I know I have)... births are one of my favorite types of sessions to capture.  They're a lot of work.  A lot of time.  But to me, they're as important as having a wedding photographer on your wedding day.   This moment only happens once, and is such a miracle, so why would you not have it documented? 

Births are such a raw, emotionally charged session full of moments that are second to none-  moments that take your breath away and fill you with unspeakable joy - moments of desperation and determination - moments of looking to one another for support - and that special moment when you finally meet the little soul that has been growing inside you for months.  These are moments that only happen once, and that you never want to forget.

When a woman is in labor, her focus is on one thing- delivering the baby. While she physically experiences every moment of the birth, all those little aspects that come together to tell the birth story are often overlooked. 

I love capturing the details that are inevitably forgotten in the midst of anticipation, pain and determination.

I love capturing what she can't see when she has her eyes closed.  

I love documenting her strength when her pain becomes too intense.  

I love showing her how her husband looked at her while her eyes were focused on the baby she just brought into the world.    

I love reminding her how she cried tears of joy and relief.   

My images will bring back a flood of memories that pass in the blink of an eye... memories of one of the happiest and emotionally raw days of her life.  

The Birth of Aaron Oliver | Nicole Barczak Birth Photography from Nicole Barczak on Vimeo.

For more information about birth photography, please contact Nicole at nicole@nbarczak.com.   FAQ and common birth photography information is also available on the website www.nbarczak.com.  

Nicole Barczak Photography is a birth photographer in Jackson at Allegiance Health and in Ann Arbor at Motts U of M.  She is available for photographing hospital births, home births, at birthing centers, natural deliveries and c-sections.  

Winter Beauties | Jackson, Michigan Family Photographer

I literally JUST got my kids in bed and had to sit down to edit a sneak peek from this session.   I was SO excited when Mandy was up for a winter session and even more excited when I met them and they are literally the cutest little family!  Their little girlies... SO sweet.  Miss Charlotte just talked my ear off- love it!!

Because a sweet mama picture is near and dear to my heart, this (err... these ones) stood out to me first. As a mama myself, I am not often in pictures with my kiddos as I'm usually behind the lens.

2 Days until the Matilda Jane Trunk Show!

Just a reminder.. Saturday is my Trunk Show for the new Good Hart line from Matilda Jane Clothing.  

You do not need to attend- you can order online!  Anyone who purchases $75 or more through my trunk show will receive a FREE  Mini Session this spring.  The Matilda Jane Mini Session is a 20 min. mini session of your daughter wearing her new, darling Matilda Jane clothing.  The Mini Session date, location and time slots TBD.  You will receive an online gallery of your images and have the option to purchase prints through your gallery.  Digital files are not included and can be purchased additionally.  Please note, this mini session is for your child only.  If you’d like to have a family or sibling session, please contact me to set a date! 

Matilda Jane Clothing is only available through trunk shows, so this is your time to come and check it out in person.  If you are interested in ordering items and can’t make it to the trunk show, you can place your order through me.  You can be from anywhere in the USA!   Contact me and I’ll give you the details.  :)  It’s super easy.  If you'd like to attend, send me an email (or comment here!) and I can give you details and my address.  

2012 IAPBP Image of the Year | Michigan Birth Photographer

This past fall I applied and joined the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers.  I am so honored to become a member and be affiliated with such amazing talent.

This week the IAPBP Image of the Year Competition is going on and one of my images is in!   I would greatly appreciate if you would a) go check out the amazing work and talent and b) if you feel so inclined, vote for my image, #145.  

Voting is open until Friday, February 1 at 11:59pm.  

Here is the LINK and here is the URL --->  http://birthphotographers.com/voting-is-open-2012-international-association-of-professional-birth-photographers-image-of-the-year-competition/

DISCLAIMER: This is birth photography, therefore photos of real birth in all it's glory have been entered into this contest. You've been forewarned!  Thank you again for your support!

My sunshine.... on a cloudy day

I know, I know... it's the middle of winter here in Michigan and I"m going to post some bathing suit shots.   I call it photo-therapy :)   Something to look forward to.... sunshine, warm days, bathing suits and the beach!  

I think I spent twice as much time clearing out my "studio area" as I did taking these shots, but it was well worth it.  My special song for her is "You are my sunshine, My only sunshine" and she sure is.  How can you not smile when you see that two-toothed grin? 

2013 Availability Calendar (Jan-June)

My calendar is now open to book sessions from now until June.   This year I have lots of plans for new mini sessions and a few on location and travel sessions as well!  Mini session spots will be limited, as will my fall sessions, so I suggest booking those as much as 2 months in advance.

As of now, my availability is (and is subject to change at any time):

February:  
9th:  Matilda Jane Trunk Show (get a FREE Matilda Jane Mini Session! Details here)
5 full sessions available

March:
5 full sessions available

April: 
1-5: North Carolina Beach sessions (only 2 available- 1 booked)
Matilda Jane Mini sessions (free to Trunk Show buyers)
4 full sessions available

May:
Mommy and Me Mini Sessions:  $75 and only 4 available
6 full sessions available

June:
8 sessions available

In the forecast:

July: 
Michigan Beach sessions (date TBA): Only 2 available and these will likely be held in either Grand Haven or Muskegon

For specific dates, or to book a session, please email me at nicole (at) nbarczak.com