by Kristin Vacca | Dec 15, 2025 | Babies, Cake Smash, Children, Christmas, Community, Families, Senior Portraits
As we wrap up another incredible year at The Flash Lady Photography, it’s amazing to look back at how much has happened since opening our brand-new studio space here in Newington, CT. From newborn snuggles to smash-cake giggles to empowering professional portraits, 2025 has been filled with milestones we feel genuinely honored to document.
This year, we welcomed 226 client sessions, and we’re still counting as we close out the holiday season. One of the biggest indicators of growth has been our ability to serve more families than ever before through our controlled studio environment and expanded offerings.
Beautiful 1st portrait session
Adorable cake smash session
Sweet newborn portrait session
A Year Full of Milestones
Parents from across Connecticut trusted us to help celebrate some of the most meaningful moments of their children’s lives:
- 31 newborn sessions capturing those fleeting first days
- 29 cake smash sessions filled with laughter and messy frosting
- 27 milestone and family portrait sessions
- 16 First Year Baby Plan clients completing a full year of photographs
- 4 senior portrait sessions, either having siblings or photographed themselves at a young age, and returned to have me take these special milestone photos
We love seeing these babies grow, and having the studio has made scheduling and consistency so much easier for families.
Beautiful senior portrait session
Delightful cherry blossom sessions
Outdoor family portrait session
Precious newborn portrait
A Big Year for Professional Branding and Headshots
With more businesses investing in modern branding content, we saw a rise in studio and on-location sessions for Connecticut professionals:
- 32 headshot sessions in the studio
- Multiple corporate branding projects on-site
- Headshots created for the Board of Directors at MDC
- Photography services for candidates in the Newington local elections
We also captured four special events, such as birthday parties and a First Communion.
First Communion Portrait
Record-Breaking Christmas Mini Sessions
Our holiday season saw a big jump this year with 94 Christmas Mini Session clients (and counting), far surpassing our usual average of 80 families. Being able to leave the setup in the studio after Thanksgiving made that possible.
We also introduced VIP Christmas Sessions for the first time, and 20 families chose this elevated experience that provides extended time, more images, and some extra special features.
Top Products Our Clients Loved This Year
Alongside an increase in sessions, 2025 was also a big year for beautiful printed artwork. Our most popular product continues to be the 10×10 Signature Album, a handcrafted, heirloom-quality book designed to preserve your favorite images for decades. Families love this album for milestone sessions, newborn portraits, and first-year collections because it tells the full story in a timeless, durable format.
During the holiday season, our Bamboo Ornaments and custom Holiday Cards were client favorites. These pieces offer a unique way to share your images with friends and family, and they are produced with exceptional print quality and efficient turnaround times. Whether displayed on the tree or mailed to loved ones, each item is created to be both beautiful and meaningful.
We are always thrilled to help families transform their portraits into keepsakes they can hold, display, and enjoy year after year.
Beautiful outdoor family portrait
Generational Portrait
Cake smash session
Cake smash portrait session
Outdoor family portrait session
Giving Back to the Community
Supporting local organizations is one of our core values. In 2025, we continued to partner with and sponsor groups such as:
National Night Out 2025
Looking Ahead
We are already planning an exciting year of studio portraits in 2026, with more milestone sessions, creative collaborations, and community involvement on the way. And yes, we are already booking for next year! If you’re hoping to secure a spot for newborn photos, a first birthday cake smash, winter family portraits, professional headshots, or a full milestone plan, now is the time to get on the calendar.
Because if 2025 has shown us anything, it’s that this community loves celebrating life’s most meaningful moments, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it!
Sweet newborn portrait session
Beautiful maternity portrait
At home first birthday session
Six Month Sitter Baby Milestone Session
Cake smash photo
Family portrait in the studio
Ready to Plan Your 2026 Portrait Session?
With our studio officially in full swing and the calendar already filling up, now is the perfect time to reserve your 2026 portrait session! Planning early means you get the very best dates, more flexibility around your family’s schedule, and the full studio experience without the holiday rush.
We would love to help you celebrate your baby’s first year, document a new chapter in your family’s story, or give your business a fresh professional look.
Save your preferred 2026 date today, and we’ll take care of everything else.
Contact us today to get started.
by Kristin Vacca | Jan 22, 2025 | Babies, Cake Smash, Children, Milestone, Newborns
As a parent, I can confidently say that your child grows and changes right before your eyes. Each moment is precious, from their first steps to their quirky expressions and blossoming personalities. A portrait session is the perfect way to preserve these milestones. You’ll be able to look back on your child’s album or wall art and relive those special moments.
As a children and family portrait photographer in Newington, CT, I’m here to guide you through the process—whether you’re celebrating your child’s 1st, 2nd, 6th, or any year in between!
Investing in professional photography is a gift that you and your child will always treasure. Here’s your official children’s portrait session guide through the years.
Children’s Portrait Session Guide
Baby’s Milestones: Before the First Birthday
Documenting your baby’s milestones during their first year is one of the most meaningful ways to preserve their earliest memories. From the delicate features of the newborn stage to the first smiles and giggles at 3 months, the ability to sit up and explore the world at 6 months, and the joyful celebration of their first birthday, each milestone tells a beautiful chapter in their story.
These moments pass by in the blink of an eye, and having professional portraits ensures they’re captured in a timeless and tangible way. These photos not only help you remember how tiny they once were but also allow you to celebrate their growth and share these cherished memories with loved ones for generations to come.
Tips for the Session(s):
- Work with the same baby photographer for a cohesive look.
- Book your photographer in advance so you don’t have to worry about finding one last-minute.
- Consider participating in the session so you can actually be IN the photos with your baby.
Sweet newborn pose
The best newborn smile
This handsome lad is sitting up
I love this black-and-white image of mom and dad holding their baby boy
1 Year: Celebrating Baby’s First Birthday
Your baby’s first year is full of firsts—first smiles, first steps, and an endless stream of adorable moments. A 1-year-old portrait session focuses on the wonder of babyhood, capturing their wide-eyed curiosity, giggles, and emerging personality.
At this age, your child may still be crawling or just learning to walk. We’ll keep the session relaxed and fun, with lots of breaks and a lot of patience. The goal is to capture those natural, sweet moments—whether it’s them playing with their favorite toy or their first taste of cake at a cake smash session!
Tips for the Session:
- Bring along your baby’s favorite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable.
- Dress them in something soft and simple—this is all about their expressions!
- Be prepared for some spontaneous giggles and wiggles
Sweet wintery first-year portrait
Hugs from mom during first-year portrait
Pink princess-themed cake smash photo session
2 Years: Full of Energy and Personality
At 2 years old, your child’s personality really starts to shine. They may be talking more, running around, and showing you a glimpse of their budding independence. These sessions are all about capturing their energy, their playful spirit, and those adorable moments of curiosity.
What to Expect: Expect a session full of movement! At this age, we’ll likely be chasing after your child, encouraging their natural curiosity. We’ll make sure to capture candid shots as well as posed ones.
Tips for the Session:
- Choose an outfit that allows them to move freely.
- Bring snacks or treats to keep them happy between shots.
- Be ready for silly faces and lots of giggles—these make for the best portraits!
This 2nd Birthday Paint Smash session was a blast
Cutest family
3 Years: The Fun and Feisty Stage
By age 3, your child is becoming more expressive and may have strong opinions about their outfit or what they want to do during the session! It’s a fun stage full of imaginative play, dramatic expressions, and a lot of personality.
What to Expect: Your 3-year-old will likely have their own ideas for how the session should go, so we’ll take a relaxed approach and allow them to be themselves. I’ll work with your child to make them feel comfortable, whether that means talking about their favorite activities or letting them run around for a bit before getting into the posed shots.
Tips for the Session:
- Let your child pick out their outfit, but make sure it’s comfortable for all the running around they’ll do!
- Incorporate props like a favorite book, toy, or a fun activity to keep them engaged.
- Have some fun ideas ready, like jumping, twirling, or playing with bubbles, to make the session enjoyable for your little one.
3rd year portrait for this cutie
3-year-old boy poses for his portrait
3rd birthday mermaid portrait session
Capturing this little mermaid’s 3rd birthday portraits
4-5 Years: Growing Confidence
By this stage, your child is likely growing more confident and excited to be in front of the camera. The session can include more posed moments, but there will still be plenty of playfulness and creativity. These sessions are wonderful for capturing your child’s growing individuality.
What to Expect: Expect a mix of candid and posed shots as your child feels more comfortable posing for photos. There may still be moments of shyness or goofiness, but that’s all part of their charm.
Tips for the Session:
- Keep the session light-hearted by encouraging your child to show off their favorite silly faces or dance moves.
- Consider a special family outfit or theme to reflect their growing interests and sense of style.
- Let them choose a special activity (like blowing bubbles or playing outside) to make the session feel like fun instead of work.
Happy 5th birthday to this delightful young lady
Celebrating her beautiful spirit and personality at her 5th birthday session
6+ Years: The School Years
As your child reaches 6 years old and beyond, they are officially in the school years. Watching your child blossom and beyond who they are meant to be is such a special gift.
These sessions allow for more formal portraits, as well as the chance to capture your child’s emerging interests, hobbies, and unique personality.
What to Expect: At this age, we’ll likely get a mix of posed and candid moments, with your child starting to develop their sense of style and self-awareness. Whether they’re into sports, books, or anything in between, we can tailor the session to reflect what makes them unique.
Tips for the Session:
- Incorporate their hobbies or favorite activities into the session.
- Encourage them to express themselves with fun, quirky poses or facial expressions.
- Let them feel involved in the planning—ask them about what they want to wear or bring to the session.
Beautiful 8-year-old portraits to capture her childhood
Sweet black and white image holding her favorite toy
Professionally documenting their childhood with precious portraits you’ll treasure forever
Printing Your Children’s Portraits
Printing your children’s photos is a beautiful way to preserve their fleeting moments in a tangible form. While digital images are convenient, there’s something truly special about displaying your child’s portrait in your home. Printed photos become part of your family’s story, bringing warmth and memories into your daily life.
Whether it’s a framed portrait on the wall, a custom photo album, or a collection of images in a beautiful folio box, physical prints allow you to enjoy and cherish these moments for years to come. Plus, there’s something magical about flipping through a photo album or seeing your child’s smile in a frame, making those memories even more meaningful.
Why Schedule a Children’s Portrait Session?
Each year brings new changes and developments in your child’s life. A professional children’s portrait session helps you preserve those fleeting moments in time, creating memories you’ll treasure forever. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or just want to capture your child’s personality, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to schedule your child’s portrait session, feel free to reach out to me here. Let’s make memories together that will last a lifetime!
by Kristin Vacca | Jul 15, 2024 | Babies, Newborns
Nowadays, anyone can buy a camera, assume that as a parent, they can handle newborns, and call themselves a newborn photographer. If you’re looking for a newborn photographer near me on Google or asking in a local Moms Group on Facebook, a lot of results will come up. How can you possibly determine who to hire? I encourage you to do additional research and take the necessary time to find a trustworthy newborn photographer to work with.
The newborn photography industry is very much unregulated. That means it’s easy for anyone to call themselves a newborn photographer. We are not a licensed profession in Connecticut, although this is something I would personally love to see changed in the future. This is your precious newborn baby that we’re talking about, and if anything, there should be more scrutiny on who is handling them!! As a CT newborn photographer, I prioritize the delivery of professional, high-quality images as well as the health and safety of your newborn.
I’m very passionate about newborn photography. As a mom myself, I treasure every image from my daughter’s first days. BUT I thought I could photograph these myself, a week after a c-section delivery. That was completely out of the question, and because I didn’t know enough colleagues in the industry at the time, her newborn stage came and went. Don’t be like me! I know how much you’ll treasure your newborn images and artwork as the years go by. My clients deserve a stress-free newborn photography experience, and I work hard to deliver on that promise.
Today, I’d love to share what you should know about CT newborn photography safety.
Black and white image of a newborn
What to Look for in a Newborn Photographer
When you’re looking for a newborn photographer near me, look on the photographer’s website for any certifications or training he or she has received. This will show you that they take their work very seriously and invest in high-quality training. As I mentioned above, this is an unregulated industry, so look for photographers who take pride in their work and continuing education. This shows that they truly care.
Black and white image of mom and dad holding their newborn
After much hard work, I obtained my Master Newborn Photography designation from the NAPCP. This took a lot of time, effort, and investment on my part, and I was glad to do it so I could provide an ever-better service for my smallest clients.
Studio newborn portrait
I’ve spent years investing in hands-on training with some of the best newborn photographers in the world, including Son Kissed Photography, Erin Tole Photography, and TG Photography. Again, I didn’t have to do any of this, but I chose to. It takes effort, and in this case, a really large financial investment, but it was what I felt was necessary to truly learn the craft well. I also enjoy attending online education workshops annually to continue my education.
Pretty in pink during a newborn photoshoot
Does your photographer carry the necessary business liability insurance and is registered? Most don’t know that the minimum recommended coverage for newborn photographers is $2 million. That’s more than wedding photographers and most building contractors! You can easily look up a business on the Secretary of State’s website to confirm registration, as well as read their online reviews for better insight from actual customers. All of this ensures continued commitment by the photographer to work with your newborn baby safely.
Family’s first official portrait
5 Ways We Keep Newborn Babies Safe and Happy During Sessions
- Baby-Led Sessions – I always explain to clients that their baby runs the show. We go into the session with a common workflow goal, but we always follow the baby’s lead. I would never force a baby into an unsafe pose (more on that below), and the baby’s comfort is my top priority. I typically book the entire morning for my newborn sessions so that we’re never in a rush. It’s very rare that I have to reschedule a session because the baby isn’t having it, but if we need to reschedule, it’s okay! There is always a way to adjust posing and wrapping for baby’s comfort to still have beautiful photos.
Sweet newborn girl poses for portrait
Newborn girl sleeps on a white lace pillow during photoshoot
- Keeping the Studio Comfortable – For my studio sessions, I turn up the heat and make sure the baby is nice and cozy. I have a few other tricks to keep the baby comfortable. I want your entire family to feel welcome and comfortable here in the studio. For in-home lifestyle newborn sessions, I am still in tune with your baby to ensure they are comfortable and happy! Did you know that newborns usually need the temperature to be between 75-82 degrees to be comfortable (naked)? I am constantly monitoring the studio temperature to ensure we are in a safe range.
The studio is always snuggly and warm
Safe and gentle posing with newborn photography-specific props
- Using Props Specifically Designed for Newborn Photography – My newborn props didn’t just come from anywhere! And you cannot purchase them in a retail store. My props are specifically for newborn photography sessions. I invest in high-quality props, wraps, and outfits from vendors all over the world so that your images turn out beautiful and keep your baby safe throughout the session.
Professional, high-quality newborn props and wraps
Safe posing techniques
- Safe Posing Techniques – Newborn babies cannot hold themselves up or support their bodies; most weight early on is in their heads. This means it’s sometimes a multi-step process, or composite image, to create a beautiful image that is also safe.
This particular bucket pose is a popular one. It involves many layers to ensure the baby is photographed at the right angle and that nothing will hurt them. A number of soft pillows and fabrics are added all around and underneath them based on their size to keep them firmly in place. Most importantly, the bucket is counter-weighted to ensure it doesn’t tip.
The favorite newborn bucket pose
Finally, once I have them in place, a parent is always placed next to the bucket as a spotter, with hands-on or above the baby as needed. Sometimes, we’ll do a composite image if the baby isn’t deeply sleeping. All of this ensures a beautiful photo and a happy baby!
Another popular pose is the Froggie Pose! This is actually because of some gentle, safe posing and PhotoShop Magic. Typically, the baby’s sweet head is gently held while I take two different images. After the session, I use PhotoShop to create a composite and edit the hands out of the image. Always a favorite pose!
The sweet newborn froggy pose
- Session Timing – I typically schedule a newborn session within the first 14 days of life because this is when baby is sleepy and snuggly. (We can schedule sessions after this time as well!) I also schedule your session around your family.
As a mom myself, I completely understand the craziness that is the postpartum period. I usually block off the entire morning for your session. We might not need all that time, but it’s good to have it scheduled. I expect you to need a few breaks during the session as well as the baby needing breaks for feeding and changing. We want your entire family to be as comfortable as possible throughout the appointment.
Your whole family is relaxed and comfortable during the session
I hope this sheds some light on newborn photography safety so you feel comfortable searching for your CT newborn photographer. Your baby is so precious and so new! Find a photographer that you can trust to capture incredible images and artwork for you to treasure safely.
Safe posing with older sibling
CT Newborn Photographer
Hi! My name is Kristin Vacca of The Flash Lady Photography. I’ve photographed hundreds of newborns over the years and regularly invest in training to improve my craft. If you’re looking for CT newborn photography, I’d be happy to chat with you and answer any questions you may have. Please check out more of my newborn photography work on this page.
by Kristin Vacca | Jan 25, 2024 | Babies, Cake Smash, Flash Lady BLOG
There’s something truly magical about capturing the joy and wonder of a child’s first birthday, don’t you think?! We had the delight of celebrating this sweet little boy with an enchanting Pooh-themed cake smash session. The studio was “buzzing” with excitement on the day of his session! His proud big sister joined in on the fun, so we could capture sibling portraits to document this precious moment in time for mom and dad! Finally, it was time for the main event – the Pooh-themed cake smash! The little birthday boy couldn’t contain his excitement as he explored his “Hunny”-themed cake. His adorable expressions and genuine delight painted a picture of pure happiness, creating memories that the family will cherish for years to come. After the cake smash fun, it was time to wash off in the studio tub for some squeaky clean fun. The laughter echoed as water playfully splashed around, capturing the carefree spirit of childhood. This additional element added a delightful touch to the overall session, creating a perfect blend of messy and clean fun. As the session concluded, the family had the delightful task of choosing their favorite digital files, creating a gorgeous photo album, and selecting a framed print to adorn their home. These tangible memories would beautifully complement the images captured during baby brother’s cake smash session!
by Kristin Vacca | Nov 9, 2023 | Babies, Cake Smash, Maternity, Milestone, Newborns
Which Baby Photoshoots Are Important During Your Baby’s First Year
They say when a child is born, a parent is born, and this couldn’t be truer! Everything is new, and the journey you are walking on is together. There’s something so beautiful about that first year. If there’s one thing that people will tell you over and over, it’s that that the first year goes by so fast! The first smile, the first step, the first birthday – these are moments that pass in the blink of an eye. It’s really unfair how fast it goes by. The good news is, that by documenting each of your baby’s biggest milestones, you’ll have a way to revisit this wonderful time. That’s why it’s essential to capture these precious memories so you can cherish them forever.
Below, I’ll share the top five must-have baby photoshoots during your baby’s first year.
Wish there was an easier way to stay on top of these milestones? That’s where the Lifetime Plan comes in. I’ll share more about that, too!
5 Must-have Baby Photoshoots During Your Baby’s First Year
1. Maternity Photos
The journey of parenthood begins during the pregnancy with a maternity session. This photoshoot captures the radiant glow of an expectant mother, the love between partners and older children, and the anticipation of your baby’s arrival. Maternity photos mark the beginning of your family’s story and are the first step in documenting your baby’s life.
Beautiful expecting mama and her son.
Studio maternity portrait
2. Newborn Photos
After your baby’s arrival, it’s time for the newborn session. This photoshoot captures those sweet, tender moments when your baby is just 1-2 weeks old, including all of those little details that will change so quickly. Newborn portraits freeze time and preserve the tiny features, delicate expressions, and the immense love that fills your home. These photos are the foundation of your baby’s story and are an important piece of the Lifetime Plan.
Newborn photography session
Studio newborn session
- Three Month Photos
Newborn photos are taken within two weeks of birth (most often) and up to six weeks old; however, sometimes clients need to wait to take their baby’s photos for a number of reasons. If you miss the newborn window, there is another option that’s just as adorable! The three month baby sessions are perfect for documenting their precious babyhood with images of tummy time, back shots, and the beginnings of expressions while still in that newer baby stage.
3 month old baby portraits
Black and white 3 month baby photo
4. Six Month Sitter Photos
Your sweet newborn is now an adorably chubby and expressive baby! The baby phase goes by way too fast, and this session allows us to hit the pause button and document each kissable cheek, wrist roll, and smile. We’ll meet baby right where they’re at developmentally, but many clients like to wait until baby is sitting up independently between six and seven months. Parents help me get some of the best expressions that will create treasured images. You’ll look back on these and instantly be transported to baby snuggles and coos.
6 month baby boy sitting proudly in the studio
Fall 6 month studio session
5. The 1st Birthday Cake Smash Photos
The grand finale of the Lifetime Plan is the 1st birthday cake smash session. Your baby’s first year has been a whirlwind of growth and changes, and their first birthday is a celebration of that special journey together. The cake smash session allows your little one, who is more independent and curious, to dive into a delicious cake, creating adorable and messy photos that symbolize their transition from baby to toddler. We love customizing our Newington families cake smash sessions to be exactly what they want. You can choose from a list of themes and options, or tell me your dreams!
First birthday cake smash session
Birthday boy enjoying his cake smash session
Blue balloon cake smash session includes tub time
First birthday session
Birthday girl holding a balloon during her first birthday portrait session
Let’s explore how the Lifetime Plan can help you preserve these special moments!
The Lifetime Plan Explained
The Lifetime Plan is designed to document your baby’s journey through their first year, which is filled with significant milestones and growth. This plan includes three sessions within up to 18 months. The best part? Because you’re essentially booking once for three sessions, you only pay ONE session fee at a reduced rate, plus you’ll receive a product credit with each session towards you photo order. This investment allows you to secure your spots in my calendar for all three sessions, ensuring that no milestone goes undocumented.
Professional Baby Photographer In Newington, CT
The Lifetime Plan is more than just a photography package. This is a way to document your family’s growth and the first-year milestones of your precious baby. Investing in these sessions allows you to look back on the journey, celebrating the love, growth, and joy your baby has brought into your life.
Don’t let these important moments slip away – Ready to start your journey? Contact me today to ensure you document every smile, every step, and every memory during your baby’s first year. Do you know someone who is expecting a baby? These sessions make for PRICELESS gifts!
by Kristin Vacca | Sep 18, 2018 | Babies, Milestone
Purple 6 Month Session | Wethersfield, CT
Kamerynn came into my Newington, CT studio last month at just around 6 months old. Her Mom was hoping to capture this special milestone with some professional photos, so we planned a purple 6 month session in honor of their favorite color! She arrived with the most adorable outfit! I love all of her expressions as she explored her surroundings and the texture of the skirt. This is a great milestone for photos as babies are more expressive but not walking yet. They are best when babies can sit up independently on their own for at least a few minutes at a time, although we also utilize some tummy time and some back time. Her favorite part of the session was clearly my newest bath tub prop! Which I had thought about using but wasn’t sure what Mom & Dad would think about the idea. Luckily they loved it, and Kamerynn did too! I probably could have photographed her entire session just in the bathtub and she was perfectly happy to sit and smile as Daddy made silly voices behind me. I just love how her photos came out and that they will be displayed both on the wall and viewed often in a small album. I hope you enjoy some of the images from her adorable session!
