If you're looking for dramatic scenery without driving all the way to another state, Sandstone Bluffs is incredible. The sandstone cliffs, endless views, and warm desert colors create a backdrop that's both adventurous and timeless. Whether you're updating family portraits, celebrating an anniversary, or photographing your graduating senior, this location offers some of the most unique landscapes in New Mexico. One of my favorite parts of photographing here is how the eveni

Pregnancy is such a unique season of life. It can feel long some days and incredibly short on others. Between doctor appointments, preparing the nursery, baby showers, and getting ready to meet your little one, the weeks seem to fly by. One of the questions I hear most often is: "When is the best time to schedule maternity photos?" For most moms, I recommend planning your maternity session between 28 and 34 weeks. During this time, your baby bump is usually beautifully v

If someone told you these photos were taken in Colorado, you'd probably believe them. Las Conchas is one of New Mexico's hidden gems. Towering pine trees, flowing streams, rocky cliffs, and cool mountain air create a completely different feel from Albuquerque's desert landscape. It's the perfect location for families who love nature and want something lush, peaceful, and adventurous. One of my favorite things about Las Conchas is watching kids explore. They're climbing on r

If I had a dollar for every email that started with: "I think I may have missed the newborn stage..." I'd have quite the coffee fund. And every time I read one of those messages, my answer is almost always the same: No—you haven't missed your chance. While there is a "traditional" timeframe for newborn photography, beautiful images can be created well beyond those first couple of weeks. In fact, every stage of your baby's first year brings something new and worth remembe

Have you ever wanted family photos that feel like an adventure? That's exactly why I love photographing at White Sands National Park. The endless white dunes create one of the most breathtaking backdrops anywhere in the country, and somehow every session feels just as fun as it is beautiful. Kids can run barefoot down the dunes, parents relax, and the whole evening feels more like an unforgettable family outing than a photo session. White Sands sessions are perfect for fami

I'll be honest... I don't think anyone has ever looked back ten years later and said, "I wish we had taken fewer pictures of our family." If anything, it's usually the opposite. Parents often tell me they wish they had done it sooner, updated their photos more often, or taken more pictures while their children were little. Life changes so quickly. One day you're carrying your toddler everywhere, and before you know it they're asking for the car keys. The little moments be

I Take Care of the Details Over the years, I've carefully built a newborn studio filled with everything needed to create the timeless, organic images you see throughout my portfolio. That means you don't need to shop for tiny outfits or wonder which wrap will photograph best. I provide: Beautiful wraps and swaddles Newborn outfits and rompers Bonnets and headbands Soft layers and blankets Baskets, bowls, beds, and timeless props Carefully selected accessories that coordina

One of the questions I hear all the time is: "When should we book our family photos?" The short answer? As soon as you know you'd like photos! Booking early gives you the best selection of dates, locations, and seasons, while also giving us plenty of time to plan a session that feels relaxed and perfectly fits your family. Fall Fills the Fastest If you're hoping for fall family photos, I always recommend booking as soon as my fall calendar opens. Between cooler weather,

One of the first questions parents ask after booking their newborn session is: "What should we wear?" If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, you're not alone. Between caring for a brand-new baby, adjusting to life as a family, and trying to remember if you've had coffee today, the last thing I want is for choosing outfits to become another source of stress. The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated. The goal isn't to wear the fanciest clothes in your closet. It's

One of the most common questions I hear from families is: "What time should we schedule our family photos?" If you've ever looked at a beautiful family portrait and wondered why it has that soft, glowing, almost magical light...the answer is usually simple: Lighting. As photographers, we're constantly chasing beautiful light because it makes an incredible difference in your final images. While we can create beautiful photographs throughout the day in certain situations, th

If you've ever thought... "There's no way my child is going to smile for an hour." You're not alone. In fact, this is probably the number one concern I hear from parents before their session. Here's the good news: Your kids don't have to be perfect for us to create beautiful photos. After photographing hundreds of families, I can confidently tell you that some of my favorite images have come from children who were shy, silly, wiggly, curious, or completely uninterested

One of the very first questions almost every family asks after booking their session is: "Where should we take our pictures?" And honestly...it's a great question. New Mexico is filled with incredible places to photograph. From the foothills of the Sandia Mountains to quiet cottonwood forests, flowing mountain streams, golden meadows, dramatic desert landscapes, and even the breathtaking white dunes of White Sands National Park, we truly have no shortage of beautiful optio

If I had to guess the question I get asked more than any other before a family session, it would be this: "What should we wear?" And I completely understand why! Choosing outfits for one person can feel overwhelming enough. Coordinating clothing for an entire family—while making sure everyone feels comfortable, confident, and like themselves—can seem almost impossible. The good news is that it doesn't have to be stressful. After photographing hundreds of families througho

Family photos are about so much more than smiling at the camera. They're about preserving the season you're living in right now. The tiny hands that won't stay little. The gap-toothed smiles. The giggles, the hugs, the personalities that make your family uniquely yours. Years from now, these photographs will become some of your most treasured possessions—not because everyone looked perfect, but because they remind you exactly what life felt like.

We were recently surprised and deeply honored to be featured by Chalmers Ford in their article highlighting some of the incredible photographers serving the Albuquerque community! You can read their article here: https://www.chalmersford.com/blog/great-photographers-in-albuquerque-nm When you run a small business, especially one built around creativity and relationships, recognition like this means so much. Photography is an incredibly personal art form. Families invite us in

Hey friends, It feels a little vulnerable to reintroduce myself here after so many years, but maybe that’s exactly why it’s time. I’m Kate.Mama to three incredible boys.Follower of Jesus.Photographer of your most sacred, fleeting moments. I’m also the heart behind Kate Buckles Photography, a boutique portrait studio based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, serving families, newborns, seniors, and couples who want more than just photos — they want artwork and memories that last a lif

Easter Mini Sessions are one of the sweetest ways to celebrate spring — but many families wonder if these sessions are the right fit for them. The short answer? Easter Minis are designed for a wide variety of families and stages of childhood. If you’re looking for beautiful seasonal photos in a fun and relaxed environment, there’s a good chance they’re perfect for you. Here’s who loves Easter Minis the most. Families With Young Children Easter Minis are especially popular for

Spring is almost here, and that means one of the most anticipated sessions of the year has officially arrived — Easter Mini Sessions ! Every year, families look forward to these sweet seasonal portraits, and every year the same thing happens… sessions fill faster than expected. If Easter photos are on your list this year, now is the time to reserve your spot. Why Easter Minis Book So Quickly Easter Minis are limited by design. Because sessions include a fully styled setup, ca

Your baby’s first birthday is such a huge milestone — not just for your little one, but for your entire family. One whole year of growth, milestones, sleepless nights, laughter, and unforgettable firsts deserves to be celebrated in a big (and adorable) way. Cake smash sessions are the perfect way to mark this moment, but one of the most common questions parents ask is: When should I actually schedule my baby’s cake smash? Let’s break it down. Schedule the Session Before the F

If you’ve ever thought, “My child is shy — I don’t know how photos will go,” you are absolutely not alone. Many toddlers need time to warm up in new environments, especially when meeting new people or being surrounded by unfamiliar sights and sounds. The good news? Shyness is completely normal — and it often leads to some of the sweetest, most genuine moments during a photo session. Here’s how to help your shy toddler feel comfortable and confident. Adjust Expectations Befor