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

One of the most magical parts of our Easter Mini Sessions is getting to interact with real bunnies and chicks . For many children, this may be their very first time being close to live animals — which makes preparation especially helpful. A little conversation beforehand can make a big difference in helping your child feel confident, calm, and excited when they arrive. Here’s how to help your little one have the best experience possible. Talk About the Animals Ahead of Time B

Easter Mini Sessions have quickly become one of the most loved traditions for so many families — and once you experience one, it’s easy to see why. These sessions combine seasonal charm, joyful moments, and timeless portraits into a fun and stress-free experience designed especially for families with little ones. Here’s why families come back year after year. They Capture Childhood Magic There’s something incredibly special about springtime through a child’s eyes. The excitem

Spring is right around the corner, which means one of our most loved sessions of the year has arrived — Easter Mini Sessions! These sessions are designed to capture sweet smiles, springtime joy, and those fleeting childhood moments that seem to pass by faster every year. And this year brings something extra special… Yes — we’ll have REAL bunnies and chicks joining us! 🐰🐥 There’s truly nothing sweeter than watching little ones light up when they meet these fluffy guests. Se

Transitional seasons can be tricky. One day it feels warm and sunny, and the next it’s windy, chilly, or overcast. Planning outfits during these in-between months can feel overwhelming — but the solution is simple: layering. Layering allows you to stay comfortable no matter what the weather decides to do, while still looking polished and put together in your photos. Why Layering Works So Well Layering isn’t just practical — it actually enhances your gallery. Layers: Add depth

Newborn sessions at Kate Buckles Photography are calm, gentle, and baby-led. We focus on natural connection and timeless imagery. Safety First Your baby’s safety and comfort are always the top priority. Sessions move at your baby’s pace — allowing time for feeding, soothing, and breaks. Natural and Timeless Our style leans toward: Soft, neutral tones Minimal props Organic posing Real connection between family members Whether in studio or lifestyle at home, the goal is always

Preparation makes everything smoother — and when you feel prepared, you feel relaxed. Here are essentials we recommend bringing based on your session type: For Families: Non-messy snacks Water Wipes Hairbrush or comb Lip balm Backup outfit for little ones Lint roller These small items can quickly solve little hiccups and keep the session flowing smoothly. For Babies: Extra diapers Bottles or feeding supplies Pacifier Swaddle blanket Burp cloth Babies run on their own schedule

Outfit planning can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. Start With One Outfit Choose one anchor outfit (often mom’s) and build around it. Select 2–3 complementary colors instead of matching everyone exactly. Coordinating > Matching. Think Texture and Layers Mix textures like: Denim Knit sweaters Flowing dresses Neutral layers This adds depth and visual interest without overwhelming the image. Avoid These Common Mistakes Neon colors Busy patterns Large logos Trends

You don’t need a major milestone to schedule family photos. In fact, waiting for the “perfect” time often means missing the season you’re currently in. Kids Change Quickly Height changes. Teeth fall out. Personalities grow. The way your child hugs you today will not be the same next year. Regular family photos preserve those subtle, beautiful changes. It’s About Presence Often, one parent is always behind the camera. Professional family sessions ensure everyone is included —

Senior year is one of life’s biggest transitions. It marks the end of childhood routines and the beginning of independence, new opportunities, and big dreams. Senior photos capture who your senior is in this exact season — confident, evolving, and ready for what’s next. It’s a Once-in-a-Lifetime Milestone There will never be another senior year. Senior portraits document: Personality Style Hobbies and interests Accomplishments Confidence Years from now, you’ll look back and s

Glitter Mini weekend is almost here — and we are so excited! These sessions are playful, bold, and full of personality. The sparkle, the smiles, the dramatic black backdrop — it all comes together for such a fun and unique look. To help you feel completely prepared, here’s everything you need to know before you arrive. Dress to Pop Against the Black Backdrop This year’s glitter minis feature a black backdrop , which means wardrobe choice matters more than ever. Dark-on-dark c

Pregnancy feels long some days… and then suddenly, your baby is turning one. The journey from bump to first birthday is filled with so many changes — tiny kicks, sleepy newborn stretches, first smiles, sitting up, crawling, standing, and that big one-year celebration. It’s a season that moves quickly. And once it’s gone, it’s gone. That’s why our Bump to First Year packages are designed to capture the entire story — not just one chapter. What Is a Bump to First Year Package?

A photo session isn’t just about smiling at the camera. It’s about capturing a season of life that you’ll never get back in quite the same way. Years from now, you won’t just see the outfits or the backdrop — you’ll see the way your toddler held your hand, the way your baby fit in your arms, the way you all laughed together. So how do you make your session more than just pictures? Here are a few simple ways to make it truly meaningful. 1. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection T

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean expensive gifts or grand gestures. Sometimes the most meaningful surprises are the ones that come straight from the heart. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, cost-free Valentine’s gift, here’s a beautiful idea: create a photo slideshow on your phone using your favorite memories together. It’s simple, personal, and guaranteed to bring smiles (and maybe a few happy tears). Why a Photo Slideshow Is So Special Photos tell your story. From the

We LOVE the sparkle of our Glitter Minis… but let’s talk about the after party. ✨😉 Glitter has a way of following you home, and sticking around longer than expected. Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! ✨ Baby oil is your best friend. A small amount on a cotton pad or washcloth helps gently lift glitter off the face and skin without scrubbing. ✨ For hair, a quick rinse and shampoo usually does the trick. ✨ For clothes, shake them out outside before tossing in the wash. ✨ A l