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What Do I Need to Bring to My Newborn Photography Session?
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


How Far in Advance Should You Book Family Photos?
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,


What Should We Wear for Newborn Photos?
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


What Time of Day Is Best for Family Pictures?
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


What If My Kids Don't Cooperate During Family Photos?
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


How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Family Photos in Albuquerque (And Why You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone)
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


What Should We Wear for Family Photos?
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


The Complete Guide to Family Photos in Albuquerque
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.


Featured by Chalmers Ford: Albuquerque Family & Newborn Photographer | Kate Buckles Photography
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


Meet Kate Buckles | Albuquerque Family, Newborn & Senior Photographer
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


Who Are Easter Mini Sessions Perfect For? 🐣🌷
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


Don’t Wait — Schedule Your Easter Mini Before Spots Are Gone! 🐣🌷
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


The Best Time to Schedule Your One-Year-Old’s Cake Smash Session 🎂
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


How to Manage Shy Toddlers at a Photo Session
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


How to Prepare Your Kids for Meeting Real Bunnies & Chicks at Their Easter Mini Session 🐣🐰
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


Why Families Love Easter Mini Sessions 🐣🌷
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


Easter Mini Sessions Are Here — Let’s Capture Some Springtime Magic! 🐣
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


How to Layer for Unpredictable Weather
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


Our Newborn Session Style
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


Things to Always Bring to a Photo Session
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
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