Center Stage Photography - portrait photographer serving Kansas City and Johnson County

Little Stars by Center Stage - We love babies! - [Kansas City baby photographer]

2012-01-29T14:06:00.000-06:00

Today I photographed one of the most handsome baby boys I've ever seen!

Little Stars by Center Stage creates modern studio portraits of babies from birth to 2 years old.

Little Stars by Center Stage - We love babies! - [Kansas City newborn photographer]

2012-01-24T08:21:00.001-06:00

We love awake newborns here at Little Stars by Center Stage Photography. Yes, it can be harder to photograph them, and yes, sleeping portraits are sweet, too, but we happen to be in love with portraits like these! This little missy wouldn't sleep, but the session turned out beautifully. You can see more of our work with babies on our new web site devoted to our baby portraits Little Stars by Center Stage Photography.

Introducing Little Stars by Center Stage [Kansas City Baby Photographer]

2012-01-06T12:49:00.000-06:00

We are excited to introduce our new division just for babies - Little Stars by Center Stage!

Little Stars focuses on creating modern portraits of babies and toddlers from birth to age two. We are excited about our new venture and invite you to take a look at our Little Stars web site and call or email us today to schedule your session.

All of these baby sessions are held in the Center Stage Photography studio, on the west side of the Kansas City metro area, in Shawnee, Kansas.

Our photographer is Lori Wood Habiger of Center Stage, who has more than five years of experience photographing babies.

We look forward to working with you and photographing your babies through Little Stars!

Little Stars • Center Stage Studio

5413 Martindale, Shawnee, Kansas

(913) 271-0703

Email us

Maternity Portraits are one of our specialties - Kansas City Maternity Portraits

2011-12-27T09:04:00.002-06:00

Our poor neglected blog!

To try to catch up a little, I'm going to group a bunch of sessions together - like these amazing maternity portrait images from a number of sessions from 2011. I have the great fortune to photograph women at one of the most exciting, emotional and magical times in their lives and to create images that reflect that. Center Stage Photography is known nation-wide for our maternity portraits - we've been offering these special portraits to women in the Kansas City area (and beyond) for five years, and it's a part of our business that is very special to us.

Thank you for choosing Center Stage for your maternity portraits, ladies!

I love 3-month-olds - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2011-09-30T14:10:00.003-05:00

To be perfectly honest, in the portrait photography world, 3-month-olds are thought of as a very difficult portrait session to do. Not me! I adore this age! And it's a perfect age for portraits if the parents never got around to scheduling newborn portraits. At Center Stage, we love doing baby portraits - no matter what the age!

Look at this little man - how could he get more precious? Thank you, Emily, for choosing Center Stage. I'm so happy you found me!

The beauty of pregnancy- Kansas City maternity photographer

2011-09-30T13:51:00.001-05:00

Oh why not? How about two posts in one day? This beauty graced my studio back in July. The image above reminds me of a Renaissance painting.

I love doing maternity photography - can you tell? More and more Kansas City-area women are choosing Center Stage for their maternity sessions, because you know I will give you stunning images and a wonderful experience from the time you meet me all the way through getting your order. At Center Stage, each client is special to us!

Beautiful family, beautiful portraits - Kansas City Family Portrait Photographer

2011-09-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

I photographed these beautiful kids back in July on a day so hot and humid we had to take a break while my lens de-fogged! I've photographed these girls many times and loved adding baby brother to the mix this time. Thanks Megan and Mark - I appreciate your choosing Center Stage for your portraits!

The beauty of newborns - Kansas City newborn photographer

2011-08-26T08:58:00.001-05:00

I love showing emotion in portraits, so I love these stunning images of Amy and Tony and their new baby girl. They travel from Iowa, which is such an honor for me!

Fall Mini Session Dates Announced

2011-08-21T22:29:00.004-05:00

Fall Mini Session Portrait Events

at the Center Stage studio, Shawnee

• Ballerina Portraits at the Center Stage studio, Shawnee: Friday, Oct. 7 and Sunday, Oct. 9.
-- $40 session fee; $50 minimum order to be paid upon scheduling.
-- We provide clothing and accessories. This year's theme is Shabby Chic. Clothing fits girls sizes toddler to 14. Please bring shoes and/or tights.

• Studio Family Portrait Mini Sessions - Sunday, Nov. 6.
-- $40 session fee; $100 minimum order to be paid upon scheduling.
-- Beautiful hand-painted backdrop in fall colors.

• Old Hollywood or My Model Moment mini sessions - Sunday, Nov. 20.
-- $40 session fee; $100 minimum order to be paid upon scheduling.
-- Choose between "Old Hollywood" styling (mainly head-and-shoulder images) or "fashion" styling with blowing hair and model poses. We provide hair and make-up services but please bring your own clothing.

• Coming in January - Tumble Track sessions. We debuted these sessions last March, and they had everyone talking!

• We WILL NOT be offering "mini" (or "express") outdoor sessions this fall. All outdoor portrait sessions will be full sessions.

PLEASE NOTE - Due to the popularity of our mini sessions, and because we often "sell out" of session times, to hold your place on our schedule we require that both the session fee and the minimum order be paid in advance (this is new this year for ballerina portrait sessions). No sessions will take place until both are paid in full.

All of the above portrait events are fund-raisers for the Academy of the Arts dance team - session fees are paid to the dance team parents group. Minimum orders are to be made payable to Center Stage.

We are still finalizing details. To find out more, or to reserve your session, contact photographer Lori Wood Habiger via email or phone: (913) 271-0703.

We are looking forward to a great fall giving you outstanding portraits! Thank you for choosing Center Stage.

West Bottoms Ballerinas - Kansas City Family Photographer

2011-08-18T07:49:00.002-05:00

I continue to be a good 20 sessions behind on my blog, so if you are interested in keeping up with Center Stage in a more timely way, please follow the studio on Facebook - the link is at the right.

Despite the intense heat this, I've actually had quite a few outdoor sessions this summer -thankfully photography has a way of hiding that the subjects were pretty hot during the session - I've been getting some amazing images. This session took place in the fabulous West Bottoms of Kansas City - a place seemingly made for photography. It's fun to do a session of contrasts down there - the sweetness of beautiful girls in ballet costumes against the rough brick, graffiti murals, bridges and fire escapes. This was a wonderful session, and I'm so pleased to show it off to you.

Happy belated birthday to my son!

2011-08-08T07:58:00.000-05:00

Last week we celebrated my little boy's 8th birthday. We were too busy at waterparks and then on vacation to post on my blog, but I wanted to observe the occasion even if it's a few days late. I chose this portrait of him because it's a rare one - an image of him looking serious. Given that he's the biggest goof ball around, getting him to look serious is not an easy task -- getting him to agree to be photographed is not an easy task! Happy birthday to my little guy - Mommy loves you so much.

Anniversary Portraits - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2011-08-07T20:41:00.002-05:00

What a great way to celebrate a 15th wedding anniversary (with me, getting portraits done!) and what a great couple. I'm so honored to have spent part of their special day with them, and to have been able to create these beautiful portraits for them.

The beauty of pregnancy - Kansas City maternity photographer

2011-07-25T16:59:00.002-05:00

I've been doing so many maternity portraits lately at the Center Stage studio. My calendar is filled with them! Here's one from a session back in May. Love those curves!

My fall schedule is filling up - if you would like Center Stage maternity portraits, and especially if you are hoping for a weekend appointment, don't delay in contacting me. You can find the studio's contact information here: Contact info.

The beaty of dance - Cathy

2011-07-18T09:03:00.001-05:00

Cathy is an amazing dancer, and owns both a dance studio and professional dance company. I had the good fortune to photograph her (and her incredibly long limbs) back in the early part of the year. I love photographing professional dancers and have special prices just for them. Thank you, Cathy, for choosing Center Stage!

Sweetness - Kansas City Photographer

2011-07-10T13:01:00.002-05:00

I have photographed this little one so many times in her 2.5 years, and it's always a pleasure. She says my name in the cutest way, which makes me love her even more. It means a lot to me when clients choose me again and again to photograph special times in their lives This family comes all the way from St. Joseph - Lindsey and David - I appreciate you!

Beautiful Family - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2011-07-02T08:45:00.000-05:00

How could I not have blogged this session yet? What a photogenic family and gorgeous babies! I'm so proud that they continue to choose Center Stage Photography for their most special sessions. Thank you so much, Lina and Ryan.

Newborn Twins - Kansas City newborn photographer

2011-06-24T08:43:00.000-05:00

There's nothing more beautiful to new parents than their newborn baby. That's why I keep my newborn photography style simple and classic - to let your baby's beauty take center stage. These twins needed no props or embellishment. I so enjoyed photographing them!

Center Stage Loves Seniors - Kansas City Senior Photographer

2011-06-13T11:46:00.003-05:00

Kansas City - send me your seniors! I absolutely love photographing this age group. I photographed Chelsea back in April and enjoyed every second of it.

Scheduling Class of 2012 seniors now! Contact Center Stage ASAP to get your preferred time.

Adorable 6-month-old - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2011-05-31T08:11:00.001-05:00

This little man was quite the challenge - barely 6-month-old, he just wanted to try to stand up! His parents are in trouble! Luckily I did manage to capture some great faces in between his attempts to move! What an adorable baby boy. Thank you, as always, Christina and Jason - I appreciate you so much!

I have special "Baby's First Year" sessions - contact me for details!

Sweet baby boy - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2011-05-24T07:24:00.000-05:00

You all know how much I love photographing the tiny ones! Thanks to Jenifer and Gerardo for choosing Center Stage Photography for their baby son's newborn portraits.

A Star in the Making - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2011-05-17T08:45:00.004-05:00

Look out world, here comes Mackenzie Miller! I photographed Mackenzie a couple of months ago - she's a talented actress, but she has also just launched her professional music career. It's a very exciting time for her, and I enjoyed playing a part in it. Since our session many great things have been happening - if you would like to follow Mackenzie, a Mill Valley High School graduate from Desoto, you can find her on Facebook under "Mackenzie Miller"; on Twitter she's "DreamBig_Miller."

Best wishes, Mackenzie!

Looking for professional head shots? I have special rates for head shot sessions, and take great care to use flattering lighting and posing, which can make a big difference at auditions. Contact me for information.

Celebrating New Life - Kansas City Pregnancy Photographer

2011-05-11T10:37:00.002-05:00

Dana chose Center Stage for her recent maternity portrait session, celebrating the end of her fifth pregnancy. She's always wonderful to work with, and beautiful, too!

Carly Jo - Kansas City Senior Portraits - Mill Valley High School

2011-05-06T09:18:00.006-05:00

I really, really love photographing seniors. And I really, really, really loved photographing Carly Jo! I mean - look at her - she's a photographer's dream.

I'm now scheduling seniors in the Class of 2012, and have some nice bonus items for seniors who schedule with me between now and the first day of school. To see more examples of my senior portrait photography, click here. Give me a call or send me an email to reserve your time! Center Stage email address

Baby Love - Kansas City Baby Photography

2011-04-28T20:29:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love photographing babies who are newly sitting on their own - 6-8 months old, before they can crawl, and before they become frightened of my studio lights. They make the most adorable faces. As you know, I prefer things simple and modern - I like to produce images that will never look dated, and that aren't cluttered with props and loud backdrops - none of that is needed with beauty like this!

This baby was such fun to photograph, and the daughter of one a wonderful client. Thanks, Wendy, for choosing Center Stage to photograph your newest baby girl.

Newborn Baby Girl - Kansas City Newborn Portraits

2011-04-18T10:06:00.001-05:00

This baby girl's Grandma Pam is one of my favorite clients, so I was thrilled when she asked me to photograph her new little granddaughter. What a great new family, and adorable baby. People like this make my job so gratifying! Thanks Pam, Kevin and Jessie - I appreciate your choosing Center Stage Photography for your baby's newborn portraits.

Modern classics - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2011-04-11T11:35:00.001-05:00

I love modern "classic" portraiture. That is, posed in the studio with a modern twist. One of my favorite recent sessions, which took place in February, is of Anne's gorgeous girls. Clothing choices can make or break a session, and Anne did a great job of choosing outfits that gave these portraits a definite "wow factor." Thanks again, Anne, for choosing Center Stage.

The Art of Pregnancy Portraits - Kansas City Maternity Photographer

2011-04-01T09:09:00.005-05:00

One of my specialties is maternity portraits. Thanks in part to famous 1991Vanity Fair cover featuring an Annie Leibovitz portrait of pregnant Demi Moore, portraits done during pregnancy are sought out by many women today. I really love these sessions, and work hard to produce not just portraits, but art as well.

Here's two recent favorites, taken during a session in February (the subject wishes to remain anonymous). Beautiful!

Another beautiful baby boy - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2011-03-28T09:38:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Dana and Ryan on the birth of their son! Dana was one of our first portrait clients four years ago - how neat to see this family grow through our work.

Darling 2-year-old - Kansas City Photographer

2011-03-18T10:37:00.000-05:00

What a cutie this little man was, who came for 2nd birthday portraits back in January. He was a very happy little man; even if he did enjoy wandering about the studio, and playing with my oh-so-popular alligator more than getting his portraits done. Isn't he a cutie?

Thanks, Carrie!

I mentioned the alligator..... everyone loves my alligator...

Bridal Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2011-03-12T16:29:00.001-06:00

I just realized I'm incredibly behind on blogging recent sessions! I guess I've been posting quite a bit on the Center Stage Facebook page and neglecting the blog. But I think it's good to keep it updated since it is important to show potential clients recent work.

This is an awesome session I did back in November with one of the most beautiful young women I've ever known. Jenna was a joy to work with, and I enjoyed shooting with her new husband, who is a photography enthusiast.

Babies are beautiful, Part 2- Kansas City Baby Photographer

2011-02-28T09:40:00.000-06:00

What an adorable baby girl I had the fortune to photograph recently. She was nearly 7 months old, happy, curious - wow, I love this age!

Babies are beautiful - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2011-02-23T08:39:00.000-06:00

This newborn was actually a few weeks old when I photographed him - at his home rather than at the studio. It was a first for me! I'm so used to studio light, but it really surprised me how much I love these images photographed with natural light. What a cute little man, won't you agree?

Beautiful Pregnancy Portraits - Kansas City Baby and Pregnancy Photographer

2011-02-15T14:39:00.001-06:00

I created maternity portraits for Dana back when my business was just starting, and I had the chance to do another session for her recently. I've always said that Dana helped me to start my business by sending me so many referrals - something I will always appreciate. She's a beauty, inside and out, and I'm so happy to share some of her portraits with those interested in my work.

Thank you, once again, Dana! I am looking forward to meeting your baby boy soon.

Home or the Holidays - Kansas City Family Portrait Photograper

2011-02-09T06:41:00.000-06:00

I traveled to Atchison to photograph this extended family who were together for the holidays - first the large family group and then each individual family. And while the large family group was photographed in the parents' home, a couple of families did brave the freezing wind for outdoor portraits - you could never tell how chilly it was! What a great family to work with! Thank you for choosing Center Stage!

Beautiful Girls - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2011-02-02T08:19:00.000-06:00

What a treat it is to photograph girls as stunning as these! Easy-going parents who appreciate my style, plus girls who were easy and fun to work with always equals a wonderful session.

Do you need updated portraits of your children? Consider taking advantage of my winter sale - going on through the end of this month. Contact me for details: centerstage @ kc.rr.com.

Snowy Senior Portraits - Kansas City Senior Portraits Photographer

2011-01-28T14:27:00.000-06:00

I photographed this gorgeous girl back in the late summer for her senior portraits, and at the time she mentioned that she would love to get together again for snow portraits in the winter time. We took advantage of a recent snow, and wow, I love them! It was about 15 degrees with high wind - so cold, but you can't even tell by looking at her - and she even loaned me her gloves.

Another Photogenic Family - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2011-01-24T11:05:00.000-06:00

My approach to family portraits in the studio is to create simple, classic images that won't look out of date in a few years - they will look as beautiful in your home now as they will in 2021. I also work very hard on posing and lighting that is flattering to the people I photograph - everyone wants to look great in their portraits, and I always keep that in mind. I loved photographing this family - and I love the results of their session!

Absolutely Precious - Kansas City Newborn Portrait Photographer

2011-01-14T10:58:00.000-06:00

What a treat it was to photograph this sweet little girl, and her proud parents. What a little doll!

Baby's First Christmas - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2011-01-10T11:14:00.001-06:00

I photographed this darling little man in December to celebrate his first Christmas. Absolutely love working with this family; and I love photographing babies!

Another beautiful baby boy - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2011-01-05T08:45:00.002-06:00

Isn't he beautiful! I so enjoyed photographing this little man back in December. More "branching out" for me. I still love those black blanket images I've done for years; but enjoying changing things up, too!

Dreamy Baby Boy - Kansas City Newborn and Baby Photographer

2010-12-29T10:11:00.001-06:00

In 2011 you will see me changing things up quite a bit - new blog and web site designs, new emphasis on "contemporary" studio portraits, and I'm even branching out in my newborn style, moving away from only offering the simple, classic portraits on black backdrops that I've become known for. I'll be keeping that style but also offering other image styles as well - like what I did for this dreamy little man. He's a little older than my typical newborn - about 8 weeks old here - I adore how alert he looks! I'm excited about the updates I'm implementing in 2011, and hope you are, too!

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-12-20T07:56:00.002-06:00

Oh, I love these portraits of this family - more of the modern studio style that I'm moving almost exclusively to in 2011 for studio sessions.

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-12-13T12:55:00.001-06:00

Yet another photogenic family recently came for a portrait session- always such fun to photograph Pam and her kids.

Photogenic Family - Kansas City Photographer

2010-12-08T11:05:00.001-06:00

This has to be one of my favorite studio portrait sessions of the year! Isn't this family so photogenic? You will see a lot more of this type of studio portraits from me, as in 2011 I'm going to be emphasizing contemporary studio portraiture like what you see here.

Jackie and family - thank you so much for choosing Center Stage!

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-12-05T07:58:00.002-06:00

Yet another gorgeous family in my studio - always love working with them! I absolutely love classic portraits on black backdrops - these portraits will never look dated or out of style, and can hang proudly on a family's wall for years.

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-28T09:52:00.004-06:00

As you can tell, I've been busy this fall, getting lovely family portraits for my clients. Here's a session I absolutely loved - aren't these girls so beautiful? I've photographed them for years and they just keep getting prettier and prettier.

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-24T11:13:00.004-06:00

I'm loving these studio family portrait sessions - I could squeeze in a few more mini sessions if you are interested - contact me soon as weekend times are limited.

Thanks to all who have chosen Center Stage this year for their holiday portraits - I've greatly enjoyed working with all of you!

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-21T09:38:00.002-06:00

I so enjoyed photographing these kids - a family I've worked with so many times. This sunset session proves that it's not too late for outdoor portraits. (And this is yet another example for me of a 13-year-old who has grown so much in the last year!)

Thanks Lisa, as always!

Family Holiday Portraits - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-19T16:16:00.003-06:00

I'm about 8 sessions behind on blogging, so am going to be catching up over the next several days. I've really been enjoying these fall family portrait sessions - if you haven't scheduled a session, I do have some times yet available, but don't wait too long - remember that custom prints and cards have a two- to three-week turnaround time. You can send me an email at centerstage @ kc.rr. com (remove space) or call (913) 271-0703.

Isn't this a great looking family? I absolutely love their beautiful, coordinating outfits. This mom put a lot of thought into this - my hat is off to her.

I just love this one of the little cherubs hugging!

Sweet 13 - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-15T12:50:00.002-06:00

Thirteen is such a great age to photograph - I've done sessions with three different 13-year-olds in the last few days and it's been an eye-opener for me, as all three of them are kids I've photographed for years, but goodness, there is something about 13 - they have become little adults!

This beautiful girl, who started dancing en pointe this year, makes my job easy, and it's always a bit sad when our session is over. I just love her!

Great Family - Kansas City Family Photographer

2010-11-10T16:44:00.001-06:00

I love when a family suggests having their session at a location special to them, like this family did, who I photographed on their beautiful property in south Johnson County. What could be more meaningful that that?

Thank you, Dana and Justin, for choosing me to photograph your family - I look forward to showing you the rest of your images - very soon!

Sassy 13! - Kansas City Photographer

2010-11-09T16:24:00.001-06:00

I had the great fortune to once again photograph this beautiful girl - this time to celebrate her 13th birthday. I think 13 looks great on her, don't you?

Happy birthday, Baby! - Kansas City Photographer

2010-10-29T15:28:00.001-05:00

This little one is an absolute doll, and her parents are so in love with her - can't you tell? They drove from St. Joseph the day after her birthday for portraits with Center Stage - a referral from a wonderful client who also lives there.

Lorie and Josh - thank you for choosing me to photograph your tiny girl - I appreciate it so much.

Congratulations to Christina and Jason! - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-10-23T13:54:00.002-05:00

Some of my favorite clients just had baby #2, and I was so happy to photograph them last Wednesday. The new baby looks so very different than their first looked for his newborn portraits - but both were very sleepy babies (although I hear the new baby isn't such a great sleeper now!). Congratulations, Christina and Jason, and once again, thank you so much for trusting me to document these special milestones in your family's life.

Happy 12th to My Beautiful Girl!

2010-10-21T06:55:00.003-05:00

I'm so blessed to be the mother of this girl, who is incredible in every single way. Life with you, my sweet girl, is a beautiful, funny adventure. Eleven was amazing - I can't wait to see what 12 brings. All my love always, Mom.

Fall Family Portrait Sessions Continue - Kansas City Family Photographer

2010-10-20T20:34:00.001-05:00

I really enjoyed photographing Mike and Melissa and their girls last week - thank you for your patience! Your entire slideshow will be ready soon.

If you would like on my fall calendar, contact me ASAP.

Oct. 3 Ballerinas - Kansas City Photographer

2010-10-12T08:50:00.000-05:00

A preview for all my pretty Oct. 3 ballerinas. Moms, slideshows coming by late Wednesday! Expect an email from me soon.

Another little ballerina - Kansas City photographer

2010-10-07T05:52:00.002-05:00

And, another little doll from Sept. 26!

Preview for Sept. 26 ballerinas - Kansas City photographer

2010-10-05T10:45:00.000-05:00

I know you are anxiously awaiting your slideshows! It won't be much longer now, but while you wait, I thought I'd give you each a preview of what's to come. Thanks to each of you who brought your lovely daughters (and one super cute son!) to the studio for ballerina portraits. I enjoyed photographing each one of them and look forward to your seeing your proofs. I hope to have Sept. 26 sessions online by the end of the week.

Until then, enjoy! (By the way, my hosting web site is having problems today so if you can't see the images, please check back later).

September - My favorite month for portraits! - Kansas City Photographer

2010-09-30T08:02:00.001-05:00

Shawn and his beautiful kids were the subjects of my latest outdoor portrait session. Although some know me for my studio portraits, I'm really enjoying these outdoor portrait sessions and hope October is as beautiful as September has been. Thank you, Shawn - your entire gallery will be ready soon.

Lauren - Kansas City Senior Portraits

2010-09-28T09:17:00.001-05:00

I had the great honor to photograph my beautiful niece, Lauren, for her senior portraits - something I've been looking forward to for a long time now. Isn't she beautiful?

I absolutely love photographing seniors and now is the perfect time to get them done with the weather as beautiful as it's been. I've got special collections and products just for seniors - give me a call soon to get on my fall calendar.

Great to see them again - Kansas City Family Photographer

2010-09-21T08:02:00.003-05:00

I was so happy to photograph this family again. Last time I saw this little girl she was only a few days old, and one of the most beautiful newborns I've ever photographed. Now she's two and a half years old - small in stature but with a big personality! It always makes me feel so good when clients return to Center Stage for portraits - months, or years later. Thank you so much, Lina and Ryan - I enjoyed seeing you all again.

Isn't she cute? She kept me laughing.

Chelsea - Kansas City Senior Portraits

2010-09-19T15:33:00.001-05:00

I've been wanting to photograph Chelsea for so long - and I finally did on Friday - which was such a perfect day for portraits. We had so much fun!

Christina (again!)- Kansas City maternity photographer

2010-09-13T10:03:00.001-05:00

It's so fitting that Christina would be my first repeat maternity client. Some portraits that I did of her two years ago, and which hang in a maternity clothing boutique, have brought me many bookings. Plus, I just love her so much, and her husband and little boy. I was so happy to photograph her again, and can't wait to meet their new baby.

This session was so fun - Christina's little boy basically wanted to be in every single portrait. He kept us laughing the entire evening. He even wanted to be wrapped up in fabric, just like mommy. I can't wait to see what he does at the newborn session.

Birthday Girl - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2010-09-07T13:34:00.001-05:00

This little cupcake had a great time smashing her first birthday cake at the Center Stage studio on Sunday, with her mom and dad and grandparents watching. A great time was had by all!

Hmmm... I'm not so sure about this.

Oh wait, this is getting interesting!

Aren't I cute?

This is awesome!

Yeah, I made a mess. But if I smile really cute, maybe Lori won't notice.

Victory!

Hayley - Mill Valley High School - Kansas City Senior Photographer

2010-08-20T13:32:00.002-05:00

I'm having such a difficult time this week with my blog. When I have so many beautiful images, how in the heck do I choose only a few to share? Hayley didn't help me out one bit, being so photogenic! She can look so different from moment to moment - which made for a great session. I'm tempted to put all 50 or so proofs on my blog, but I'll refrain - here are a few of my favorites.

I love photographing seniors - if you are looking for a senior photographer, choose me! My style is fashionable yet natural - you will still look like you, and you will be able to recognize yourself in your portraits 10 years from now, which I think is really important. Plus, I'm lots of fun! (Right, Hayley?)

Family Studio Session - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2010-08-18T09:24:00.000-05:00

I have the most difficult time choosing preview images for my blog when I do a session like this - a family session with a bunch of very attractive people with two different backdrops and lots of variations of who is in the portrait - I'm just not good at choosing! Debbi's family is incredibly photogenic so really, I can't go wrong with any image I choose - goodness, even the dog is photogenic! Anyway, here's your preview, Debbi and family. I really appreciate you choosing Center Stage for your family portraits.

Looks can be deceiving - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-08-13T20:40:00.002-05:00

From the look of her in these images, you would think this baby girl sleeps all of the time. But you would be wrong. In fact, the first time I photographed her, she barely slept at all! Which is why I had the pleasure to hang out with Wendy and Tim twice this week (which was actually very enjoyable!). You see, this tiny little angel gave me a very difficult time on Monday, so she returned on Thursday and was so snuggly and peaceful - easy as pie the second time around.

Wendy - I'm so happy you found me - it's been an honor.

Senior Portraits and a Family Session, too! - Kansas City Senior Portraits

2010-08-12T11:01:00.002-05:00

Last week I had a great time photographing this family in a local park, which also served as a senior portrait session for older daughter Cari, who is visiting from Michigan. We had a lot of fun despite the heat, and I'm happy to show this preview. Looking forward to showing you the rest!

Thank you for choosing Center Stage!

Family Studio Session - Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2010-08-09T22:33:00.000-05:00

I've photographed this family before, but the new wrinkle this time is they brought their dog - it seems like I'm photographing a lot of dogs lately - another one is expected on Wednesday. Thankfully, they all have been very well-behaved in the studio so far!

Thanks, Tanya - I always enjoy photographing your beautiful family - gallery coming soon.

Happy 7th birthday to my little boy!

2010-08-01T08:12:00.000-05:00

Wishing my son a wonderful 7th birthday -

he's the most kindhearted, social little guy I know.

I can't imagine loving you more.

Happy 10th birthday, Sweetness - Kansas City Photographer

2010-07-29T15:23:00.002-05:00

Yesterday evening I photographed this girl for her 10th birthday. We had to be a little flexible and change locations at the very last minute, but the results show that was not a problem, thankfully!

I've photographed her many times and she's always sad when the session is over - this girl loves the camera! Happy birthday to one of the sweetest girls I know.

Another Blessing for Wendy - Kansas City Maternity Photographer

2010-07-17T09:26:00.001-05:00

Wendy will be the first to tell you that she's living a blessed life - and she's not talking about the fact that she's expecting her sixth child in a couple of weeks and looks amazing (although the rest of us surely can add that to her list of blessings). Husband Tim is a physician and often travels the world on medical missions and Wendy and the kids sometimes go with him. I love to learn the story is my clients' lives and appreciate so much when they share even a small part of their life story with me. Thank you, Wendy, for choosing me to photograph your pregnancy - I enjoyed it very much and look forward to showing you all of your images - soon!

Happy 3rd birthday, A!- Kansas City Portrait Photographer

2010-07-13T08:59:00.001-05:00

Here's another beautiful birthday child whom I've photographed since she was a newborn. This year, she really showed off her personality - lol! Isn't she a doll? Dana - your continued support of Center Stage means so much to me. Thank you so much! Gallery coming soon - hopefully today!

Happy 4th birthday, K!

2010-07-11T13:31:00.001-05:00

I've photographed this little man at least once a year since he was born. In fact, he was my very first newborn session! Every year his mom and I try to think of something new and interesting to do - this year we had a fun session in an ice cream shop! Space prevents me from showing the entire, cute sequence of images from the shop, but I thought I'd share a few. They would make a great storyboard, book or accordion album.

Thanks Krystin - I'll see you soon!

I always love how his gorgeous eyes reflect the green of the grass, so of course we did a few outside.

Another Fun Family Session in the Studio - Kansas City Family Portraits

2010-06-30T12:04:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed photographing this family. When they first arrived they said dad wasn't really happy about having his portraits taken - well, if that's true, I can't imagine what he'd be like if he were actually looking forward to it! What a fun guy, fun mom, and great kids. I left for home after the session just loving my job, and happy about this service I'm able to provide people. Thank you, Julie, for choosing me to photograph your family. Gallery coming soon!

Traditional Family Portaits - Kansas City Portrait Studio

2010-06-28T16:47:00.000-05:00

I truly enjoy family portrait sessions in the studio. So many people prefer outdoor portraits, but there's something so classic about a traditional, formal family portrait in the studio. Renee - thank you for choosing Center Stage - full gallery coming soon.

Little Miss Sunshine - Kansas City Children's Portraits

2010-06-25T08:56:00.000-05:00

You've seen her on my blog and web site many times - with a face like sunshine and a personality to match, it's always a fun to photograph this sweetie. Happy 7th birthday!

Long Overdue - Kansas City Newborn Portraits

2010-06-16T08:03:00.000-05:00

This baby girl was all of 17 days late! Good for Anne for hanging in there all that time.
Ten days old when I photographed her, this baby made my job easy! I believe my fastest newborn session to date - just over and hour. Isn't she just beautiful? Such great skin, too - oh, I love this baby!

Congratulations to Brady and Anne on the birth of your third daughter - I am so happy you chose me to photograph this special time in your lives.

Another Fun Family Session - Kansas City Photographer

2010-06-13T10:43:00.003-05:00

Brenda thought it was time for new portraits, and after some convincing, her husband, Dave, agreed to take part as well! They also brought their two darling dogs, and we conducted the session both in my studio and in a pretty little park nearby. Add to that an assist from my sister, and it was a very enjoyable session.

Thank you, Brenda, for seeing the value of professional portraits, and for choosing Center Stage!

By the way - you may notice a new settee! You all know I'm obsessed with them. I'm still on the lookout for a small sofa - doesn't have to be old-fashioned ... but I need a small, dark sofa in good condition for family portraits in the studio. If you spot one out and about, let me know!

Special Family Portrait Session - Kansas City Photographer

2010-06-07T08:17:00.000-05:00

All of my portrait sessions are special to me, but sometimes I am asked to photograph a family during a particularly emotional time in their lives and this session was one of them. Last Wednesday I photographed Chuck and Katie and their daughter, Saturday the little girl danced in her yearly dance recital and that evening, Chuck left for a year+ in Afghanistan. What an honor for me! Wishing Chuck safety during his tour, and hoping the time goes quickly for Katie and their daughter.

Thank you so much, Katie. Enjoy the preview.

Outdoor Portrait Preview - Kansas City Family Portraits

2010-05-29T07:45:00.000-05:00

And, Kesha, your preview of your outdoor portraits! Gallery coming by the end of the weekend.

Beautiful Family in the Studio - Kansas City Family Portraits

2010-05-27T12:49:00.004-05:00

When Kesha saw her friend Anne's Center Stage portraits, she knew it was time for portraits of her own family. I love that! Referrals are such a compliment to my work. We started with a session in the studio last week (which I'm previewing today) and ended with an outdoor session (preview coming soon). I've so enjoyed working with your family, Kesha - thank you so much for choosing me to create beautiful images of your family. Enjoy!

Stunning New Location - Kansas City Photographer

2010-05-26T09:08:00.000-05:00

I recently happened upon on this beautiful new location for portraits and was so happy to try it out with this pretty little 18-month-old who I get to photograph about every six months. Lindsey - thank you so much for making that long drive so many times to come to me for portraits - I hope you know how much that means to me!

Gallery coming soon!

Little Man About Town - Kansas City Photograher

2010-05-18T08:55:00.000-05:00

I've photographed this little guy many times and each time we try to think of a different place for his session - this time we went to the West Bottoms (my outdoor studio of late!) and had fun chasing him around the amazing urban environment. Happy birthday tomorrow, cutie pie!

Christina and Jason - gallery coming soon! Thank you for always choosing me to document your little boy's life - it means a lot.

Gwen (again!) - Kansas City Photographer

2010-05-12T09:54:00.001-05:00

This session was to have been conducted with studio lighting outdoors, but the rain the day before made that a dangerous proposition. So Gwen and I went to the West Bottoms and had some fun! Isn't she amazing? I could photograph her every single day! (and may get to next week if we can find a dry day for outdoor studio lighting - or OCF as photographers like to call it...)

Parents Think I'm a Miracle Worker - Kansas City Photographer

2010-05-06T21:39:00.002-05:00

Suzanne brought her darling little boy for one-year portraits this week. She was excited about the session; I was excited about the session. The problem: the little guy was afraid of my studio. No matter what we tried, we could not get him to feel comfortable. Silly songs, toys, animal noises, play breaks all failed to make him happy. Finally, I thought about the small green space just to the north of my studio door. I grabbed my equipment; Suzanne grabbed the baby, and out we went. I have to say, he still wasn't thrilled about the whole thing, but in the end we did get some really wonderful portraits of the birthday boy.

Thank you, Suzanne, for choosing me to photograph your baby boy. I'm happy to be your miracle worker, even if your husband does not believe your story about your son's mood that day!

Sleeping is a waste of her time - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-04-26T20:19:00.002-05:00

This sweet little thing barely slept at all during her newborn session - probably the least sleepy baby I've ever worked with. Her parents say she's like that and recounted one day when she barely slept at all. Well, it all worked out anyway, because I was able to get some wonderful awake portraits of this little missy - isn't she a doll?

Thank you, Karen and Jason, for choosing me to photograph your baby girl. Gallery ready soon!

Beautiful boy - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-04-22T08:13:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure to photograph this absolutely beautiful baby boy this week. He had the most amazing way of settling himself- he would fuss for maybe 5 seconds and then he would calm down without any intervention on our part. He was such fun to photograph that I do think at one point I called him "the baby of my dreams!" I'm sure that's something his parents have said about him as well.

Thanks for choosing me, Megan and Eric - enjoy the preview!

I love twins! - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-04-19T21:08:00.000-05:00

I had a bit of a shock the other day when I got a call from Patricia telling me she and her husband, Rudy, had just had twins - I photographed their first daughter two years ago when she was just three weeks old but it sure does not seem that long ago. Of course, it means so much to me that they brought their twins for a session - these little people (a boy and a girl) were only 10 days old when I photographed them on Sunday. What an awesome experience!

Twin newborn sessions can be difficult and long - but with the the help of photographer Terra Herring, who assisted me with the session, it all went smoothly and quickly! (in and out in two hours - great for any newborn session, let alone twins).

Thank you, Rudy and Patricia for trusting me, again, to photograph your children - I appreciate you! Gallery coming soon.

Heather and Rob's baby boy - Kansas City Newborn Portraits

2010-04-14T10:30:00.001-05:00

I love photographing this family and was so happy to be able to do a newborn session for Heather and Rob on Sunday, celebrating the birth of their third son. All three of their boys are very well behaved in my studio - lol - which makes my job so easy! Plus, both parents love photography, and Rob's Dad owns a portrait studio! So there's always a lot of photography talk during the session. Thank you so much, Heather and Rob, for choosing me to photograph your family.

Shannon's Babies - Kansas City Newborn Photographer

2010-04-09T13:51:00.003-05:00

Shannon came a couple of months ago for maternity portraits, and just this week I had the fun of photographing her new baby girl for her newborn portraits at 4 days old! Shannon's 6-year-old has the most amazing eyes, and it looks like her baby girl will, too - aren't the kids beautiful? The baby sure showed them to me enough at her session - don't let these sleeping images fool you - this little dolly doesn't like to sleep - poor mom and dad!

Thank you so much, Shannon, for choosing me for these most precious of portraits. I've enjoyed working with you. Gallery coming soon!

Three Girls for Anne - Kansas City Maternity Photographer

2010-03-31T08:37:00.002-05:00

Anne, expecting her third daughter, was recently living in England and planning to return to her favorite photographer when she returned to the U.S. But when she got back, she learned the studio was no longer in business. So she found me! And I'm happy she did. She's fun to work with and her daughters are adorable!

Congratulations on your pregnancy, Anne - gallery coming soon! (and yes, it will be ready for Kellie to see this weekend!)

6-month-old beauty - Kansas City Baby Photographer

2010-03-29T08:11:00.003-05:00

I have photographed this baby's mother so many times - she is a professional dancer and teacher, and so it was a special treat to get to do this little girl's six-month portraits - she's as beautiful as her mommy! Isn't she just the sweetest thing?

Thanks, Allison and Aaron - she's a beauty!

Finally - a little one! - Kansas City Newborn Photography

2010-03-22T20:25:00.002-05:00

In the last year, almost all of the newborns I have photographed have been in the 8.5-11 pound range. And while I truly love those chunky monkeys, for variety's sake it was nice to have this little missy in my studio this week. Seven pounds is actually quite "medium" for a newborn, but to me, she seemed so tiny!

Her parents are excellent to work with - I'm so sad they will be moving soon since dad Ed is graduating in May from an Army graduate school at Fort Leavenworth.

Christi and Ed - thank you so much for choosing me to photograph your sweet baby girl!

Big Girl! - Kansas City Newborn Portraits

2010-03-18T21:29:00.000-05:00

This baby girl took her sweet time making her appearance into the world arriving two weeks after her due date and tipping the scales at nine and a half pounds! She is such a beautiful little thing, and has the proudest parents - I love working with them!

Here's a few to look at while you await your gallery.

Karen - Liberty High School Senior Portraits

2010-03-16T12:02:00.001-05:00

I had a great time photographing Karen for her senior portraits - she's such a great girl- she dances competitively for Elite Dance Co., she plays violin in the Liberty High School orchestra, and will be traveling to China soon to perform, and she recently danced in a Hanson video (I didn't get all the details but it sounded fun!).

Choosing images for my blog was so hard - but here's a few to enjoy while you wait for your gallery, Karen!

Class of 2010- it's not too late to schedule a senior portrait session - contact me soon!

Girl-About-Town - Kansas City Children's Photography

2010-03-11T07:49:00.002-06:00

As you know from following my blog, I'm very at home doing sessions in my studio in Shawnee; and I also do many sessions outdoors. But what I haven't done much of at all is indoor sessions. So when Meggan contacted me for her daughter's 18-month portraits and suggested indoor portraits I was eager for the challenge.

This little girl is quite the girl-about-town - we did her 1-year portraits in the West Bottoms, and so for this session we went to Union Station - where the family frequently goes for weekend adventures. I've photographed this sweet thing since she was just a few days old and it's special for me to get to see her grow up through my portraits.

Thank you, Meggan and Ryan for once again choosing Center Stage!

The last little ballerinas - Kansas City Portrait Photography

2010-03-03T14:22:00.001-06:00

Here's a few images from my final ballerina sessions for this time around. My next one is scheduled for late September/early October. Of course, private sessions are available year-round.

Thanks for everyone who signed their children up for this event - what a bunch of cuties!

One more!

2010-02-26T22:16:00.000-06:00

I missed getting this little gal into the preview - she and her sister are coming to the studio on Sunday for a make-up session, since her sister was sick last weekend. But I bet her mom is just waiting to see a preview and I don't blame her. Isn't she a doll? I'm looking forward to meeting her older sister this weekend.