Interview with Soon-to-be Mother of Five | Pittsburgh Maternity Photographer

Today I'm excited to introduce my early morning walking buddy, neighbor and friend, Dovey! Dovey, your 4th baby was the first newborn in my studio! He has a special place in my memory! I love seeing the canvases and prints in your house from his newborn session!

When did you meet your husband?

Ha... we meet at a crisis  hotline... we were both volunteering there.

When did you move to Mt. Lebanon?

We moved to Mt. Lebanon in October of 2011, so five years ago.

What does your family enjoy doing together in Pittsburgh?

We love to explore new places and go on hikes.

As a mother of soon-to-be five children, what advice can you share?

Not sure I have any good advice... just love your children, keep them safe and try and make time for yourself 

What parenting advice did you find useful?

That it's ok not to be "perfect." If I need ten minutes to shower... I turn the TV on... its not ideal but you have to survive.

Talk about the transition of moving from corporate America to a stay at home mom. I can't imagine it was easy for you.

It was pretty easy... growing up with a single mom who couldn't attend a lot of my activities because of work or other obligations, I knew if it were possible that I wanted to be a stay at home parent. So when the opportunity presented itself I jumped at it. Most days I don't regret my decision but I do miss the adult interaction.

How have you changed as a family from when you were expecting your first child until now with the coming birth of your fifth child?

Besides our expanding waistlines... we've become more "relaxed". We wouldn't let anyone hold our first without having that person wash their hands. We planned our day around the babies schedule... if she napped at a certain time we made sure we were home so that could happen. Now we may be a bit to relaxed.... life is hectic and the little one seem to adapt taking naps on the go or nursing in a noisy environment... kids are amazing that way... 

What are the ages of your children?

My children are ages 8, 6, 4, 2 and expecting 

What activities do you children enjoy?

My children all seem to love arts and crafts ... there is a never ending stack of recent projects. The older two are into ballet , musical theatre and ice staking. The boys love to swim and just explore outside 

How would you compare raising a family in Pittsburgh verses other places you’ve lived? 

I have come to love the small town feel of Pittsburgh. It hard to go anywhere and not bump into someone you know... it gives a sense of belonging in a way. But... I find it hard here and this has nothing to do with Pittsburgh itself. It's just that we find ourselves alone here... we don't have family here, no grandparent, aunts, uncles, cousins or close friends to lean on. I think living anywhere without a network would be hard. 

I'm excited to photography your newborn baby very soon! 

Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.