Behind the Scenes at Laura Mares Photography:
Meet the Talented Newborn Prop Maker

In newborn photography simple props are often the key to timeless newborn portraits. I have been blessed with a skilled mother who has provided me with most of the crocheted and knitted "outfits" and handmade backgrounds used in many of my newborn photos. From hats to rompers, she has been able to create a wide variety of textures, styles and colors for the families that come into the studio to choose from.

My mom comes from a very creative family. My granddad didn't always have enough money to buy the equipment he needed for his coal mine so he'd make what he need himself. He was an inventor out of necessity. My grandma knit and sewed doll clothes for my mother, clothes for the family and quilts. She grew up during the great depression which made her very practical. She created simply what was needed for her family and home. Both of my uncles can think outside the box. While in high school shop class one of my mom's brother's decided to build a canoe instead of a shoe shine box like everyone else in the class. Her other brother built a radio by himself. 

My mom learned to knit when she was a 12 year old child. She was taught to knit at girl scouts but didn't really learn until her aunt showed her after the meeting. Her first project was a black sweater. Years later, when my mom got married she decided she wanted to crochet an afghan. She walked over to her next door neighbor, Mrs. Chesnut, to ask her to teach her how to make a granny square afghan. Her next project was a baby present for her dear friend. My mom taught me to crochet as a child and to knit as an adult. I have only mastered squares and scarves! 

A couple months ago when she was cleaning up her blanket closet she offered me her old granny square afghan to offer for families that would like to sit on a retro blanket for their photo session. I'm truly blessed to have a creative and talented mother to create many of the beautiful one of a kind props that I have available for my clients.

My mother has also passed on her foundness for beautiful antiques. It's our hobby to go exploring for "new" antiques that would look incredible in newborn, baby or family photos.

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.