Capturing the beauty of childhood with Born and Raised Studio

Currently partnering with Born and Raised Studio to offer a 100$ gift voucher for portrait sessions in Houston, Dallas and Forth Worth (see details at the bottom of the article), we are delighted to present its founder.

Discover the story behind this traveling portrait photography service specializing in heirloom portraiture! Meet Anna Claire, mother, former labor nurse and talented photographer putting all her knowledge and love of children into each portrait! An inspiring example of a woman whose determination and trust in life led her to accomplish her dream!

CAN YOU PRESENT YOURSELF PLEASE?

My name is Anna Claire, I am the mother to McCain (6) & Beau (4) with our third on the way this Summer! Based in Auburn, AL, I primarily travel across the Southeast for sessions. 

In my previous life, I was as Labor and Delivery nurse. Over the course of 7 years, I was granted temporary access into the lives of hundreds of families. I witnessed the strength of a mother in her joy and even more in her grief. I learned that being a mother is transformative. I gleaned just as much wisdom from the women I worked beside. Labor & Delivery nurses tend to be passionate, hard working, self assured, and kind. I became all of those things through my experiences and carry them with me as I run my business as a Portrait photographer.

HOW DID YOUR PASSION FOR PHOTOGRAPHY START?

My best friend growing up had black and white composites of she and her 3 siblings lining her hallway. I knew when I had a family one day these would line my hallway.

Fast forward 20 years and I have 2 precious boys of my own. I searched high and low for a photographer to replicate this vision and with no luck I decided I would do it myself. I thought, “how hard could it be?”. Turns out, studio photography is pretty hard. I almost gave up so many times but through the encouragement of clients and sheer determination I pressed on. My small dream of having heirloom portraits of my children evolved into something I never intended or imagined. I am honored to now be behind the portrait in the
hall.

HOW DID YOU TRANSITION FROM LABOR NURSE TO PHOTOGRAPHER?

CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORKING PROCESS? 

The portrait starts from the first moment your child walks in through the door. I study their expressions as they interact with you, before they sit in front of me. I then capture those glimpses at just the right moment behind the lens.

Because I treat my work as an artist would a painting, I prefer to choose those images which best reflect the style you know and love instead of sending proofs. Before delivering these images, I spend equal time and talent retouching every scratch, bruise, and stray hair that may detract from their natural perfection. When you open your gallery I want you to be faced with absolutely stunning and completed portraits.

Through the years many clients have inquired about having their portraits turned into paintings. I am excited to have selected and partnered with 2 artists to offer the very best oil portraits and soft pastel portraits from my photographs : Dru Bynum and Jeni Kellher.

CAN YOU SHARE ONE OF YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES DURING A SESSION?

Being around the babies always gives me the fever but this one particular session sealed the deal. There was a family of 3 in Shreveport. Two older brothers and a baby sister. They were so in love with this little girl they physically could not leave her side. It absolutely melted my heart and of course I let them sit at arms length during her session, I couldn’t say to no to the sweetness.

I am expecting a third this summer and can’t help but hope for a little girl that will be just as cherished by her brothers.

WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND TO MAKE A PORTRAIT SESSION SUCCESSFUL?

It’s funny how much of my nursing experience spills over to photography. I would always tell nervous moms to relax and let me take care of them, it’s what I am here for. A mother on picture day is usually more nervous than the child. We worry that our child won’t cooperate, they will run wild, have an attitude, you name it.

The best advise I can give is for you to simply show up with no expectation and enjoy the session. Trust me, I know what I am getting into, I can handle your child! Like I told my patients, you don’t worry until I am worried. A relaxing atmosphere allows me to capture your child in their most natural state and when they see their portrait on the wall I want them to remember their session with joy.

CAN YOU SHARE A FEW OF YOUR FAVORITE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS WHEN IT COMES TO CHILDHOOD?

@peachesbarnes - Heirloom sewing and hand embroidery, Peaches has been a wonderful mentor in helping me to slow down. She has reminded me that by producing quality, consistent work I have the ability to create a sustainable and established business. Her account is always a refreshing reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood and how important it is to preserve as much of it as possible.

Caroline Knapp @houseofharper - Caroline is a client of mine from Houston. She is a lifestyle blogger and does such a beautiful job of sharing her life in a way that is relatable and uplifting!