Edmonton Birth Photography - Maeve

Photographing a birth at 41 weeks pregnant myself was not something I'd planned on doing. I'm planning to try and book a few more birth sessions this year, but only a few. :P They are extra hard to juggle when you have little kids at home. Being on call for about a month is so strange for me.. Its hard enough when its with my own birth! 

Anyways, I was thrilled to be able to make it for Maeve's entrance to our world.  I always feel so privilaged to be invited into such a sacred moment in a families life. 

Witnessing a couple work as a team and being reminded of how powerful our bodies are as women is something incredible to see, let alone photograph. There is so much to cature during this time, the time seems to stand still and fly by at the same time.

Congratulations on your beautiful little girl. She's the perfect sister for Rowan. 

xox
Steph

Work life balance out the window!

photo by @kelsyneilson

Work-life balance isn't a new topic. There are copious amounts of articles out there discussing how to come to the magical point that. I've read too many to count. Each time I was a little more hopeful that I'll get there. It varies for each family, and it changes from month to month or year to year as dynamics change.  At this time with Arlo being so brand new, I'm genuinely trying to give myself a little break (not just say it along with all the other parents out there) and not feel too frustrated if I don't do as much as I'd like. I'm not going to try and find a balance. I just want to go with the flow and feel a little bit accomplished (regarding work).. and ENJOY my family time.  My kids are awesome. They are fun to be around, and I realized I don't want to keep setting up activities to keep them busy, so I can work.  I want to do the activities with them sometimes! 

I'm struggling with the concept of balance though, because I'm finding myself in such a fun and inspirational space with the kids. I want to put some extra effort into my Scade Photography work, even if I have barely any time. I have aspirations of blogging more frequently. Posts with helpful tips for family and wedding clients. I want to set up a collaboration with other creative people to make something fun... And on a more personal note, I want to print more of our digital images! SO MANY PRINTING PROJECTS are in my queue. I really need to practice what we preach!  It's lovely to be able to share images online, but I miss sitting down and turning the pages of a physical photo album!  

So what's my plan?

I don't have one. I'm not a great planner. I know I work best when I'm inspired, and if I'm under pressure. I know that when its time to work, I can put my head down and get a crazy amount of things done. So by putting it out on the blog and through social media with friends and family, I'm hoping I'll use the pressure of your expectations to keep me going. I won't be sticking to a typical schedule. Instead, I'll try to ride a wave of energy when it comes. It might be during the kid's afternoon naps, or in the middle of the night, after nursing the baby.  I'm not going to feel guilty for going to bed with the kids at 8 pm or sleeping in until the kids wake me. I'll focus on keeping a small list of weekly tasks and practice diving into tackle some of it whenever I have the most energy to do so, Even if that means letting the kids destroy the basement playspace, having free range with the playdough or paint supplies or watching Netflix shows continuously! 

Follow along if you'd like, and please keep me on track with a message or two! Also, if you have any tips or tricks in this area feel free to share. Thanks!

-Stephanie Scade

Polish Veteran's Country Lodge Wedding - Daryl and Lisa

Lisa and Daryl's wedding was one that felt true to themselves. I loved how relaxed they both were throughout the day. From Lisa walking barefoot down the aisle to pizza delivery in the portraits (and reception), their personalities shone through.  The dance party was one of the loudest and most raucous we have seen in a while. 

The day started off with a lot of singing and dancing, emotional readings of personal vows, and a very sweet first look between the Bride and her father and (new) brother. The ceremony and the reception were both at the Polish Veteran's Hall - Country Lodge, a great location for this rustic feeling wedding. During the portrait session, there was a lot more singing and dancing, some playground fun, pizza, and yoga. 

A wonderful day full of laughter, tears, singing and dancing, pizza, family and friends.