Jenna and Josh are the kind of sweet, relaxed humans that make you feel like you’ve known them forever — probably because my husband Ben is friends with Josh. LOL! And Ollie, their energetic, hilarious 3-year-old, is the sunshine beam that ties it all together.
We decided on the Christmas Boho Room at Vision Studios in Goodyear, AZ — light, cozy, airy, and the perfect mix of festive without turning into Santa’s living room. They wanted Christmas photos and the sweetest surprise: a baby announcement for their newest little boy joining the family next year.
The Warm-Up
Ollie walked in with classic “I’m-three-and-I-decide-my-own-vibe” energy. Totally normal. Totally expected. Totally fine. So I did what I always do with the littles — I tried to connect with him. I decided to ask for his help because kids that age love to “help”.
“Hey buddy… want to help me set my camera?”
Instant spark.
He got to push the shutter a few times and even snapped a couple photos of Mom and Dad. And that was it — we were officially besties.
That Moment That Made Me Melt
There’s always one moment in every session that stops me in my tracks.
For the Mannings?
It was when Ollie leaned into Jenna’s belly…
and started singing to his little brother.
I swear, if my camera wasn’t pressed to my face, they would’ve seen me straight-up melting onto the boho rug.
The Fun Stuff
The “photobomb your parents” prompt?
Ollie delivered.
Rather than rush in he stood in front them looking all kids of shy and cute. Absolute perfection.
We also played with a few setups — the cozy boho room, a touch of Christmas, and Jenna’s props: the sweetest baby announcement sign and a tiny crocheted brown bear outfit that made remember Hank in his monkey crocket outfit.
A Moment in Time They’ll Never Get Back
As a mom, this part hits me every time I photograph a family expecting their next baby.
Being a family of three is a special kind of magic — one you don’t fully recognize until it’s about to shift into something new.
I still remember Dixie listening to my belly when Hank was in there, like she was already practicing being the big sister she’d become. It’s a moment that sticks with you.
I hope the Mannings look back on these photos and remember:
The sweetness.
The anticipation.
The last chapter as a family of three — beautiful, chaotic, tender, and unforgettable.
Because the next chapter?
It’s going to be even better.
And with their “Ool Party, No Pee Allowed” energy?
This new baby is joining a family that knows how to love big and laugh hard.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Photographer – Kim
