2024 UPDATE
My thoughts on the Taking Cara Babies method almost 5 years later
Taking Cara Babies worked wonders for our family, and now, almost five years in, we couldn't be more thankful for the solid sleep foundation we set when Hattie was a baby. Over the years, many people comment on her happy demeanor, and we still credit her being well-rested as a big factor! Using Cara's method has also been incredibly helpful in identifying when something was wrong; we knew when our daughter's sleep was off that something was up, like teething or illness which took a lot of the guess work out of our parenting– especially early on!
Our daughter will turn 5 at the beginning of October, and still sleeps from 8p-8a. We often laugh because we still do the same wind down routine we did when she was a baby but modified to fit a five year old! She still reads three books before turning her sound machine on, and most nights as soon as the sound fills her room, she's off to sleep. Investing in the Taking Cara Babies programs is truly one of the best things we have ever done for our family!
If you ever have any questions– I would love to chat! Helping and encouraging other mothers is so near and dear to my heart. You can contact me anytime via email at hello@meredithmaagphotography.com or on Instagram @meredithmaagphotography
xo– Meredith
It never fails–
at least once a week, someone comments on how great of a sleeper Hattie is. It's true– she is! And I most certainly don't say that to brag, because I know sleep, in general, can be such a hot topic among parents.
We decided before Hattie was born that we wanted to sleep train her, and we used Babywise, 12 Hours Sleep by 12 Weeks Old, and Taking Cara Babies (TCB) as our main resources. They are all VERY similar, so I knew they had to be onto something.
TCB definitely ended up being our default guide, and, you guys, I'm here to tell you that we are firm believers. Hattie turned 2 at the beginning of October, so she's 27 months old as I write this. She sleeps from 7p-7a and takes a 3-hour nap each day, and this has been her schedule since we dropped her second nap before she turned one.
We didn't purchase the TCB newborn course because she posts enough free information on her Instagram and blog, but I did purchase the other two, and, for the most part, followed them to a T which I think is key.
Here are our top 3 takeaways from TCB–
that we know make a difference in our house:
- Blackout curtains likely aren't enough
- A sound machine is vital
- Sleep isn't optional
Blackout curtains likely aren't enough
I remember watching a TCB story where Cara was talking about how dark a room should be. It was sometime during the blur of Hattie only napping for 33 minutes (literally on the dot. every nap.) during months 3 and 4, and I was at my witts end because I couldn't get anything done around our house. I told Jake we had nothing to lose and taped black construction paper to all of our windows in our room because she was still in her bassinet. #Classy But, let me tell ya– it worked like a charm and we've pretty much never looked back. Although Hattie's room has both blinds and thee cutest blush velvet "blackout" curtains, we still use these* and these* to completely darken her room.
Say whatcha want, but when it comes to baby sleep, we are in the if-it-isn't-broke-don't-fix-it camp!
*When we moved from Austin to Kansas City, we opted to buy these travel blackout curtains to use in her room so we could take them with us when we travel.
A sound machine is vital
Barking dogs? Creaky home? Need to vacuum? Have friends over? (Insert other semi-loud activity here)? You get the picture! All of these activities are able to happen in our house because we use a sound machine! When we first moved to Kansas City, we met a neighbor who told us they didn't use the stairs after they put their kids to bed because it would wake them up, and we instantly told the parents to buy a sound machine! I once read something that explained we invite babies into our lives and we shouldn't stop living because we have a sleeping baby in the house.
We took this portable sound machine to the hospital with us– we love it so much we now own two! AND we still LOVE our Hatch sound machine and swear by it and all of its features. While we aren't there yet, we plan to use it as an ok-to-wake clock once Hattie is in her big-girl bed.
Sleep isn't optional
There is a plethora of research backing why sleep is so important for our developing babes. TCB shares a lot of this research through her platform, and Hattie's pediatrician in Kansas City actually recommends TCB on the literature they hand out at well checks!
It took me a while to learn that just because Hattie woke up, didn't mean she was ready or needed to get up. Before TCB, I had no clue that babies had to learn to connect their sleep cycles. Even now, Hattie will sometimes wake up in the middle of her nap or at night. However, if we just give her time, 9 times out of 10 she goes back to sleep. It is important to note that when Hattie does this, she's happy or content– not crying. This was anything thing I loved about sleep training; I know when something is wrong because I know my child and her sleep habits. So, if Hattie wakes up crying, I know she needs me because she never does that.
Our other sleep essentials:
- A solid sleep routine that is quick and easy to recreate. We use the same routine before Hattie's nap and bedtime because it signals her brain that it is time to go to sleep regardless of where we are. Pre-Covid, we planned to travel with Hattie, so her routine is simple: darkroom, fresh diaper, jammies (pm), sleep sack, 3 books, sound machine, snuggles & prayer (pm), bed. EZPZ. Every. Single. Time. We started this routine when she was ~5 months old and it still works like a charm today. The important thing is to create a routine that works for your family. You'll notice a nightly bath doesn't work for ours.
- Nested Bean Swaddle
- We transitioned Hattie to Merlin's Magic Sleep Suit when she could roll. *I'm not 100% sure this step was necessary, but it was cute and seemed to work.
- We used this Nested Bean sleep sack until she grew out of it and now we will use this Kyte Baby sleep sack which will be her last! Once she grows out of this one, we will officially be out of the sleep sack stage.
- Lamby, Hattie's Lovey. When I was transitioning her, I would stick Lamby in my shirt so she would smell like me, and to this day, Hattie still loves Lamby– she's part of our family! Be sure you talk to your child's pediatrician before introducing a Lovey for sleep. Safe sleep is a top priority for me, so Lamby made a slow transition to sleeping full time with Hattie!
My camera roll is still full of photos of Hattie in her sleep suit! I think there are few things cuter than these Michelin Man babes!
Final thoughts–
If I made Hattie's routine sound like a walk in the park, I'm here to tell you that isn't necessarily the case. I do believe that some babies are better sleepers than others. I also believe that behind a lot of good sleeping babies are parents who put in the work and likely shed some tears to get there. Night sleep was never a huge battle for us. For the most part, Hattie picked up an additional hour each week as both books told me she could. However, naps were a struggle– mostly for my sanity, and by the time she was of age to officially sleep train (for us this meant getting her to fall asleep on her own and in her crib), she had a firm enough foundation that by night three she didn't even make a peep when we laid her down and now she often cuts our snuggles short and points to her crib!
After hearing horror stories from parents of their toddlers not sleeping at night OR napping, I am so very glad we did what we did and when we did it!
For a while I was worried that creating a dark room and using a sound machine would serve as a crutch and Hattie wouldn't be able to sleep on the go, but, for us, that hasn't been the case. She can fall asleep in the car during the day and without a sound machine, but we know she sleeps best under ideal conditions– don't we all!?
I'm a far cry from an expert, but if you ever need someone to bounce ideas off of, I'm always happy to help!
XO
Meredith
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Discover the Unparalleled Expertise of Meredith Maag Photography: Your Premier Columbus, Ohio Newborn Photographer
Welcoming a newborn into your family is a magical moment, a chapter of your life that deserves to be beautifully documented and cherished forever. At Meredith Maag Photography, we understand the importance of capturing these precious moments with artistry and authenticity. As the leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, Meredith Maag offers a unique blend of expertise, creativity, and dedication that sets her apart in the world of newborn photography. Nestled in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, Meredith provides both in-home lifestyle and outdoor sessions that celebrate the natural beauty of your family, creating a stress-free environment where your family's true essence shines through.
Choosing the right photographer to capture your newborn's earliest days is a decision that can impact how you remember these fleeting moments. Here's why Meredith Maag Photography is the premier choice for families in Columbus, Ohio:
1. EXPERTISE AND EXPERIENCE
Meredith Maag brings years of experience and a deep understanding of newborn photography. Her expertise ensures that every session is conducted with safety, comfort, and professionalism. Meredith is trained in handling newborns with the utmost care, ensuring that your little one is safe and secure throughout the session. Her keen eye for detail allows her to capture those tiny, intricate features that make your newborn unique, from the curl of their fingers to the softness of their cheeks.
In addition to her technical skills, Meredith's experience extends to working with families of all sizes and dynamics. Whether you're a first-time parent or welcoming another child into your growing family, Meredith's approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and desires. She understands that every family is different and is committed to providing a personalized experience that reflects your unique story.
2. A PASSION FOR STORYTELLING
Every family has a story to tell, and Meredith Maag is passionate about capturing the narrative of your family's journey. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the emotions, connections, and love that define your family. Meredith's storytelling approach ensures that each image reflects the authentic essence of your family, creating a visual narrative that you'll treasure for years to come. Meredith's love for storytelling is evident in her ability to capture the moments that often go unnoticed—the gentle touch of a parent's hand, the first smile of your newborn, or the quiet moments of reflection and love. These are the images that truly tell the story of your family's early days, allowing you to look back and remember the feelings and emotions of this special time.
3. A STRESS-FREE EXPERIENCE
We understand that life with a newborn can be overwhelming, and the idea of a photoshoot might feel like just another item on your to-do list. That's why Meredith Maag Photography is committed to providing an stress-free experience. From the moment you book your session to the delivery of your final images, Meredith takes care of every detail, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience. Her friendly and approachable nature puts both parents and babies at ease, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable session for everyone involved. Meredith's process is designed to be as convenient and seamless as possible. She offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate your family's needs and is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. By taking the time to understand your preferences and expectations, Meredith ensures that your experience is tailored to your unique vision, making the entire process enjoyable and memorable.
CAPTIVATING IN-HOME LIFESTYLE SESSIONS
In-home lifestyle sessions are a beautiful way to capture your newborn's early days in the comfort and familiarity of your own space. These sessions allow your family's unique personality and dynamics to shine through, capturing genuine moments of connection and love. Here's what you can expect from an in-home lifestyle session with Meredith Maag Photography.
1. A PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE
Every family is unique, and Meredith takes the time to understand your preferences and vision for the session. Whether you want to focus on intimate moments in the nursery or candid shots of your family interacting in the living room, Meredith will tailor the session to reflect your style and personality.
Meredith's personalized approach extends to the details of your session, including the selection of props, outfits, and settings. She collaborates with you to choose elements that complement your home's decor and your family's personality, ensuring that each image feels authentic and true to your story. This personalized touch is what sets Meredith's photography apart, creating a collection of images that are as unique as your family.
2. THE BEAUTY OF EVERYDAY MOMENTS
In-home lifestyle sessions celebrate the beauty of everyday life with your newborn. From feeding and cuddling to bath time and storytime, these sessions capture the genuine moments that define your family's early days. Meredith's unobtrusive approach allows her to capture these moments naturally, without forced poses or artificial setups. By focusing on the natural interactions and connections within your family, Meredith captures the beauty and magic of everyday moments that might otherwise be overlooked. These are the images that tell the story of your family's unique journey, capturing the joy, laughter, and love that define your early days together.
3. A COMFORTABLE AND RELAXED ENVIRONMENT
Your home is where you and your baby feel most comfortable, and this relaxed environment allows for authentic interactions and genuine smiles. Meredith works around your baby's schedule, ensuring that the session is stress-free and enjoyable for both parents and newborns.
In the comfort of your own home, you're free to be yourself, allowing Meredith to capture your family's true essence. This relaxed setting provides the perfect backdrop for your newborn's first photos, creating images that feel natural and genuine. With Meredith's guidance and expertise, your in-home session will be a fun and memorable experience for the entire family.
For families who love the great outdoors, Meredith Maag Photography offers stunning outdoor sessions that embrace the natural beauty of Columbus, Ohio. These sessions provide a breathtaking backdrop for your family's cherished moments, creating timeless images that you'll treasure forever.
1. CHOOSING THE PERFECT LOCATION
Columbus, Ohio, is home to a variety of picturesque locations, from tranquil gardens to scenic parks. Meredith works with you to select the perfect setting that complements your family's style and vision. Whether it's a sun-dappled meadow or a serene lakeside spot, each location is chosen to enhance the beauty of your family and your newborn. Meredith's knowledge of Columbus's best locations allows her to suggest the perfect setting for your session, ensuring that your photos reflect the natural beauty of your surroundings. From vibrant gardens to quiet woodland paths, Meredith's outdoor sessions offer a diverse range of options, each providing a stunning backdrop for your family's memories.
2. CAPTURING CANDID MOMENTS
Outdoor sessions offer the opportunity to capture candid, spontaneous moments as your family interacts with each other and the natural surroundings. Meredith's approach to outdoor photography is to create an environment where your family can be themselves, resulting in images that reflect your genuine connections and love.
The natural beauty of the outdoors provides a dynamic and ever-changing backdrop, allowing Meredith to capture your family in a variety of settings and lighting conditions. This versatility allows for a diverse collection of images that showcase your family's unique personality and style, creating a visual narrative that you'll cherish for years to come.
3. UTILIZING NATURAL LIGHT
One of the most beautiful aspects of outdoor photography is the use of natural light. Meredith Maag is a master at harnessing the soft, golden light of sunrise and sunset, creating images that are both ethereal and emotive. This natural lighting adds depth and warmth to your photos, highlighting the tenderness of your newborn's early days.
Meredith's expertise in working with natural light ensures that your outdoor session is perfectly timed to capture the most beautiful and flattering lighting conditions. By planning your session around the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, Meredith creates images that are both timeless and enchanting, capturing the magic of your family's early days in stunning detail.
Creating Timeless Images with Meredith Maag Photography
At Meredith Maag Photography, the goal is to create images that are not only beautiful but also timeless. Meredith's artistic vision and attention to detail ensure that each photograph is a work of art, capturing the essence of your family and your newborn in a way that will be cherished for generations.
1. ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Meredith's meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of her photography. From the composition of each shot to the editing process, she ensures that every element is perfect. This attention to detail results in images that are polished, professional, and truly stunning.
Meredith's commitment to perfection extends to the smallest details, including the positioning of your newborn, the arrangement of props, and the selection of lighting and backgrounds. By carefully considering every element of your session, Meredith creates a cohesive and visually stunning collection of images that reflect your family's unique beauty and charm.
2. THE ART OF EDITING
The editing process is where Meredith's artistry truly shines. She carefully selects the best images from your session and enhances them to create a cohesive collection of photographs. Her editing style is natural and timeless, ensuring that your images will never feel dated or over-processed.
Meredith's approach to editing is focused on enhancing the natural beauty and emotion of your images, rather than relying on heavy filters or artificial effects. This dedication to authenticity results in images that feel genuine and timeless, capturing the true essence of your family's early days with artistry and skill.
3. A FOCUS ON EMOTIONAL CONNECTION
Meredith believes that the most powerful images are those that evoke an emotional response. Her photography focuses on capturing the love and connection between your family, creating images that resonate on a deep emotional level. These are the moments that you'll look back on with fondness and nostalgia, the moments that truly matter. By emphasizing the emotional connections within your family, Meredith creates images that are both meaningful and impactful. These are the photographs that tell the story of your family's love and journey, creating a lasting legacy that you'll treasure for generations to come.
THE MEREDITH MAAG PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE: WHAT TO EXPECT
From start to finish, the Meredith Maag Photography experience is designed to be enjoyable, stress-free, and memorable. Here's what you can expect when you choose Meredith as your Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer:
1. INITIAL CONSULTATION
The process begins with an initial consultation where Meredith gets to know you and your family. This consultation can be done in person or over the phone, depending on your preference. Meredith will discuss your vision for the session, answer any questions you may have, and provide guidance on how to prepare for the photoshoot.
This consultation is an opportunity for you to share your ideas and preferences, allowing Meredith to tailor the session to meet your unique needs and desires. By taking the time to understand your vision, Meredith ensures that your session reflects your family's personality and style, creating a collection of images that feel authentic and true to your story.
2. PREPARING FOR YOUR SESSION
Once your session is booked, Meredith will provide you with detailed information on how to prepare. This includes tips on what to wear, how to prepare your home if you're having an in-home session, and what to bring if you're having an outdoor session. Her goal is to make sure you're fully prepared and excited for the experience.
Meredith's preparation guide is designed to ensure that every aspect of your session is thoughtfully planned and executed. From coordinating outfits to selecting props and settings, Meredith's guidance helps you create a cohesive and visually stunning collection of images that reflect your family's unique beauty and charm.
3. THE DAY OF THE PHOTOSHOOT
On the day of the photoshoot, Meredith's warm and friendly demeanor puts everyone at ease. She takes the time to connect with your family, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and relaxed. The session is conducted at a pace that suits your baby, allowing for breaks and feedings as needed. Meredith's patient and gentle approach ensures that the experience is enjoyable for everyone involved. Meredith's ability to connect with her clients creates an atmosphere of trust and comfort, allowing your family to be themselves and enjoy the experience. This relaxed and positive environment results in images that are both genuine and beautiful, capturing the true essence of your family's early days with artistry and skill.
4. REVIEWING AND SELECTING YOUR IMAGES
After the photoshoot, Meredith will carefully review and select the best images from your session. You'll have the opportunity to view these images in a private gallery, where you can choose your favorites for editing and final delivery. Meredith is available to assist you in selecting the images that best reflect your family's story.
Meredith's expertise in curating your image collection ensures that each photograph is a work of art, capturing the beauty and emotion of your family's early days. By offering personalized guidance and support, Meredith helps you select the images that best tell your family's story, creating a collection of photographs that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
5. DELIVERY OF YOUR FINAL IMAGES
Once your images have been edited and perfected, Meredith will deliver them in a format of your choice. Whether you prefer digital files, prints, or a combination of both, Meredith provides high-quality products that you can treasure for a lifetime. She also offers a range of beautiful albums and wall art options, allowing you to showcase your images in your home. Meredith's commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures that your final images are both beautiful and durable, creating a lasting legacy that you'll treasure for generations. From elegant albums to stunning wall art, Meredith offers a range of options that allow you to display your family's memories with pride and joy.
TREASURING YOUR MEMORIES: THE IMPORTANCE OF NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY
Newborn photography is more than just taking pictures; it's about preserving the memories of your baby's earliest days. These are the moments that pass by in the blink of an eye, and having beautiful images to look back on allows you to relive the joy and wonder of this special time. Here's why newborn photography is an investment worth making:
1. CAPTURING FLEETING MOMENTS
Newborns change and grow incredibly quickly, and those first few weeks are filled with fleeting moments that you'll want to remember forever. Newborn photography captures these moments in stunning detail, allowing you to hold onto the memory of your baby's tiny features, soft skin, and peaceful expressions.
The first few weeks of your newborn's life are a time of incredible transformation and growth, and these moments are often gone before you know it. Newborn photography allows you to capture these precious memories in beautiful detail, creating a visual record of your baby's earliest days that you'll treasure for a lifetime.
2. CELEBRATING YOUR FAMILY'S JOURNEY
Every family has a unique story, and newborn photography celebrates the journey of your family's growth and love. These images serve as a visual record of your family's evolution, capturing the milestones and memories that define your life together.
From the excitement of pregnancy to the joy of welcoming your newborn into the world, newborn photography captures the moments that define your family's unique journey. These images serve as a testament to your family's love and connection, creating a lasting legacy that you'll cherish for generations to come.
3. CREATING LASTING LEGACY
Photography is a powerful way to create a lasting legacy for your family. The images captured during your newborn session will be treasured for generations, passed down as a testament to your family's love and connection. These photographs become heirlooms, telling the story of your family's beginnings to future generations.
By investing in professional newborn photography, you're creating a collection of images that will be treasured for generations. These photographs become heirlooms, passed down through the years as a testament to your family's love and journey, creating a lasting legacy that you'll cherish forever.
TESTIMONIALS: HEAR FROM OUR HAPPY CLIENTS
At Meredith Maag Photography, we are honored to have worked with countless families in Columbus, Ohio, capturing the magic and beauty of their newborns' early days. Here's what some of our happy clients have to say about their experience with Meredith:
"Working with Meredith was an absolute dream! She made the entire process so easy and stress-free, from the initial consultation to the final delivery of our images. Her attention to detail and passion for storytelling is truly unmatched, and we couldn't be happier with the beautiful photos of our newborn. Thank you, Meredith, for capturing these precious memories!"
"Meredith's ability to capture the emotions and connections within our family was truly remarkable. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the love and warmth that define our family. We are so grateful for the beautiful images she created for us and will cherish them for years to come."
"The in-home lifestyle session with Meredith was everything we hoped for and more. She made us feel so comfortable and relaxed, and the photos she captured are absolutely stunning. Her attention to detail and commitment to creating a personalized experience truly set her apart. We can't wait to work with her again in the future!"
BOOK YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION TODAY
Don't let these precious moments slip away. Experience the unparalleled expertise and dedication of Meredith Maag Photography, the premier Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer. Whether you choose an in-home lifestyle session or an outdoor adventure, Meredith is committed to capturing the magic and beauty of your family's early days with artistry and skill.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Ready to capture the memories of your newborn's early days? Contact Meredith Maag Photography today to book your session and start creating beautiful images that you'll treasure for a lifetime.
