Landry Hope | 29 Week Preemie | NICU Portraits | Charlotte, North Carolina NICU Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

“Tragically, my wife Marie, passed away one week after giving birth. The name Hope suddenly took on an entire new meaning for me and my entire family. ”

I met this sweet little lady for NICU portraits when she was a little over one month old.  I happened to run into one of her family members a few weeks prior, a girl who I just happened to know from my childhood.  When I saw her in the NICU, I was very confused as to why she was there.  Did she have a baby in the NICU?  I knew she had some health issues, but did I completely miss the fact that she was pregnant?  Well, I was relieved to find out that I had not been living under a rock after all.  This was not her baby.  She was just visiting.  Then she told me Landry's story.  I just knew I had to photograph this precious baby as soon as possible.

Here is Landry's story, as told by her dad.

"Landry Hope was born on November 15, 2016. Her gestational age was exactly 29 weeks. She weighed 2 pounds 11 ounces, and measured 15 inches in length. When the nurse asked us if we had settled on a name, we told her we had not. We knew we liked Landry for a girl because it is my mother-in-law's maiden name, but we had not settled on a middle name. We didn't even know if we were having a boy or a girl. So, we agreed on Landry and my wife, Marie, turned to me and said "what about Hope" for a middle name. She nailed it. We were full of hope that Landry would grow and things would be ok.

Tragically, my wife Marie, passed away one week after giving birth. The name Hope suddenly took on an entire new meaning for me and my entire family. We are incredibly grateful for the care that Landry received during her NICU stay. We were told that Landry would probably be in the NICU until somewhere around her due date of January 31st. Because of the incredible care she received in the NICU, she was able to come home on the 4th of January. She now weighs more than 7 pounds and is doing well."

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Brooklyn's One Year Cake Smash | Charlotte, North Carolina | Child Portrait Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Brooklyn is one!  Can you believe this sweet little baby from this newborn session, this 3 month session, and this 6 month session is already over a year old?!  I cannot believe how fast she's growing, so I know her mom and dad must feel the same way!  Amy, Elliot, and Brooklyn have been a joy to work with over the past year, and I'm excited to continue working with them in the future!

Baby Plan membership includes a one year session, so Amy decided to do outdoor photos in addition to an indoor cake smash.  Brooklyn was not super excited to destroy the cake like most babies.  She's a lady, so she went about it very carefully.  However, once she got a little taste, she was all in!  

The Story of the Cake

Brooklyn did great at her session, considering the type of morning she and her mom were having.  The cake was ordered a few weeks before the session to be picked up at a local bakery.  When Amy arrived, she was told that the cake was actually going to be ready the next Friday.  Wrong.  She needed the cake that morning.  They messed up the date, so they were kind enough to give Amy four cupcakes to use at the session.  Not ideal, but it would work.  

Amy arrives with Brooklyn, unloads her outfits and diaper bag, and sets Brooklyn down.  She goes back for the cupcakes.  She walks in the door and immediately drops them, face down, on the floor!  Poor Amy!  We took a field trip up the road to Daphne's Bakery, and they certainly saved the day!  They had the most tasty almond cake ready to go, and of course it was nice and neutral - just how I like them.  

Luckily, Amy is a good sport and didn't let the cake fiasco ruin her day.  The new cake was delicious!  It was a little too big for Brooklyn, so of course Amy and I had to help her eat it!  Brooklyn was happy throughout her session, and we were able to capture some really cute images of her!

Aiden | In-Home Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Aiden wasn't supposed to be one of my preemies that I usually photograph in the NICU.  His mom called me well in advance of her due date, but unfortunately Aiden came a little earlier than expected.  He was born at 34 weeks and did spend some time in the NICU, but today is healthy and at home!

I photographed him in his home and he did so great!  He slept throughout his entire session, and didn't make a peep.  I loved hanging out with his mom during his session too.  She's so easy going and is thankful to have her boy home with her.  Enjoy Aiden's newborn images!

Update on Sebastian | 22 Week Preemie | NICU Portraits | Charlotte, North Carolina NICU Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Remember Sebastian?  He was born at just 22 weeks and 4 days and spent a significant amount of time in the NICU.  I photographed him when he was exactly one month old and 26 weeks 4 days, corrected.  He recently got discharged from the hospital and is now home hanging out with his mom.  I asked Sebastian's mom for an update and here is what she had to say:

“If I could just match his sleep pattern along with these doctor appointments, I would be perfect. I’m so happy he’s home. I watch him like a hawk and every time he grunts I take an extra peek.

I know that Sebastian is blessed to be a 22 weeker and only be sent home on vitamins, and that’s pretty much unheard. I want other moms to be hopefully that they’ll be just as fortunate. ”

Sebastian | 22 Week Preemie | NICU Portraits | Charlotte, North Carolina NICU Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

“Though the road is bumpy, I hold on firmly - Especially when kangarooing.”

I had the pleasure of meeting Sebastian when he was exactly one month old, He only spent 22 weeks and 4 days in his mom's womb before he decided to come out and see what's outside of her belly.  He actually decided to start making his way out as early as 18 weeks.  At his ultrasound, his mom was happy to find out that he was a boy.  Moments later, she was told that she was already dilated 1 centimeter.  She knew she was in for a difficult time!

On September 26, a "small, sweet, and perfect" boy was born.  Sebastian is loved by so many, including his grandmother seen in the photos below.  His mom wanted him to have these photos to be reminded of how strong he is.  She says, "I want to show him these pictures to remind him that he can accomplish anything.  He is my saving grace and my reason to continue fighting my own issues."

I'm excited to say that Sebastian (a 22 week preemie!) has been discharged home from the hospital!  He went home last week and is oh so handsome!  I'm excited to see how this preemie proves just how strong he is.  He has come such a long way, and I know his mother is so proud to have him as her own.  Big things are ahead for Sebastian!

Callan | In-Home Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

My sweet friends, Megan and Davis, had their second baby!  You may look at these images and be very confused... Callan looks just like their first baby, Colton!  He is a cutie and I cannot believe the resemblance!  Megan posts photos of her boys side by side on social media, and it is remarkable how much these two brothers look alike!  Take a look at some of Colton's birth and newborn photos taken back in October of 2014. I am always learning and studying the art of photography and lighting, and you can definitely see my progress when you compare sessions.

I got to bring my husband, Michael, along for this session. When our friends have babies, I always convince him into coming along with me because he needs to see baby and congratulate the parents, right?  Plus, I need a heavy lifter to carry all of my equipment.

We spent the day with this new family of four and really enjoyed watching Colton interact with his new baby brother.  Callan was super chill during his entire session.  I think he's going to be a really good sleeper with Colton as a big brother.  That boy is full of energy!  He is so so sweet though!  I can't wait to see what Callan's personality is like when he gets to be Colton's age.  

Update on 27 Week Twin Preemies, Ada and James | NICU Portrait Session | Charlotte, North Carolina

Remember my sweet twin friends, James and Ada?  Well, Ada finally made it out of the NICU to be home with her brother!  These photos were from our last session together, when she was 3 and a half months old.  She just had to show off her Christmas outfit!  She is such a sweet babe!

27 Week Preemie Twin Ada Smiling in Christmas Outfit

Here is an update from Ada's mom:  

"Ada came home on January 2 (after 110 days in the NICU) weighing 5 pounds 13 oz.  She now weighs 6 pounds 8 oz. She came home on a small amount of oxygen. She is becoming a better eater, taking bottles more quickly and efficiently.  She is enjoying lots of naps since being home in a calmer environment. She loves being snuggled and talked to and will stare at your face the entire time you are speaking. She can lift her head a little and turn it when you hold her on your chest. She also loves to grasp your finger or objects placed in her hand. She sleeps fairly well through the night between feedings but is an early bird who loves to wake up around 6 am.

James came home November 23 (after 70 days in the NICU) weighing 5 pounds 12 oz. He now weighs 11 pounds 1 oz!  He is changing so much every day. He is starting to look at you when you speak to him. He smiles socially, and he can lift his head and turn it during tummy time. He is starting to make "baby sounds" such as cooing when he is talked to. He is fascinated by high contrasts in color which means that our dark colored ceiling fan mesmerizes him. He sleeps extremely well from one feeding to the next during the night."

I am so excited to watch both of these preemies grow strong and develop personalities.  These parents are so sweet and I have truly enjoyed getting to know them!

Will | Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Jeannie is a sweet friend I met at the hospital - she works in a neighboring unit. When I met with her for her consultation, we hit it off from the start.  I mentioned that l hadn't been floated to work in her unit in quite some time.  In fact, we had never officially met in person until the consultation.  We had never crossed paths at work.  To my surprise, the very next day, I was floated to her unit!  I even gave report to her that night at the end of my shift, transferring the care of my babies to her.  By the end of her shift, she was into labor.  

Will was a few weeks early and spent some time in the NICU for respiratory issues, but was able to make it home in time for his newborn session, which was 2 days before his due date.  

Will's session went great and his parents were so warm and welcoming.  They even offered me some coffee!  I don't always get to drink it because I'm busy working with the babies, but I certainly appreciate the gesture!  I absolutely loved working with this family and their sweet boy!

27 Week Preemie | Charlotte, NC Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

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Ty

Born at 27 weeks 4 days, weighing 1 pound 8 ounces

“After approximately 5 years of trying with a couple losses, we eventually got pregnant with the assistance of IUI. On Mother’s Day of 2016, I found out I was pregnant.

After further appointments with REACH, it was determined that I was carrying twins. During the pregnancy around week 9, I lost one of the twins. I continued to have complications during the pregnancy with a subchorionic hematoma and hyperemesis. Following these issues, I was hospitalized at Presby Matthews for a week due to signs of preeclampsia and my placenta was not allowing proper blood flow to the baby. Following a week of observation I was released.

I spent a week back at home and was re-admitted to Presby Main a week later, at 27 weeks and 1 day. I received steroids during this time, my blood pressure continued to rise along with my liver values. The decision was made to deliver Ty by an emergency C-section on 10/22/16 at 0401 hrs.

During my stays at both Presby facilities, I can't say enough about the nurses and doctors. Everyone has been fabulous. Since Ty was born, it has been difficult traveling to and from the NICU but it is so worth it. The NICU Nurses and Doctors have been amazing and always keep us updated on Ty's progress.

It is stressful and there are "ups and downs" but you have to focus on the positives and keep cheering your baby on.”

Newborn Baby Girl, Lula Kate | Charlotte, North Carolina Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Kayla is another dear friend of mine!  I grew up with Kayla, running around the streets of Wexhurst, sliding down her playroom stairs on a mattress, and bouncing for hours on end on her trampoline.  We have so many memories together from childhood to rooming together at Clemson.  It's amazing that we've been friends for long and it has been fun seeing where life has taken her.

Kayla's first pregnancy was exciting, to say the least!  Miss Lula Kate surprised Kayla a little later in her pregnancy than most moms.  Kayla was more than thrilled to find out she was pregnant, and now she's totally in love with her new little angel baby.   

Speaking of angels, Lula Kate slept like one during her session!  She was alert for some photos too, which I am not mad about.  Alert babies can make for some really cute photos, as long as they're not crying of course. Check out the photos of Lula in the pearl necklace!  I think she looks just precious, wide-eyed and bushy-tailed!

I'm excited to see Lula Kate grow into a little person and watch Kayla and Jim learn the tricks of being parents.  Lula is already loved by so many!

Burdette Family | Fall Family Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Family Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

I am so excited that I was able to photograph this sweet family at Jetton Park in Cornelius, North Carolina!  Gail has been a friend of mine for over 4 years now (wow - that long?!).  We first met working together in the NICU, but she has since changed jobs to something more flexible and accommodating to her family life.  I was sad to see her go, but I'm glad she's still in the same city and decided to invest in a photography session with me. 

Now I will say, I have seen her girls on social media and Gail has told me all about them.  Sure, they seemed pretty cute.  When I saw them in person and had the opportunity to interact with them, I fell in love!  They are full of joy and are growing up to be such sweet little ladies.  

This fall family session was a lot of fun and I think you'll be able to see that in these photos!  Check them out!

Taylor Family | Fall Special 2016 | Charlotte, North Carolina Family Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

This fall family session was fun and very girly!  With their matching outfits, Riley and Hayden pranced around Glencairn Garden in Rock Hill until they couldn't anymore.  They even brought their pink cowgirl boots along for the session!

I'm so glad I got these girls on my schedule this year.  I work with their grandmother in the NICU and we've been talking about making this happen for over a year.  Well it finally worked out and I could not have been more pleased with the final images.  These girls were so much fun to work with and I hope to work with them in the future!

NICU Nurse Linae and Family | Fall Special 2016 | Charlotte, North Carolina Family Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

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This session was so fun for me!  I did not meet Linae until the session itself, and I was so excited because she is a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse, just like me.  She works at a different hospital, but still shares a love for the preemies and babies.  

Here is a little background story about how Linae got her start in the NICU.  She started out as a nurse assistant. She had never been in a NICU and didn't even know that such a place existed.  She ended up spending a significant amount of time in the NICU because during her first semester of nursing school, her daughter was born at just 28 weeks. She weighed only 1 pound and 12 ounces.  

Today Jaelyn is a thriving senior in high school and she is on her way to college.  You'll be able to tell from these images that she is full of energy and joy, and she's the reason her mom ended up in the NICU in the first place.  Bryden took a little longer to warm up but he did a great job looking nice and natural in his photos.

Since this session, I was able to spend some time with Linae and a baby that she is very close to in the NICU where she works.  I had the opportunity to photograph her with the baby and his family on his discharge day!  Linae formed a special bond with his family during the 7 months that he was in the NICU.  The most magical part of this story is... Linae will be caring for him while he is at home!  When she is able, she commits to working with the baby through a home health agency so that she can stay in touch and keep the relationship with her families.  If that's not commitment, I don't know what is! 

Linae has such a big heart and will continue being a blessing to so many families!  She says she plans to stay in the NICU forever - even when she's in a Hoveround :) 

Shirley Family | Fall Special 2016 | Charlotte, North Carolina Family Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Meet this sweet family of 4!  I was so grateful for the opportunity to photograph this family again this year.  I met Ashley in nursing school and later found out that we were both from the same hometown!  She allowed me to photograph her family last year at Glencairn Gardens in Rock Hill, South Carolina.  This year I met up with them at Falls Park in Greenville, South Carolina when I was in town visiting a friend.  Their boys have grown so much - a lot can happen in a year!  Take a look at this beautiful family and make sure to check out the surroundings.  This park is the perfect location for a fall family session!

Jaxon | Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

I'm so excited to share this sweet boy's session!  Jaxon's dad is the little brother of one of my very best friends!  I had not seen him in years, and he's not quite little anymore.  He and his wife are so sweet (and photogenic!) and they are totally smitten with their firstborn baby.  

Jaxon was just 5 days old at his session, and he was a rockstar!  The family only spent one night at the hospital and then decided that it was time to bust out of there.  Mom and Dad are doing great at home with Jaxon.  Take a look at the images from their session!  You're to fall in love!

27 Week Twins | Preemies | NICU Portrait Session | Charlotte, North Carolina

“They are both so small, but they are such strong little fighters.”

Let me introduce you to James and Ada!  They are my most recent twin friends : )  I'll be following them throughout their journey, but let me share their story with you...

Virginia found out she was pregnant with twins when she was only 7 weeks.  She and her husband were thrilled, but at 16 weeks discovered that their baby girl was not growing as well as doctors would like.  Doctors weren't even sure that Ada would make it any further into the pregnancy.

At 20 weeks, Virginia was admitted to the hospital with preeclampsia.  She stayed for 2 weeks and then was later released with the understanding that she would be on modified bed rest to allow Ada and James more time to grow.  

At 24 weeks, Virginia was admitted again for elevated liver enzymes and also found out that there was limited blood flow through the umbilical cord to Ada.  After discussing several options, Virginia and her husband decided to do what was best for her babies...She would receive two rounds of steroids and then deliver the twins.

At 27 weeks gestation, the twins were born.  James weighed less than two pounds and Ada weighed less than one pound.  It was a whirlwind for Virginia but she is so thankful that they are safe and growing now.  James is breathing on his own with bubble CPAP and Ada is still needing support breathing so she is intubated on a ventilator.  Although these babies have a long way to go, I'm excited to follow them and see their progress!  Take a look at these little guys below!

Meet the Queen City Quints | 27 Weeks | NICU Portraits | Charlotte, North Carolina NICU Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Well I'm quite behind on my blogging, but I figured I'd better get this one up before ALL FOUR babies are home!  If you haven't been following the Queen City Quints, they have made huge progress and are going home one by one!  Both girls were discharged after 75 days in the hospital, leaving the boys behind to hold down the fort in Bonnerville.  Aubree and Emilee are showing Ben and Carter how it's done!

As these kiddos have grown, they have developed their own individual personalities, which they definitely show in these images!  Can you tell which one will be the feisty one?  Which one is the sweetest and calmest of the bunch?  Flip through these photos and comment below!  The Queen City Quints are going to be so fun to follow!

Margaret | Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Sweet Margaret Tinsley!  She was an angel to work with.  She did exactly what I asked of her - sleep, sleep, and sleep!  I went to nursing school at Clemson with her mom, Jessica, who is now a nurse practitioner.  Jessica's son, Thomas, was one of my first ever newborn sessions!  I must say, I have definitely improved since his newborn session... I'm so glad when client's decide to continue growing with me as my business grows!  I appreciate that so much, and it's so fun to see my newborns grow into toddlers!  Here are some of my favorites from Margaret's newborn session.  

Quinn | Newborn Session | Charlotte, North Carolina Newborn Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Introducing... Quinn Berkeley!  She's a sweetie and Teagan is a very proud big sister!  I was so glad to have the opportunity to capture these images of my work friend's baby.  Kelley is a NICU nurse and I am glad to call her a friend.  She's sweet and fun, and a little silly too!  We met on night shift but we're both happy to be working in the sunlight hours now.  Enjoy these photos - and this pretty nursery!

Queen City Quints | 27 Week Quintuplets | NICU Portraits | Charlotte, North Carolina NICU Photographer | Krista Gantt Photography

Coming soon to a blog near you!  I can't wait to share with you the Queen City Quints!