Family Shoot - The Holders
In February I took some family pictures of the lovely Holder family. It had been a year since the arrival of Tom and it was great to catch up with them and find out about life with number 2 on the scene.
1. How did you go about picking names, any story or family history?
We went through a few names but none seemed to stick until we came across Tom. Edward is his middle name after his Grandad and Great Grandad. He’s sometimes called little Eddie.
2. What has been easier/more difficult with baby number 2?
The easier part I guess is that you relax a little more about the ‘rules’ and ’advice’ that got hammered into you with baby no1 from all the well meaning books/midwives/health visitors/ relatives. You just do it your way. Most of the attention is still on the toddler and managing their day whilst newborn eat/sleeps/poos.
The most difficult bit Ive found as they get older ( as i’m sure all mothers know) is the time management/organisation issue. No job can ever get done from start to finish. My house and life is a mess of unfinished, half started jobs. You find yourself running around in a blur trying to get these things finished then having to slow down to a snails pace whilst I wait for Pippa to get her shoes and coat on ever so so so slooowly. God forbid you dare try and put them on her. Major meltdown ensues and you are back to where you were 20 minutes ago. Its like playing snakes and ladders in treacle.
3. How has Pippa found having a brother?
She loves him to bits and loves to look after him but there can be the odd hug that develops into a headlock or twist of his hand! But they are quite a team. Pippa says she is 'sausage dog’ and Tom is ‘ Chunky chip’ and that together they are ’Sausage and Chips’! No-one can make Tom belly laugh like Pippa can. He thinks she is hilarious. She has taught him that farting is funny.
4. Are boys easier than girls or vice versa, what's different?
Neither one is easier or more difficult. Each have their own demands. Boys are far more full on with their physicality and fearlessness once they are on the move! He’s really into exploring his environment now. He’s into the fireplace, cupboards, shelves and this morning he managed to open the front door! Whereas I think girls tend to crave more of your actual attention, the more relational/emotional stuff.
5. What are tom's favourites? Food, toy etc…
ANY food and lots of it! His favourite toys are not actually toys but more objects. Although he loves, loves LOVES his beloved Cat. Everything is ‘Cat’. Show him any animal and he will call it a cat. He loves his books. He will sit for ages on a cushion with ankles crossed like an old man,( book upside down preferably) pointing and chattering away !
6. Any other things you'd like to share, advice etc…
Enjoy the moment and take more photos! With a 2nd baby time flies by even faster than the first. Before you know it they are eating/talking/walking.!
Remember to get washed/dressed before the kids otherwise it will never happen and you'll be in your PJs all day. ( and in the photos)
7. Why are photos important?
Photos are incredibly important as your memory is just mush and time is flying by so fast its making you dizzy. I have very clear baby memories of Pippa as a baby but much less of Tom. Ironically there is less time to take more photos with a 2nd baby.
Check out this selection of shots from the shoot. If you are interested in having a family lifestyle shoot please do get in touch: austinsheppardphotography@gmail.com
