Since Teddy is my baby, I wanted to make sure I could capture him as a puppy. I knew the perfect person for the job. I have a friend named Tina DaSilva, whom I have known since Elementary School, a fabulous photographer. She captures gorgeous newborn & family photos. When you see her social media, I can guarantee you that it will give you baby fever. Don’t say I didn’t warn you if you end up with a bun in the oven.
When Tina & I discussed the photoshoot, I informed her that even though I am trying my best to train this Teddy Monster that he hardly listens when we are out in public. She assured me that she was up for the challenge, and I knew my Teddy was in great hands. If you are looking for a photographer in the South Florida area, I recommend contacting my friend; because of her patience, creativity, and attention to detail. I knew already that Tina was a baby whisper, but I had no clue that she had that same skill with puppies. She truly made Teddy look like a Super Model Puppy overnight. He looked like he was the perfect model with all the right poses.
Please don’t take my word for it. Take a look at Teddy’s photos. For the entire photoshoot take a look at my Instagram page: www.instagram.com/southflorida_teddybear
Question & Answer Section
How did you get into photography, and why did you choose newborn & family photography?
I picked up my first camera in 2008 and started photographing my horses, animals, sunsets, and landscapes. I instantly fell in love with photography as a hobby. In college, I majored in Art at Florida Atlantic University and growing up always had a passion for art. Photography came as second nature once I discovered I seemed to have a natural eye for photography. I had never taken a professional class in photography. I taught myself everything I know through trial and error and lots of practice. I had friends who were getting engaged, married, and/or pregnant, who asked me to take their photos. At first, I resisted, but after soul searching and lots of courage, I ventured into photographing people. I was sick to my stomach before every session, full of nerves. But every challenge that presented itself, I accepted, and it helped me to grow. Not only did my skills in photography improve, but also my confidence in myself. I initially took every photo opportunity that presented itself to me, engagement, weddings, special events, children, and pets. However, after several years I realized that my passion was newborns and children. So, I chose to stop photographing events and specialize in one area to further grow and perfect my skills. I genuinely enjoy working with the little ones and gravitate towards them. Many clients called me the “baby whisperer” and asked me to return to their home at bedtime to ensure their babies slept through the night the way they did during their session! I absolutely enjoy meeting and working with families and watching their little ones grow.
What type of camera [and lenses] do you use?
I have 2 Nikon D850’s and my favorite portrait lens is the Nikkor 85mm 1.4. For my newborn sessions, I use a 35mm 1.4 Sigma Art.
Any tips for a new photographer starting out?
Be brave, step up to every challenge, and practice practice practice! The more you use your camera, the more familiar you will get with it. Take photos from different angles. Low on the ground, up overhead. Try new things. Experiment with lighting. Take risks. Just don’t be too scared to start. Everyone starts out somewhere, and you will continue to learn and grow every day. If anyone has any questions, they can feel free to reach out to me anytime. I’m happy to answer anything and help someone interested in the art of photography. Local photographers here are all super sweet and helpful. There is a wonderful, friendly community of local photographers in this area. They are always willing to help a fellow photographer and share tips, tricks, and information.
Do you prefer studio or outdoor photography?
I naturally gravitate towards natural light photography. I love using light and the sun to create artistic images. Images that just can’t be recreated in the studio. My favorite time to shoot is shortly after sunrise or just before sunset – the “golden hour” where the light gives off a beautiful romantic golden glow. I am, however, learning to love studio photography more and more. I always feared flash photography and indoor situations. But again, as I said earlier, I had to be bold and step up to the challenge. I have since learned to master flash and indoor external lighting and have my own studio available to clients. Now able to offer the option of outdoor sessions and indoor with air-conditioning for my clients.
Would you consider photographing more puppies? Maybe babies & puppies?
Absolutely! When I first started shooting, I was working at a pet resort. I would photograph the pups and kitties throughout the day, and we would play a slideshow that all the clients loved to watch when they returned from their trips and could see what their fur babies had been up to all day. We also did pet photos with Santa – which I’ve been strongly considering offering here to my clients. I own 4 fur babies of my own and would love to photograph more puppies and to do pet portraits. I would LOVE to photograph a newborn and a puppy together – just waiting for that right client! I have done several photoshoots that include families, children, and their fur siblings. I always welcome four-legged family members in my sessions. They are part of the family!
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I think my favorite part of my job is meeting couples and families, many who become lifelong friends. I feel honored to have the opportunity to be invited into their most intimate moments and watching their families grow. I love babies and children and getting to cuddle with them, play with them, giggle and laugh with them. I also enjoy the editing process and creating art from the images captured. Then, I share the photos with the families and bring tears of joy to their eyes.
Why do you love living in South Florida?
I was born and raised in South Florida. It’s a melting pot of different cultures, art and people. I love the beautiful beaches and crystal blue waters. I love being able to drive 3 hours south and be in Key West, or 3 hours north and be in Orlando. I love being 20 minutes from the airport to catch a flight or 20 minutes from the port to hop on a cruise ship. There are so many things to do and see here in South Florida. It’s like they say, “We live where you vacation.”
Tina DaSilva Photography: www.tinadasilvaphotography.com
Facebook: www.fb.com/tinadasilvaphotos
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tinadasilvaphotography
