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Portrait photographer specializing in newborns, families, couples, and seniors. Serving the Des Moines, Iowa metro since 2021.
Blog
Read more about sessions, inspiration, behind the scenes footage, and some before and after shots on the blog. You can use the search feature if you are looking some specific content such as 'senior' or 'newborn' or you can just scroll and read all the blog posts!
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Capturing Memories: A Newborn Family Session at Our Des Moines Studio
I typically start all my newborn sessions with baby on a white backdrop on the posing table. I do what is called 'Mugshots' and I capture different facial expressions along with macro shots and baby's tiny features.

Calli Tuggle
Jun 283 min read


Back to Basics Studio Mini Sessions - Des Moines, Iowa
In late May, I organized a 'Back to Basics' Mini session at my studio in Des Moines. I captured the images against a white seamless backdrop without any props—just the family. I must say, these are some of my favorite studio photographs! There is often a beauty in a simple setup that allows the subject to stand out.

Calli Tuggle
Jun 272 min read


Diversity in Studio Maternity Sessions
Whenever I am asked what my favorite type of session to photograph is, without hesitation I say 'Maternity!' It also makes me feel a bit like a hypocrite though, because I only ever did maternity photos with babies 2 and 3. They are my favorite to photograph though. I have been loving having a larger studio space that allows for a variety of different sets. I do love outdoor sessions, but I am also very honest, that not every person is wanting to traverse through the wilderne

Calli Tuggle
Jun 152 min read


Newborn Photos - How to Soothe a Baby
What will the photography do to help soothe and comfort the baby during their newborn photos? Here's a list of ways I keep baby calm and con

Calli Tuggle
Feb 123 min read


Dominic - Dual Athlete's Senior Photos
Dominic is an athlete and wanted to incorporate his sports (football and wrestling) into his senior photos.

Calli Tuggle
Jan 272 min read


Why Investing in a Professional Photographer Is Worth Every Penny
In today’s image-centric society, captivating visuals play a crucial role in how we communicate and connect. Whether you want to preserve

Calli Tuggle
Jan 194 min read


Emma - Ankeny Centennial Senior
Ankeny Centennial Senior photographed during two sessions for her senior photo session.

Calli Tuggle
Nov 19, 20242 min read


Go Ninja, TMNT Family Photos!
This was the year we decided to dress as our fav turtles and friends. Funnily enough, the turtles and our boys share similar personality

Calli Tuggle
Nov 5, 20243 min read


Instead of Posed Photos...
When we think of family photos, so many of us think of the stuffy posed photos from the 1990's. The unnatural poses and plastic smiles.

Calli Tuggle
Sep 23, 20242 min read


Camera Basics & Exposure Triangle
There's more to photography than simply clicking a button, but most people are unaware of the relationship between light

Calli Tuggle
Aug 22, 20243 min read


White Sheet Session
If you're anything like me, you've spent hours scrolling Pinterest while procrastinating doing the laundry. I love looking at out of the...

Calli Tuggle
Aug 10, 20232 min read


Changing it Up - Sunset Session
I've mentioned a time or two (or a million) that I am such a lover of learning. I would be a full-time college student if college courses...

Calli Tuggle
May 31, 20233 min read


Cuddly and Cute Newborn Boy
I have mentioned before that in the late summer, I accepted a position as an in-hospital photographer for a national company that offers...

Calli Tuggle
May 7, 20232 min read


Spring Mini Sessions
Des Moines, Iowa Family Photographer - Indoor spring mini sessions located in Norwalk, Iowa for Mother's Day, families, couples, & maternity

Calli Tuggle
Apr 1, 20232 min read


Packing a Hospital Bag for Fresh 48 Photos
Fresh 48 photos take place within the first 48 hours of your baby's life, oftentimes at the hospital. Many hospitals in the Des Moines...

Calli Tuggle
Mar 28, 20236 min read


Glitter Session: Mom+ Mini
A few weeks ago I hosted glitter mini sessions in my in-home studio. P's mom was the first to book the session. A few days before the big...

Calli Tuggle
Mar 9, 20231 min read


Moiré Effect
Have you ever been in a Facebook group primarily made up of moms? Oh yeah, I have. Aside from my least favorite topic of "Name that...

Calli Tuggle
Feb 7, 20231 min read


Shh, We're in a Library!
I have known the Severe family for six or seven years--ever since their oldest son was a pre-verbal toddler that communicated through...

Calli Tuggle
Dec 5, 20222 min read


Why do Photos in YOUR Home?
Have you ever considered having a professional photographer come to your family home to do a lifestyle session? I want to quickly go over...

Calli Tuggle
Nov 12, 20223 min read


The Addams Family Maternity Session
Were you a 90's kid, like me? If so, you probably remember the 1991 movie The Addams Family. At the end of the film, the family's...

Calli Tuggle
Nov 12, 20222 min read
Family, senior, couples, and newborn photographer serving the Des Moines, Iowa area since 2021.
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