welcome to
THE laurel smith photography BLOG
Sentimental families. Genuine connections. Timeless Memories.
Brentwood, California, is a vibrant and family-friendly city located in the heart of Contra Costa County. With its growing population and numerous young families, Brentwood has become a sought-after location for those seeking a balance between suburban living and access to the rich culture of the Bay Area. As a parent, choosing the right daycare […]
READ THE POST
When you’re preparing for maternity portraits in San Francisco, one question tends to surface above all others: What should I wear for maternity photos? It’s not just about choosing the right outfit. It’s about finding something that honors how you feel in this moment. The weight of anticipation, the tender vulnerability, the quiet strength of […]
READ THE POST
Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful and transformative times in a woman’s life. If you’re expecting, you probably want to document your motherhood journey before it passes by too quickly. As a motherhood and maternity photographer, I’ve had the joy of photographing many wonderful clients who travel from Brentwood for their maternity sessions. I […]
READ THE POST
Parenting in the Bay Area often comes with one shared value: sustainability. From refill stores in Berkeley to composting bins in San Francisco, families here take “leave no trace” to heart, even when it comes to diapers. For new parents, choosing the right kind of diaper can feel overwhelming. Between sleepless nights and feedings, the […]
READ THE POST
There’s nothing quite like that heartbeat-moment: seeing your baby’s features emerge, even before they’re born. For many expectant parents in the Bay Area, a 3D or 4D ultrasound is more than a medical scan. It’s a bridge to connection, a visual promise of what’s to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through: What a […]
READ THE POST
The first time when a parent holds their baby, that instant love is overwhelming. But feeding doesn’t always come naturally. Working as a maternity and newborn photographer in the Bay Area, I’ve been invited into countless homes during those early, tender days. I’ve seen the quiet happiness when a baby latches well for the first […]
READ THE POST
There’s a quiet awe in the early days of welcoming your baby home. The hush of your home in the morning light. The gentle curl of tiny fingers around yours. The way love reshapes your heart, completely and quietly, without asking for attention. These first days pass quickly. But the connection, the softness, and […]
READ THE POST
Finding a great babysitter in the Bay Area can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with moving pieces. Your schedule, your child’s needs, and your peace of mind all matter. Whether you’re looking for a sitter for date nights, after-school coverage, or last-minute help, having trusted options makes all the difference. This guide covers […]
READ THE POST
Choosing a daycare is one of those tender parenting moments, seeking a place where your child is embraced with warmth, curiosity is welcomed, and everyday moments shine. Just as photography gently reveals the quiet beauty in family life, these daycare havens offer intentional spaces for your child’s early days to blossom. Below, explore standout Bay […]
READ THE POST
As a photographer and a mother of three, I’ve learned that some of the most magical moments in your child’s first year don’t just happen at birth, they unfold in beautiful, subtle milestones. From the moment your baby learns to sit up on their own to their first wobbly crawl to that triumphant moment they […]
READ THE POST
