After the birth of my second baby, I traded in wedding photography for onesies as I discovered my passion for documenting a baby's first year of life. I loved capturing it all from newborn photo shoots to those adorable cake smash sessions.
I have to admit in-home newborn sessions have become my absolute favorite. There's something magical about photographing families in your home where you first welcomed your little one, surrounded by the nursery you poured your heart into designing and where siblings feel most comfortable being themselves.
I also adore the friendships I form with families as I get to know each member during our time together.
Many client families throughout Indianapolis and Carmel, love to return each year for an annual family session that becomes more precious with each passing year. Images that will transport you back to the tiny fingers, sleepy smiles and genuine connections that filled these beautiful early days of your family story.
I'd be honored to help preserve these moments for your family to cherish for many years to come.
Stepping Out From Behind the Lens:
Meet Carmel, Indiana Family and Newborn Photographer: Kaitlin Mendoza
- The Outfit Dilemma: Stressing over what everyone should wear and whether it'll look good together in photos
- Unpredictable Little Ones: Worrying if your children will cooperate during the session or if it'll become an hour of coaxing and bribing
- The Investment Question: Wondering if the final photos will truly capture your vision and be worth the time and money you've invested
Families often hesitate to book photography sessions for these reasons:
As a busy parent, you know how quickly these precious years fly by. You want to preserve these moments, but planning family photos can feel like an impossible task when you're already juggling so much.
Ready for Beautiful Family Photos Without the Overwhelm?
That's why I've created a truly stress-free photography experience that addresses each concern:
- Wardrobe Solved: Access my complimentary client closet filled with beautiful dresses for moms and coordinating options for the family, plus you’ll receive personalized styling advice.
- Child-Friendly Approach: My sessions flow at your family's pace with gentle guidance and fun prompts that bring out natural smiles, not forced poses.
- Detailed Planning: We'll map out your entire session in advance, from location to timing to backup plans, so you can simply show up and enjoy your time together. Every detail will be carefully considered to ensure you love your photos.
How I Make the Experience Effortless:
-Kayla
“Katlin's patience with our toddler, flexibility with our session date, and beautiful photos are just a few of the reasons booking her is worth every penny. Cannot recommend her enough!”
“We had such an incredible experience!”
-julie
"We’ve worked with Kaitlin as a fellow vendor and client many times! Would recommend to anyone looking for a photographer who makes everything feel stress free and easy."
“high quality beautifully edited family photos”
-Kaylyn
"Kaitlin was wonderful to work with for our sunrise family photos! She worked some miracles with our 1-year old who had a short tolerance for photos. We had a sneak peek the day of and full gallery within a couple weeks."
"amazing memories we will cherish forever!
games of peek-a-boo turned down
0
YEARS IN BUSINESS
6
(to keep up with my kids)
average miles i run most days
4
baby toes photographed
650
years being married to my best friend
7
Especially features like their little hands, feet, lips, hair, wrinkles, rolls etc. They change so much in that first month so having these memories of how little they once were is everything!
Newborns
There’s something so special about photographing you and your baby in the nursery. I love capturing all of the thought you put into this space from the colors to the artwork and beautiful personal details.
Nurseries
I never put down my camera, because sometimes the best genuine laughs and smiles are those in between moments.
little moments
Twirling, swaying, jumping. I love using prompts with movement to help get those genuine smiles and joy from the families I'm working with!
movement
Photographing siblings is always a joy whether they’re snuggling close, stealing the spotlight or doing a little of both.
siblings
Five Favorites to Photograph:
When I’m not working, I stay home with my three little ones. It’s a dream come true. I treasure family time and date nights with my husband. Our labradoodles often join us on outings as well.
A perfect weekend at home in Carmel, Indiana starts with a morning run on the Monon trail near our house, brunch at Cafe Patachou, taking my kids to one of our favorite parks and a date night with a glass or two of red at Anthony's.
When I have a chance to get out by myself sans kids, you can find me taking my time browsing at the Keystone Fashion Mall or thrifting at an antique mall for one-of-a-kind pieces.
Beyond The Business:
Camera Down, Mom Mode Activated
I bring the same calm presence and appreciation for details to my work as I do to my own home life. As your Carmel, Indiana family and newborn photographer, I’m here to make your session feel easy and enjoyable from outfit planning to the final gallery. My approach is relaxed yet carefully guided, so you can focus on being present with your family while I handle the rest.
For Families Who Want an Effortless Guided Approach
