A Cozy Evening with the Millen Family | Lancaster PA Newborn Photographer

Three Kids, One Cozy Evening, and a Newborn’s First Portraits

One of the best parts of what I do is watching families grow. When Rebecca reached out to book a newborn session for their third baby, I was genuinely so excited. I’ve photographed their first two little ones, and it felt extra special to help them complete this next piece of their story with the same soft, timeless look they already love.

They chose an evening session this time, which made a big difference. In Rebecca’s words, “We were able to keep our three kids (3, 2, and newborn) on their regular schedule, which helped the photo session go smoothly. They were able to nap, get baths, eat, and be in good spirits at their best part of the day.”

And that’s exactly how the Millens roll. They’re casual, home-loving people who enjoy the simple things: gardening, birdwatching, cooking, building with Legos, and exploring the world from their own backyard. I could feel that energy in their session. It wasn’t about perfect poses or looking a certain way. It was about being together, making each other laugh, and soaking in the sweetness of this season.

Baby Miles slept peacefully, wrapped in a soft blue, with one of the happiest little smiles I’ve ever seen. Rebecca told me that photo is her favorite and I have to agree it’s a good one.

Throughout the session, the girls took turns being silly and sweet. Amelia made us all laugh. Ainsley, true to her independent spirit, let us know exactly when she was done taking photos. I love moments like that because they tell a real story. These aren't just images to fill a frame. They’re pieces of your family’s life, just as it is right now.

Rebecca shared something that really stuck with me. She said, “I’d like to remember the unexpected hugs, kisses, ‘I love yous,’ and those random, sweet moments that come from little kids being so uninhibited.”

Those are the moments that often go unnoticed but mean the most. It reminded me of what so many of us want to hold on to as our babies grow…those genuine, unplanned bursts of love.

To the Millen family: Thank you for coming back to me time and time again. It means the world. Watching your little ones grow and getting to freeze these sweet memories for you is truly an honor.

If you're reading this and thinking about booking a session, I’d love to work with you too. I am currently booking due dates through September with the rest of the year opening very soon! If you want in, now’s a great time to reach out. We can plan something relaxed, real, and totally you.

Let’s make some magic together.

3 Tips for Gorgeous Summer Family Photos | Angie Englerth Photography

3 Tips for Gorgeous Summer Family Photos

Summer is a great time for family photos…longer days, glowing sunsets, and everyone’s in a more relaxed, playful mood. Whether you’re planning a session on the beach, in a grassy field, or in your own backyard, these three simple tips will help your family look and feel amazing in your photos.

1. Choose Light, Airy Clothing

Summer light is soft and golden. Your outfits should match that vibe! Think light colors, soft neutrals, and pastels like blush, ivory, sky blue, or sage green. These tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your faces and connection, not busy patterns.

Style tip: Avoid logos and neon colors (they reflect weirdly in sunlight). Linen, cotton, and other breathable fabrics are perfect for keeping cool and comfortable.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone in identical white shirts and jeans. Instead, aim for coordinating outfits that blend together in a natural way. Pick a soft color palette, then mix and match textures and layers within that scheme.

Style tip: Start with mom’s outfit first…something she feels beautiful and comfortable in! Then build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around that.

3. Embrace Barefoot, Windy Hair, and Play

Summer photos are about capturing joy, not perfection. If the kids kick off their shoes, or if the wind catches your hair just right…that’s the magic. Some of the most beautiful images happen when families are relaxed and just enjoying the moment together.

Style tip: Let the kids bring something fun! Bubbles, a straw hat, or a favorite summer book can add a playful touch and help them feel at ease.

Ready to Book Your Summer Session?

My calendar is now open through September, and these golden summer evenings are already filling up. Let’s create something beautiful and full of joy for your family this season.

📅 Book Your Session Here

Have questions about what to wear? I’m happy to help you plan your outfits!

Extended Family Session in the Greenhouse | Lancaster Family Photographer | Angie Englerth

Extended Family Session in the Greenhouse

I never got around to posting this blog last year so why not now?!

Sam reached out to me many months in advance about setting up this session. I thought it was a wonderful idea and looked forward to the day it finally came. The date arrived and….it rained. When you have so many people scheduled to meet, it’s nearly impossible to reschedule so we looked at some creative options and ended up in the beautiful greenhouse of Reiff’s! I asked Sam some questions about her session. See what she has to say and then check out a bunch of fun favorites from the session!

What was your favorite part about our session together?

All of it! Ive worked with Angie a few times now and its been great each time. She really takes the time to understand what we want and adds some of her own flare too! With this session we had over 20 people including 9 kids and she was extremely accommodating with everyone. Our session was supposed to be outside and of course it rained. It was going to be way too difficult to try and reschedule with everyone so with a few hours before the session we switched to an indoor greenhouse that neither of us had been to before and the pictures turned out amazing! (So FYI anyone looking for a unique backdrop for photos... check out local greenhouses!!)

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

Honestly there are so many. We were lucky enough to include both my husband's side or the family as well as mine. This is the only time we have ever done anything like this. We have individual family pictures as well as a huge group photo! I'm so glad we did it. I cant wait until my son is older to appreciate memories like this. Life is so short and constantly changing. I will forever cherish the memories at this stage of our lives.

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

Do it! Angie is great. The photos are great. Everything is great. Did I mention she's great?

Have we done a session together before? If so, why did you decide to book another?

I have done a mini Christmas session, a maternity session, and a newborn session. I first found Angie when I was looking for a photographer for my maternity shoot. I wanted something that was all inclusive. (I'm typically a sweatpants, no makeup, hair in a bun kinda girl). So I wanted something that I could just show up and look fabulous. I was intrigued by Angie's wardrobe selection and she was able to hook me up with someone to do my hair, and another to do my makeup! She even let us use her studio prior to the photos. Her ability to accommodate exactly what I was looking for is the reason I come back for more!

What is your best advice to other moms regarding this age?

Soak it in. Take your time. Get this pictures done. I feel like especially moms are so used to being behind the camera. Sometimes its hard for moms to get in the pictures if they are always the ones taking them. You'll never get this time back. Go to Angie. Be present and be in the photos and you'll be oh so thankful you did.


Now for the part you came for….the photos!

Limited Edition Wildflower Mini Sessions – A Unique Opportunity for Magical Family Photos

Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time for one of my absolute favorite photography events of the year – Limited Edition Wildflower Mini Sessions! As a Lancaster family photographer, I’m always on the lookout for breathtaking backdrops, and this wildflower field is simply magical. With golden-hour light filtering through the blooms, it’s the perfect setting for capturing joyful, love-filled moments with your family.

Why You’ll Love Wildflower Minis

Imagine twirling with your little one in a sea of wildflowers, laughter filling the air as I capture the pure, unfiltered love between you. These sessions are all about fun, play, and connection—no stiff poses, just genuine moments frozen in time. Whether it’s giggles, snuggles, or sweet stolen kisses, this setting creates the dreamiest images that you’ll treasure forever.

Limited Spots – Book Now!

To ensure every family gets the absolute best lighting and experience, I’m offering only five Wildflower Mini Session spots this year. The golden hour light is what makes these sessions truly magical, and I want to make sure everyone gets that perfect glow! Because these sessions are so limited, they always book up quickly—so don’t wait!

Session Details:

• Date: Thursday, June 5

• Location: Stunning wildflower lookout field in Ronks, PA

• Session Length: 20 minutes

• Includes: 5 professionally edited digital images with the option to upgrade

• Price: $250

If you’ve been searching for a Lancaster, PA photographer to capture your family’s love in a truly breathtaking setting, this is your sign to book a Wildflower Mini Session!

Click here to grab your spot before they’re gone!

I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you in this dreamy field of flowers!

Why Every Mom-to-Be Deserves a Maternity Session

Why Every Mom-to-Be Deserves a Maternity Session

Pregnancy is a fleeting and extraordinary time—a chapter filled with anticipation, love, and the miracle of new life. As a Lancaster Maternity Photographer, I believe every mom-to-be deserves to have this special journey documented with beautiful maternity photos. These images not only capture the glow and beauty of pregnancy but also preserve the emotions and memories that come with it. Here are a few reasons why investing in a maternity session is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your growing family.

Celebrate Your Incredible Journey

Carrying a new life is nothing short of remarkable. Your body is doing something truly amazing, and that deserves to be celebrated. Maternity photos allow you to pause and embrace the beauty of this phase, highlighting your strength, grace, and the love you already have for your baby. At Angie Englerth Photography, I specialize in creating timeless, elegant portraits that showcase the beauty of motherhood in a way that you will treasure forever. My mission is "Capturing your journey to and through motherhood," ensuring every stage is beautifully documented.

Preserve Precious Memories

Pregnancy may feel long, but in hindsight, it is a brief and precious season. Once your baby arrives, those nine months will seem to have flown by. Maternity photos give you the chance to freeze this incredible time and revisit it for years to come. Whether it's the first flutter of kicks or the anticipation of meeting your little one, these moments deserve to be remembered.

Connect with Your Baby

A maternity session is more than just a photoshoot—it is an opportunity to reflect and connect with the new life growing inside you. Taking time to celebrate your pregnancy through professional maternity photos fosters a sense of closeness and allows you to cherish this intimate bond. It is also a beautiful way to document the love and excitement you feel as you prepare to welcome your baby.

Include Your Loved Ones

Maternity sessions are also a wonderful way to involve your partner or other children. Capturing the joy and anticipation your family feels can make your maternity photos even more meaningful. At Angie Englerth Photography, I encourage including loved ones to showcase the shared excitement and love surrounding your baby’s arrival.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Every pregnancy is unique, and each one deserves to be remembered. Whether it's your first child or your fourth, this journey is one of the most significant and transformative experiences of your life. Having professional maternity photos taken allows you to celebrate this chapter and creates a visual legacy that your child can one day cherish.

You Deserve to Feel Beautiful

Pregnancy can be challenging, and it is easy to forget just how radiant and powerful you are. A maternity session is a chance to pamper yourself, feel beautiful, and embrace this moment in all its glory. I work with each client to ensure they feel comfortable, confident, and stunning in front of the camera. My goal is to provide a stress-free, empowering experience that leaves you with images you'll love forever.

Book Your Maternity Session Today

Every mom-to-be deserves to have their pregnancy story told through beautiful, professional maternity photos. If you're ready to celebrate and preserve this special chapter, I would love to help you capture these priceless memories. Contact Angie Englerth Photography today to schedule your maternity session and let’s create images that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

The Best Times of Year for Family Photography Sessions

When it comes to family photography, timing is everything. The seasons offer different backdrops, lighting, and moods that can make your photos truly special. Whether you're capturing the early stages of a growing family or snapping those precious moments with your little ones, knowing when to book your photography session can ensure you get the best results.

Here’s a breakdown of the optimal times to schedule your session, and why each season offers unique opportunities:

Spring: Fresh Starts and Natural Beauty

Spring is a time of renewal, making it the perfect season for family and kid photography. The weather starts to warm up, flowers bloom, and the world is covered in soft, pastel colors. This season provides plenty of outdoor options, from parks filled with colorful flowers to green fields that symbolize new beginnings.

Why Spring?

• Fresh and lively feel: The vibrant flowers and lush greenery create an energetic and happy atmosphere, ideal for capturing playful and joyful moments with kids.

• Gentle natural light: Spring light is soft and flattering, which makes it perfect for portrait sessions without harsh shadows.

• Milder weather: The temperatures are usually comfortable, making it easier for kids to be relaxed and at ease during their session.

Summer: Sunshine and Family Adventures

Summer is all about sunshine, warm weather, and outdoor activities. If your family enjoys spending time outside—whether it’s at the beach, in the park, or on a family trip—summer can be the perfect backdrop for capturing candid moments. The long days also mean more daylight hours, giving you flexibility on the timing of your shoot.

Why Summer?

• Golden hour: Summer evenings offer the perfect golden hour light, which gives a soft, warm glow to your family portraits.

• Outdoor adventure: Whether you're playing at the beach or hiking through a forest, summer allows for more dynamic photos that capture movement and fun.

• Playful moments: Kids tend to be more energetic and playful in summer, creating natural, joyful expressions in their photos.

Fall: Cozy, Warm Tones and Seasonal Spirit

Fall is a favorite for many photographers, and for good reason. The weather cools down, the leaves change color, and there's a warm, cozy vibe in the air. This is also the time of year when many families start preparing for holiday photos, so it’s a great time to capture moments that you can share in greeting cards and around the dinner table.

Why Fall?

• Rich, warm colors: The reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn provide a stunning backdrop for family photos, adding depth and warmth to your images.

• Cozy outfits: Fall allows you to incorporate sweaters, scarves, and boots into your wardrobe, adding texture and style to your photos.

• Ideal weather: The temperatures are comfortable, making it an ideal time to capture kids in their natural state—without too much heat or cold.

Winter: Magical Moments and Holiday Cheer

While winter may seem like an unusual time for family photos, it offers its own special magic. The holiday season brings with it a sense of warmth, togetherness, and joy. Whether you're stepping outside for a snowy adventure, or hanging out in the comfortable studio, winter creates a unique and intimate atmosphere.

Why Winter?

• Holiday spirit: Winter often brings about family gatherings and celebrations, which can create meaningful and emotional photo opportunities.

• Snowy wonderland: If you're in an area that experiences snow, winter offers the opportunity for truly magical outdoor portraits with sparkling white landscapes.

• Indoor coziness: For those who prefer indoor shoots, we can work in the warm and cozy studio for your family session.

When to Book Your Session

• Spring: Book early in the season to capture the freshest blooms and soft light.

• Summer: Consider booking in late spring to secure your spot for a summer session.

• Fall: Fall is a popular time for family portraits, so it’s a good idea to book your session early to avoid the rush, especially if you want to incorporate fall foliage into your shoot.

• Winter: If you're planning a winter session, it's best to book in advance to ensure you're ready for the busy holiday season and have time to prepare your family for cozy indoor or outdoor portraits.

Final Thoughts

No matter the season, there’s always something special about capturing family moments at any time of year. Each season offers its own charm, whether it’s the soft pastels of spring, the playful energy of summer, the cozy vibes of fall, or the magical winter wonderland. The key is to choose a time that aligns with your family’s energy and the style of portraits you're hoping to create.

So, when are you ready to book your family’s next photo session? Let’s make memories that last a lifetime, no matter the season!

How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Session

Preparing for your newborn photo session is an exciting time, and a little preparation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Timing

As a newborn photographer, I recommend scheduling your newborn photos when your baby is around 10-14 days old. However, at Angie Englerth Photography, I understand that life happens, and I am very flexible if you cannot get your baby in before then. Newborns are typically sleepier and more amenable to posing during the first two weeks, which helps us capture those precious, peaceful moments, but we can still create beautiful images beyond that timeframe.

2. Feeding and Sleep

A well-fed baby is a content baby. Plan to feed your little one right before the session to encourage a full tummy and a restful sleep. This helps us achieve those serene, sleepy poses that parents love in their newborn photos.

3. Creating a Comfortable Environment

Our studio at Angie Englerth Photography is designed to be warm and cozy, ensuring your baby feels secure. We maintain a comfortable temperature and provide soothing sounds to mimic the womb environment, helping your newborn relax.

4. What to Bring

• Outfits and Accessories: While we provide a variety of props and outfits, feel free to bring any special items you'd like to include in your newborn photos, such as a cherished blanket or heirloom.

• Essentials: Pack extra diapers, wipes, and any feeding supplies you may need. Having these on hand ensures you're prepared for any situation.

5. Family Involvement

Including parents and siblings in the session adds a personal touch to your newborn photos. Coordinate simple, neutral-colored outfits to keep the focus on your family's connections.

6. Patience is Essential

Newborn sessions can last up to 2 hours to accommodate feeding, changing, and soothing. We take the time to ensure your baby is comfortable, allowing for natural and beautiful moments to unfold.

By following these guidelines, we aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience, capturing the tender moments of your newborn's early days. If you have any questions or specific requests, please don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted Lancaster Newborn Photographer.

How to Capture Love in Everyday Moments | Angie Englerth Photography

How to Capture Love in Everyday Moments

Simple Photography Tips for Parents

Love isn’t just in posed photos—it’s in the little, everyday moments that make your family unique. Here are a few easy ways to capture those heartfelt memories:

1️⃣ Look for Genuine Connection

Instead of asking your kids to smile at the camera, capture them interacting naturally—whether it’s laughing with a sibling, hugging a favorite stuffed animal, or whispering secrets to you.

2️⃣ Get on Their Level

Try kneeling down or sitting at their height to photograph the world from their perspective. It creates a more intimate and engaging photo.

3️⃣ Use Soft, Natural Light

Take advantage of window light indoors or head outside during golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for a warm, flattering glow.

4️⃣ Capture the Small Details

Tiny hands holding yours, tousled morning hair, little feet dangling from a chair—these close-up shots help tell the full story of childhood.

5️⃣ Let the Moment Lead the Shot

Candid moments are often the most precious. Instead of directing the scene, step back and let life unfold—whether it’s a kitchen dance party, a cozy book reading, or a spontaneous hug.

6️⃣ Embrace Imperfection

Not every shot needs to be perfectly posed—sometimes the silly faces, messy hands, and unexpected giggles make the best memories.

Bonus Challenge: This Valentine’s Day, try capturing a moment of love each day—whether it’s a hug, a kind gesture, or a sweet expression. You’ll be amazed at the little treasures you’ll collect!

Trusting Through Trials | Englerths Adopt

Trusting Through Trials: A Story of God’s Faithfulness

We could write a book on the Lord’s faithfulness in our lives as we stepped out in faith to pursue this adoption. We would talk about all the ways the Lord took away our attempts at doing this ourselves to teach us to fully rely on Him. We could talk about His sense of humor. If you don’t believe God has a sense of humor, we’d love to chat because He sure kept us laughing at some of the things He had planned for us. We could talk about the community He built for us, in perfect timing, to support and encourage us through this journey. Ultimately, we would want to talk about His faithfulness.

Reflecting on our lives, I am overwhelmed by the ways God has demonstrated His unwavering faithfulness. Through every trial, His presence has been undeniable. In our journey to build a family, we experienced multiple miscarriages. Each loss was incredibly tough, but God's comfort and strength helped us through. His promise to be close to the brokenhearted gave us hope in those dark moments.

When a sinus infection turned out to be a golf ball-sized tumor in my face, the Lord was faithful. Against all odds, and through fervent prayer, the threat of cancer was gone. When the doctor went to remove it, he was shocked. The entire practice was talking about it for many months to follow. This miracle in our lives further affirmed God's power and love in such a tangible way.

Later, when the world shut down, I battled a painful kidney stone that turned into a serious infection, leading to a hospitalization. There were no visitors allowed, not even my husband. Yet, even in this difficult time, God's presence and healing were evident. These experiences reinforced my faith and showed me how His love and power can overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

Our marriage, too, faced significant struggles. Yet, through dedicated effort and help from the Lord, we grew closer and understood each other better. Our marriage was not just restored but transformed, a testament to God’s redemptive power.

We began our adoption journey with a fairly healthy savings account, but then it seemed like everything that could go wrong did. We used our savings to kick start the adoption process. From then on, our bank account frequently hit record lows. We faced car troubles, unexpected house repairs, and the same inflation everyone else is experiencing. Even though we started with a healthy amount of savings, God consistently guided us to use it, whether it was for a problem that needed fixed or extra groceries to take someone a meal. This one continually blows us away. There were many times we offered to take a meal, not knowing how we would afford an extra trip to the store, but God knew. Whenever our funds were running low, He provided exactly what we needed, right when we needed it. This experience showed us the importance of relying completely on Him rather than our own resources. It took us longer to learn this lesson than it probably should have, and we're still working on it. Despite our imperfections, His support was always timely and sufficient, demonstrating His faithfulness throughout our journey.

As we enter the last stages of this adoption process, we're focused on bringing our daughter home. Although we still have financial needs, God continues to amaze us with His faithfulness. Our journey has not only strengthened our faith but has also deeply impacted our children. They've witnessed our trust in the Lord grow, and as a result, they’ve experienced remarkable personal growth in their own relationship with Him. We’re grateful for how God’s provision and guidance have shaped our family and brought us closer together in faith. In every challenge and blessing, God’s steadfast faithfulness has been our guiding light, proving that His love and provision are always more than sufficient.

A BIG Update | Englerths Adopt

The Day that Changed Everything

Wednesday was the day that changed everything. Ben and I happened to sit on the couch at the same (rare occurrence here). We were starting to catch up on our day and we both had missed calls on our phone. I looked at mine while he read the number on his. They were the same. A second later, mine had a voicemail.

It was our agency. Our main connect is out on training so this number was someone we didn’t have saved. “I have some news for you guys. Call me back at your convenience.” We couldn’t call back fast enough. We both knew what this could be, but held our breath until we talked to her. “You received a referral. She is a beautiful baby girl.” I held my breath as she went over all the details and once we hung up, Ben and I just sobbed in each other’s arms.

It’s her. This is the little girl we have been waiting for. This is the little girl God had chosen all along. This is our baby girl. He loves her so much and now, so do we. There are so many other parts to this story we can’t wait to share someday, but for now, we know who she is and are actively pursuing to make it official and get things moving so we can bring her home!

Please pray for our family as we adjust to the news and soak it all in. Pray for our kids who are beyond excited to bring her home and the pain of not having her here yet is now more real than ever. Pray for the Lord to provide the finances needed to make it to each next step (as He has done so well this whole process). Pray for us as we navigate all the paperwork and appointments to come over this next week. Now let’s get our baby girl home!

We are now at a place where we are about $6,200 away from where we need to be in 10 days. If you are able and willing to support us financially, we would be so grateful! We are so thankful to all of those who have already supported us to get us this far!

*UPDATE: We are now about $3,200 away from where we need to be in 6 days!

Please know, this is not expected! The best support you can give our family right now is to cover us in prayer! 

Here are some practical ways you can help us as we prepare for our next steps in the process:
 

• Due to the quickly approaching deadline of August 8, the best way to support us financially right now is through Venmo, Paypal, Cash or Check.

• Share our fundraising page and a snippet of our story with anyone you can! (This is tax deductible!)

• Share Angie's photography business! That income is helping to fund all of this so the more clients we get right now, the better! 

• Share our Etsy shop full of fun printables as well as graphic tees and mugs!

• We are still running a Numbers for our Daughter fundraiser with a few hidden prizes. There is still a photoshoot with me hidden in the numbers! This is a fun and easy way to participate in our adoption journey!

• Pray! Praying for us does more than anything else you do for us and we so appreciate it! Pray for peace over our family that God will provide. Pray for our little girl in Bulgaria that she would have an overwhelming sense of comfort while she continues to wait. Pray for her caretakers to be gentle, kind and loving with her. Pray for all foster and adoptive families worldwide! 

A Brief Update | Englerths Adopt

It's been too long since we updated here! We get asked often how things are going and the answer seems to always be "still waiting." After a busy fall and winter, we are officially updated on all our paperwork and back to waiting.

We are focused now on saving all that we can to be prepared for the exciting day when a referral comes. We will owe $9,300 at that stage of the process and then need to travel for trip one a couple months after (estimate is around $7,500 in expenses for that) so every little bit helps!

In an effort to help with the costs, we opened a gift shop called The Pursuit of Home. We’d love for you to check it out! We also have another round of Adoption Fundraiser Mini Session Marathons coming up at Angie Englerth Photography. For anyone who would like to donate a tax deductible gift, you may do that here.

Every day, we feel more and more a deep sense of longing to meet our child. We pray for her every day, many times multiple times a day. Our children talk about her as if she'll be here next week. Isabel talks about her sister all the time and all the things she’s saving for her. We are overwhelmed with joy thinking about the potential bond these two will have and we don’t even know her yet! We have gained so much peace from the Lord and while this process has been full of challenges, the Lord has used every one of them to refine us and bring us closer to Him. We pray that in this whole process, He will continue to be glorified.

Please pray for our family as we continue to wait and pray that the Lord will provide in ways only He can for our next step. Thank you!

Read more about our adoption journey here and follow along for updates.

Mommy & Me | April 2024 | Lancaster PA Family Portrait Photographer

Mommy & Me Sessions

Back in April, we spent one Thursday evening at the park and were blessed with the most beautiful weather! A bunch of mamas came out for their mommy & me captures and we even had a grandma join us! One mama had so much fun with this session and embraced the theme of their favorite books…Harry Potter! I can’t share everyone, but I thought it would be fun to share some highlights from the evening. Enjoy!

Celebrating 10 Years of AEP | Lancaster PA Maternity & Newborn Photography

10 Years

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can hardly believe it’s been 10 years. There have been plenty of struggles and growing pains over the years, but I couldn’t be more grateful for every single year. I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for AEP in the years to come!

I thought it would be fun to look back at some of my favorite photos (there’s no way to include them all)! If you came here from Facebook or Instagram, you may already be aware I am also giving away a photo session and digital collection valued at $775! See below for details on how to enter!

To enter, simply head to the Giveaway Entry Form and submit to win!

Addison | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Addison

Danielle and Andrew joined me in the studio back in October. Their sweet Addison had arrived and big sister Veronica came along as well! I often get asked if siblings are able to join in on photos at a newborn session. The quick and easy answer is YES! Absolutely! I always include sibling and/or parent photos in every newborn session that would like them! Veronica got started by playing in the playhouse and exploring the studio a bit and then when she was warmed up, she came right over and jumped in some photos with her new baby sister! Addison was an absolute gem to work with and pulled off each and every setup flawlessly! Now I know you came to see some newborn photos and we’re almost there, but I wanted to share some of what Danielle had to say when asked about her experience.

What was your favorite part about our session together?

“I really enjoyed how Angie took control of the session from the start. She took our daughter and began getting her prepped for the session. My husband and I were looking to have our older daughter in some photos and Angie was extremely patient and flexible. She told us she will start taking the newborn photos and when our older daughter was ready and comfortable enough to be in pictures she would accommodate. When our older daughter was ready, we walked over and Angie stopped what she was doing and got her right in the pictures!”

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

“I felt very unprepared for the photo shoot. I didn’t have outfits picked out or planned. My husband and I were blown away when we saw how many wraps and outfits Angie had to offer for all ages! This immediately calmed my nerves of my pictures coming out terrible because I didn’t plan ahead. Our experience was fantastic. The best part for our older daughter was the little toy kitchen area. That kept her busy while newborn photos were going on. Angie also had a tv on with our daughters favorite show and snacks! Very welcoming for siblings!”

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

“The pictures of both my daughters together just melts my heart! I also love how Angie captured ONE picture of our newborn smiling!! It’s so hard to capture those moments.”

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

“You do not need to bring anything with you to this session!! Angie has everything you need! Maybe a pacifier to calm your newborn through out the session if needed!”

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?  

“Seeing our girl and her heartbeat at every ultrasound appointment!”

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?

“Chocolate chip pancakes!!”

Do you have other children? How do they react to the pregnancy?

“We have a 2 year old daughter. We would talk to her about her baby sister everyday. Now that she is here, she is the best helper to mommy and daddy!”


What is your best advice to other moms regarding this age?

“Soak up every second! It’s amazing how quick time goes.”


And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Addison’s newborn session!

Ainsley | Lancaster Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Ainsley

When Zach and Rebecca reached out about booking a session for their newest baby girl, I was thrilled! Amelia was in the studio last spring and now I had the privilige of capturing sweet Ainsley!

I asked Rebecca a few questions and would love to share what she said with you all!

What was your favorite part about our session together?

“Seeing all the cute outfits Angie picked for our girl! It was also fun getting our first daughter into a few pictures with her new sister.”

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

Angie had done our first baby's newborn shoot, so we knew we wanted her to do the second, too. We wanted the same "tone" to the pictures so we could display them side by side and didn't want to go to another photographer who didn't have the same vision.

Do you have a favorite photo from your session? If so, which one?

Yes! Angie found a beautiful lace wrap with a dusky rose / floral pattern on it and a matching headband and photographed Ainsley in a basket with dusky pink lining - it's BEAUTIFUL.

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

If you have any preferences as to how you want your pictures to look, talk to Angie either before or during the session. She's really good about working with your tastes and what you're envisioning for poses/colors/props/etc.

What is the first thing that ran through your mind when you found out you were pregnant?

I was SHOCKED. Our first baby came after years of unexplained infertility, tests, and treatments, and I was not anticipating a second one being so uncomplicated. I found out I was pregnant again when my first baby was six months old.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?  

This pregnancy was significantly more challenging, as I was already taking care of a baby, but there were plenty of good moments - most memorable was announcing that Amelia, my first daughter, was going to be a big sister and finding out on Christmas morning that we were having another girl! We used hot chocolate bombs with pink marshmallows inside to tell our family members.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings? What were they?

This time around, I loved Taco Bell chicken quesadillas (same as with my first pregnancy) and iced coffees.

Do you have other children? How do they react to the pregnancy?

Yes, I have a fifteen month old named Amelia - she was thrilled when we brought Ainsley home! From the first day we introduced them, Amelia referred to Ainsley as "May May" so that is now her name around the house. Amelia is a great helper and likes to rock her sister in the swing and the car seat, and she helps me change diapers and give bottles. We are working on being "gentle" with the baby, and so far, she's doing a great job!


What was the first thing you thought when you saw your baby for the first time?

I thought she looked exactly like her big sister!


And now, the part you’re really here for…here are some favorites from Amelia’s newborn session!

Rachel & Weston | Lancaster PA Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Angie Englerth

Rachel & Weston

I first met Rachel and Ryan for their maternity photo session. They were busy with new puppies and snuck away for the session. Rachel looked beautiful in every shot and we talked in anticipation of their newborn session. Fast forward a bit and it was time to come back for their newborn session. Weston was wonderful and his session went flawlessly! Ryan and Rachel and their families are big college football fans! Scroll through the favorites to see which team they wanted to feature with Weston’s photos!

Just for fun…here’s some Q&A with Rachel herself:

How did you prepare for our photo shoot? How was your experience? Were you nervous or worried before? How did it turn out?

We didn't do much in preparation for the newborn photos besides venture outside the house. We had a great experience; Weston was totally comfortable with her and all the props and outfits. We could not have been happier with the end results!

What would be your advice to someone considering booking with AEP?

Do it! We did maternity and newborn and very thankful we did so we have those memories forever.

Have we done a session together before? If so, why did you decide to book another?

We originally booked as a package but if we didn't we would have definitely rebooked for newborn shots after our fun experience getting maternity shots done in some not so ideal weather.

What have been the most memorable parts of this pregnancy?

My pregnancy wasn't easy but having maternity shots done highlighted such a monumental time in our lives as a married couple about to welcome a new family member.

Did you have any pregnancy cravings?

Chick Fil-A everything

And now for the part you’re really here for….here are some favorites from their sessions with me!

An open letter to my {soon to be} daughter | Englerths Adopt

An open letter to my {soon to be} daughter:

I can’t wait to meet you. I can’t wait to wrap my arms around you for the first time. I can’t wait to give you the unconditional love that I already have in my heart for you. I know you haven’t had an easy start to your life. Things feel unfair and hard. It is, sweet girl. It is so unfair and I hate that for you.

When you come home with Dad and I, we will grieve the loss with you of everything you’ve known to be true. The loss of your first family. The loss of your country. The loss of the only home you’ve known. You will have lots of feelings and we promise to never stop you from feeling them. We promise to walk through it with you no matter how hard and challenging it gets. We are here for you baby girl. Always and forever.

I want you to know that one thing Dad and I are committed to is keeping your Bulgarian culture and heritage as much as possible and as much as you want. We want to celebrate all the things with you! Baba Martin day, Liberation Day, your name day and anything you want to celebrate!

I can’t wait for the day we bring you home. Your brothers and sister love you so much already! Jackson and Sawyer are excited to build Lego creations with you and show you the art of building tents. Isabel can’t wait to play dolls with you and show you around your room. Our days may have challenges, but they will also be full of so much fun and adventure together and lots of love!

On Friday nights, we have family game night. We can’t wait to add you to the crew! We take turns choosing what games we play. I look forward to seeing which ones are your favorites. We also love to have snacks out for game nights! Jackson and Izzy love goldfish, Sawyer loves pretzels and we all love popcorn! What will your favorite snack be? I can’t wait to find out!

You have lots of cousins waiting to meet you and play with you! 9 in total! We love having last minute get togethers to eat together and play. We spend holidays together and celebrate birthdays together. You already have a whole team of kids on your side and there when you need them. They love you so much already! In fact, your cousin Lynette made and sold bracelets to raise money to help bring you home. She can’t wait to meet you!

You have a Grammy and Grandpa, Grandmom and Grandpop, lots of aunts and uncles who will all fight to be your favorite, and you have five great grandparents who can’t wait to meet you!

There are so many people supporting us and helping us to bring you home. They have rallied around us and shared so much encouragement to us. So many people love you. So many people care.

Dad and I think about you all the time. We pray for peace over your heart during this waiting process. We pray for protection over you. We pray for your needs to be fully met. We pray that you feel the love of the Father that is overflowing for you.

We can’t wait to meet you baby girl! We hope to bring you home very soon!

xoxo,
Mom

Why International? | Englerths Adopt

I want to start with a statement that Ben and I had heard many different versions of since we began this process:

“Why Bulgaria? There are plenty of American babies that need homes.”

Let’s unpack this a bit.

First, as a mother on a journey to bring home a child via international adoption, this statement hurts. What I hear in a statement like this is that American children are worth more than other kids. American children are more valuable than other kids. God loves American children more than other children. As you’re reading this, I hope you realize how untrue that is. God loves ALL the children of the world. Nowhere does the bible say anything about American children being more valuable to him.

Next, let’s talk about the cultural component. We are not going to stand here and pretend that the cultural diversity our child brings into the family won’t matter. We are not going to pretend that our child won’t look different from us. She will. We aren’t going to pretend that leaving her country, the only home she has ever known, and her culture behind isn’t going to be hard. It absolutely is.

Let’s talk about international adoption in the world now. Many countries have come a long way over the last few decades when it comes to domestic adoption. They have far more resources and better programs put together to help find children families that need them. That said, there are still far too many orphanages in this world. There are far too many children left “unwanted”. To be available for international adoption, most children are first eligible for domestic adoption. When they reach eligibility for international adoption, this typically means all other paths to adoption have been exhausted and the child remains without a family. Sadly, the children left in these orphanages tend to be children that have more special needs.

God has so clearly placed adoption on our heart to lead us to this point. We don’t know what our daughter will be like or what special needs she may have, but God has softened our hearts and opened our minds to what we can do through Him. We will never succeed on our own, but through Him, we know all things are possible.

Now let’s rewind a little to exactly why we ended up in Bulgaria. When Ben and I started this process, Bulgaria wasn’t even a thought in our mind. When we thought of international adoption, Europe didn’t even appear as an option. The more we learned about Bulgaria and the children in need there, the more we felt drawn to adopt there. Once we officially decided and applied for the Bulgaria program, we felt such immeasurable peace that we were exactly where God wanted us.

I’d like to take a second to share a song that has meant a lot to us lately. You may or may not know, but Steven Curtis Chapman is an adoptive dad with a very powerful story. I’d encourage you to look that up and read about it if you don’t already know it. He recently wrote and released the song “Still”. I pray that as you listen, it encourages your heart and draws you closer to the Lord. Listen here.

Read more about our adoption journey here and follow along for updates.

November Auction | Englerths Adopt

As many of you know already, we are in the thick of the paperwork process for our international adoption. We are soon ready to submit our dossier (hopefully we will be registered by the end of the year). We have one last fundraiser planned for this year that we have been working very hard on behind the scenes. To say we are grateful to the businesses that participated would be an understatement. We had a response we never could have imagined and received donations from more than a dozen local businesses. We wanted to take a minute to spotlight them and share what will be available in the auction from their business. If you have something you’d like to donate for the auction, please see the details below or simply contact us.

Thank you!

First up is Fox Meadows Creamery. If you’re local, I’m sure you are already more than aware of Fox Meadows. They offer delicious ice cream sourced straight from their farm as well as lunch and café drinks. They also recently opened a new location in Leola so if you haven’t tried them yet, be sure to stop in! Fox Meadows generously donated three $10 gift cards for the auction.

Painting with a Twist is a fun art studio that has painting and partying mixed together in a unique experience! Ben and I took a class here together last year and had a blast! Not only do you leave with your own art, but you have so much fun while you’re there! Painting with a Twist generously donated a seat to one of their classes along with one of their paintings for the auction.

Courtyard Café in Denver has tasty treats, delicious meals and yummy café drinks! They are a local staple in Denver and have always been committed to being involved in the community. If you haven’t been there yet, I’d encourage you to stop in with a friend and take advantage of their cozy atmosphere to catch up! Courtyard Café generously donated a $25 gift certificate for the auction.

Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center is just that – a year-round retreat and center for family friendly fun and adventure. They offer ziplines, escape rooms, a wildlife center, a community pool (seasonally), horseback riding lessons, obstacle and ropes courses, homeschool classes, school field trips and so much more! They also have a beautiful display of drive through lights at Christmastime. If you’ve never been, I highly encourage you to check out this Lancaster County gem! Refreshing Mountain generously donated a 4 pack of passes for their Wildlife experience along with a 4 pack of passes for their obstacle course.

Foxchase Golf Club is a beautiful golf course perfect for golfers of all skill levels. They also offer an Indoor Golf Simulator and a fully stocked pro shop. They have been in businesses for over 30 years and are a great resource whether you need gear or instruction. Fox Chase generously donated passes for 4 to golf on their course.

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is a destination for kid friendly family fun! Located in Ronks, Cherry Crest offers so many fun attractions from a corn maze, discovery barn, and pedal carts to their hay chute slide, barnyard jump, duck races and cabin builders. I couldn’t possibly list all their attractions, but I encourage you to check out their website or stop in and see what they offer for yourself! Cherry Crest generously donated a 4 pack of passes to visit their farm.

Longwood Gardens is a unique destination for tourists as well as locals. Located in Kennett Square, Longwood Gardens offers beautiful displays of gardens and fountains. Whether you’re enjoying the Cascade Garden, walking the forest walk, or taking in the conservatory, there is so much beauty to take in. They offer lots of fun experiences from tours to classes and even light shows. Longwood gardens generously donated two passes to visit.

Complete in Box is a local family-owned game store in Ephrata. They are more than just a game store though; they offer an experience. My kids are always begging to go visit! They have a lounge area with a mini arcade to enjoy. They carry all kinds of video games from vintage to brand new. They are also very knowledgeable and will help you track something down even if they don’t currently have what you are looking for. In addition to video games, they have an entire section of their store dedicated to comic books. If you’ve never been in Complete in Box, I highly recommend stopping in and seeing what all they have to offer! Complete in Box generously donated a $25 gift card and a tee shirt for the auction.

Javateas is a welcoming café in Ephrata, with another location in Wellspan Hospital, that offers delicious gourmet coffee along with some light fares. Javateas is a great place to grab and friend or two and meet up to catch up! They also offer live music at times as well as free Wi-Fi if you want to stop in and get some work done. Javateas generously donated a $25 gift card for the auction.

Bounce Kraze is a family operated business providing fun for kids of all ages! They are Lancaster County’s only indoor Inflatable Park. They offer bounce houses, slides and obstacle courses as well as a dedicated toddler area. They also have an arcade, snacks and coffee, offer birthday parties and events, as well as rentals of the inflatables! It’s a great place to stop in with your kids and let them burn off some energy! Bounce Kraze generously donated 2 passes to stop in and see what they offer! These will be available in the auction.

Peaceful Valley Furniture is a staple of Lancaster County. With locations in Intercourse, Strasburg and Green Dragon in Ephrata, Peaceful Valley Furniture offers quality Amish made furniture. Peaceful Valley Furniture generously donated a $50 gift card for the auction.

Dairy Queen needs no introduction. It’s classic, nostalgic and delicious and located right in Ephrata. Dairy Queen in Ephrata generously donated 2 gift certificates for their signature ice cream cakes.

Weaver Markets is a staple to those in the Adamstown area. They are more than a grocery store offering a small restaurant in house, rentals for events on their lower level and the most delicious deli salads you’ll ever have! Weaver Markets generously donated a $30 gift card for the auction.

Laser Dome is a full recreation center unlike any other. They offer Laser tag, a laser maze, a rollercoaster simulator, Xbox zone, pinball alley and so much more! They make a great place for a birthday party or just a fun place to take the family for a night of fun! Laser Dome generously donated two all day passes for the auction.

Freckled Pear Co. is small business based out of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. They are two friends with the same artistic passion who not only love creating beautiful pieces of jewelry but also love creating items with meaning. If you haven’t already, go check out their shop! Freckled Pear graciously donated a gift bag including earrings, a necklace and bookmark.

Smucker Village is a truly unique shopping experience in the heart of PA Dutch Country! With Corner West, The Treasure Place and The Corner Coffee Shop, you will get the full shopping experience! Smucker Village has generously donated a $25 gift card along with four coffee cards to The Corner Coffee Shop.

Angie Englerth Photography - Of course I will also be adding a session with me to the auction items! This will include the session fee as well as print credit toward whatever you’d like.

We also have friends and family that have generously donated themed gift baskets in the following categories: Men’s Spa, Women’s Spa, Baking and Cooking, Local Flavor.

Want to get involved?

If you’d like to donate an item or themed basket to our auction, please contact Angie at amenglerth@yahoo.com or by phone at 717-799-0901. We appreciate all the donations we’ve received so far and hope you’ll join us for the online auction to get some Christmas shopping done and shop local all while supporting our family’s adoption journey!

The Home Study | Englerths Adopt

The Home Study

If you are familiar with the adoption process, then you know all about the home study. If not, let me give you a brief rundown.

The home study is basically a written report on our family. It covers everything from our family history, our work life, our home layout, our community resources, our hobbies, how we deal with stress, how our friends feel about our parenting/marriage/adoption and so much more!

This process takes time. We needed to have our fingerprints taken, background checks done, a water test on our well, lots and lots and lots of training and education, as well as doctor appointments with letters of recommendation. We also needed to submit a mountain of paperwork from birth certificates, passports, social security reports, income statements, pet vaccinations and so much more! Part of the process also includes interviews with our social worker (individual, couple, and our older kids) and a visit to the house for a walk through home and safety check. The process is very thorough (as it should be).

When we began our journey, we were told this process can take 4-6 months. Much to our surprise, our wonderful case worker had our first draft written after about 6 weeks! That brings us to where we are now. We have a few more pieces to finish to complete our dossier and then we are ready to send it in!

We are currently waiting for approval from our placement agency. Once we receive that, we will be able to complete the rest of our paperwork for the dossier. In the meantime, we are focusing on spending time together and doing all the fall things! We went to the apple orchard for the tenth year in a row with Ben’s grandparents, we ventured to the fair, we’ve been to all of J’s soccer games, we made lots of apple pie filling and we’re in a great rhythm with homeschool!

Part of sending in our dossier includes paying a large fee, $9,000 to be exact. We so far have raised and saved a little over $5,000 so we are close! God is providing exactly what we need when we need it so we are trusting he will do the same here. If you’re interested in being a part of our journey in this way, you can read about some different things we’re doing here.