I’m a Los Gatos–based newborn and family photographer with more than 15 years of experience behind the lens. My photography journey began in nature—hiking quiet trails, waiting patiently for wildlife, and learning how to create art from fleeting moments. Those early days shaped the way I photograph today: calm, observant, and always looking for genuine connection.
After the birth of my son, when I picked up my camera to document his earliest days, I realized how deeply meaningful it is to photograph families—especially newborns. Much like wildlife, little ones move naturally and unpredictably, full of wonder and authenticity. I love preserving those tiny, honest moments.
Today, I specialize in in-home newborn lifestyle photography and relaxed family sessions throughout San Jose, Los Gatos, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and the surrounding Bay Area. My work is rooted in soft natural light, gentle guidance, and a peaceful, baby-led approach.
Whether I’m photographing your brand-new baby by a quiet window at home or your family at golden hour in the redwood forest, my goal is simple: to create timeless, heartfelt images that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
As a professional newborn and family photographer, an award-winning wildlife photographer, and a mom myself, I bring patience, intuition, and a soothing presence to every session. I understand how to work with babies, toddlers, and busy families in a way that feels effortless, natural, and relaxed.
Your gallery will be generous and full of emotion, with images meant to be displayed as art throughout your home or preserved in an heirloom album that becomes part of your family’s story. These photographs are more than pictures; they are a way to hold onto the most meaningful moments.
If you’re also a lover of nature, you can visit my Gallery Store to explore fine art prints, canvas, and acrylic wall art featuring wildlife and landscapes from California and beyond.
Thank you so much for being here. I would love to help you capture this season—beautifully, naturally, and with a calm experience from start to finish.
Why Hire a Newborn & Family Photographer
Life moves quickly—especially with little ones. Photography gives us the gift of slowing down, noticing the details, and holding onto memories that might otherwise slip away.
My newborn and family sessions are designed to feel easy, relaxed, and enjoyable. You’ll receive gentle guidance, natural prompts, and a calm environment where your baby and family can simply be yourselves. Clients often tell me they appreciate my patient, intuitive approach and the way I connect warmly with toddlers, children, and even pets.
Whether your session takes place in your home or outdoors at a favorite Bay Area location, I’m here to make the experience comfortable, meaningful, and genuinely fun—resulting in images you’ll love for generations.
"My husband and I booked a newborn session with Cindy for our first baby. As a first-time mom, I was nervous and still in the postpartum haze—but Cindy made us feel so relaxed and at ease. She followed our baby's cues and allowed plenty of time for breaks, which made the experience feel calm and unhurried. I'm so happy we chose her for our first family photos!"
Get to Know Cindy
Favorite places I’ve traveled:
Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and Hawaii for snorkeling and hiking. Internationally, I loved England.
Favorite trails:
St. Joseph’s Hill (Los Gatos), Russian Ridge, Hawk's Peak (Truckee)
Hardest hike:
Half Dome in Yosemite or the Kalalau Trail in Kauai.
Something people are surprised to learn about me:
I’ve lived in the U.S., Europe, and Africa… and I have a PhD.
Favorite times of day to photograph:
Mid-morning for in-home newborn sessions and golden hour for outdoor family sessions.
Favorite activities:
Hiking, cross-country skiing, playing ukulele and piano, and snorkeling and pickleball (when I get the chance).
Travel destination still on my list:
New Zealand.
Favorite quotes:
“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”—Dr. Seuss
“You don’t take a photograph, you make it.”—Ansel Adams
Most meaningful photo I’ve taken:
A landscape of Big Sur where the setting sun shines through a natural rock arch—a rare phenomenon that happens only a few days each year. I like this photo so much, I have a big print hanging in my home.
Secret to a great photo session:
A good attitude and being willing to go with the flow.
Best advice I’ve ever received:
Done is better than perfect.
A cause I care about:
Wildlife and marine mammal conservation.
Favorite way to recharge:
Hiking or cross-country skiing in the forest.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me:
Hiking, cross-country skiing, or practicing the ukulele or piano with my son.
Serving the BAY Area & Truckee
Bay Area
San Jose | Los Gatos | Saratoga | Los Altos
Locations in Santa Clara County in the South Bay Area, including San Jose, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Sunnyvale, Campbell, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Los Altos Hills, Santa Clara, and Cupertino.
Truckee - Lake Tahoe Area
Locations in the Truckee area, including Tahoe Donner, Donner Lake, Rainbow Bridge, as well as the North Lake Tahoe Area
San Jose, CA
Los Gatos, CA
Truckee, CA
"Our kids grow up so fast. Don't let these memories slip away."
The Newborn & Family Session Experience
If you love the idea of staying cozy in your own home—surrounded by everything familiar and calm—my in-home newborn sessions are designed just for you. These sessions are quiet, baby-led, and beautifully simple, focused on the real, fleeting moments of early parenthood. With soft natural light, gentle guidance, and a peaceful approach, you’ll enjoy an elevated experience that feels intimate, relaxed, and entirely stress-free.
If you’re someone who feels most at peace outdoors—walking a quiet trail, hearing the wind through the trees, or watching the sunset by the ocean—then we’re already a wonderful match. I love working with families who appreciate nature as much as I do.
For outdoor Bay Area family photography, I’ll guide you to beautiful locations across Los Gatos, Palo Alto, Los Altos, and the surrounding South Bay. I offer relaxed posing, natural prompts, and a calm, intuitive approach that helps everyone feel at ease. Together, we’ll create meaningful images while making memories—exploring and connecting in a way that feels genuine and fun.
It’s truly an honor to get to know the families I photograph, and I deeply value the relationships that grow through this experience.