Tiana Lashae Captures Picture-Perfect Moments

Tiana Lashae has been crafting a picture-perfect business as a family and newborn photographer in a region that encompasses much of Southeast Michigan, including Ann Arbor and metro Detroit.

“I have been photographing babies for almost a decade now! That’s so wild to say, but next year I’ll be celebrating my 35th birthday and ten years in business,” Lashae said.

Motherhood Portraits by Tiana LaShae was an idea that was born at the same time as her oldest child.

Photo of mother holding baby
Tiana Lashae specializes in newborn photoshoots. Photo by Motherhood Portraits by Tiana LaShae.

“My oldest, who is 13 now, had the biggest personality as a baby and toddler, just undeniably adorable. I recorded everything. I honestly just wanted to remember his personality and youth as much as I could. Then I had three more babies, so my passion and excitement for growing babies and motherhood amplified.”

Lashae knows the importance of capturing these moments in time. As a mom, she has experienced all of the stages.


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“One day you’re feeling overwhelmed and anxious about being pregnant,” she said. “Then, you’re a new mom, with the snuggliest, most special and sweetest thing you’ve ever held in your life. Next, your toddler is running through the house with one sock on, begging for Goldfish crackers instead of the fresh hot lunch sitting on the table you just made them!”

Her photographs create lasting memories of these snapshot moments.

“It does go by fast. Cliche? Yeah. But you’ll want to remember your baby at every stage and version of themselves,” Lashae said.

Parents who are hoping for a successful photo shoot should do some research before booking a session. 

“Choosing the right photographer for your family plays such an important role in your overall success and satisfaction,” Lashae said.

A few questions to ask:

Will they work with older siblings? 

Do they offer candid lifestyle shoots or more posed studio shoots?

How long will the turnaround time be?

“Your photographer should provide everything you need to make the best of your experience with them, but you’ll want to make sure you two are a great fit across the board.”

Lashae will travel to hospitals for what she calls the “Fresh 48” newborn sessions, but one of her favorite photo settings is the client’s home.

Tiana LaShae takes “Fresh 48” photos. Photo by Motherhood Portraits by Tiana LaShae.

“I love being able to use my client’s unique spaces to create meaningful and storytelling portraits. Home is certainly where the heart is,” Lashae said.

Recently, her passion for babies has led Lashae to become a certified doula.

“Helping mamas make informed decisions about their birth and empowering them throughout their journey is going to be the best,” Lashae said.

Getting to Know Tiana Lashae

Where did you grow up?
I was born in Chicago and raised in Detroit.

School?
Crockett Technical High School (Detroit), Washtenaw Community College with an Associates degree in Business and Photographic Certification.

Tell us about your family!
I have a 13, 8, 5 and 3 year old. Managing their busy lives keeps me busy most days, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. My dream has always been to spend most of my time with them, enriching their lives. I am so grateful to have created a business that allows me to thrive as a mom and entrepreneur!

What do you like to do on a day off?
I like to take quiet and uninterrupted time to myself. I love sunsets and sunrises, especially near parks and/or water. I still like to write with pencil and paper, doodling and journaling. I am such a dreamer!

Favorite restaurant?
I love desserts! And my favorite is Key Lime Pie from J. Alexander’s.

Are you a book person or a movie person?
I am a movie person. Comedies, to be exact. But I love a good book that talks about finances or self improvement.

Dream vacation?
I would love to take a 15 day road trip, traveling from the east coast to the west coast of the USA! I want to see all the big monuments, landmarks, history, scenic views, and experiences in between.

Favorite quote?
“When life’s stressful, our kids watch for cues. When we keep calm amid chaos, we teach our kids they can, too.” We are our kids’ first teachers.

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