One Tree Photography

The Woman Behind One Tree

Before anything else, I'm Jessica Peterson, wife of Trevor, and mama to Abigail and Waldron. I've been a whole lot of things in my life (waitress, middle school teacher, Barnes & Noble bookseller, blackjack dealer…), but this is what I was meant to be doing. I always wanted to be an artist – I had that burning something inside telling me to CREATE, but I couldn't draw or paint or sculpt. Photography had been a hobby since college, but it wasn’t until my daughter was born that I really embraced it as a creative outlet.

Before setting out on my own, I worked for one of those busy photo studio chains. There were things I liked and things I didn't, but I learned a lot about what is really important to me as a photographer. (Hint: it's not about getting the perfect smile.) I've also learned that while I can't draw, I CAN see. My artistic gift is my vision, and it's made even stronger as a mother. There is beauty in everything – in eyes and details and gestures and glances. I'd love to share some of what I see with you.

Apr 24 2012

Elliot’s Birth Day {Seattle Birth Photography}

Last Wednesday, the day after Gemma’s birth, I got to photograph Elliot’s birth as well. Honestly, I was not expecting this because A. I had JUST been at a birth, and B. it was Corey’s due date and only 5% of babies are born on their due dates. Tuesday night, Corey told me that Elliot was a gentleman and would let me have a full night of sleep before he got things going. Elliot was true to his word, and wow, did I appreciate that night of sleep.

Wednesday morning, around eleven, Corey texted me to let me know she had had her membranes swept at her midwife appointment that day. I mentally prepared for her labor to pick up maybe later that evening or the next day, but didn’t think I’d need to change my plans for the day at all. Apparently, Corey started having contractions on the way home from her appointment, but didn’t know exactly where they were headed. At 2:19, in the middle of Abby’s preschool, I got a call from Neil saying they were on their way to the birth center. I could tell from his voice that they were in a rush. I told him I’d be there as soon as possible. I grabbed Abby, ran to the car, dropped her off at my mom’s house and headed to the birth center. Yes, I used the carpool lane illegally (though I hear that’s nothing compared to Neil’s drive home from work!).

I walked into the birth suite at 3:15 and was told by a student midwife that I was just in time. Corey was in the pool, breathing heavily, and I heard her say, “I’m not ready to push yet. Someone’s going to have to remind me how to push.” She had just been checked and was complete. I clicked away with my camera, SO thankful that baby was not out yet. Corey did start pushing just minutes later, using her breath to guide baby down and out. It was quiet and peaceful and perfect. Corey’s hands were right there ready to catch Elliot as he came out, and the midwife untangled him from a cord that was crazily wrapped around his body. I just love the images of Elliot on Corey’s chest as she looks up at Neil with love and joy and pride.

A little while later, Elliot’s big brother and grandmother came by to join the family. These are some of my favorite sibling pics ever. Liam was over-the-moon happy with his little brother. Such a perfect way to spend an afternoon!