I was the first. Well, besides the doctors, nurses, her mom and her dad... I was the first to Hold her. Even before the grandparents. Sometimes, it really pays to be a photographer...

With the birth of my brother's first child, we knew they were having a boy, and I was invited in to photograph the birth. It was an amazing experience. Upon finding out they were expecting number two, they decided to switch things up. Not only did they decide to have a private delivery, they also decided not to find out the gender. Even though I begged. And pleaded.

The baby's due date came and went, and I {im}patiently waited. And waited. Nine days after her due date, my sister in law went into labor. I packed up my gear and headed to the hospital, eager to meet my new niece or nephew. At 6:39 pm, Aslyn Ryan was born. Shortly after, I was welcomed into the delivery room, where the secret of her gender was revealed to me.

I was honored to document her big brother meeting her for the very first time.









After we had taken some photos (and I had a chance to hold her) the grandparents came in. This is my mom holding her granddaughter for the very first time.

























My brother holding his son - this is my absolute favorite photo from the hospital that night.



To see more images and view the slideshow, click here.