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  • Newborn Photography at HOME : How to plan

    Photos of our newborn baby is a small way to hold on to fleeting moments, within days you feel them growing out of your hand and although days seem to never end a year goes by in a blink. Newborn Photoshoot at home At early stage when you take out your phone and search for 'newborn photoshoot' you'll come up with so many prop based from happy potter with complete floral set up. But whats the meaning behind them ? Mum is hold baby in different poses with fancy dress flying, trying not to judge here but what if our heart was craving for something more meaningful. Newborn baby with grandparents I feel like holding on to the feeling of holding this fragile little human who has made our life upside down in a beautiful messy manner. Many mums ( i am one of them too ) wanted to remember early days of being cooped up sleepless in bedroom, feeding diaper change and filled with soft cooing and cries. Like heart is bursting out of love. Baby's Routine is special to each parent So here is my take of some simple ways to plan a photoshoot at home and along with your family which will show your story. Getting bit of me time during naps Start small : Focus on Your Immediate Family First Divide the session or start with just the couple and baby so its less overwhelming. Just three of you with sibling if any. Immediate family first : Start on slow pace Embrace the Routine, Don’t Fight It Life is all about smaller things, Our childhood is filled with mundane memories and while doing such shoots hoping something magical is captured which our kids wish to hold on for Embrace the newborn baby routine Things you love to do as a couple Each phase is faced with different challenges from dating to just married and with kid coming into life its a whole different roller coster ride filled with fights and at same time with beautiful moments. Let your baby remember how you much you both love each other In my 5 years of being a family photographer, Parents tend to appreciate that romance more. Some alone time during baby's nap Get all things done while the baby sleeps is our motto during early parenthood and here are some memories while our baby takes nap Home is were out memories are made Less is more : Wear simple home clothes When it comes to newborn baby, I recommend WHITES !!! Its simple and elegant Acts as natural reflector to avoid shadows on babys face Newborn eyes are sensitive hence indirect natural light whites work the best. Home is home : Just try hiding bit of mess With sleepless nights, last thing you wish for is to clean up whole house for a photoshoot, if there is constrains of time. Just clear counters and hide things under. Conclusion : With parents on the phone all the time, we always emphasis on creating memories in real as it hold more importance than anything else in this world. Professional photoshoots are not just an investment but in a way of dithcing that phone for the whole year / or 6 months and just capturing whats important. Our kids want to see US !! not back of our phone trying to click their happy faces.

  • Light Dance on Water, healed my heart

    MOVE AGAIN : Bangalore to Small town in Punjab Recently moved to small town, after living in Bangalore... this move has hit me the hardest.. Half my heart wants to go back and other half wishes to remain as a family. Possibilities of running small business in small town But even after soo many moves, running a small business becomes more feasible in a city city, so starting all over new in 4th city has become a challenge.. ( or just block I have ) So stopped doing anything & grieving since I have moved here.. Light Dance : Waking the artist eye when no motivation left After almost few months, one fine day while my son was washing hands, my eyes on auto mode saw the sparkling water, the light dance was so beautiful. And as if he read my mind, Shaurya said ‘Maaa get camera’. Solution : Start all over again So I started AGAIN, small little joy of making lego bridge.. It made me realize i started off this to document our life as family, the main ‘WHY’ was to do it for pure fun and joy.. Financial Stability Challenges Ofcourse I loved when I got financial stability and it boosted my moral to pursue it more as professional. But simply put I just wish to be a ‘Storyteller’ for my family.. I forgot that ! Create for the love of it I might or just not get any clients living in a small town, but why stop ??took a lot of time but I slowy started seeing the beauty of our everyday again.. a simple cup of tea brings me soothing joy.. and looking at light glitter on steam just soothes my heart. ( Reading Creative Act: A Way of Being helped ) ( Reading https://chloelodge.substack.com Love affair with light kept me going ) So sitting back on my laptop now ( trying to complete pending work ) & look at it in a new perspective Photography is more of Play & it heals wounded heart My son has been pushing me more to document, which has surprised me !! Its our play time and somewhere its healing.. Non-Photography activities to do while feeling low Did some beautiful MBA courses, read a lot of good books, binged watched K-dramas.. some days walked around like sleep deprived zombie too.. Still feel caught up in too many thoughts & decisions, but trying to resolve one problem at a time. Time to start all over again Not knowing might become daunting, but doesnt the hero overcome the obstacle and win the day ? Been brooding over how good old days were , It felt like I am sitting in a movie re-watching over & over again.. Even though they done playing credits I do not wish to leave. Day dreaming how good it WAS, but now that Ends.. Time to starr in a new movie of life .. With villian as uncertainty & new locations .. Aim is to succeed anyway Only YOU can pick yourself !

  • Capture Everlasting Moments with a Family Photoshoot in Delhi!

    Gather your loved ones and create beautiful memories with a family photoshoot in Delhi. Durga Chincholi, a talented and passionate photographer, will skillfully capture the unique bond and essence of your family in stunning images. Today we take you on a journey and show you why a family photoshoot in Delhi is a fantastic idea. From picturesque locations to the importance of togetherness, we'll cover it all. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure where you can celebrate your togetherness! 1. The Beauty of Delhi Located in the north of India, Delhi offers an abundance of stunning natural and rural landscapes that make an ideal backdrop for your family photoshoot. From the peaceful gardens of Lodhi Garden to the breathtaking views of the Qutub Minar, there are countless opportunities to capture unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Whether you prefer a traditional ambience or a modern backdrop, Delhi has something for everyone. The city's vibrant culture and rich history add a unique charm to every photo shoot and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss the opportunity to document your family's adventures in this vibrant and diverse city. 2. Why Choose a Professional Photographer? While smartphone cameras have become increasingly advanced, there is no substitute for the skills and expertise of a professional photographer like Durga Chincholi. A professional knows how to use lighting, angles, and composition to bring out the best in your family portraits. Additionally, they have the experience of working with families and couples, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at ease during the shoot. Trusting a professional will ensure that you receive high-quality images that you can cherish for a lifetime. 3. Celebrate Togetherness In today's fast-paced world, it is essential to take the time to celebrate and cherish the togetherness of your family. A family photoshoot in Delhi provides the perfect opportunity to bond, have fun, and create lasting memories. It allows you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the love and joy that your family brings into your life. These photographs serve as a timeless reminder of the special bond you share with your loved ones. 4. Choosing the Perfect Location Delhi offers a variety of breathtaking locations for your family photoshoot. Whether you prefer the serenity of nature or the charm of historical sites, there is something for everyone. Enjoy the beauty of landmarks such as India Gate, the Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb for a classic backdrop that never goes out of style. If you're looking for a more relaxed and natural backdrop, head to Lodhi Gardens or Delhi Ridge, which will brighten up your family photos with their lush greenery. If you're looking for a touch of culture and history, explore the lively streets of Chandni Chowk or the colorful village of Hauz Khas. Whatever your preference, you'll find the perfect place in Delhi to capture precious memories with your loved ones. The choices are endless. These picturesque landscapes combined with Durga's artistic vision will result in mesmerizing photos that capture the spirit of your family. 5. Preparing for the Photoshoot Before your family photoshoot, it is crucial to spend some time preparing to ensure everything goes smoothly. Coordinate outfits to create a cohesive look for your family. Opt for timeless and classic attire that complements your location choice. Communicate with Durga about your preferences and vision for the shoot, allowing her to plan accordingly. Most importantly, relax, have fun, and be your true selves – it's the authenticity and love that shines through in the final images. 6. The Magic of Candid Moments While posed portraits have their charm, candid moments capture the true essence of your family. Durga has a talent for capturing those spontaneous, heartwarming interactions that happen naturally. From belly laughs to gentle hugs, these candid shots beautifully encapsulate the love, joy, and bond within your family. The result is a collection of photographs that are not just pictures but windows into your family's soul. A Gift That Keeps on Giving Family photographs make for incredibly meaningful gifts that can be cherished for generations to come. Whether you frame them, create a photo album, or display them in a digital gallery, these pictures serve as a constant reminder of the love and joy shared within your family. They have the power to evoke cherished memories and bring smiles to faces, even in the toughest of times. Consider gifting a family photoshoot to your loved ones to create lasting memories that will be treasured forever. Book Your Family Photoshoot in Delhi Today! Savor the joy of togetherness and capture precious moments with a family photoshoot in Delhi. With Durga Chincholi's expertise and the picturesque locations of Delhi, you are guaranteed a truly magical experience. Celebrate the uniqueness of your family, and let the beauty of Delhi become the backdrop for your everlasting memories. So, gather your loved ones, book your family photoshoot, and let the love and joy shine through!

  • Date day instead of maternity photoshoot while exploring Bengaluru

    Couple wanted their story revolving around how they spent their time together doing their favorite things and did not wish for cheesy maternity photoshoot. Planning of Session While discussing with the couple got to know that they didn't want anything fancy, posing or props. They wished for something very simple and true to its nature. Love having breakfast at a cafe early morning Walk in cubbon park Chilling at home while watching Netflix Chai time in balcony Maternity photoshoot need not be filled with poses. Every couple have love they wish to preserve while changing phases of life. It was all about date with your partner.

  • DIY Phone photo's into a photobook with Rs.3000

    Let's turn your phone photo's into a beautiful photobook for your kids to remember their childhood. Step 1 : Visit www.photojaanic.com photobook website Visit www.photojaanic.com website and select Photobooks Link Step 2 : Select Premium album option Select Premium album option and in that PREMIUM IMAGEWRAP BOOKS Step 3 : Choose 12x12 inch album Choose either 9x12 inch photobook for Rs. 1,424 or 12x12 Inch photobook for Rs.2249 These two are highly recommended Step 4: Upload Phone Photos Select my album and upload phone photos. Ensure to directly mail yourself from your phone. Note: Avoid images sent by WhatsApp as they get compressed. Step 5: Use autofill to make album Use autofill for automatic placement of photos or Drag & drop your phtotos in the box to make your photobook. Note: It has 20 pages, so can hold unto 40 - 60 photos and extra page will cost Rs.80 extra per page. Step 6: Add to cart, fill your address and make payment Add to cart Fill your address Make payment Note : Delivery charges start from Rs.250 depending on city and 12 % GST usually Rs.300 would be applicable. So Within Rs.3000 you will have your photobook. Watch Youtube tutorial video of making of the album

  • A Photographer in Bangalore: The Value of Capturing Moments

    If you have ever held a baby in your arms, you understand that time is truly fleeting. Before you know it, that tiny, precious creature will be talking back and throwing dirty laundry everywhere! On those challenging days during adolescence and beyond, you will wish that you had high-quality baby pictures to look back on with fondness! My name is Durga, and I am a professional newborn and family photographer in Bangalore City. I am an expert when it comes to capturing the quiet, pleasant moments of childhood and infancy - before the chaos of life sets in! If you are seeking maternity, newborn, or family photos taken by the best photographer in India, I'd love to help you create memories and heirlooms. I'd love to tell you a little bit more about the services I offer, and why I'm the right photographer for your family. Maternity Sessions My photography is known for its authenticity. When you book a maternity shoot with me, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere, intended to bring out your most honest self. There will be very little posing, but a whole lot of joy and laughter as we work together to capture your joy! I typically shoot mothers-to-be during the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy, right when your belly is beginning to pop! You can choose between a lifestyle session in your own home or an outdoor session in a comfortable location. Whatever you choose, it will be stress-free and memorable! Newborn Sessions I offer two options when it comes to photographing your newborn - a "Fresh 48" Session, or a lifestyle newborn session. A Fresh 48 session is just what it sounds like! I will photograph your newborn and your family during the baby's first 48 hours of life - when they are brand new! You will likely be sleep-deprived and overwhelmed, and many parents love to look back at those blurry moments with fondness once they've slept! I also offer lifestyle newborn sessions for babies between five days and three months of age. Babies grow and change so rapidly that every single moment is ripe for becoming a precious memory. You can be confident that my many years of experience will yield raw, authentic photos that truly capture your baby's personality on film. This is done right at your home keeping mother and baby's comfort priority. Family Sessions Babies are precious, but families with children of all ages deserve beautiful and genuine photos to treasure and share. My photography transcends the traditional portrait and verges into storytelling. Your life is not curated and perfect—why shouldn't your family photo capture you the way you really are? Family photoshoots are some of the most relaxed sessions. When the goal is capturing laughter, love, and personality, a photography session can be a lot of fun! I promise to capture your family in moments of pure joy, which will become some of your favourite photos of all time! Let the Best Photographer in Bangalore Capture Your Life on Film Photography is more than a business for me. It is an art and a passion. It would be my pleasure to get to know you and your family as we work together to make something beautiful! If you have searched for "professional photographer near me" or "baby photographer near me," and have landed here, welcome! I'm grateful that you found me, and I'd love to work with you! Are you interested in booking a session? I'd love to discuss your vision for the ideal maternity, newborn, or family session. Book a session today to begin working with the most authentic family photographer in Bangalore! With love, Durga

  • Family photoshoot with toddler at Hotel

    If you have a toddler, You must be aware that you can not tell kids what to do !! And that has been my rule too when it comes to documenting families with toddlers. Here is this beautiful family whom I got to shoot at Conrad hotel and hotel are best at times due to massive windows giving ample amount of natural light. Reason why hotel is best for family photoshoot Family photoshoots with me are hassle free and fun. I strive to capture all the emotions, and not just smiles. Here is the family preserving their family memories. If you are traveling on holidays its best time to preserve them and need not plan something very elaborate. Click here to know more about Family photoshoot with me and its Investment/Pricing. 5 Tips for family photoshoot in Hotel Dress casual and comfortable, preferably wear whites. Let your kid be kid, Sit back and let things unfold by itself. No not plan too many activities as kids get overstimulated. No not ask your kid to look at camera or smile. Every kid is different, Give them time to get comfortable. Planning to visit Bangalore and staying in a hotel, make the best out of it. Book Now Booking with a documentary and storytelling photographer would be the best choice as its unposed and candid. Based out of Bangalore, Snuggle diaries also Provides Family films. Some of the best Hotel to book to have a family shoot Conrad Hotel, Bangalore Taj Hotel, Bangalore The Leela Palace, Bangalore Radisson Blue, Bangalore Ritz Carlton, Bangalore Hyatt Hotel, Bangalore Even Airbnb in Bangalore with good décor and big windows are perfect for a family documentary photoshoot. And if you are staying in Bangalore and wish for a mini vacation around Bangalore do check out beautifully curated 24 Family Resorts for a Day Trip by Buzzing buds Durga Chincholi is a family photographer Based out of Bangalore, India. And is Available to hire for Family photoshoots. Click here Other Services provided Follow on Instagram

  • 9 Tips for planning your family vacation in Gulmarg, Kashmir

    We all know how much our childhood vacation trip meant to us, the new location, new place to stay and tons of traveling. We as children saw everything with a wide eye and took every new information with such excitement that I feel we cherish them the most. With help of technology we can now help our children re-live their vacation with detailed memory and for you to remember how it felt. Pre-cautions regarding the weather Check Temperature - Ensure to check temperature prediction prior to visit to Kashmir. Ensure you have thermals, boots, sweater, Jackets and gloves packed Kids Winter clothing - For kids winter sweater and clothes I found H & M Kids best suited for Kashmir weather and Kids thermal & Jacket found best in UNIQLO store in Delhi the thinnest and the warmest. As kids get cranky easily. Heating blanket & Room heaters - Ensure to ask & confirm if heating blanket and room heaters are available at place of your stay. Best time to visit Kashmir Spring and summer time are the best to visit Kashmir as temperature is just perfect. Best places to stay in Srinagar I found the most beautiful place to stay is Boat house at Dal Lake. With shikara ride in evening, You can't ask for a better view. Starting from Rs.1500. Found Airbnb to have some nice options, try pre-booking if not you need to really bargain well. Best place to stay in Gulmarg The most sought out place in Gulmarg in Khyber resorts, They are expensive but with best facilities and location. Place to visit around Srinagar Gulmarg Sonmarg Pahalgam Must try while you are in Kashmir Shikara ride Noon Chai ( Its salty but delicious ) Kashmiri Kawa Lawaz for breakfast Must carry items for your trip Medicines - Ensure you carry general medicine after doctor's consultation for your Kids ( Fever, Vomiting, Allergies, Stomach Pain, Loose motion ) Camera , Sunscreen, Jacket, Activities to plan in Srinagar Travel around the market area, But beware of fake-Pashmina. Learn how to make local food. Boat ride and here is a list of 15 things to do in Srinagar Activities to plan in Gulmarg Gandola ride in Gulamarg is a must try, but requires it to be pre-booked well in advance. If traveling with Kids,Best time is to book around 9 AM, as there is lesser crowd and shorter queue for next two stages. Gulmarg-Kungdoor (Two Way Ticket) - Stage ONE Kungdoor-Apharwat (Two Way Ticket)- Stage TWO Its only available through On-line Ticket booking so beware if anybody is trying to sell you tickets manually. If you are planning Family photoshoot or Coupled photoshoot at Gulmarg, You can book April 2023 Dates here Family Films shot for family vacation in Gulmarg.

  • 5 Tips Helping you plan 'non-cringe-wrothy' couple photoshoot

    I love some good photos and specially the ones I have my husband looking at me lovingly and I hate posing or starring at the camera, I feel the romance just disappears when asked to repeat what we were doing. To make things worst my husband hates, hates absolutely hates cheesy poses or even the word 'photoshoot' So if you are anything like me, here are few things to save you and help you plan a shoot which you and your reluctant partner would love it too.. Plan your session according to what you LOVE not what's trending Keep it Short : Keep it as short and sweet as possible, 45 minutes maximum. Do not go for long sessions. Plan your activities : If you love trekking together, go for it. If you love having cozy coffee in bed, you do that. You do YOU and not what is trending. The aim is to have all beautiful real things and bottling them up carefully. Plan Location : If you love outdoor, do that but if you both have different opinion divide the session half and half. Choose the right photographer Well you can not choose 'conventional photographer' and except to have 'non posy' shoot. Search for photographers who do unconventional Photoshoot for couples, But at the same time be very very clear with what you are looking for. Unposed Real No fancy clothing No looking at the camera Ensure you say this out loud and clear for them to connect with you better. Here are few recommendations according to city Mumbai - Manasi www.manasiphotography.com Pune ( Pan India ) - Neha Salgare https://www.instagram.com/neha_salgare/ Goa ( Pan India ) - Shwetha https://www.instagram.com/dcreativelens/ Bengaluru / Gulmarg/ Jodhpur ( Pan India ) - Durga www.snugglediaries.com Imphal - Richard https://www.instagram.com/randbstudios/ Delhi - Kriti https://www.candidmemoirphotography.com Pan India - https://www.storiesbyinsideme.com Avoid awkward poses ! Well if you feel awkward it SHOWS !!!! its that evident. So here are few tips Avoid staying still, MOVE round.. Talk to each other like you usually do, Its simple said than done.. Dance !! It helps you loosen up. Take revenge ! Tickle your partner Have a cup of coffee in real and chill Avoid fancy dresses and go for something real and you ! You look back at your photos with fancy clothing which is obviously very outdated and our of trend and with a lot of make-up which doesn't look like you. I am sure you don't want that !! Wear what you feel the most comfortable in. Wear glamorous dress, If that you. Go boots or sneakers, As long as you can run around comfortably. Think of it as a fancy date with your partner than a photoshoot while dressing up. Few tips while you select your wardrobe 1. Avoid Neon clouds ( Camera hates it ) 2. Avoid wordings on your T Shirt 3. Avoid big prints on your dress, try as plain as possible 4. Go plain whites, as they are safest bet. 5. Plan your wardrobe with help of a color palette ( you'll find tons on Pinterest ) Here are few more articles helping you plan 7 outfit ideas for your next pre post wedding shoot Places to buy beautiful gowns for Couple shoot https://www.instagram.com/upgradebya/ Tips for bring the romance This is tricky, very very tricky.. Because we want them to look real rather than fake posing or forcing it. So here are few tips : Take your time, walk, talk.. Just be in the moment. Tap about your favorite memory together. Promise one thing as a surprise. Whisper something really really sweet or you know what I mean. Hold hands only if you feel like. Run as if you are eloping. Tickle your partner as a revenge for forcing you for this shoot. Make here twirl around.

  • 5 Reasons Why Lifestyle photography is best for families

    2019 March on my sons birthday I was so excited to do his cake smash photoshoot that i prepared for weeks, after all he was a photographers son and deserves the best. By than I had done several cake smash for other kids and they turned out pretty amazing and cute. So after all the prep I placed my son in front of the beautifully decorated cake and was waiting for him to smash it and smear it all over his face and my fingers were ready to click and all he did was stare back at me with a look 'what the hell is this' ?? I thought its just matter of few minutes, we started distracting him and trying to make him smile and all I got was a cry of frustration. I was heart broken to be frank and felt disappointed that I couldn't take my own sons cake smash. We dropped it and quickly cut into pieces and gave it to all. There are couple of things which I learnt from it Kids are uncomfortable in studio set-up Every kid is different but being a former studio photographer I can tell you this, Kids are uncomfortable being kept between a number of props, It is the trend of 2021s but to really think about it is unnatural for them to feel happy among tons of props without having a meaning. With pandemic hitting us, toddler have hardly interacted with others and a confined studio space makes them uneasy most of the time. Kids get conscious with lights and prop set-up Apart from professional models even adults feel conscious being asked to pose and smile in front of a camera and lights facing them. Having studio set up with tons of props did generate a lot of income but I found kids conscious and pressurized to smile and pose. Let kids be kids It took me a while to realized let kids be kids, I found them the most happy and peaceful playing with their toys in their familiar place or in parents arms. Even a newborn has a sparkle in their eyes when held by parents and once I started capturing them in the most natural and in their space I knew I found my calling. Kids are comfortable at home Imagine its a Sunday morning and you are having your family routine of hanging out in dinning table and just being yourself. Not only adults but kids are best and relaxed at home. Your home as the background As an adult memoires gush in when we revisit an old lane near our childhood house or school. It might not be fancy but it takes us back into memory lane of having that gol-gappa ( Indian snack aka Pani puri ) or that cotton candy we get while coming back home after attending a fair. They may seem trivial now but your home would mean the world to your kid when they grown up. Lifestyle session provides a backdrop of activities keep your beautiful home as a backdrop. For me every time I look at Paper boat advertisement memoires gush in, If such beautiful illustrations could move our hearts, imagine what your own kids childhood photos and film could mean to them. For some it gives strength and for some its beautiful nostalgic moment. If you are in Pune, Mumbai or Bangalore ( Even other places in India , As I travel a lot ) Do book your Family Session today

  • Career as a Photographer : How to start, challenges and creative path

    Let me start by saying this.. Yes dreams do come true and the secret to that is 'Work hard and be smart' If you planning on picking up photography as career know that its your true calling and pursuing that would give you immense joy and career satisfaction. But before you start you need to aim to become the best of what you do, not just follow the trend and be ordinary. You need to give in 110% in your passion, study for hours knowing everything to you to know to achieve that shot which you have in your mind. How to start Learn how to use camera in manual mode Learn editing Research on Types of photography Do morning pages ( Artist way by Julia cameron ) Practice , Practice and Practice everyday Learn from experts, Do courses in the genre you choose. Learn Business and marketing Creative journey Painters, Artist and photographers have the ability to create beautiful images which can evoke emotions and bring joy. Its a journey you take for your soul not just to show to the world but to create for yourself for sake of creating. With social media at its peek we tend to get lost in the sea of images and are stuck with the 'trend' and we run behind it to only realize that the 'trend' has changed. So start with the creative mindset to create something authentic and real. It might be inspired but it needs to scream you and your style. Learn and than unlearn it Invest in photography courses and learn from the experts. Don't be dependent on academic knowledge but learn under photographers by assisting them too. It is way beyond just clicking right and a lot goes behind a photoshoot. From location selection, prompts, poses, makeup , emotive prompts, styling, light , shadows, composition etc. Once you have learnt try to unlearn and create your portfolio which has your voice and style. Running the business 80% of your work will be business and marketing. As a photographer you become a brand yourself and for you to stand out you need to create a brand which speaks you and tells story behind your work. Learn what is branding, how to make a website, Digital marketing, PR projection. You need to be seen in front of your ideal client so they can hire you to work for them. Other source of income As photographers we earn money from different sources Blogging Teaching Monetizing website Selling images, presets etc. So start learning today, improve your communication skills as your interaction matters. And here are some colleges were you can pursue photography course Colleges in India offering Photography courses Delhi College of Photography, New Delhi National Institute of Photography, Mumbai Light and Life Academy, Ooty Sir JJ Institute of Applied Arts, Mumbai Osmania University, Hyderabad AJ Kidwai Mass Communication Research Center, New Delhi Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida Jawarharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University, Hyderabad Pixel Institute of Photography, New Delhi

  • Routine plan - For toddler & mums.

    We all need routine, Routine gives a sense of safety specially to a kid knowing what comes next. With pandemic, toddlers' routine needs to be well planned so that both of you have a smooth day which is productive too. So here is my small routine planned for myself and my kid which works out pretty well for us. Choose a routine and stick to it. It takes around 21 days for a new habit to set in. So planning a routine and sticking to it helps it in becoming a part of your life. Of course you need to be flexible at the start to accommodate their interest and sleep habits. But it may take couple of days for a healthy routine to become a part of your life. Morning routine We love our morning routine, its filled with lots of hugs, kisses and snuggles just waking up and I think its the best time of our day. On waking up we take a small morning walk around our apartment and come back for bath and breakfast. It helps both of us to feel refreshed and ready to start the day. For mothers - I do my best to wake up an hour before my son wakes up. 20 Min - Yoga / stretching 20 Min - Morning Pages ( Journaling , planning my day , just write ) 20 Min - Tea time and some music 10 Min - Planner update ( Tiny change planner breaks down big goals into doable tasks ) Ideally I try to wake up 2 hours before the baby to get some professional tasks done relating to my work but everything totally depends on if he has slept on time the night before. Get out of the house By 9- 10 AM our morning routine is done. So after that I try to get him out of the house for a play date, grocery shopping or just a small car ride. And don't forget to get ready for the day.. yes no PJ's. Getting ready gives all of us a sense of joy however small but it puts you in a right frame of mind. Activity Time So after our small outdoor adventure we are back with some fun activates. Monday - Painting Tuesday - Clay Wednesday - Crayons Thursday - Arts & crafts together Friday - Make a mess ( kitchen supplies ) Saturday - Paint with leaves and flowers Kids are naturally creative and I carefully plan out each day for him. Layout of the planned activity is done in such a way that he is free to choose on his own. I remind myself not to interfere and encourage him to make his choices as much as possible. I have to hold my urge to correct his drawings or painting and let it be the way he creates it. For Mothers - This time is best utilized by having some self creative time for oneself. Sit next to them , draw or paint too because kids imitate you. Screen Time Yes, I do give him some screen time. 20-30 mins in the morning and 20-30 mins in the evening. For Mothers - I use this time to have a small tea break and work a little bit on my professional commitments. Over a period of time, I have realized that instead of sitting for hours while neglecting other responsibilities, such small work time help me to be more productive while giving all the usual mundane tasks their due. Its crucial to balance motherhood and self too Lunch & Nap Time I make sure we all sit together and eat our lunch. I prefer sitting on the floor with him on a small Chattai ( Handwoven carpet ) which I carry everywhere so that he knows that its his time to sit down for his meal. When he was younger, I used a high chair ( Life saver !! trust me !!) For mothers - I found that my kids afternoon nap time is the best time for me too work on my projects as I usually get 1-2 hrs which is good enough to finish major portion of my work. I am even writing this blog as my son is taking his afternoon nap. Evening Routine Everyday is an adventure and I always plan to incorporate this in our evening routine. It need not be anything big but just a small walk/drive on a new road , visiting a new park or just observing a flower and playing with it. It might sound trivial but having done this day in and day out I have realized that it gives such a sense big of belonging with the nature and with kids around, we remember how beautiful nature is all around us Family reading time- We love to read.. Every evening for 30- 40 Minutes I take out a few of his books ( not all ) and lay them out in front of him to choose. I have that realized with toys and books, when they are in front of us all the time we tend to appreciate them less. Hence, I have started recycling all his toys and books so that he remains interested in all of them. We sit and read.. At times I read out loud and get into the magical world of fantasy and at times leave him to it and read on my own. Alone Time / Play Time Before bed time we all have some alone time. He chooses to play with his toys on his own and I leave him to it. For mothers - I take a small break or go for a 20 Min walk. Once I am back, I try to finish any of my pending tasks. Having my own business gives me time to plan and work accordingly and I set out 2-3 task ( doable and practical ). Bed time routine I used to find myself too tired and frustrated when my son would take a lot of time to sleep. Then I realized this is how it would be and I rather get used to it and make the best of it. So few things Chamomile tea Bed time story reading as family Telling 3 beautiful things that my son did and how much I loved it. Silent gratitude for the precious time that we got to spend. This changed my life in a big way. I started appreciating everything around me even more and grew calmer. Our days have their ups and down but I try to make everyday a bit more special. As a full time mother and artist I document my days as a therapy and it gives me immense joy. If you wish for your days to be documented book your session with me

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