ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Cher!
I can't wait to meet you, but before I do, here is a little bit about me...
Firstly, let's just get this out of the way: YES, I was named after Cher. My parents loved her powerful and energetic personality! NO, I can't sing...
I started CB Photography right after my second son was born. As a mother of two, I was SO frustrated and disappointed with the portrait studios I had visited in the hopes of capturing my little ones. Hot crowded waiting rooms and rushed decisions left me feeling like I could offer more.
WAY back when I graduated high school, I turned down a scholarship to pursue an art career. I LOVE art, but my goals of working to help others was paramount. After receiving my Masters degree in Social Work, I was off to work with children in some of the toughest neighborhoods in the state. I loved being a school counselor and working with families / children in a therapeutic setting. After a decade in the field, I had to slowly put that aside to embark on my next adventure: Becoming a mom.
Since I loved art and photography, I started taking pictures of my sons. Often friends and family would ask what studio I had taken them to. Once they realized I was taking them myself, people started "coming out of the woodwork" asking for portraits too! Soon their homes became hot spots for impromptu photo sessions. Word spread quickly and before I knew it, I was my own traveling photography studio! Finally, my love of art and people was coming together!
I opened a studio soon after in 2008 and never looked back. I have had the pleasure of working with expectant moms, newborn babies, toddlers, birthday cuties, communicants, families; photographing occasions and holidays. It has been SO MUCH FUN and beyond emotionally fulfilling.
After 12 years, I recently closed my studio during the pandemic to focus on time with my now teenage sons. However, I truly miss seeing my favorite families so, I'm back and ready to capture some more wonderful memories together!
Other fun facts: I married my high school sweetheart and we're celebrating our 25th anniversary this year. I spend the most time with my constant shadow and snuggle partner, my "daughter" dog Brookie. I'm an avid snowboarder and recently created my own women's snowboarding group! I ride often with my oldest son as well. I received my black belt in karate after 13 years of training. I enjoy hiking, mountain biking, skateboarding and kayaking. I LOVE nature! Most importantly, I pride myself on being relaxed, understanding and fun!
So, whether it is at your house, a local studio or out in nature, I look forward to working with you (again or for the first time) and would be honored to capture your special moments in pictures forever.
Cher Baldanza