We've all seen them, the adorable infant photos with the sleepy newborn, their chin propped up on perfectly placed hands, looking as if an angel had been caught on film.  Or those great milestone photos with the giggling baby, seemingly drool free who is obviously that happy all the time.  How about those beautifully lit, calmly sitting one year-olds who look so deeply into the camera lens you think you should sign them up for America's Next Top Model right now?  Well, don't call Tyra Banks quite yet, anyone who is or knows a parent, understands that those moments of serenity are gold mines, but are no means commonplace.

Like I said before, I am not a studio photographer, but I have great respect for their work and after this weekend have even greater respect for those who work with young children.  Realizing the probably endless supply of washable props, blankets and baskets is just the beginning,  Timing is everything in photography and when your subject is not only extremely demanding, easily perturbed and can vacillate between fits of sheer joy and unrelenting rage in a matter of moments, timing becomes an Olympic feat of skill.  Not to mention they don't even know what you're talking about when you say "Smile."

Here is what I am talking about, keep in mind he is taking these photos with his own parents, not even strangers...

Challenge 1 - Complete lack of desire to be there: