Down Syndrome Diagnosis Story: End the Stereotypes

In light of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, I am calling for people around the world to End The Stereotypes! (worlddownsyndromeday.org)

I’m also sharing my story with others who might be receiving a diagnosis and also to spread awareness to shatter negative misconceptions surrounding Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21.

Also, I have decided to start a photography & community outreach project in Tampa to connect with local families who have young children or babies with Down Syndrome. If you, or someone you know, has a baby or young child (4 and under) with Down Syndrome, please reach out to me directly for more information on how to join in on this project.

*So what exactly is Down Syndrome? Down Syndrome is the most common genetic disorder in the United States and around the world. Babies born with Down Syndrome have a 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome in some or all of their cells and is characterized by certain physical traits and attributes. According to the CDC, “approximately one in every 772 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, making Down syndrome the most common chromosomal condition. About 5,100 babies with Down syndrome are born in the United States each year. (De Graaf et al., 2022).” (www.ndss.org)

*Here’s my story: Last year, I gave birth to a beautiful little boy, who happens to have Down Syndrome. During my pregnancy, I took an NIPT (Non Invasive Prenatal Testing), which checked my blood for potential genetic abnormalities & chromosomal disorders by studying my fetus’ DNA. One week later, I received a phone call confirming that my test came back 98.3% positive that my beautiful baby boy would have Down Syndrome. I was then referred to Advanced Fetal Medicine, where I was encouraged to get an amniocentesis to confirm these results and obtain an official diagnosis. I refused the invasive test because of the 1% chance that the amniotic sac could rupture during the procedure, and because I knew deep inside my heart that I would love my son if he received this diagnosis or not. Me and my husband made the decision to wait until birth to obtain an official diagnosis.

I still remember the deep pain I experienced in the early days of my pregnancy, especially after being told all of the horrible and negative things associated with Down Syndrome. The Advanced Fetal Medicine Doctors mentioned elective abortion, which was an absolute: No! I loved my baby boy already and could not fathom ending his life. Even still, I cried. For months, I struggled with crippling fear, anxiety and sadness and went through a grieving process of sorts. I had no idea of knowing the beauty of what laid ahead. I devoured every online article, story, testimony and bible verse. I prayed daily for each of us and especially for my little boy. There’s some scary stuff out there on the web but the stories from families who walked through these waters resonated with me most and gave me a glimmer of hope and something to look forward to in my future. I slowly came to acceptance and trusted that God does not make mistakes and I knew that if my son had Down Syndrome, he would be incredibly perfect to us and so deeply loved. We went though the rest of the pregnancy not knowing if he had it; however, around 20 weeks gestation, it was confirmed that he did have an AVSD (Atrial Ventricular Septal Defect/Congenital Heart Defect), which was common for children with Down Syndrome so we went about the pregnancy assuming he most likely would have it. He had no other soft markers on any other ultrasounds. So we waited, patiently, for his arrival.

When he was born, the first thing I did before they whisked him away to the NICU for testing, was to grab his little hand to see if he had Down Syndrome. In that moment, when I saw that single line across his hand, the Palmer Crease, I knew that he had it and that my life was forever changed, for the better! We named him Lucas (meaning the bringer of light) Asher (meaning happiness & blessed). And let me tell you, he has truly lived up to his name. He has brought his endless light, unbelievable love and pure joy to our entire family! We are beyond blessed to have this tiny soul, who happens to have Down Syndrome, in our lives!

Our little guy did have his fair share of health issues after birth but that didn’t stop him from being an incredible human being. He spent his first 28 days in the NICU due to feeding issues associated with his heart condition and he eventually needed a g-tube (gastrointestinal tube) to ensure he would obtain adequate nutrition after leaving the hospital. Although he had a few extra needs (i.e. g-tube feedings & extra appointments with his pediatrician, cardiologist, speech & physical therapists), he was and still is one of the greatest gifts we could’ve ever received, and we wouldn’t change him for the world! As an infant, he was like any of my other babies reaching milestones; such as, smiling, laughing, cooing, babbling, sitting up, rolling over, moving around and saying words. At 7 months old, he had his Open Heart Surgery to correct his heart defect and praise be to God, it was successfully repaired. Several months later, the g-tube was removed and he has flourished in so many incredible ways!

This little heart warrior of ours is now a newly minted one year old and is just the light of our lives! His fight for life and his strength to endure things that most adults haven’t even experienced is astounding. His smile truly lights up a room and he genuinely loves people. Every doctor, nurse, friend, family member and random people where ever we go, fall in love with his endearing smile and joyful demeanor. He is alert and curious, determined and active, smart and strong! He loves snuggling, kisses, rolling and scooting around his room, playing with all his Lovevery toys (Lovevery.com), reading books, splashing in water, watching Bluey and Mrs. Rachel, going for walks and being silly. He has overcome so many obstacles as a young baby and continues to defy the stereotypes and negativities surrounding his diagnosis as a one-year-old. He is worthy of life and fully capable of achieving things! Having him in our lives, has taught us many things and has opened our eyes to a different way of life. We have bravely entered into this beautiful and accepting community of The Lucky Few (The Lucky Few Foundation) and we have vowed to be his biggest advocates and to help break down the walls, so that people could know that a Down Syndrome diagnosis is not something to fear, or shame, but rather something to celebrate! That extra chromosome brings extraoraordinary strength and love and joy to those who are privliedged to experience it.

Lastly, if you are in the Tampa area and would like to share your child’s story, and possibly be selected for a complimentary photo shoot to highlight your extra special little one with a Down Syndrome diagnosis (ages 4 and under), please reach me directly through my website/email address by cliocking the link below. Email me your name, location, story & the best way to contact you. I will select between 3-5 stories to photograph and highlight for a future blogpost.

*Scroll down to see more of my favorite photos from Lucas’ photo session below:

2024 Spring & Fall Mini Sessions

Athena Leila Photography is offering 2024 Spring & Fall Mini Sessions

Capture the beauty of the season with our Spring or Fall Mini Sessions in South Tampa! Join us for a limited-time opportunity to create stunning, timeless portraits in this vibrant community. Athena will guide you through a relaxed and enjoyable session, ensuring that every moment is captured with precision and care. Whether you're looking to update your family photos, commemorate a special milestone, or simply celebrate the joy of spring, our mini sessions are the perfect way to cherish those priceless memories.

Session Includes:

• 30-minute photo session

• Online gallery for viewing and ordering additional prints, 75+ images to view

• Select your favorite 10 edited/high-resolution images (sent via email/download)

Date(s): April & May, October & November

Location(s): South Tampa & West Palm Beach Locations Only

Time(s): Late afternoon /early evening time slots

Price: $275+tax

*Please Contact Athena for specific dates, times, locations and to book it! Click the link below:

Don't miss out on this chance to freeze time and embrace the beauty of the season. Book your Fall Mini Session today and let Athena help you create cherished memories that will last a lifetime!

See a sample from one of our 2023 Fall Mini Sessions below. Captured on South Tampa FL’s historic Bayshore Boulevard

Athena Leila Photography ~ www.athenaleilaphotography.com

Lifestyle Pet Photography

Tampa’s luxurious Westshore Marina is one of the latest up and coming waterfront communities in Tampa so it also happens to be a hip and enjoyable location to capture lifestyle family and pet portraits.

Many people wonder if they should hire a professional photographer to capture their new fur baby and my answer is always … absolutely, yes! These precious puppies are only tiny and adorable snuggle babies for such a small window of time. What better way to capture their sweetness, then with a lifestyle puppy portrait in your home or at your local park or town center.

I captured this lifestyle puppy portrait session with my very own daughter and our brand new Australian Shepherd puppies at the Westshore Marina’s dock area. The pups were around six months old when these photos were taken. The larger dog is: Solstice, who is a mini tricolor blue merle Australian Shepherd. The smaller dog is: Stella, who is a toy black bicolor Australian Shepherd. My darling little one had a complete blast doing a photo shoot with the puppies. They snuggled a bunch, ran around, checked out the water-view, picked flowers and just had a grand ol’ time while I chased them around with my camera! This sort of session would work well with kids and their pups or just adult pet owners and their fur babies. (You can see some of my favorite photos from the session if you scroll down)

Check out the Westshore Marina District’s waterfront community, which boasts several restaurants, a hair salon, a nail salon, a fitness center, an urban grocery store, the largest yacht slip in Tampa Bay and much more: https://westshoremarinadistrict.com/

Lifestyle pet portraits capturing a little girl with her mini Australian Shepherds at Tampa’s Westshore Marina District.

The Best Newborn Photography Location

Many of my South Tampa newborn photography clients ask for my opinion on preferred locations for their newborn session and I undoubtedly suggest their home as the number one location.

*While photographing newborn babies in exotic outdoor locations may seem like a great idea, it’s not something I suggest for newborn sessions. Here’s why photographing your little one at home is the best possible place to capture those first photos:

1. Point Blank - Your Home is the Most Comfortable Location! It has everything you need to facilitate a successful photo shoot. You have access to your cozy couches and especially your rocking chair should you need to feed your baby.

2. Everything You Need Is Within Your Reach! You have access to your changing table for the event that your little one has a blow out. Baby clothes, blankets, bottle warmers/formula/bottles, pacifiers are all at your finger tips.

3. You Have Control Over the Temperature! The weather and outdoor elements do not pertain to your photo session; therefore, rain, wind, heat/humidity, too much sun or lack there of, is not a concern for your family.

4. You Can Capture Your Home Environment! Creating your baby’s first memories in your home environment allows you to remember some of the details of the home you brought your baby into after delivery.

* Some common concerns on why many clients feel reluctant to set up the session in their home:

Many clients worry that their home might be too dark, they don’t love their home decor, they don’t have a nursery setup yet, the house is too cluttered or messy or small in their opinion, there are other family members and/or dogs. The list goes on but I can assure you that these worries do not and should not concern your photographer!

There are many ways around all of these in-home photo session issues. As for me - I bring a flash unit and defusers to all of my in-home newborn photography sessions in the event that the light really is that bad but I find that it mostly isn’t, in the majority of cases. My Nikon camera and variety of lenses function extremely well in low light conditions and that paired with a working knowledge of light and how to utilize natural light make for some exquisite photographs. Messes and clutter can be hidden and not shown. Smaller spaces simply require wider angle lenses and can still be captured wonderfully. Other family members like other children, pets, grandparents, aunts/uncles, you name it - all are welcome to participate!

I recently captured this beautiful family below (scroll down to see some of my favorites from their lifestyle newborn session). In the beginning we went back and forth on if they wanted to do the session in-home or on-location. They were concerned with the home being too dark but I ensured them that I was completely equipped to capture photo shoots in lower lit environments. So we landed on doing an in-home lifestyle newborn session. And let me tell you - no flash was needed! So much natural light poured into the home when we simply opened the blinds & my amazing camera equipment surly did its job :-)

One of South Tampa's Preferred Photo Session Locations

I found a perfect location for lifestyle family photo sessions by South Tampa’s Yacht and Country Club on accident! I was originally scheduled to photograph at Ballast Point Park in Tampa but coincidentally there was a boat show going on that day and the entire area was completely packed. As a last minute resort, I opted to switch locations to a more secluded area not far from the original spot.

This amazing location (next to the Tampa Yacht and Country Club) has so much to offer for a fun & outdoorsy lifestyle family photo session with two young boys! This South Tampa park has a large grassy area, beautiful oak trees lined with Spanish moss, and other trees with low lying branches perfect for climbing and swinging! The sun shines beautifully through the trees as well.

*Some of the Fun Things I captured during our lifestyle family session:

• The boys running around on the grass and aroung their parents

• Piggyback rides & spinning around on the grass with Dad

• Lots of hugs & kisses and tender moments together

• The boys climbing, swinging and exploring the trees and branches

• Lots of laughter & moments to be silly together as a family

• The boys playing together and wrestling

Check out some of my favorite photos from this lifestyle family session (scroll down to see more)

Are you interested in booking a lifestyle family session like this? Click the link below to enter our website to learn more and get to know me as a photographer, view my portfolio & schedule a convenient time to capture your family’s session!

Family of Four at a park by the Tampa Yacht and Country Club in South Tampa, FL.

Photographing Your Baby at Home

Many clients ask for recommendations on the best locations to capture their babies & families. While there are many gorgeous locations in the Tampa Bay Area, the best location in my honest opinion, is actually your home. Here are eight benefits to capturing your baby at home:

Why should I have my baby photographed at home?

1. You can stay in your usual daily routine ~ I can arrive at the most convenient time for your baby. The best time to capture your baby’s blossoming little personalities is usually well before or after thier nap .

2. You do not have to commute to a different location ~ The car ride alone can upset and disrupt your darlings mood or make them sleepy, which can possibly result in a grumpy baby upon arrival.

3. You do not have to worry about the weather or other outdoor elements ~ Your home is a controlled environment. Things like rain, wind or too much sun are of no concern to you. Outdoor temperatures being too hot or cold, itchy grass or any other unfamiliar elements won’t be an issue.

4. Your home is the most familiar place for your baby ~ your don’t have to worry about how your baby will react to new and unfamiliar surroundings, sounds, people, etc. Some babies tend to act differently when they are outside of their most familiar place and might tend to become more shy, fearful or quiet, thus making it a bit more challenging to capture their natural temperament.

5. Your home is the most comfortable place for your baby ~ Just like with newborn sessions, your home is the most comfortable place for your baby because it has everything that they might need; such as, their crib, your soft couches and rugs, favorite blankets, toys and pacifiers. They will typically be the most happy and display their little personalities best at home.

6. You have the ability to take breaks to fulfill your baby’s needs ~ You can take random breaks if needed to change your baby’s diapers or clothing. You can stop to give your baby snacks, milk or anything else that they might need right out of your own refrigerator or pantry.

7. You can incorporate your home into the session ~ No need for artificial props or accessories. No need for posing. Your family can actually be their natural and authentic selves. Your entire home can be used. Various couches, the pretty rug on the floor, the coffee table, your baby’s nursery, your kitchen. All I need is window light to capture bright and beautiful images.

8. Your can save memories of your home and/or your baby’s nursery ~ When capturing your baby at home in their environment, you will always have the memories of what your home used to be when they were very young.

Want to book a lifestyle newborn / older baby session in your home?

Click the link below:

What is Lifestyle Photography?

Lifestyle Photography is a style of portrait photography that aims to capture real emotions and authentic moments with genuine human engagement.

It strives to document more than just perfect smiling photos, rather its goal is to create and encapsulate memories in an artistic manner and most importantly to elicit a “strong feeling” in the viewer.

*Some of the real life moments that are documented include:

• Affection - hugs/cuddles, kisses, holding hands

• Action shots - running, jumping, walking, exploring/discovering, climbing, dancing, playing

• Emotions - happiness/joy, laughter, silliness, pensive

Here Are Some Lifestyle Photography Tips:

1. PLAN AHEAD ~ get to know the clients and their personalities, select an appropriate location (home, yard, park, etc.), communicate goals & ideas.

2. DIRECT THE SHOTS ~ set up the shot by putting everyone into their positions & angles. You can start with a typical posed shot but then gently direct them to interact with each time (i.e. look at each other, tell a secret/joke, tickle each other, hug/embrace, kiss, etc.)

3. INCORPORATE PLAY ~ set up fun action packed activities (ring around the rosy with small kids, running/walking together while holding hands, airplane with small children, swinging the kiddos in the air, dancing, etc.) and capture it in action.

4. BE READY ~ the camera should always be in hand and ready to capture those candid moments. Look for engagement between family members and direct along the way to get those artistically appeals shots.

See an example below: I have captured this family since the oldest boy was in his Mama’s belly! I have captured every single session from maternity, to newborn, to family in their home and yard. I have documented each of these babies growing up throughout the years. I set up their shots and then gently direct them. As you can see there is lots of laughter, love and fun!

Family of six, lifestyle family session, Tampa, FL

Getting Real With Athena Leila Photography

Well, a lot has transpired since I last wrote a blog post as Athena Scott Photography! And I just wanted to give you an honest update as to our whereabouts. We have transitioned our business to Athena Leila Photography and now photograph families in Tampa, FL.

After seventeen years of marriage, my ex-husband and I separated and pursued divorce last January, in 2021. I immediately jumped into another line of work because of the instability/inconsistency of my photography business, which I have always pursued as a part-time gig. I didn’t think I could afford to live as a single mom of five on this income.

In March, Athena Scott Photography took the back seat and I worked tirelessly at another job, while balancing homeschooling my kids and also processing the divorce, which was a job in and of itself. I still took on photo jobs here and there but I was seriously contemplating shutting it down completely; however, the more I worked the other job, the more I realized that I really do love what I do as a photographer! It has always been a creative outlet for me and it gives me so much joy to capture and document so many wonderful families and especially newborns. Photography has always been my passion (since I was a child) and I knew that I couldn’t just quit because times were extremely tough. I knew that I had to be strong and pull myself together, not only for myself but also for my kids!

Over the summer, I made the conscious decision to revamp my business entirely! With the divorce, I couldn’t keep the name, Athena Scott Photography. I dropped “Scott” and added “Leila” (which is my middle name) and hence Athena Leila Photography was born in November 2021. I am currently working on redesigning my logo and website but in the meantime, I transferred everything over to the new name.

Last August, we moved across the state, to Tampa, FL. So it was the perfect opportunity to start over from scratch and create the business I have always only dreamed about but was too afraid to actually turn into a reality! It was the perfect time to take my business to the next level. I decided to take on a 6-month long training course with the Elena S. Blair Mastermind which just started last week! So I am revamping everything, including myself and ready to take on the South Tampa area :-)

Athena Leila Photography, located in South Tampa, FL. Specializing in lifestyle newborn and family photography.

Lifestyle Newborn Session with Older Children in Tampa Florida

Lifestyle newborn sessions with older children are the most fun to photograph! The older siblings are usually very excited to welcome their new baby brother or sister into the home and I aim to capture their pure joy!

Photographing newborns and their families in the home is the most comfortable location for the children because it is familiar and they are typically less timid about getting their photos done. I usually start with posed shots so everyone can get comfortable and let’s be real here, everyone usually wants at least one photo with everyone looking and smiling at the camera so it’s perfect :-) I then work in some joyful, spontaneous and natural type shots, which are my favorites because I truly love freezing those genuine moments in time and creating memories for them to cherish <3

I had the privilege of capturing the newborn session for this beautiful family of five. The older sisters were just enamored by their new baby sister, Eleanor. They loved getting to take pictures holding her and had such a sweet time together. We captured photos in a few different places around the home and also in the yard. We did some of my favorite types of newborn shots and also incorporated a few fun props like the gorgeous award winning Design Dua Bassinet, a banner, cute hats and headbands & let’s not forget the family dog too!

Check out some of my favorites from the session below:

In Bloom: Lifestyle Maternity Photography

Capturing a maternity photography session surrounded by flowers was such a joy to photograph!

Pregnancy in general is such a sweet time of eager anticipation for the birth of one’s precious little baby <3 It is one of my absolute favorite seasons of life to capture because as a Mama of many kids, I remember the aches and pains but also the sheer joy and excitement that that this time brought to my own life. Documenting this huge life milestone savors the memories for years to come.

I had the opportunity to capture my neighbor’s forth and final pregnancy. As a Mama of three, she had never done a maternity session before and with this being her last, she wanted to capture it. She decided to do the session alone (without the hubby and kids) because this is something she wanted to do for her and also because she plans to incorporate them into the newborn session. She found the most amazing spot, which was filled with so many variations of flowers. It was all just gorgeous. The entire session was a dream and we had way too much fun exploring the area and taking tons of photos but mainly laughing and enjoy the moment.

Check out the sneak peeks below <3

Palm Beach Island Lifestyle Family Session

Well, it has been two months since I’ve graced the blog with client work but I am back and ready to share my first lifestyle family photo session of 2021 which was captured on Palm Beach Island’s gorgeous Worth Avenue on January 8th!

Palm Beach Island is known for its amazing architecture so anywhere you go is a perfect photo opportunity. We had a great time venturing all around the area and capturing photos on the grass, by the fountain, under an arch, next to columns, in a flowery garden area, by the famous clock tower & near the ocean.

This family session was originally scheduled as a newborn shoot but due to Covid & for other reasons it was pushed back for after that holiday season! I first captured this family two and a half years ago for their older daughter’s newborn session! I loved capturing them again but with their newest addition this time. The girls were incredibly sweet and well behaved considering we were scheduled for a two hour shoot! The baby was as darling as could be and at five-months-old would look up at me and sometimes smile and then the older two-year-old sister just loved being in front of the camera and smiling for me. I had a wonderful time working with this family!

Check out some of my favorite images from their session below <3