We've all heard of it, the "it factor". A quick online search and it is described as an indefinable something that makes someone special. I'd never given it much thought...

...until a recent neighborhood gathering. There were lots of new people to meet, and as a "baby" photographer I'm always interested in meeting young families. There were plenty of babies at this particular event, all of them adorable, sweet and beautiful.

But one little guy stood out from the rest. Unlike the other babies who were putting everything in their mouths, or exploring their immediate surroundings, little Jay was socializing! Now we are talking about a 10 month old boy who had just learned how to crawl. This little man was interested in people and he was busy charming everyone in his path, including me! What else can you do but fall in love when a baby you've never met before crawls up to your feet, reaches his little chubby little arms up and gives you the biggest smile ever.

Just one look at that face and those big blue eyes and I saw the "it factor".

Jay had it and I wanted to photograph him.

Three days later, Jay and his mom were in my little studio. As soon as I pressed the shutter, I knew I'd been right about him. He proceeded to spend the next 30 minutes giving me non stop megawatt smiles and funny expressions. There was no shyness, no wanting mommy, it seemed like he knew exactly what he was doing. Even when he got tired he gave me some of the cutest sad faces ever. Needless to say his mommy and I were both thrilled with the results.

Personally I think he's one of the cutest babies online. Maybe I'm biased and yes, I have to be honest, I wrote this blog to give him more exposure. His mom promised he could pose for me again soon and I cannot wait! In the mean time I settle for hugs and big smiles everytime I see him outside. Both parents are talking about taking him to audition for commercials. I say he's going to get any part he tries out for. Who knows, maybe he'll be famous one day, and I will be able to say: "That's Jay and I discovered him first!". :)