Maternity sessions in August can be brutal for expecting mamas, so we started at the studio in Cranberry to avoid the heat and then headed on-location to North Park closer to sunset. And now looking at what we’ve captured, I love what we’ve created in both locations for different reasons.
It felt like a dream photographing this maternity session in the studio for so many reasons. Air conditioning for one! But in all seriousness, this glowing mama in this soft natural light, was what made it dream-like!
This North Park maternity session was a lot of fun and we all got in a bit of a workout trekking between these locations. We met up early on a Saturday for this gorgeous morning light and were able to wrap up before the park got too busy.
When you’re expecting, it’s natural to shift your focus to all things baby. Lots of change comes with pregnancy or adoption. And when we step back, one of the biggest changes that gets overlooked is our roles in marriage. We simply adapt to all of the change that comes with this tiny new life. And it occurred to me recently that a maternity session is not just about the physical change that is taking place, but about the transformation of a couple. And this mom- and dad-to-be really bear witness to a beautiful beginning on their journey as parents.
Compared to the number of newborn sessions I photograph, I don’t get to capture many maternity sessions. I have no sure way of knowing why that’s the case, other than to remember my own feelings about being photographed when pregnant. Also, let me just say, these are my feelings and in no way, reflect on this radiant couple. I adored photographing their maternity and newborn sessions and am using their images to make a point – this special time in their lives is so fleeting and how wonderful that they can look back on it through these photos!
I suspect it’s two things: the first and most likely is that many women don’t feel particularly beautiful in their last trimester of pregnancy; and secondly, all of their energy is focused on getting ready for their baby. I understand. But it is truly one of the most remarkable times in a woman’s life!
And I’m not writing to try and sell more maternity sessions, but I want to encourage moms to be photographed with their children all throughout their lives. I feel sad when I get contacted about a newborn session and the mom doesn’t want to be in the photos. What a loss! Of course, it’s wonderful to capture that sweet baby at just a few days or weeks old, but such a big part of that baby’s story is missing if parents aren’t included in the photos.
When I look back at photo albums my mom put together, one of my favorite things is seeing what my mom and dad looked like as I was growing up. And look at this dad – he’s baby-wearing and in front of their greenhouse full of lovely fruits and vegetables! It’s all a part of telling their story.
And when I look back at my son’s newborn sessions, I’m glad that I was a part of the photos too. Because, gosh darn it, I was doing the amazingly incredible hard work of being mama and I’m proud of that!
I’m so glad when I get the opportunity to photograph this special time in other family’s lives. What a blessing!
Captivating Imagery
Captivating Imagery
Captivating Imagery