Creating Magic in your Home
When I arrived at the cosy home of this lovely family, I could feel the excitement and warmth in the air. Mum, dad, their little girl C, and a baby on the way, were ready for a fun, laid-back maternity photoshoot. This session wasn’t just about baby bumps or posed smiles – it was about capturing their life exactly as it is right now: full of love, chaos, adventure, and a deep sense of home. And let’s not forget their two cats – one a little shy, the other incredibly curious!
The heart of this session was spending time together, capturing real moments that tell their family’s story. Little C was a bundle of energy, and we made sure the session revolved around her favorite activities. We spent a lot of time playing in her favorite spot – the window in the living room, where she loves to look for birds and hide behind the curtains, giggling as we played hide and seek.
Her love for little rituals made the session even sweeter. She enjoyed her fav meal – cereal and banana – and even tried a little bit of delicious donuts we had on hand (just a taste, of course!). And how could we forget her favorite plush friend, a penguin, who joined us for some photos too?
When nap time rolled around, we had planned the perfect way to continue. Mum and dad took the chance to share some quiet, intimate moments – kissing, hugging, and just being themselves. C wasn’t upset, as she drifted into her nap, and this allowed me to capture those tender moments between them without any worries.
Navigating Concerns and Creating a Relaxed Atmosphere
The family had been a bit concerned about their home not being "photo-ready" since some rooms were still in progress, but we worked around it seamlessly. We focused on the spaces that felt the most like them – their beautiful living room where little C loves to play, the charming kitchen and the cosy bedroom. In the end, those rooms became the perfect backdrop for their story.
Even with their shy cat, we managed to get a quick portrait, while the more outgoing one was more than happy to be involved in several of the shots. Including their pets made the session feel even more personal and unique to their family.
Tips for Photographing Toddlers During a Session
Photographing toddlers, like little C, is always an adventure. Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful when working with the tiniest members of the family:
- Follow their lead: Toddlers have their own rhythm and pace, and it’s best to let them guide parts of the session. If they’re happy playing by the window or showing off their favorite toys, those moments often make for the most heartfelt and genuine photos.
- Incorporate favorite activities: Whether it’s making their favorite snack or playing a game, keeping the session fun and relaxed helps capture their true personality. With C, the hide-and-seek and bird watching by the window were some of her happiest moments, which naturally brought out the best smiles.
- Plan for breaks: Kids, especially toddlers, might need breaks during a longer session. Whether it’s a snack, nap, or a moment to cuddle, it’s important to give them the space to reset. That’s why capturing the more intimate moments of mum and dad during C’s nap worked out perfectly!
- Keep it light: Don’t be afraid to let go of perfection. Sometimes the best shots come when things are a bit messy or chaotic – that’s real family life, and it’s beautiful.
Capturing the Essence of This Growing Family
This session was all about love and anticipation. As we photographed mum’s growing belly and the family’s interactions, I could feel the excitement and warmth they shared. The joy of waiting for the new baby to arrive was palpable, and their connection shone through in every shot. From little C’s playful energy to the soft, tender moments between mum and dad, this maternity photoshoot was a true reflection of their family: fun, loving, and full of adventure.
I’m so grateful to have been part of this special time in their lives!
Looking to Capture Your Family’s Special Moments?
If you're looking to preserve these fleeting moments of excitement, laughter, and love, let's create something special together. Whether you're welcoming a new little one or simply celebrating your family’s unique energy, I'm here to help you capture those beautiful memories.
