I have photographed many pregnant mamas over the years but I don’t believe I’ve ever done an intimate in home maternity session quite like this one. This mom knew exactly the look she was going for; something cozy, simple and intimate with a focus on her growing belly. Though I am usually a color fanatic, I think the light neutral color palette along with the texture of her torn blue jeans really makes the warm skin tones pop.
When I arrived for their session, their home was undergoing some major renovations and she told me that she had just finished installing the headboard above their bed. It was formerly a fire mantlepiece in a historic local home and they refurbished it to become their headboard. It makes for a gorgeous standout piece to frame the setting. I love the textures of the wood and stone combined with the creamy neutral colored linens, her droopy sweater and the flowers.
One of the key elements in setting the stage for a beautiful in home maternity photo session is gorgeous natural light. It just so happens that their master bedroom gets nice bright sun in the morning so we made sure to schedule the session during the morning hours. The white sheer curtains also act as reflectors and can be fun to shoot through. In my opinion you can never go wrong with natural window light that feels soft and intimate.
This glowing expectant mama also had a few details she wanted to include such as an ultrasound photo and baby’s breath flowers. They lost their first son and she also wanted to include his photo in the background of some of these images. I think including personal details like these in your photo session are so important and special in telling your family story. And of course we captured a few photos with her husband and daughter. I think probably one of my favorite images from this series is the first photo below of her holding her daughter on top of her growing belly. I like the anonymity of the image and the focus on her pregnant belly and how it shows the love and connection she has with her daughter.
If you are considering an intimate in home maternity session, I’d love to chat with you! I think having photo sessions done in your home makes your session unique to you and I’m here to document it all!
Melissa Engle Photography offers portrait, family and lifestyle photography in Lancaster, York and Harrisburg PA. Please contact me if you would like to make some photo magic together!
