There’s a moment in every photographer’s career when they realize it’s time to pivot. For me, that moment came after the birth of my child. After years of capturing weddings—those magical, once-in-a-lifetime events—something changed in me. I had been behind the camera for countless couples, documenting their vows, their tears, their first dances, and those wild, candid moments of joy. But nothing could compare to the life-altering, profound experience of motherhood. It wasn’t just about the birth of my child—it was about everything leading up to that moment and beyond. The soft glow of maternity, the anticipation of new life, the beauty of a woman embracing the changes in her body—it all inspired me to shift my focus.
The Wedding Journey: A Time of Growth
When I started my photography journey, wedding photography felt like the perfect fit. The energy, the chaos, the excitement—it was electrifying. Each wedding was a whirlwind of emotions, from pre-ceremony jitters to the high-energy reception dance-offs. I was surrounded by couples on the happiest day of their lives, capturing every fleeting moment. And though it was hard work, I loved it.
I owe much of what I know today to my mentor, Orlando wedding photographer Brian Pepper (now a part of Curtis Jones Photography). Brian’s ability to capture the essence of a wedding day, the candid moments between couples, the delicate details of the ceremony—all of it rubbed off on me. He taught me how to anticipate moments, how to direct without being intrusive, and most importantly, how to tell a story with each click of the shutter. But the more weddings I photographed, the more I realized that while I loved the craft, something was missing.
The Shift: A Personal Awakening
Then, I became a mother.
Becoming a parent shifted my perspective on photography. Suddenly, I began to see the beauty in things I hadn’t noticed before—the subtle glow of a pregnant belly, the way a mother-to-be radiates with anticipation. Maternity photography wasn’t just about a growing baby bump—it was about celebrating a woman’s strength, her vulnerability, and the incredible changes her body goes through.
I found myself drawn to these moments, wanting to capture the essence of a woman’s journey into motherhood. I saw the opportunity to create timeless images that honored women in a way wedding photography hadn’t quite done for me. Pregnancy and motherhood are an intimate, life-changing experience, and I wanted to preserve those moments for women the way I would want them preserved for myself.
I knew it was time to move forward. I decided to dedicate myself to maternity photography, a genre that felt not only personally meaningful but also something that could make a deep, lasting impact on others.
What Maternity Photography Offers: More Than Just a Photoshoot
There’s something magical about maternity photography. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about the experience.
- Empowerment: I’ve had clients tell me how they felt empowered and beautiful in front of the camera during their maternity sessions. I’ve seen women who may have been unsure of their appearance light up with confidence once they see themselves through my lens. There’s something about seeing the strength in your body as it creates life that can change your whole perspective.
- Connection: Many of my maternity clients come to me looking to capture this specific moment in time before life shifts dramatically. And they’re right to do so. The bond between a mother and the life growing inside her is unique and profound, and maternity photos serve as a reminder of that connection.
- The Story of Transformation: Pregnancy is a period of immense change, not just physically but emotionally. I love being able to document those changes, to capture a woman’s journey through this incredible transformation. From glowing skin to an expanding belly, from the tender excitement of first-time motherhood to the wisdom that comes with a growing family—there’s so much to capture.
My Approach: A Personal Touch
As a maternity photographer, I prefer to make each session personal. Every woman is unique, and I want her to feel that way in her photographs. I always take the time to discuss her vision before we even pick up a camera. Whether she wants a serene, natural feel or something more creative and bold, my goal is to make her feel comfortable, confident, and, most importantly, beautiful.
I take pride in creating a relaxed, fun environment for my clients. I know the idea of being photographed can make some people feel self-conscious, but I promise you, it’s not like a wedding day. There’s no rush, no stress. It’s just you, me, and the baby. We have time to let the moments unfold naturally. I’ve found that when clients feel comfortable, the best shots come out of those quiet, unposed moments.
Moving Forward: Why I’ll Never Look Back
Switching from wedding photography to maternity was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s given me the chance to work in a more intimate, reflective space, and it has allowed me to truly connect with my clients in a way I never experienced with weddings.
Don’t get me wrong—weddings will always have a special place in my heart. I’ll always remember the joy of catching the first kiss, the laughter shared between newlyweds, and the energy of a packed dance floor. But maternity photography has a different kind of magic. It’s more personal. More intimate. And I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Through maternity photography, I’ve found a new sense of purpose, and I’m able to celebrate the strength and beauty of women in a way I never imagined when I first picked up my camera.
Now, I get to help women freeze these tender moments of their lives and share in their excitement, and that’s something I truly cherish.