Many of my clients first work with me for their maternity session with their first child and then choose to keep working with me throughout the years as their family grows... for newborn, milestone, and family photos each year. I absolutely love developing relationships over the years and watching families grow. Sessions also become easier and easier each time for clients and it eventually feels like we're just hanging out for an hour!
I worked with Irene and Steve several years ago when they were expecting their first daughter, Oona. Oona is such a fun little girl but definitely has opinions and preferences! One of them is to wear high heels - the sparklier the better! I reassured Irene that this wasn't a problem and to roll with it. Someday when Oona is an adult they can look back and laugh!
Irene came into the studio to try on dresses and fell in love with one that was reversible! She wore it both ways during her session as you'll see in the photographs. Because I have worked with their family for so long, I had pulled a few dress options for Oona from our studio wardrobe for little girls. I had a feeling that this gorgeous peaches and cream dress with beautiful detailing would be absolutely perfect for Oona! Steve and Irene agreed immediately when they saw it - and it even matched her shoes.
Oona is a child that doesn't like to have her picture taken. She wants to explore and do her own thing. Irene and Steve are two parents who fully embrace her true personality and want authenticity in their images. So simply put: if Oona doesn't want to smile for the camera or make eye contact, they love the natural family interaction images just as much, if not more! It can sometimes feel frustrating for clients when their child doesn't want to "cooperate". Remember that children often love to push buttons! If they can see they are managing to make you feel stressed out, they will sometimes amp that up with glee. (I speak from personal parenting experience with my own three children!) Going into our time together with a laid back attitude and having fun is the key. I'll help with some guidance for that! I'll also gauge how your little one reacts to me and temper my approach accordingly. Every child is so different - I have literally seen it all at this point!
We started at the base of the mountain and worked our way up to the top. This location is gorgeous, but be forewarned that it does require a bit of effort on your part! For exertion determining purposes: my 2 year old son was able to hike his way up with no assistance. Should you choose to shoot at the mountain, please be prepared to carry your child to the top, or to take frequent breaks for rest if needed.
Without further ado, here are a few of my favorites from this family maternity session. I absolutely love Oona's personality!
If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!
Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.