Atlanta Maternity Photographer | The G Family

Shayna contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session with her husband and four year old daughter. Like me, she waits to find out if she's having a boy or girl until the baby is born. Shayna had heard about me from a friend who recommended me after working with me for a newborn session. She came into the studio for her fitting and we talked about what her husband and her daughter should wear. 

The day of the session, the family arrived and her daughter had brought a dress from home that was just perfect. She was such a little lovebug with her mom, and they had some snuggle time on the bed while I quietly worked behind the camera. I remember being pregnant with my second and snuggling with my daughter while wondering all sorts of things...if they would like each other and be friends... if I could love the second as much as the first... if maybe I was a tiny bit crazy.... the whole gamut! We brought dad in and they just had tons of fun dancing and singing (completely unprompted be me) and being a family. The majority of the family images required zero direction from me... you're seeing who they really and truly were that day, which I love. Some clients aren't this comfortable at first, and that's completely okay! I'll work with you and your family to get you there, and give you some guidance for natural interaction that produce authentic moments between all of you. 

*This session was photographed before the installation of the studio's new all white floors

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Dayana & Joshua

Dayana contacted me in her second trimester to talk about her vision for maternity photos. She had a very clear idea of what she wanted, and had decided that I was the perfect photographer for her.

She stopped by the studio with her husband Joshua to chat and see the studio wardrobe, and they booked their session before leaving. We talked about what Joshua should wear for the session as well, and kept in touch over the coming months. When it was time for her actual maternity fitting a couple of weeks before her session, she came in and tried on several dresses. Dayana chose her favorites, and agreed to wear the first lace one as a favor to me since it was a brand new dress and I wanted to see how it photographed! When Dayana arrived, she had brought her own flower crown with her, and was ready to shoot. She'd had a rough morning feeling a bit sick, but she rallied and was such a trouper.

Her husband Joshua chose to bring white linen pants and two different Burberry shirts which I thought were absolutely perfect for the session. They worked beautifully in color and complemented Dayana's choices as well. I just love everything about this session from their tattoos to their loving embraces. Their little boy is so lucky to have such a loving set of parents! 

*As a note, this session was shot before the new all white studio floors were installed.

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Irene and Steve, a field session

This week I thought it would be fun to change it up a bit and showcase a whole year of sessions on the blog with one of my favorite families from maternity to first year. So many clients are interested in doing so but aren't sure what it would look like. This is a great way to see what to expect! 

When Irene contacted me, she knew she wanted a field maternity session, and told me that she loved the emotional authenticity of my work.  She wanted to have images to remember their pregnancy with their baby girl, especially since she had been unsure if she'd ever be able to have children. She and her husband Steve were looking for a photographer who was fun to work with and would help guide them during the session for natural interaction.

Irene is from Malaysia, and Steve is from the tiny town of Chincoteague (anyone else love Misty of Chincoteague like I did as a child?!) and originally met through an online dating website. They went on a date and then didn't see each other again for a few years... and then it all came together. Such a cool love story!  At her maternity fitting, Irene fell in love with one of the studio dresses and opted to wear just that one. We also talked about what Steve should wear from his closet at home.

The day of the session, we met at the field, and got to work. We laughed a lot and had a lot of fun. I know I say this about almost every session, but it's true. I work hard to make the experience fun and enjoyable! You're only pregnant with this baby once, and I want your maternity session with me to be one of the experiences of your pregnancy. 

 I am sharing black and white images from this session in this blog post. Irene and Steve received the images edited in color as well! Check back in a couple of days to see their newborn session with their sweet little girl. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Bridgette, Aaron, & Case

Bridgette contacted me to schedule a maternity session in the field in her second trimester. When she emailed me, so told me how much she loved my backlit and glowy images, and was so excited that she had found me. She lives in South Carolina, three hours away from Atlanta, and is a photographer herself. Finding the right photographer for her family maternity session was extremely important, and she had a specific vision and style that she wanted... and found that when she came to my website. Because Bridgette lived three hours away, she opted to bring her own dresses for her maternity session and style her own family. You'll see in the images that I am not averse to the usage of color at all when it is used and coordinated well. Bridgette nailed that in her mix of colors, patterns, and textures.

The evening of their family maternity session was windy and a bit chilly. I love wind, as it adds such a beautiful and natural element of movement. For mamas worried about their hair when they have a windy session... I just have you face the wind when possible so it's not blowing all over your face, or hold your hair with one hand which you'll naturally reach up to do.

   Their son, Case, was absolutely adorable. He was so loving to his parents, and so inquisitive. I love the bond that this whole family shares together, and was honored to be chosen as their photographer. I can't wait to see them again in the future after their second baby boy arrives later this spring! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity, Newborn & Family Photographer | Take the stress out of finding something to wear for your portrait session!

Let's talk about the biggest stressor when it comes to portrait sessions.

WHAT DO I WEAR?! 

For expecting mamas, figuring out what to wear for their maternity session can be a super stressful experience. Trying to shop while pregnant in a body that you're not used to (especially if it's your first baby) and dealing with horrid store lighting is no fun. As a matter of fact, it was after receiving a few panicky texts from clients that I decided to start building a studio wardrobe. I'm pretty particular about what joins the wardrobe. You can rest assured that every piece photographs beautifully.  I'm looking for gorgeous flattering neutrals, colors, fabrics, and drapes. The majority of the wardrobe isn't even maternity specific, and is super comfortable to wear. We're always adding to it as we come across gorgeous pieces that we just can't pass up. Maternity clients come into the studio about two weeks before their session. We chat for a bit about what you're looking for, and I take a look at your skin tone. I'll then pull pieces for you to look at, and we'll narrow down choices from that. Then, you simply try them on and check them out. No horrid store lighting in the studio - and a nice full length mirror. I will give you my input as well, as I want to make sure that you're wearing the most flattering options to your skin tone and body shape possible. The below dresses are just a few of the ones we have in our studio collection! 

But, it doesn't stop at maternity. 90% of our newborn mamas choose something from the wardrobe for their maternity sessions. Not knowing what your bust size is going to be if you're planning to nurse, or trying to find something to wear with a brand new baby in the house is stress that you just don't need. Imagine showing up in comfy yoga pants and a sweatshirt and then choosing something from the wardrobe and slipping into the hair and makeup chair. Guess what? You don't have to imagine: that is reality for many of our Lily Sophia Photography newborn mamas every single week. 

But, wait! We're not finished yet. It doesn't stop at newborn sessions either. As babies grow and mamas return to their pre-pregnancy bodies, they're often comfortable in their own clothing. The studio wardrobe is available for family and milestone sessions too! However, if you'd rather pull from your own closets, no need to stress. I'm here to help you pull together a gorgeous and cohesive look that is perfect for your entire family and reflects who you are. I'll work with you by sending over a style guide in the month before your session, and I'll schedule a complimentary appointment in the studio for you to bring over options and we'll mix and match. Planning a session shouldn't be stressful - let me help make this an amazing and relaxed experience...the best you've ever had! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a maternity, newborn, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Claire & Antonio

Claire contacted me to see if I had last minute availability for a maternity session in the field.  I actually was totally booked, but then had another client request to change her maternity session location to the studio due to some health reasons.  I let them know that a spot had opened for a field session, and Claire snatched the date up. 

She and Antonio came to the studio for a maternity fitting and she absolutely LOVED the dresses. She narrowed her choices down to a flowy taupe gown with a crinkle shirt and a pleated ivory dress. Antonio didn't really have anything he felt would work, so he tried on some studio shirts and was pleased with how it looked, so he elected to borrow it for the session.

We met at the field on a very cloudy and overcast day. Claire was so concerned and asked if we should reschedule because she was afraid there wouldn't be enough light. I asked her to trust me, and reminded her that overcast days are still gorgeous and that her images would still be stunning without the sun. She relaxed and we shot the session, and had a blast!

When Claire viewed her images after the session, she emailed me to tell me that she was so pleased and surprised with her gallery since she really didn't have any idea that images could look like this on a cloudy day. She and Antonio chose to have one of their images printed in a 16x20 mounted print to display in their home. They've since had their ADORABLE baby girl! Congrats!!!! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Caroline & Blair

Caroline contacted us to schedule a maternity session in the field, and scheduled a newborn session as well for when her daughter arrived. She and her husband Blair came to the studio all the way from north Alpharetta for a maternity fitting, and I was treated to listening to their very cool Australian accents! They're from Perth and here in the states working. I'll definitely be contacting Caroline in a few years for some insider tips when we take an anniversary trip to Down Under. 

I love working with so many clients from all over the world. Most of you know from watching my video that I have a hearing impairment, so I have an accent also. Understanding clients and communicating with them is never an issue, and we've had a couple clients in the studio who have only been speaking English for a year or so. We always find a way to communicate. The beautiful thing about photography is that it doesn't need words. It just needs emotion and mutual basic understanding.  I absolutely love meeting and working with clients from all over the world. So far we've had clients from England, Australia, Nigeria, Botswana, Japan, China, Korea, Germany, France, and Malaysia. I can't wait to see what other countries will be represented in our studio this year. 

Caroline chose to add on hair and makeup services with our HMUA Margaret for her maternity session. We met at the field on a humid summer night. Blair is a very stoic kind of guy that doesn't enjoy being in front of the camera, but with a few jokes and getting snuggled up to his wife, he started smiling and having fun. Some of my favorite images from this session are the ones at the very end, when Caroline and Blair were standing looking at each other as the sun set. Unprompted, she reached up to touch her husband's face, and it was magic. These are the real moments that I live for, and the moments that show who you are as a couple. The moments that you can show to your child printed out where your child can see how much you loved each other and how tender you were with each other while waiting for their arrival. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jennifer & Johnson

Jennifer and Johnson contacted me to schedule a maternity session in the field at the end of the summer, and I had spots available due to backup dates not being used. When I schedule outdoor sessions, I always block another date on the calendar. My clients don't have to worry about me being overbooked and not being able to shoot their session before they have their baby! 

Jennifer came to the studio and tried on several dresses. The use of studio dresses is included with your session! She fell in love with two, and elected to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret. We met at the field in the hour before sunset, and started shooting. It was such a gorgeous evening, and the two of them had so much fun during their session. There was a lot of laughter, which I love - because when we're all laughing, we're relaxed and true personalities shine through. Since we will have already met during your styling appointment, there is no ice to break when it comes to getting to know each other! It takes about 5 minutes on average for my clients to "warm" up and feel comfortable. You don't need to worry about how you look or what you should do. I will guide you through your session every step of the way and help you adjust as necessary for the most flattering posing and to connect as a couple if you need a little help. Every client has remarked "Wow, that was so easy!" when we conclude their session. Our goal is for every session experience to be a relaxed and enjoyable one. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | The Patrick Family

Jason contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session as a surprise for his wife. Yomaira, for a Mother's Day gift. They were expecting their third baby, another little girl! Professional photos were not something they had done before, other than their wedding, and he wanted to go all out. He asked if he could bring her to the studio for her maternity fitting (unbeknownst to her) and surprise her with the session there. 

I loved that he was gifting her with a maternity session and images to have forever of their growing family. I mean, I would personally just be so excited if my husband gifted me a photography session! It's truly a gift that lasts a lifetime and that means so much to me personally. Plus, I have something to show and give to my children as well!

The day they arrived for the maternity fitting, I had expected him to have already told his wife why she was there... but no. They walked in and she asked, "Okay, so why are we here?" I said...."Surprise! Happy Mother's Day!" She was a little bit concerned we were going to shoot the session right then and there without having had the time to do her hair and makeup to her liking, but I assured her the session wasn't until the following week and that she was only here for the fitting. Her older children, Tony and Julie were also along for the ride and they are just the CUTEST and sweetest kids! Julie tried on dresses from the children's wardrobe and found one that she loved. While Yomaira was trying on dresses, Patrick and I chatted about what he and Tony should wear. 

The day of their session, the family arrived, and we began shooting. Family sessions tend to take a little bit longer since we have so many different groupings to do. We shot Yomaira alone, with just her husband, the entire family together, mother and daughter, and mother and son. And I just had to take a few of just the kids lounging on the studio bed while their mother was getting changed. They were just too cute not to! Baby girl is so lucky to be coming into such a close and loving family with the best big siblings ever. I so enjoyed working with the Patrick family, and can't wait to have them back in the studio again in the future! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | A foggy and drizzly winter maternity session

Katharine contacted me to schedule a maternity and newborn session. She and Howard were expecting their first baby, a little boy! At first, Katharine didn't think she cared about the location of a maternity session, but then realized she really wanted an outdoor session at the park location. No problem! She came to the studio with Howard, and chose two dresses that she really loved. Howard is one of the funniest people I have ever met, and he kept me laughing with his jokes and wit while Katharine was busy trying on pieces. We discussed what he should wear for the session, and Katharine asked to add on HMUA services as well. 

The day of her session, she came to the studio where Margaret, our HMUA was waiting for her. Margaret created a gorgeous waterfall hairstyle for Katharine and a beautiful clean beauty look for makeup. When I arrived it was starting to sprinkle and there was an incredible amount of fog. 

So, why didn't we reschedule the session? Simple: why should we? It wasn't pouring rain. The fog was incredibly unique and beautiful.  I actually LOVE overcast weather for shooting just as much as I love the bright and sunny days. The weather was a part of the story and it made their final images absolutely stunning. Katharine and Howard were up for it, so we headed to the location and the sprinkling rain turned into more of a mist and then stopped completely. 

We had a lot of fun during their session. Howard kept us laughing throughout, and Katharine looked absolutely stunning. When you feel beautiful and confident, it shows! 

Here are some of my most favorite images from this foggy winter session. I'm so glad it all worked out the way it did! I can't wait to share Katharine and Howard's newborn session images on the blog later this month! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Clarissa

Clarissa contacted me for a studio maternity session. She was pregnant with her first baby, a little girl. She had previously gone the DIY route with a hobbyist friend, and realized that hiring a professional would ensure the results that she envisioned. She drove all the way from Hampton, Georgia to work with me! 

When Clarissa came into the studio, she told me that she had fallen in love with the images on the website and knew I was the perfect photographer for her. She tried on several pieces from the wardrobe and chose a lace dress and a split front dress as well since she knew she wanted a few bare belly images. All clients decide their comfort level. Some clients know they want bare belly images, and others know they don't. This is YOUR maternity session, so we will craft it to fit what you envision within the setting you choose.  We talked about all things pregnancy and afterwards, and had lots of fun chatting. She works as an ER trauma nurse, so I told her that it was likey that very little about being a mother would faze her since she's seen it all at this point! Clarissa definitely has the perfect personality and demeanor to work in the nursing field: she is calm and serene, and makes others feel at ease immediately. 

The day of her studio session, we arrived and began shooting. She had brought a flower crown with her to wear with one of the dresses. We do have a couple of options for flower crowns in our studio wardrobe as well! There was lots of laughter during the session and we had a great time. She looked absolutely beautiful in the dresses that she chose. When she saw her finalized images, she let me know how much she loved them and that she would let me know when her daughter was born. I'm excited to share images from her newborn session later this month, and the story about how that newborn session happened! 

*this session was photographed before the installation of our new white studio floors

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Traci & Lee

Traci contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session. She was expecting TWINS, and wanted to make sure she had photos to remember her pregnancy with them. I typically schedule twin moms at around 26-30 weeks since they tend to show sooner, and are less and less comfortable the further along they are. 26-30 weeks seems to be a great timeframe for a beautiful round belly and ease of physical movement. She and her husband Lee came to the studio for her maternity fitting, and she tried on several dresses. She chose a simple pleated dress and a split front chiffon one, since she knew she wanted to have some bare belly photos also. Lee and I discussed what he should wear while she was trying on dresses, and also got to know each other a bit. Dads can't always make it to the maternity fittings, but I always love it when they do. It gives us a chance to chat and makes the actual session day easy and comfortable since they've already met me and know what to expect. If your husband hates having his photo taken, I promise it will be as pain free as possible with me. Your husband won't be asked to do anything he's uncomfortable with, nor will he be forced to spend two hours having his photo taken. So far, I've gotten high fives from every dad that has worked with me and they all told their partner that I was pretty cool and I made the experience way more fun than they thought it could ever be. 

On the day of their session, Traci arrived and we got right to shooting! She looked absolutely gorgeous and I LOVED the way she chose to wear her hair! 

I'm such a lover of black and white images, and this session's images just look so beautiful in black and white. Clients receive both color and black and white edits of their final edited images in their gallery, but I'm choosing to share only black and white ones for this blog post.  

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | Kathleen & Owen | A mommy and me session

Kathleen called the studio phone at the very last minute to see if we could work her into our schedule for a maternity session... at 38 weeks pregnant. She is an actress out in Los Angeles and was living here temporarily while her husband was finishing up work on a movie set. She decided that she really wanted maternity photos with her little boy to document her pregnancy with her little girl and how sweet her little boy was. I happened to be at the studio working when she called, so we had her come right over from where she was shopping at Atlantic Station for a maternity fitting. 

When she arrived at the studio, she let me know that she wanted to dress more casually for part of the session in jeans and the shirt that she had on so she could tumble around with her son, and also wanted to wear one of the studio dresses for part of the session. I thought that was a great idea, so we set about trying on dresses, and she found one that she loved. She showed me sweater that she had just picked up for her son, Owen, and I thought it was absolutely perfect. We said our goodbyes and crossed our fingers that she wouldn't have little Miss Lily until AFTER her scheduled session.

Fortunately, Lily stayed in, and we met at the park location. It was an absolutely gorgeous and warm November evening. When they arrived, Owen had fallen asleep in the car and didn't wake up even when moved to a stroller. We decided to let him wake on his own since most toddlers aren't exactly the happiest when awoken! I started with solo images of Kathleen, and then Owen woke up. He was a little bit grumpy, but his curiousness about me and where we were won out.  When he heard that he got to play, run around, and hug his mommy, he was all about participating. 

I LOVED working with Kathleen and Owen, and was so happy that I was able to make a last minute session work for them! Kathleen chose to order a large mounted print of the first black and white image of them snuggling, and I thought it was the perfect choice. 

If you have waited until the very last second for a maternity session and are wondering if you should go for it... contact us! We'll chat about what you're hoping for, and see if we have any availability to get you in right away. No maternity client has ever regretted documenting such a special time in their life. We'll have fun, you'll look and feel beautiful, and you'll have a story to tell your baby about that time mommy waited until she was 38 weeks pregnant to book a maternity session.....

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jessica & Daniel

Jessica contacted me in the middle of April to see if I had availability for a maternity and newborn session. She was expecting their first child, a baby boy! I responded and let her know that I had one opening left for April, and that it was three days away. She jumped at the chance to book her session, and came to the studio for a maternity fitting with her husband.

Jessica and Daniel have a pretty significant height difference! She is all of 5'2", and he is super tall at 6'6". She was a bit concerned that the dresses in the studio would be too long for her and not work well, but I assured her that many of the pieces work for a wide range of heights. We also have what seems like an unlimited supply of safety pins to temporarily fit clothing to more petite bodies! Jessica ended up choosing two dresses that she loved and looked gorgeous on her. Her husband opted to borrow one of the men's chambray linen shirts that we have on hand for men so he wouldn't have to worry about shopping with the session being so soon. 

We met at the field, and it was such a gorgeous evening. I LOVE shooting in the field year round, and it's absolutely beautiful when it's both cloudy and sunny - but I definitely just adore sun soaked images, and that's exactly the kind of evening it was. 

During the session Daniel kept crouching down out of habit. I let him know this wasn't necessary and to embrace the height difference. For some images when couples are snuggling, I do encourage dads to get as close as possible but ask them to do this how they naturally would. For some men that's bending at the back, others bend their knees. I want your images to be true to who you are both individually and as a couple. 

Here are just a few images from our fun evening shooting in the field. I absolutely loved working with this couple for maternity and newborn (check back tomorrow to see their newborn session!) and am looking forward to seeing them again for their son's First Birthday Session! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jasmine & Gregory in the studio

Jasmine contacted me to see if I had any last minute availability to photograph a studio maternity session. She and Gregory were expecting their first child, a baby boy, and were so excited! Jasmine knew she wanted a split front dress as she wanted some bare belly images, and she also knew she wanted something lacy. She found two dresses in the studio wardrobe that fit her vision perfectly. 

Jasmine and Gregory met through work and have been together for a long time. They are such a loving and affectionate couple, and we had a lot of fun during their session. I loved Jasmine's gorgeous braids and big smile. Gregory was so devoted to her and doted on her the entire time. Aren't they the sweetest?! I'm choosing to share my favorite black and white images from their session with me, but clients always receive both a color and black and white edit of each image. 

Congratulations Jasmine & Gregory! Your son is such a lucky little boy to have such loving parents like you. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | A studio session with Adrienne & Dave

Adrienne and Dave came to visit me for a complimentary consultation at the studio in May for a consultation to meet with me and learn more about the booking and photography process. It was really important to them that they mesh well with their photographer's personality and develop a relationship. I love clients who want this, so I always welcome a meeting! They had also just relocated to Atlanta and were in the midst of moving into their new home, making plans for everything baby related, and in the next couple of days after meeting with me...Dave threw his back out. I didn't know this at the time, of course. I had been so busy at the studio with clients as that spring and summer were the busiest on record, so I assumed they were busy also or had found someone that was the perfect fit for them. Several months later in August, an email popped up in my inbox from Adrienne asking if she could book a maternity and newborn session, and apologizing for not getting in touch sooner. I literally only had ONE remaining date in my calendar for a studio session, and made room for another newborn on my calendar for them in October. 

When Adrienne came to the studio for her maternity fitting, she was a bit worried that we wouldn't have anything that would fit her. Adrienne is 4'11" and sometimes that height can be swallowed up in dresses. The studio wardrobe has seen clients from 4'11" to 6'3" and ranging from size 0 to 16 and we've always found options that will work for them! Adrienne was no exception. She fell in love with one of our fitted strapless lace dresses with a sweetheart neckline. The off white color complemented her skin tone perfectly! She also loved the backless taupe crinkle gown that is so popular with our clientele, and chose that as well.

Adrienne also decided to work with Margaret for her hair and makeup. Margaret is incredibly experienced with pretty much every skin tone (and undertone) as well as hair texture. I'll put it this way... everyone who chooses to work with our HMUA team is so glad that they did, and it makes the experience that much more fun! Maternity clients with studio sessions simply show up at the studio in advance of their session to be prepped. Enjoy a drink from the studio fridge, help yourself to snacks from the snack basket, chill out to some music (just play from your phone via Bluetooth on our studio Bose speaker), have a great conversation with your HMUA, and make some plans to go out for a meal afterwards to show off your gorgeous hair and makeup! 

I arrived about 10 minutes before our session start time to get set up for Adrienne's maternity session. Once she was finished with hair and makeup, we helped her get dressed and began the session. It was so much fun, and Adrienne and Dave are just so sweet together! She told me that she is Filipino and that Dave is Chinese, and that they are wondering who their baby will take after more. I think every parent wonders that... I know I did. Adrienne and Dave also decided NOT to find out if they were having a boy or a girl. I made the same decision with each of my three pregnancies, so I'm always so excited when a couple tells me they're not finding out - getting to see their anticipation and wondering if they're going to have a son or a daughter is always so fun. 

Here are some of my favorite images from their maternity session in black and white! Sometimes I love a session so much in black and white that I choose to share only those on the blog. Adrienne and Dave received their images in both color and black and white as the final images are edited in both formats.  

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Stephanie & Ben at the park

When Stephanie contacted us to learn more about our maternity and newborn sessions, she chose to book both. I love working with couples for both, and often see them for important milestones and then every year thereafter. 

Stephanie came to the studio for her maternity fitting and I saw right away that she had a free spirit and loved the bohemian look. I pulled two dresses that I knew she would fit in, and she fell in love with them immediately. They were perfect for her skin tone and her personality! She had initially chosen the studio for her session, but I let her know that I felt the park was a better fit for what she was envisioning and the dresses she had chosen. She agreed, and we changed it to the park location since I still had availability for that time of day. We discussed what her husband should wear, and she also elected to book HMUA services as well. 

The day of their maternity session was freezing cold and a bit windy. I am always a fan of wind during sessions because it adds such a beautiful and natural element that can't be replicated. I could follow clients around with a leaf blower, but I just don't think that would work as well. (Yes, I am joking) I assured her that I work quickly, and grabbed a blanket from my stash to bring along with us which came in handy for warming up in between. The blanket even made it into some of their final gallery images! :) 

We had so much fun during their session and laughed a lot. Ben was a little unsure at first (like most husbands!) but after about 5 minutes, he was having a good time too. The most common concern that my clients express is that they don't know what to do and are afraid they're going to look awkward. Listen. It's MY job to get you comfortable and having fun. We'll build a relationship of trust and communication at the beginning of your experience with me when you come in for your maternity fitting. During your actual session, you won't be left wondering what to do. I'm with you every step of the way. When you look at your images after the session, you'll smile and remember how much fun you had during, and that the moments were real moments and reactions and not faked. 

Here are some of my favorites from this gorgeous session! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Ashley in the studio

When Ashley contacted me to schedule her maternity session in the studio, she let me know she was including her niece. I let her know I had lots of dress options for them both, and we scheduled their fitting to take place two weeks before their session. The fitting was lots of fun, and Ashley was a bit overwhelmed by all of the choices! She fell in love with two of the dresses and her niece absolutely loved one of the little girl dresses in our wardrobe too which was a perfect complement to both of the dresses that Ashley had choices. Her niece saw one of the flower crowns we keep in the studio and eagerly asked if she could wear it. The answer was, "Yes, of course!" We also talked about what her husband should wear, and I gave her specific examples and color palette ideas. Husbands can always bring multiple options from their closet and I'll help choose the best one the day of the session. 

On the day of the session, Ashley drove an hour from Cumming, Georgia and arrived with her husband and niece and we got started. Most of my clients are a bit nervous when we first begin shooting, and are worried they won't know what to do or will somehow mess things up. This doesn't need to be a concern of yours! It's my job to take care of things for you, and I will guide you the entire time as needed. Come in and plan to relax and have FUN! Your maternity session should be one of the happiest and best memories of your pregnancy, and even though you may not feel this way: you are beautiful. Trust me! 

These are a few of my favorite images from Ashley's session! 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | A winter maternity session in the park

Jessica contacted me in July to schedule her maternity session in the park because she wanted to be sure she had a spot on my calendar. Advance planning is definitely the way to go for guaranteed availability! When she came to the studio for a fitting, we got to know each other a bit and talked about what her husband should wear. I also gave some direction about what type of shoe she should choose to best complement her dresses.  

On the day of the session, it was a cloudy and chilly December day. It's a common misconception that you need to have sunny weather for your session to take place. I shoot in overcast weather when the sun is hiding, and I actually love the resulting images from overcast days. Also keep in mind that I'm photographing my subjects and their connection to one another...not the sunset!  

On my way there, it started to sprinkle. I wondered how heavy the rain would get and crossed my fingers that we would still be able to shoot. At the studio, I selected the best options for Taylor that they had brought with him to go with Jessica's wardrobe choices. We decided to make our way to the park location and take the risk of being poured on. That risk paid off into such an intimate and beautiful session that was so much fun. When we wrapped up, Jessica commented that she couldn't believe how easy and fun the entire experience was. This is something that I hear often from my clients, and what I strive for. I have the honor of photographing some of the most special times in the lives of my clients, so I want them to remember the experience as being absolutely wonderful from start to finish. 

I absolutely loved the dresses that Jessica chose from the studio wardrobe for her session, and am so excited to share these images. I cannot wait to meet Jessica and Taylor's sweet baby girl later this winter when they come in for her newborn session and first portraits as a family. 

If you're pregnant and considering a maternity session in the winter, don't be afraid to take it outdoors! I work quickly, and we can always wrap you up in a blanket in between as needed. If you absolutely hate the cold and it's just not a possibility for you, the studio is kept toasty warm and is also an absolutely gorgeous setting for maternity sessions. 

If you're pregnant and looking for a newborn or maternity photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Be sure to view this short 1.5 minute film 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.

Atlanta Newborn and Maternity Photography | The Studio Wardrobe

Did you know that my studio has an extensive wardrobe that I am always adding to with high end pieces of beautiful clothing? These are some of the most recent additions. Studio pieces range in sizing from 0-16, and are carefully chosen for their beautiful colors, flattering cuts, and gorgeous textures that photograph well. All booked clients are welcome to borrow from the wardrobe, and roughly 90% of clients choose to do so for their maternity, newborn, or family session.

What if you don't want to borrow from the wardrobe but you're not sure what you should wear? No problem! Part of the experience of being one of my clients is having a photographer who truly cares about your entire experience. I will help you shop your own closet or shop for new clothing that will fit your vision and photograph beautifully. I provide you with a style guide and am available to answer any questions you may have. Don't think that you must only wear neutrals or a flowing dress for your session I love color and jeans just as much as the next person! The trick is choosing a flattering and cohesive look for the setting that you're in. What is MOST important is that you feel beautiful and comfortable!  

Let's work together! I'd love to hear from you and begin planning your session. Contact me today to start the conversation. 

Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.