How I Create Laidback Maternity Sessions| Petaluma, California | Sunshine Lady Photography
Featuring Monica and Drew (of Little Buffalo Coffee)
As your belly swells with the anticipation of new life, it's natural to feel a mix of emotions—joy, excitement, and perhaps occasionally (or often), exhaustion. Amid the hustle and bustle of preparing for your little one's arrival, the idea of scheduling a maternity photoshoot in the vibrant backdrop of the San Francisco Bay Area might seem like just another task on an already overflowing to-do list. However, before dismissing the idea, consider the how you want to look back on this time in five years. If you’re like me, these months will blur together in your memory- but, if you choose to capture your experience in a meaningful way, you will have proof of this time to remember the joy and anticipation you felt, as well as have something for your children to cherish.
Undoubtedly, life becomes increasingly busy as pregnancy progresses. Balancing work, appointments, and personal commitments may leave you wondering if squeezing in a photoshoot is truly worth it. But pause for a moment and imagine capturing a stunning image of yourself, glowing with the radiance of pregnancy against the iconic Bay Area backdrop. Can you see it? I know I can. (And do, considering I have a wealth of images I’ve photographed of just this.)
The last thing you need, though, is another thing to stress about. Want to photograph your pregnancy but feel a bit overwhelmed by the prospect of planning a photo session? If you don’t like a lot of fuss, prefer to keep things simple and laid back, and have no clue how to prepare without getting stressed out about it, I think we might vibe. Here’s why:
First things first, my goal as a photographer is to eliminate the awkwardness that often occurs with getting photographed. I HATE awkward silences and do not take myself seriously at all, so I will go out of my way from the start to keep things light, easy, and simple for you.
Not sure what to wear? I got you! I have invested in a wardrobe styling service that not only helps you figure out what to wear, but it can also help you coordinate your spouse and/or family’s wardrobes as well! You can buy these items right from the stores, like Target and H&M, or simply get ideas of color palettes and styles that suit your taste.
I will scout out a location ahead of time to make sure we are in the right place at the right time. You don’t have to worry about where we will do it (though I will ask you from the start if you have a place or type of place in mind and then likely offer you a few suggestions from which you can choose).
During the session, I will guide you as we casually chat (and I mean that I really push the chatting part because it helps you forget that you’re being photographed and puts everyone at ease). I will also rudely interrupt you while you’re speaking if I see a posture or type of light I want to capture, just FYI. But don’t worry, I’ll apologize and ask you to continue as soon as we’ve got the shot.
I make a point of putting your spouse and children at ease. In face, my NUMBER ONE most common response from clients after a session is something like “Wow, my husband said on the way home that our shoot was way more enjoyable than he expected it to be.” Just call me the Husband Tamer.
So if you like bespoke, relaxed, and dare I say fun maternity photos that result in beautiful and timeless images of you in this magical period of your life, feel free to get in touch to book your session!