Sommer & Juan’s Florida Maternity Session
There is something deeply meaningful about documenting motherhood — especially when it involves family. This maternity session with Sommer and Juan was particularly close to my heart. Sommer is my niece, but she is more like a daughter to me, which made capturing this season of her life even more special.
We photographed their session in a quiet Florida pasture just before their baby shower. While I typically prefer the control and consistency of studio maternity portraits, this session was a reminder that beautiful, emotional images can be created anywhere when the connection is real.
A Soft and Moody Maternity Session in Natural Light
This session took place around midday, which is not the ideal time photographers usually recommend for outdoor portraits. However, due to time constraints, we worked with the light we had and focused on emotion, connection, and storytelling rather than perfection.
My photography style leans soft and moody, even when working in challenging lighting conditions. By carefully positioning my subjects and focusing on authentic interaction, we were able to create images that feel intimate, timeless, and full of anticipation.
Bold Styling That Elevated the Session
While I often suggest soft, creamy, neutral, or pastel tones for maternity sessions, Sommer chose to wear a rich burgundy dress paired with Juan’s blue and burgundy shirt. This bold color palette stood out beautifully against the natural Florida landscape and added depth to the final images.
This session is a great example of how personal style matters. When clients feel confident in what they are wearing, it shows in every photograph.
From Shy to Natural Connection
Like many couples, Sommer and Juan were a bit shy at the beginning of their session. This is completely normal, especially for clients who are not used to being in front of the camera. With gentle direction and time to relax, they slowly came out of their shells.
The most meaningful moments often happen once couples forget about the camera — the quiet smiles, subtle touches, and natural closeness that reflect the bond they share as they prepare to welcome their baby.
Maternity Session Tips (Studio-Focused)
While this session was photographed outdoors, I primarily specialize in studio maternity portraits. Studio sessions allow for consistent lighting, controlled environments, and a refined, timeless look. If you are planning your own maternity session, here are a few tips to help you prepare — especially for a studio setting.
1. Studio Sessions Offer the Most Control
Studio maternity portraits provide flattering, consistent lighting regardless of weather or time of day. This allows for a more relaxed experience and ensures soft, sculpted images that highlight your bump and connection.
2. Wardrobe Matters More Than Location
In a studio, clothing becomes the main visual focus. Solid colors, flowing fabrics, and thoughtfully chosen tones photograph beautifully. While neutrals and soft pastels are always a favorite, deeper colors like burgundy, navy, or emerald can add drama and emotion to studio portraits.
3. Trust the Posing Guidance
Studio maternity sessions are carefully posed to flatter your body and emphasize connection. Even if you feel awkward at first, gentle direction helps create natural, elegant images. You do not need modeling experience — just trust the process.
4. Comfort Creates Confidence
Choose outfits that allow you to move comfortably and feel confident. Studio sessions are calm and unrushed, giving you time to relax and settle into the experience.
5. Outdoor Sessions Are Always an Option
While I prefer studio maternity sessions, outdoor locations are available for clients who love natural landscapes or have a meaningful location in mind. The key is flexibility and understanding that lighting and conditions vary outside of the studio.
Preserving This Season of Motherhood
Maternity photography is about more than documenting a growing belly — it is about preserving the emotion, love, and anticipation that define this season of life. Whether in the studio or on location, my goal is always to create images that feel authentic, timeless, and deeply personal.
If you are expecting and considering a maternity session, I would be honored to help you document this chapter in a way that feels true to you.
Let’s turn your fleeting moments into forever art.
🤍 -Michele | 📷 Michele Williams Photography
Memory Maker. Storyteller.
