Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Amber & Chris in the gardens

Amber called the studio to inquire about maternity sessions and had some questions about the process and how everything worked. Caroline (our full time studio manager) spent some time on the phone with her answering all of her questions, and Amber decided she wanted to book her session at the gardens location.

I love all of my locations equally - the gardens location is a perfect choice for the client who wants interesting architecture in the background. While flowers are not always in bloom there, it’s still pretty in the winter months too! As a reminder, if you’re considering the gardens: be sure you are available on a weeknight as they are typically not available on weekends.

Amber came into the studio a couple of weeks before her session for her maternity fitting and I enjoyed getting to know her. She has the coolest job working in neurology! I always enjoy asking clients questions about their lives and getting to know what makes them the person they are. Bonus: my clients are so much more comfortable on the day of the session than they would be if we had never previously met! As a side note: we do have tons of clients who come from out of town for their sessions and aren’t able to meet me beforehand. I always allot some extra time before the session gets started for getting to know each other a bit before we dive in!

Amber really enjoyed trying on dresses from the studio wardrobe, and was able to narrow it down to her two finals. We talked about what her husband, Chris, could wear from his own wardrobe and what kind of jewelry she could wear with her choices.

On the evening of their session, we met at the gardens and I absolutely loved Amber’s hairstyle and makeup! Her hair was in such a gorgeous and glamorous updo, and the shade of lipstick was the perfect pop of color. While Amber was changing into her first choice, Chris and I chatted a bit and he told me she definitely had the more exciting job of the two! Chris was such a sweetie and told me that he wasn’t so great in front of the camera, but he’d do his best. I reassured him he was going to be just fine, and that sessions with me aren’t hard or complicated. I literally guide my clients through everything - so if you’re worried about how to stand or where to put your hands, you can put those to rest. I’ll tell you exactly what to do and make modifications and adjustments if I see they’re needed. All you need to do is relax and have fun! You’ll be a seasoned pro by the time we’re finished with your session.

We started in the white off the shoulder gown that Amber had chosen and on the sweeping stone staircase. I always consider the style of gowns before determining where we will be shooting for each. The gardens have quite a few options within it to choose from! After we finished that portion, Amber changed into her purple dress and we headed into the gardens to incorporate the hydrangeas and other plants as well as the Grecian columns. Chris also opted to change shirts as well! The majority of my dads stick with just one outfit, but there are definitely a few who opt to change when their partner does. It all comes down to your personal preference!

Some of my favorite images from the session are towards the end. Most of my clients have relaxed quite a bit after a few minutes, and are comfortable with being photographed - and that’s when the authentic connection begins to show between them. The two of them were able to forget that I was there and follow my prompts for guided natural interaction, and I just love the sweet moments between the two of them that unfolded as a result!

Enjoy a few of my favorites from this session!

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 family photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.