Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Lindsay & James

Lindsay scheduled a studio maternity session and chose to add on the hair and makeup services of Margaret. 

Lindsay came in for a maternity fitting a couple of weeks before her session, and she chose an off the shoulder flowy dress from the studio wardrobe. The studio wardrobe is a perk for booked clients! There are no additional charges to use clothing from the studio, and you can rest assured that all of it photographs beautifully and will give you the gorgeous aesthetic that you're looking for. We have an assortment of sizes that will fit 0-16 and accommodate a pregnant belly. We've had moms as short at 4'10" and as tall as 6'2" borrow clothing from the wardrobe, and we have seen every kind of baby bump there is! Twin bump, high bump, basketball bump, wide bump, low bump, you name it. Shopping for yourself isn't always fun when you're pregnant, and it can be stressful trying to find something you'll likely only wear once or twice in your life. The studio wardrobe solves all of those problems with the bonuses of no nasty store lighting, snacks and beverages, and me on hand to help you choose the most flattering options for your shape and skin tone. ;)  

When I arrived at the studio, Lindsay was in Margaret's makeup chair having the final touches applied. Margaret is lots of fun to work with, and nails it every single time. You'll learn a lot about makeup and application techniques while you're in her chair! I met Lindsay's sweet husband, James and set up while Lindsay was getting dressed. Then we started the session, and it was a lot of fun. James was a sweetheart and a bit of a jokester, so there was definitely laughter - which is always a good thing! I'm always looking for those real smiles and those real moments. Most clients need a few minutes to warm up and feel comfortable in front of the camera. It's MY job to get you there, and I will. All I need from you is a willingness to participate and have fun. It's that easy. No cheesy poses or awkwardness happens in my studio. 

Here are just a few of my favorites from this 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 | Stephanie & Nick

Stephanie contacted me about possibly booking a maternity session last summer. She brought her husband along to the Studio Open House to meet me and chat a bit. They decided at the Open House to go forward with booking their session, and I was super excited to work with them! Stephanie and I had a lot in common - personality wise, and she was even delivering with the same midwifery practice that I used. We spent a good bit of time chatting and getting to know each other. 

When Stephanie came in for her maternity fitting a couple of weeks before her session, we had to laugh because she informed me that she had bought a dress for the session and wanted to wear it. I asked to see it, and she pulled out a dress that I already had in the same size in my studio wardrobe! You know you're on the same page with style and aesthetic when this happens! Fortunately she loved the dress so much she wanted to have it permanently in her wardrobe. The perk of borrowing from the studio wardrobe is not having to purchase something that you might only wear once. 

The evening at the field was absolutely beautiful. Stephanie brought along a cool black hat and asked if we could incorporate it into some of her images. Nick was such a sweetheart, and kept us laughing during. The two of them definitely were made for each other and balance each other out.

Here are some of my favorite images from their maternity session! The light was just gorgeous that night, and I love Stephanie's huge smile. You can't fake happiness like this! 

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 | Angelica and Paul

Because I shoot so many sessions, I don't always have time to blog them, and most of the sessions are blogged some time after they are photographed. I also tend to prefer to wait to blog sessions until my clients have had a chance to share with their own friends and family first.

Angelica knew exactly which dress she wanted to wear in my studio wardrobe as she had seen it in my portfolio. She had the longest and most beautiful hair, and was so excited for her maternity session. We talked about what her husband should wear, and then we met at the field a couple of weeks later.

During their session, we talked about childbirth and labor. Paul is actually a nurse and has a little experience in labor and delivery, so he knew exactly what to do if Angelica had a fast labor. He was a little concerned about when she would actually go into labor since if it happened during a shift, he would need to get coverage to leave...which isn't always as easy as you might think. 

During the session, Angelica and Paul interacted as if I weren't even there. I loved Angelica's confidence and their tenderness towards one another, and it was such a gorgeous evening that night. 

 I shot this session when I was pregnant with my last child the first week in September 2015. Fun fact: Angelica and I were due 2.5 weeks apart. We actually ran into each other in our pediatrician's office in November 2015 with our newborns and their son was SO cute. Here are a few favorites! 

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 | Lisa & Chris

Chris contacted me to schedule a maternity session in the field as a surprise Valentine's Day gift for his wife, Lisa! I thought that was such a sweet surprise for her... but unfortunately Chris left open my email on his computer so she found out about it. He emailed me to let me know that he had been busted, but that the good news was that she was ecstatic about it. Lisa leaves the photographer selection up to Chris because she's busy being an oncologist specializing in breast cancer.

The two of them came into the studio for a maternity fitting and we got to know each other. Chris is originally from Signapore, and they moved to Atlanta for Lisa's residency with the plan of returning to New York after she finished up. Lisa chose two dresses from the wardrobe for her session, and we met at the field a couple of weeks later.

Chris and Lisa brought along their first baby - Milo, who is just the sweetest pup. I welcome well behaved and well trained dogs to be included in outdoor sessions but caution that you'll want to bring along another person to spend time with your pet when they are not in the images. There are other people and dogs around during outdoor sessions, and they must remain leashed unless you are able to hold them in your arms. 

Lisa looked absolutely stunning in the dresses she chose, and I loved the white lace gown on her. This gown is often loved by clients who come in: but as a warning, it fits petite mamas with small bellies.

After Chris and Lisa viewed their gallery, they told me how much they loved their images and asked to book a newborn session for when their baby arrived and grabbed the last spot on my schedule for their due date month! 

Here are some of my favorites from Chris & Lisa's session. I can't wait to share newborn photos of their adorable baby in a couple of days! 

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 | Kate & David, a field session

Kayte contacted me for a field maternity session and knew that I was the one she wanted to work with after viewing images in my portfolio. She loved the glowy and backlight images with the focus on emotional connection. Kayte works as an interior designer, and her husband works at a very popular French eatery in the Atlanta area. I am always honored when other creatives choose to work with me and love my aesthetic. 

We met at the field for their maternity session one hot summer evening, and Kayte wore a gorgeous dress that I fell in love with.... so much, that I added it to my own studio wardrobe! She knew she wanted an image of the sun shining through the dress to show her beautiful pregnancy shape and I loved that she had the same ideas that I did. Because it was so hot and Kayte was already feeling uncomfortable, we shot this maternity session quickly. I don't like to ask my expecting mamas to move around any more than necessary so that they can save themselves the physical exertion. Instead, I move around as needed and have dad move too. 

After their maternity session (literally just days after) Kayte was admitted to the hospital with pre-eclampsia. Fortunately, baby Ford arrived perfectly healthy and safe and is just the cutest little baby! This is why I recommend scheduling your maternity session between 30-34 weeks if possible. It's a good time frame to have a beautiful round belly but generally before potential swelling and/or complications. That being said, we have had lots of last minute clients between 37-40 weeks so it's a general guideline, not a rule.

I absolutely adore the images from this session, and the black and white images are some of my favorites.

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 | Theresa & Jabari

Theresa contacted me in her first trimester to schedule a consultation at the studio. She chose to reserve The Birth Session Experience, maternity, and newborn with me. Theresa is a physical therapist and Pilates instructor who owns her own practice in the Dunwoody area, and is such a lovely person. I loved working with her and her sweet husband, Jabari. You will see their newborn session featured on the blog in the future, but you will not see her birth story. Out of respect for what I consider the most sacred of experiences for a new family, I never share birth stories publicly on the Internet. The few images that you do see shared on the website were shared a few years ago, and by request with permission. Sharing a birth story with the world online should solely be a decision of the new parents, not their photographer. There are so many private and special moments during birth that you will want to keep to yourself and those select few that YOU choose. As such, birth stories are only shared in the studio sitting next to me at a consultation, and only with specific client permission. 

Theresa came into the studio and loved a specific dress and shawl. The day of the session, she spent four hours doing her hair since it's so long, thick, and curly. Hearing about the process required to do her hair made ME tired to think about! The day of their session, it was sweltering hot outside. I have mamas move as little as possible and dads do all the moving. This cuts down on physical exertion and perspiration for you. A handkerchief to dab as needed and some Photoshop magic take care of the rest! The final images are definitely worth being a little uncomfortable in the summer heat. If being outdoors in Atlanta isn't your thing, the studio is a perfect alternative with air conditioning. 

Here are just a few of my favorites from Theresa and Jabari's field 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 | Sara, Chris & Jaxon

Sara and Chris came in with their sweet two year old son for a studio family maternity session. I had worked with them previously when they were pregnant with their son, and it was so fun to see them again. Sara chose a split front gown and a lace gown for her dresses, and an outfit from the studio wardrobe for her son complete with suspenders!  Aren't they the cutest?! Chris also elected to borrow one of the men's button down chambray shirts that I keep on hand.

Sara also decided to work with Margaret for add on hair and makeup services. We started the session on the bed for some snuggle time with her son. Children of toddler age love snuggling with their mamas and some of the sweetest images are captured this way. Jaxon was quite the bundle of energy and didn't want to stay in one place for long. I pulled out some of my tricks to keep him happy but still in the frame, and some toys to play with for when I was photographing just Sara and Chris together. 

I loved working with this family, and can't wait to see them again in the future! 

*This session photographed before the installation of our 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 | Carolyn & Greg

Carolyn contacted the studio to reserve a newborn session and didn't have maternity on her radar. When she viewed the maternity portfolio on the website, she decided that she did want maternity photos in the field because my photos "were not cheesy or contrived." Her husband's sister is a successful photographer in Manhattan but does not specialize in maternity and newborn. She and I share the philosophy that it is best to reserve your specific session type with someone who specializes in that niche. Jack of all trades, master of none is definitely something that I see far too often and it makes me a little bit sad. 

Carolyn came into the studio for a maternity fitting and arrived in scrubs. I found out that she is a speech therapist, and informed her I'd been in speech therapy for the majority of my childhood. For those who don't know, I wear hearing aids! I don't use sign language to communicate, but have no issues understanding my clients and communicating verbally. :) During the fitting Carolyn decided that she loved this one dress with a shawl so much that she didn't want to wear anything else.

Carolyn also opted to add on hair and makeup services and worked with Margaret. She absolutely loved working with her and stated that she felt gorgeous and natural but not overdone. Our HMUA's are amazing and professionals at what they do. They specialize in classic clean beauty but can kick it up a notch if you prefer a more dramatic look.

When we arrived at the field, we started shooting and had a lot of fun. During my sessions, I'm all about relaxing and joking and having fun.  When you are having FUN, it will show in your images. The joy will be evident, and you will look back on your session and smile when you see them. You can't fake real emotion...and why would you want to? Authenticity is what I strive for with every aspect of your experience with me.

I can't wait to share Carolyn and Greg's newborn session with you! Here are some of my favorites from their 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 | Caroline & Eduardo

Caroline contacted me for a last minute maternity session in the field. She and her husband had recently moved here from Brazil and she has two years of English under her belt. I frequently work with clients from all over the world and even when English isn't the first language, we always figure it out! 

Caroline let me know that she had chosen two of her own dresses because she preferred short and fitted and that they were in line with what she had seen on my website as far as color goes. She definitely nailed it with her choices! 

We met at the field on a hot summer night, and got to work. The two of them were so loving towards each other, and have been together for a very long time. They moved here for Eduardo's job and are enjoying everything that Atlanta has to offer so far. Caroline expressed relief that she was pregnant here in America since the Zika virus was a big problem in Brazil at the time of their session.

How sweet are these two? I loved working with them, and can't wait to see them 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 | Millini & Cedric

Millini contacted me in November to discuss my offerings and knew that she wanted to work with the same photographer for maternity, birth, and newborn. She came into the studio for a consultation, and we spent an hour getting to know one another. She told me that she would be giving birth at DeKalb Medical Center and attended by Dr. Brad Bootstaylor of SeeBaby Midwifery. I have worked with Dr. Bootstaylor and SeeBaby midwives multiple times for births, and have greatly enjoyed it. At the consult, Millini decided to book all three sessions with me, and this studio maternity session is the first in the series. 

Millini and Cedric are the sweetest. They weren't sure if they would be able to have a baby due to some challenges, but when they found themselves pregnant they were elated. Millini loves the vintage look and fell in love with an off the shoulder lace medallion gown in the studio wardrobe, as well as a simple lace gown with straps. I absolutely loved working with these two for their maternity session. Cedric has one of the biggest smiles I've ever seen, and is just one of those incredibly sweet and genuine people. Millini is the same way, and it was special to watch the two of them interact during their session.

You will not see Millini's birth story and images shared on the blog in the future. I do not share birth stories on my website other than the few that have been shared in order to protect what I consider to be the most sacred of experiences. The only people sharing their birth story with the world should be the person who gave birth, not their photographer. I am simply a guest who is honored to be in the room to document one of the most important days in the lives of clients. Clients interested in The Birth Session Experience come into the studio for a complimentary consultation and view birth stories with me in the studio, with client permission. As of this blog post, I am fully booked for the remainder of 2017, but there are still waiting list spots available for select months. 

I look forward to posting and sharing images of Millini and Cedric's long awaited baby boy on the blog soon! 

*This session photographed before the installation of the all 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 | Morgan & John

Morgan contacted me to schedule a studio maternity session with her partner, John. When she came in for her fitting, I found out that she was delivering her baby girl at Atlanta Medical Center and was a patient at Intown Midwifery. This is the same hospital and practice that I worked with for the births of all three of my own children, so I was more than happy to give her all the details on what to expect. She was disappointed that she missed out on being able to book The Birth Session with me, but was elated that I had room for her maternity session. We had a lot of fun trying on dresses and chatting during her fitting.

Two weeks later, Morgan and John came back to the studio for their session. I loved the white gowns that Morgan chose. She knew she wanted to show off the bare belly for some images, so she chose a cream split front gown. She loved how she looked in our form fitting gowns and chose an off white lace one with a flared bottom. John and Morgan also have quite the height difference between them! This is never a problem, and you won't see me asking men to hunch over to make themselves shorter. I embrace height differences! I'm a tall person myself at 6 feet tall, and I remember how self conscious some photographers made me feel about my height by asking me to bend my knees a little bit. I never want one of my clients to feel that way.

Without further ado, here are some of my favorite images from Morgan & John's maternity session!

*This session was photographed before the installation of our all 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 | 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.