Atlanta Family Photographer | The H Family at the park

When Erica contacted us, she let us know that a friend of hers had suggested our studio to her for a maternity/family and newborn session. She was pregnant with baby #3: a third little boy!!!

Erica hadn't had the best experience with previous photographers, and was hoping this time would be different. We hear this a lot from our clients, and I think it's just so sad. I know what a huge effort it is to get your entire family ready for family portraits and to have the experience be lackluster has to be so disappointing.

When I asked what had happened previously that made her say that, she told me that the photographers hadn't given tips or feedback during their sessions to make sure that her hair was in place or that she was in a flattering position. I'll be the first to say it: family photography can be hectic because you have multiple people and a lot to keep track of during. I always start my sessions with three very simple "rules" for parents and we eliminate most of the problems with self inflicted double chin that way. ;) She wanted to book a session with the focus mainly being on family rather than maternity, so we scheduled one at the park. She opted to wear clothing from their own closets, so we sent over our styling guide which is so incredibly easy to follow! Lots of our clients report that it takes the stress out of planning and makes the process of dressing their families so much easier and actually enjoyable. I am always here to give input or suggestions on wardrobe as well, and it is never a bother to assist my clients! I want your entire experience to be wonderful, and will give you as much help as you desire. 

The family knew they didn't want to drive far from their home in intown Atlanta, so I suggested the park location as it was a short distance from their home. When Erica and her family arrived, I couldn't get over how cute her sons Hayden and Xander were! Erica let me know that Xander was shy and didn't like strangers. I thanked her for letting me know this information, and kept my distance until I could see he was comfortable with me. By the end of the session, I was holding Xander in one arm and shooting with the other. I think it's safe to say that I won him over. We spent time playing games during our session, and the boys absolutely loved running through the park with their parents. Dad and boys were a little bit surprised when I said, "Okay, now run!" But why not? Why not have FUN during your family portraits? When you're having fun, your bodies relax and the joy is evident in your eyes and your face. I'll take fun over boring and stuffy any day. What about you? 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jessica

Jessica booked her maternity and newborn sessions together, and let me know that she would be the only participant during her maternity session due to her husband's heavy work schedule. Maybe this is you and you're worried that booking a maternity session by yourself is just weird. Well, worry no more. We often have clients who either are single moms, have a deployed partner, or whose partner doesn't want to be in the session, or just can't make it work with their schedule. It's no biggie! We'll still have a lot of fun, promise!

Jessica also opted to add on hair and makeup services with Margaret for her maternity session, and came to the studio for her maternity fitting. She fell in love with one of our printed dresses - she actually loved it so much she asked where she could buy one for her own baby shower. Unfortunately, the print was a limited edition and is no longer made. She also chose a second dress as well, and we discussed which jewelry options would look best with each.

The day of her session was gorgeous and sunny. We met out at the field and I loved seeing what Margaret had created with Jessica's hair. Her hairstyles are always so visually interesting and beautiful, and her makeup... well, it's pretty much perfect. Some clients are apprehensive about working with a professional HMUA because they think they'll look too made up. Please remember that each client chooses the level of makeup - some prefer a more dramatic look than others. All of our fabulous HMUA's will work with you closely to create the best and most beautiful look for you while still retaining who you are and keeping your preferences in mind. 

Here are just a few of my favorite's from Jessica's time in the field with me! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Myra & John

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Priscilla & Steve

Priscilla and Steve moved here from Austin, Texas and found me on Instagram. Come follow me if you haven't already! Priscilla stated that she was looking for a very specific style and didn't want a photographer who relied on a lot of heavy post processing. Her husband, Steve, is very proficient with Photoshop, so they can tell by looking at an image how heavily it's been edited to look the way it does. 

The two came into the studio for their maternity fitting and to discuss the newborn session process. After seeing the studio and visiting with me, they decided to book for newborn as well. I was super excited because they are just some of the most genuine and kind people that I've ever met and I knew they were going to be a lot of fun. Priscilla had been worried that we wouldn't have anything that would fit her because she's very petite in size. The shortest client that we have ever had in the studio was 4'11", so more petite sizes aren't a problem! Dresses are pinned, and with maternity sessions it doesn't look unusual to have a dress flowing on the ground. I think it just adds to the whole beauty of it! We'll make sure that whatever we choose for you doesn't swallow you up in fabric if you're shorter. 

Priscilla elected to add on hair and makeup services (wait until you see her amazing hair that Margaret styled!) and chose her favorite dress from the studio wardrobe along with a cream shawl. We met at the studio and then headed down the street to the park location. It was an overcast and grey day, but it looked absolutely perfect with the tones of the season and their wardrobe choices.

Looking at these images makes me smile because of what wonderful people Priscilla and Steve are and how much they love each other.  I love when couples are in love and not afraid to show it. It makes my job just a little bit easier! ;) Next up on the blog will be their son's newborn session.... one of the cutest babies ever with an enviable head of hair! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Elaine

Anyone else freezing cold this week? I'm yearning for the warmer days of spring and summer and thought it was a perfect time to share this maternity session from the past summer. It makes me feel warmer just looking at the images! 

Elaine came from Charlotte, North Carolina (where I was raised!) for her maternity session in the field. She was quite a busy lady during her last trimester of pregnancy, attending my alma mater (UNC-Charlotte) and hoping to finish up before her baby arrived. She came into town for a long weekend and stopped by the studio to look at different options. 

Let's be clear about something! Clients do NOT have to wear something from the studio wardrobe. It's there as an option for clients, but it's not required in the least. We have a variety of sizes (0-14/16) and styles that range from bohemian to glam. Elaine was drawn to a more casual look but wasn't sure what that actually looked like. When she put on taupe this jersey t-shirt dress, she knew it was the perfect dress for her. (it has POCKETS!) Since Elaine was on the shorter side, we tied the dress up to keep it from dragging and to make it easy for her to walk. She paired it with some gorgeous gold sandals and mixed metal bangles, and she looked fabulous. Elaine actually loved the dress so much that she ordered it for herself in several different colors. 

The day of her session, she worked with Margaret for her hair and makeup add on service. Elaine already had eyelash extensions, so none were applied. Margaret did a beautiful job keeping the makeup classic and clean beauty to work well with the overall look that Elaine had chosen.

When we met at the field, I met her husband, J and immediately complimented him on his cool hair. He was a fun guy and eager to participate. The two of them were so cute together, and he had no problem accepting my invitation to whisper goofy things in her ear to make her laugh. I always wonder what my client husbands are saying to their wives.... I'll never know though! It makes the images that much more special to clients to be the only ones who truly knew what was happening and being said. ;) 

Here's just a few images from their gorgeous sunset field session! We're already booking late spring and early summer outdoor sessions. As a note, these sessions always begin one hour before sunset. We do not shoot at the field location on weekdays when the days are shorter because of horrific traffic, but we do shoot there on both weekdays and weekend days when sunset is at 8:30 PM or later.  Our field sessions are the most popular, bar none - so if you want to get on the calendar before it's fully booked, contact us sooner rather than later! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Monica & Ravi

Monica contacted the studio to schedule both a maternity and newborn session, and chose the park location. She came into the studio for her maternity session, and I immediately liked her hilarious sense of humor. We had a good time chatting and getting to know each other, and she chose two dresses for her session. 

The day of her session, I arrived at the studio and found Monica sitting in the hair and makeup chair with Megan at the helm. I introduced myself to her husband, Ravi and let him know what to expect over the next hour. Once Monica was finished, she slipped into her first dress and we headed down the street to the park location to get started.  The day was very cloudy and overcast, but had such beautiful and soft diffused light. This is usually the case on overcast days, which is why I love shooting then just as much as I do when the sun is out! 

Working with the two of them was lots of fun! Monica was very comfortable in front of the camera, and Ravi needed a little time to get warmed up. It didn't take him long, and I loved moving around and photographing the little moments between the two of them.

At nearly the end of our time together, the sun broke through the clouds and made an appearance. It was quite low in the sky, so I placed them over by one of the giant trees to finish out our session, and absolutely adore the results. There's nothing like beautiful golden sun drenched bokeh. The next post on the blog will be of Monica and Ravi's newborn session with their beautiful little girl, Olivia! Come back to check it out for yourself! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Analy & Jose (and Frida!)

I am always honored when someone chooses to work with me to document one of the most special times in their life. I am always blown away when another photographer chooses to entrust these moments to me, and have worked with many photographers over the last few years. Analy is one of these, and I'm so pleased to call her a friend after having worked with her. 

Analy came to the studio for a fitting and told me that she already had a black lace dress that she wanted to wear, but knew she wanted something in a lighter color. She found the perfect white lace off the shoulder dress, and we were all set. 

The evening of their session, we met at the field, and I met their little furbaby, Frida.  Analy pulled out some hairpieces that she had found while out shopping at the mall earlier that week to see what I thought. We chose two of the ones she had brought along for her to wear during the session and I thought they added just the perfect touch to her dresses and hairstyle.

Analy's husband, Jose was just the sweetest guy but admitted that he didn't like being in front of the camera or having his photo taken. If this is also your husband, please know that you're not alone!  The vast majority of my clients have a partner just like yours. The good news? I'm an expert at working with guys who don't really love the whole photo experience, and I know how to make it a lot easier and a lot less painful. In fact, most guys tell me afterwards that they actually had fun. Your man will not be on bended knee kissing your belly, he will not be placing his hands over your belly in the shape of a heart, and he will not be made to feel like a ridiculous photo prop. I can promise you all those things. 

Analy also chose to dress Jose in two outfits, and I loved what she chose! I thought he looked amazing in his suit and that it was the perfect choice to complement her black dress. They then changed to a bit more casual of a look for her white lace dress. Both are equally beautiful looks, and Frida rounded it all out with her cute little pink bow. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from their session - we had so much fun, and it's evident by their laughter and genuine smiles. They have since welcomed an absolutely beautiful and sweet little baby girl and are enjoying parenthood!  

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Jesse & Suleka

Suleka contacted us to book a maternity session in the field and a newborn session. She chose to work with one of our HMUA's for add on hair and makeup services. Suleka came to the studio with Jesse for a styling appointment and we had a good time chatting and getting to know one another as she tried on options. They let me know that they wanted to include their parents in some of the maternity images, which I thought was lovely! Their sweet pup, Gigi also made an appearance as you'll see below.

The day of the session, Suleka let me know that she had fallen in love with a grey dress of her own and wanted to wear it for her session.  The dress was gorgeous and was unfortunately sold out, so I wasn't able to snag one and add it to the studio wardrobe. 

It was also an overcast day, which many clients worry about. It's a myth that you need bright sun for beautiful images. Overcast days create some of the most beautiful even light which result in gorgeous tones. The look is different than a clear and sunny evening, but it's special in its own way. I love both, and shoot regardless of sun or clouds. The only time I reschedule sessions is if there is inclement weather. 

We started with including the entire family together and then moved on to just Suleka and Jesse. They were so sweet together - Jesse is such a caring and concerned husband. Come back tomorrow to see their son's newborn 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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Shola & Olu, expecting TWINS!

Shola contacted us after being convinced by a friend not to skip images documenting her pregnancy. She fell in love with the portfolio on our website, and contacted us to see if we could fit her in for a maternity session. We set up a styling appointment and she had lots of fun trying on dresses and choosing the two to wear for her maternity session. We discussed what her husband should plan to wear for the session, and went over what to expect. She let me know that her husband was quite taller than her, and I assured her that's never a problem.  If you have a significant height or size difference, you will not be made to feel like it's unusual or that it's a problem. I don't ask people to hunch over or minimize themselves because I think that's silly and inauthentic.

Shola opted to add on hair and makeup services and worked with our lead HMUA, Margaret. Olu joined us right as Margaret was finishing up, and we got started. The two of them were so much fun to work with and Olu kept Shola giggling throughout. 

All session images are delivered in both color and black and white. I adore the black and white edits of this maternity session, so I'm sharing just those for this post. 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Tiffany & Logan at the park

Have I mentioned that we have a lot of last minute clients? We do. I've lost count of how many clients have called us at 37-38 weeks pregnant and told us that they didn't think they wanted maternity photos, or that they had put it off, and then they stumbled across our website and saw that we frequently take last minute clients.

Tiffany was one of these clients. She and her husband met later in life, and their pregnancy was something they were very excited about. We scheduled her to come in for a maternity fitting and had an opening a couple of days later for a park session. If you're someone who waited until the last minute, know that your chances of being able to book a session are much higher if you're able to shoot on a weekday. Weekend days typically book up months in advance especially months when we have beautiful weather here in Atlanta. 

The day of their session, we met at the studio for Tiffany to change into her first dress choice and I went through the options that Logan had brought with him to quickly style his outfits. Tiffany showed me her jewelry options, and I assisted in choosing the best pieces for each of her dresses.  After that, we then headed down the street to the park and got started. The light was absolutely magical that evening, Tiffany was glowing and so happy, and we all had a wonderful time. 

Enjoy some of my absolute favorite images from this park maternity session below! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Alison & Sean

Alison was one of our very last minute clients... she called the studio phone and we booked a time for her to come in the very next day for her maternity fitting. Are maternity fittings necessary? Well.... yes and no. I strongly believe in getting to know my clients before photographing them, and the maternity fitting is an excellent way to do that. Even if a client isn't planning to borrow from the wardrobe, they still usually schedule time to come in with what they're planning to wear so that I can offer suggestions and input. When it comes time for me to have a camera in my hand, my clients are SO much more comfortable in front of it. This means we spend less time warming up during your actual session and you look comfortable and relaxed much sooner. Sometimes we simply don't have time to do a fitting - especially when we have an out of town client. In those cases, I ask clients to arrive earlier than they normally would for their session so that we still have some time to chat.

Let me be really honest here....if you're looking for a photographer who doesn't want to get to know you at all and wants to treat your entire experience like a business transaction, I'm not the right photographer for you. My business focuses on relationships and I genuinely care about my clients. Don't worry, I won't ask your to tell me your entire life story or expect for us to be BFF's, but we won't be strangers either.

Alison and Sean came in the day after her fitting for their studio maternity session, and while Alison changed into her first outfit, Sean and I chatted and I filled him in on what to expect. Alison was a little bit nervous and told me she didn't really know what to do. I reassured her that very few of my clients do, and that's totally okay. It's my job to walk you through your entire session experience, and I will tell you exactly what to do and step in to adjust you as necessary for the most flattering angles and beautiful images. I'm a very hands on photographer, so an adjustment means that I'll step over and gently turn your body or move your arm to where I need it to be. It beats me standing feet away repeatedly saying "A little to the left... no, to the right.... now a little bit higher.... and over to the left again..." Nobody has time for that, and you don't need the stress of trying to listen to instructions and adjust based on vague verbal direction. 

I loved working with Alison and Sean, and was so excited for them when they welcomed their baby just a couple of weeks later! Here are some of my favorite images from their studio maternity 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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | A Family Field session

Jessica came to the studio for her maternity fitting, and was a bit worried we wouldn't have anything that would fit her since she's all of 5'1". Our shortest client has been 4'11", so we are used to it! With maternity sessions, it doesn't look strange for our gowns to pool around the feet on the ground, and we do have a few options that are shorter as well for clients to borrow from. Jessica and I were laughing as we went through the wardrobe together because she personally owned many of the pieces that I have! She chose two dresses for herself, and we went through our little girls' wardrobe for options for her older daughter. Jessica also chose to work with Margaret for her hair and makeup for her session. 

On the evening of their session, I brought along several choices for her daughter to look through and she chose one of them, which looked so sweet on her. We have a smaller studio wardrobe for little girls that range from 6 months to 7/8 years of age.  So if your little girl wants to wear beautiful dress, and you don't want to deal with shopping for one, check out our options for her and you just might find something perfect! 

The whole family was so loving and sweet to one another and made my job easy. I love for families to be who they are together, and will provide some guided direction for natural interaction between you. Then I stand back and photograph what unfolds. Every family looks different in how they express their affection for each other. I want your images to be genuine and authentic, not filled with stuffy poses and forced smiles. Who wants that?!  

We took some time during their session for some father and daughter images too - as a mom with two little girls who think their daddy hung the moon, I know how special this relationship is. I hope that someday when Scarlett is my age, she looks at these pictures of dancing with her daddy and hugging him tight and smiles. Listen closely: moments like these are why I love what I do. Being able to freeze these moments and turn them into something tangible to be treasured forever is what Lily Sophia Photography is about. 

Without further ado, here are some of my favorites from their 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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Brittany

Brittany came to the studio for a maternity session geared towards boudoir, and worked with Margaret for her hair and makeup services. She told me that she was feeling uncomfortable in her pregnant body, and wasn't sure if she should even have maternity photos done. Prior to being pregnant, Brittany had invested in a boudoir session for herself and felt like it was incredibly empowering, so she decided she wanted to do the same for pregnancy but with someone who specifically specialized in maternity rather than just a boudoir photographer. There really is a major difference in working with someone who specializes versus someone who doesn't with ANY session type that you're thinking about. I photograph an average of 20 maternity sessions per month and I have seen it all... every kind of belly shape, every kind of pregnancy woe (stretch marks, swollen feet, acne, etc). I have become an expert on angles and what to dress clients in, and what lens to shoot with for specific body types. You're beautiful pregnant, so let's document it! We'll discuss your vision for your final images, and create a gorgeous gallery for you! 

When Brittany arrived at the studio she brought a bag of things from home, and we had fun going through what she'd brought and discussing the different options. We also pulled a few things from the studio wardrobe as well and got started. We had a lot of fun, and I was so excited to show her how beautiful she looked with her image gallery. She was absolutely blown away and so happy with her images that she gave permission to share the ones below. I will never, ever share images from a maternity boudoir session without express permission from the client. So if you're reading this now and thinking that you'd like a boudoir session but are scared I'm going to share images without your approval, rest assured that's not at all the case! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Child & Family Photographer | Four generations!

When Maria contacted the studio, she asked if we photographed children. The answer is yes, we do! She wanted to book a studio session for her toddler granddaughter to continue on with a family tradition. When Millie's mother was little, her grandmother booked a session to create portraits of her, and Maria wanted to do the same for her granddaughter. Sweet little Millie came in wearing a special dress that was very similar to the one that her mother wore... and her mom, grandmother, and great grandmother all joined in! It was truly a very special session with four generations, and a little baby on the way to boot. 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | Intimate studio maternity

Rachel came in for a studio maternity session geared towards boudoir. These images are shared with express permission! Rachel had made the decision to wait to find out if she was having a boy or a girl - just like I did with all three of my children. Margaret did her hair and makeup, and we went through a few things that she had brought from home and mixed them up with some pieces from my studio wardrobe. 

The pregnant form is absolutely beautiful to me and deserves to be celebrated! There are many clients who wonder if their children will even want to see their maternity images. I can tell you this: I have two little girls who ask to see my maternity images with their pregnancies. They are very proud that they're inside my belly, and their faces light up when they see them. I also know that I was fascinated with seeing snapshots of my own mother pregnant with me, even though maternity images weren't a thing back in the 80's! I'll also add that every baby is once in a lifetime... therefore every pregnancy is once in a lifetime. You will never look just like this again. And mama, you're gorgeous! Your body is doing an absolutely incredible thing in growing a tiny human. That's amazing. 

 I know that it can be nerve wracking for many people to strip down into a bra and underwear. We always start out maternity boudoir with clothes on and then as you get comfortable, reduce the clothing. I shoot many, many, many sessions and I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to get you comfortable and having fun! While Rachel did not have any stretch marks (lucky girl!), many of my clients do. Stretch marks are always removed in post processing, but if you prefer them to stay we can leave them as they are or lighten them a bit.  

Here are just a few of my favorites from Rachel's 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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | A Family Field session

Ann contacted us to book both a maternity and newborn session, and let us know they had an older seven year old son. I absolutely adore working with older children for maternity sessions, and they're always so excited about their new sibling. Andrew loves his mama, and I just adore their special mother-son connection. 

Ann came in a week before her session and had an idea of what she might like to wear. She had chosen the field as her location for their session because she loved the light and the beautiful and wild background. I pulled one of our newest additions to the studio wardrobe based on what she told me her preferences were. I shoot so many maternity sessions every month, so I can pretty accurately size up every client when they walk in and pull pieces that will fit and that will be a good match for their skin tone. I provide feedback and input during our time together so that we can choose the best pieces for you that you feel beautiful in and are flattering to your body type and skin tone. 

We met at the field and it was a hot, hot, hot evening. While we were there we talked a little bit about how hot it was and then we saw a bride and groom arrive in full wedding regalia. The bride had on a long sleeved heavy satin dress, and the groom was in a long coat with tails. Suddenly we didn't feel so hot ourselves anymore! The sunset was absolutely GORGEOUS at the field that evening, and we had such a good time laughing and having fun. I can't wait to meet and photograph the newest addition to their family this fall! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Maternity boudoir in the studio

We have a lot of clients who want to shoot a more intimate maternity session wearing lingerie, robes, oversized sweaters, or a button down from their husband's closet. I absolutely adore this type of maternity! Boudoir maternity images are never shared without express permission from the client, and Janie loved her images so much that she wanted to share them. If boudoir isn't your thing, that's totally ok too - we'll customize your experience to your preferences and comfort level when it comes to what you want to show and what you don't. 

Janie arrived at the studio and Margaret started on her hair and makeup. When I arrived, Janie handed me a bag of items that she had brought from her own closet and I went through them to pull together the best looks. 

During a maternity boudoir session, I always start with more clothing coverage. If we haven't already met, stripping down to a bra and underwear can be a little unsettling! As you become more comfortable, we move on to more intimate images with less clothing. Think of it as being at the beach in a bikini. Same difference! As a birth photographer, I have literally seen it all. 

There are so many women who are scared that they won't look beautiful in this type of session. Maybe you're insecure with the weight you've gained during pregnancy. Maybe you hate your stretch marks. I'm here to tell you that you WILL look gorgeous. I shoot so many sessions every month and have an arsenal of lenses. Did you know that my lens choice often depends on my clients' body type and the look I'm going for? We will talk about any areas of your body that you're self conscious about, and I'll come up with the best approach for your session. As for stretch marks - unless you specifically request me to leave them alone, they will be non existent in your images. If you had your navel pierced and now regret it, your navel ring scar can also be removed. 

Janie, like many of my clients, wasn't sure what she should do. Unless you spend hours in front of a mirror posing yourself and angling your body, or you're a professional model, that's normal. I'm here for you and will coach you through your entire session with me from chin to hand placement. I have you covered! All you have to do is relax and be your gorgeous self....I'll take care of the rest. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from Janie's session. Isn't she absolutely stunning?! 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Erica & Jason in the Gardens

Erica contacted me to schedule a maternity session at the gardens location in the winter. This session is from a while ago, but I wanted to share it on the blog so that clients considering booking outdoor session in the winter can see what a winter session can look like. It can be cold in the winter in Georgia, and the evening of this session was in the forties. The coldest outdoor session I have ever photographed was in the field, and it was 37 degrees with a wind chill of 27 degrees. We were all freezing, but you would never know it to look at the images!

During the colder months, I always encourage mamas to bring a winter coat with them if they have an outdoor session and we will take breaks as needed to warm up. I work very quickly and efficiently, so it'll be over before you know it! Braving the cold is worth it for the final resulting images since winter light is some of the most beautiful there is. Since outdoor sessions always begin one hour before sunset, winter sessions begin in the late afternoon since the sun sets in the 5 o'clock hour. If you hate the cold and just can't deal with it, come to the toasty warm studio for an indoor session! 

Erica came to the studio and we chatted for a bit and discovered that we were practically neighbors living just a couple of blocks from each other. Both of us have moved since then... and our new homes are also just a couple of blocks from each other. I joked that we must be destined to forever be neighbors! :) Erica chose a lovely tulle dress from our studio wardrobe which we have affectionately dubbed "the princess dress". I suggested that she utilize one of our warmer winter shawls so that she could keep a bit warmer for some of her images. She also had a flower crown made for her session from Candler Park Flowers, which I thought was lovely and looked beautiful with the dress she had chosen.

Here are just a few gorgeous images from this maternity session at the gardens! It's to believe their little miss will be turning two this coming winter! 

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. 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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photography | Sindi & Erroll

Sindi contacted me in her second trimester to schedule her maternity session in the studio. She came in for a maternity fitting, and we went through the plethora of options in the studio wardrobe. Because she was expecting a little girl (check back tomorrow to meet her!), she wanted feminine and girly pieces. I loved the two options that she chose. We discussed what her husband should wear for the session that would best coordinate with the pieces she had chosen and jewelry options for her as well. 

All sessions with me include a complimentary 20 minute styling appointment at the studio. Even if you decide you want to bring your own pieces, that's totally fine! You can bring pieces from your closet and I'll give you input and help coordinate a beautiful and cohesive look for all participants. If you borrow from the wardrobe, we'll chat for a bit when you arrive to ascertain your preferences and your vision. Since I shoot so many maternity sessions, I can take one look at you and know what we have that will fit you well and flatter your body type and skin tone, as well as match your personality and style preference. We have everything from simple to glam to bohemian in terms of style, and for boudoir maternity sessions, we'll use things from your own closet! Not only do the styling consultations help pull the look together, they also give us a chance to get to know each other. I promise you, you will be so much more comfortable the day of your session having already met and gotten to know me and we won't spend as much (or any!) initial time warming up and breaking the ice when you step in front of my camera. Please don't worry if we aren't able to meet before your session as I have many out of town clients travel to me for sessions, and we do their fittings right before the session takes place. I enjoy getting to know my clients and we'll chat and get to know each other and break the ice right beforehand if that's all your circumstances allow for. 

The day of her session, she arrived and looked absolutely gorgeous and happy! Erroll and I chatted for a bit while she slipped into the first dress, and then we got started. The two of them were so sweet together, and we had such a good time laughing and chatting in between photographs. We finished up in about 45 minutes and then said our goodbyes. 

Here are a few of my favorite images from their maternity session! Check back tomorrow to see images from their daughter's 6 month milestone session. She's a real cutie! 

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

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.

Atlanta Maternity Photographer | Mia

Mia called at the last minute after moving to Atlanta from Memphis to inquire about maternity, birth, and newborn sessions. I happened to have availability in my calendar for birth due to early deliveries, so invited Mia to come to the studio for a complimentary consultation to discuss her planned Atlanta Birth Center birth. After chatting for a while, she decided she wanted to go ahead with booking all three so we conducted her maternity fitting right then and there in the studio before she left. She chose two gorgeous gowns, and we discussed what her son and partner should wear from their own closets. 

The day of her session was so much fun. She opted for a Cleopatra inspired look and looked absolutely stunning when she arrived. She changed into her first gown, and we started the session. Her little boy was just the sweetest with big brown eyes, and just loved his mama. Lots of moms worry about whether their child will cooperate during sessions. With our approach, we let the child lead and have you make suggestions to them that lead to natural interaction. Forcing a child to do anything they don't want to never works. If you're patient and laid back about things, I'll be hanging out quietly and waiting for those little in between moments that you didn't even realize happened. We will always schedule sessions that involve little ones to be at a time when they're well rested and fed for the most optimal results!

Here are just a few images from Mia's studio maternity session in black and white. She received both color and black and white versions of the images with the collection she chose, but I'm so in love with the black and white versions that I'm choosing to just share those for this post. 

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 birth photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.