There is a unique kind of quiet magic that happens just before a new life arrives.
As a Hertfordshire maternity and family photographer, I get to witness some of the most beautiful moments in a woman’s life. Yet, so often, the mums who step in front of my lens don't initially see themselves the way the rest of the world does.
Recently, I met a beautiful expecting mum for an outdoor golden hour maternity photoshoot in Chorleywood. Expecting her second baby, she arrived with her gorgeous dog and a touch of hesitation. Like many women that enquire with me, she admitted she didn't feel particularly "Instagrammable." She was humble, quiet, and deeply camera-shy. In fact, the last time she and her husband had professional portraits taken was on their wedding day - something I often hear from growing families!
Between balancing the daily rhythms of life and chasing after a lively toddler, she had barely found a second to pause during this second pregnancy.
Because our session was scheduled for a summer sunset - well past her toddler's bedtime- her husband stayed home for bedtime duty. What started as a logistical necessity turned into an absolute blessing: a rare, quiet hour entirely for herself!
Second pregnancies often pass in a blur of toddler snacks, park visits, and endless laundry.
Mums rarely get the luxury of sitting quietly with their bump, feeling those tiny kicks, and simply reflecting on the journey.
During our sunset maternity session, there was no pressure to pose, smile perfectly, or perform. We simply walked the golden fields, letting her dog roam while she took deep, quiet breaths and reconnected with the miracle of growing her baby.
Allowing her the space to slow down transformed the entire energy of the evening.
The hesitation melted away, replaced by a calm, radiant grace that only a mother holds.
A few weeks later I received a text saying: "These photos have definitely made me feel better...I saw the gallery and it made up for a rubbish day"
Her greatest feedback wasn't just about the golden light or the beautiful scenery - it was that the photoshoot had given her a renewed sense of confidence.
As a photographer who has personally felt camera-shy, my mission is never just to deliver pretty pictures. My purpose is to uplift women, create a gentle and safe space, and help them see how truly breathtaking they are in this season of life.
Knowing that this quiet evening provided her with peace - and that I’ll soon be welcoming her whole family back to my Rickmansworth studio for their Christmas mini sessions with their newest addition - is the absolute heart of what I do.
Planning Your Own Maternity Session
If you are expecting and feeling hesitant about stepping in front of the camera, know that you do not need to know how to pose or feel "picture-ready." My outdoor maternity photoshoots in Hertfordshire are designed to be relaxed, gentle, and centered entirely around your comfort.
Best Time to Book: Between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, when your bump is beautifully defined but you still feel comfortable walking around.
Location: Natural, scenic outdoor spots around Chorleywood, Rickmansworth, and surrounding local areas that offer privacy and golden sunset light.
Who Can Join: Bring your partner, your toddler, or your family pet - or keep it as a solo bump session focused entirely on you.
If you’d like to create a quiet space to celebrate your pregnancy, I would love to document this chapter for you. Reach out through my website contact form to check availability for upcoming sunset maternity and newborn sessions.