How do I pick a maternity photographer in the Seattle area? Best Seattle Maternity Photographer.

How to Find the Best Maternity Photographer in Seattle

Welcoming a new addition to your family marks a significant chapter in your life, one that deserves to be captured beautifully with maternity photography. With numerous talented photographers offering their services in the Seattle area, finding the ideal match for your vision can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for discovering the top maternity photographer in Seattle:

1. Really Look At Their Online Portfolio

Begin your search by delving into the portfolios of Seattle-based photographers specializing in maternity photography. Really sit with their work to get to know their distinct styles, lighting techniques, and ability to capture raw emotions. Seek out photographers whose portfolios resonate with your personal aesthetic preferences and align with the atmosphere you envision for your maternity photos.

2. Prioritize Experience and Expertise

Maternity photography demands a skill set and an understanding of the intricacies of pregnancy capturing a pregnant woman. Prioritize photographers who truly have experience and expertise in this specialized field. Look for evidence of their proficiency in posing expectant mothers, highlighting the inherent beauty of pregnancy, and creating an atmosphere of comfort and confidence during the shoot.

3. Assess Client Feedback

Gauge the quality of a photographer's work by perusing client reviews and testimonials. Pay close attention to the feedback provided by previous clients on various platforms, including the photographer's website, social media channels, and third-party review sites. Insights from past clients can offer valuable perspectives on the photographer's professionalism, creativity, and ability to deliver exceptional results.

4. Explore Seattle-Specific References

Given the unique characteristics of Seattle's landscape and weather, consider photographers who demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for the city's beauty. Look for subtle nods to Seattle's urban environment or natural scenery in their portfolio images, indicating their ability to incorporate local elements into your maternity photos seamlessly.

5. Trust Your Intuition

Ultimately, selecting the best maternity photographer in Seattle boils down to trusting your instincts. After conducting research, reviewing portfolios, and assessing client feedback, you'll likely have a gut feeling about which photographer resonates with you on a deeper level. Trust that intuition, as it often serves as a reliable guide in making significant decisions.

I have been photographing Seattle’s expectant mothers for fourteen years! As a former NICU and L&D nurse I know I am an expert in the speciality of Maternity Photography! Reach out any time during your pregnancy to start the conversation about booking your session with me!

Where should I have my maternity photos taken in the Seattle area?

So you are trying to decide if you want to have your maternity photos taken in a studio or on location. If you're going over the options for your maternity photoshoot, the diverse landscapes of Seattle offer the most beautiful outdoor settings. Let's explore the different types of locations that can make your maternity photography truly special.

1. Urban Parks: Embracing Nature in the City

Seattle boasts numerous urban parks, providing a harmonious blend of greenery and cityscape. Choose a park like Gas Works Park or Volunteer Park for lush surroundings, meadows, and tranquil settings. Urban parks offer a refreshing escape without venturing too far from the city bustle.

2. Seattle Area Beaches

Capture the tranquility of your pregnancy with a maternity photoshoot at one of Seattle's stunning beaches. I have a few favorite beaches that I like to capture expecting families that aren’t too crowded and have lovely light.

3. Vast Fields With Views

If you're seeking a more rustic and natural ambiance, Seattle's nature reserves and wooded areas are ideal. Discovery Park, with its meadows and wooded trails, or the Washington Park Arboretum with its diverse botanical landscapes, offer a range of settings for a nature-inspired maternity session.

4. Lakeside Locations

Seattle's lakes offer a tranquil setting for your maternity photography. We have endless lakefront options but some are too crowded for photo. i have a few lake side locations that are my go to if this is what you prefer.

5. Mountain Locations

Like in the examples in this post, we can drive about 50 minutes and get to some of the most beautiful and beautiful mountain scenes.

Remember, the key is to choose a setting that aligns with your personal style and vision. Seattle's diverse outdoor landscapes offer a multitude of options, allowing you to capture the essence of your pregnancy in a setting that feels just right for you.

The Benefits of Newborn Photoshoots at Home | Seattle Newborn Photographer

Bringing a newborn into the world is such a special time filled with love, wonder, and endless moments to cherish. I have been working with newborns in one way or another since I was 22 years old. At first as a Newborn Intensive Care Nurse and then as a Newborn Photographer. I deeply understand the desire to capture these fleeting moments in the most authentic and intimate way possible. That's why I believe that having your newborn photoshoot done in the privacy and safety of your own home is an experience like no other.

I want to share with you the reasons why I advocate for home-based newborn photoshoots.

1. Comfort and Familiarity

   Home is where your heart resides, where you've meticulously designed the nursery, and where your little one will take their first steps. Choosing to have a newborn photoshoot at home ensures that your baby is in a familiar and comfortable environment, reducing the chances of you or the baby (or any family members) feeling overwhelmed or anxious during the session. The more at ease your baby and family is, the more natural and genuine their expressions and interactions will be, resulting in photographs that truly reflect your family.

2. Personal Touches

   Your home is a reflection of your unique style and personality. Incorporating your personal touches and favorite elements into the photoshoot can make the images even more meaningful. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom, a cozy blanket, or a specific room with sentimental value, these elements can add depth and sentiment to the photographs, creating a story that is exclusively yours.

3. Stress-Free Experience

   Newborns require constant care and attention, which can sometimes make taking a trip to a studio for a photoshoot quite stressful for both parents and baby. By opting for an at-home session, you eliminate the need to travel and ensure that your baby remains in their routine, making the process more relaxed for everyone involved. This relaxed atmosphere often leads to the most genuine and heartwarming moments being captured on camera.

4. Natural Lighting

   One of the key elements of exceptional photography is lighting. Natural light, in particular, lends a soft and timeless quality to the images. Your home is likely bathed in a variety of natural light sources that can be artfully used to illuminate your baby and family. By photographing in your home environment, I can utilize these natural light sources to create ethereal and beautifully lit photographs that highlight the purity and innocence of your newborn. I have been photographing babies in the home for thirteen years so don’t you worry, I can work in any home.

5. Bonding Moments

   An at-home newborn photoshoot also provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and siblings to interact with the baby in their own space. These intimate moments of bonding, laughter, and tenderness can be captured authentically, resulting in photographs that encapsulate the deep connection and love within your family.

6. Safety

   If you are going to a photography studio you are putting your baby in contact with germs and other outside influences. Your home is clean and truly the safest place for your new baby.

As a photographer who values the authenticity and uniqueness of each family, I encourage you to consider having your newborn photoshoot done in the privacy and safety of your own home. From comfort and familiarity to personal touches and stress-free experiences, the benefits of home-based newborn photography are truly unmatched. If you're ready to embark on this heartwarming journey of capturing precious moments, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. I can’t wait to capture your new baby and family!

How many weeks pregnant should I be for my maternity photoshoot? Seattle Maternity Photographer

Hey there, lovely mom-to-be! It's Elena here and today I'm diving into a question that I get asked all the time…

When's the best time to book your Maternity Photoshoot? or How many weeks pregnant should I be for my Maternity Photoshoot?

Believe me, as a photographer who's passionate about capturing the unmatched beauty of pregnancy, this timing can make all the difference. So, let's chat about why I suggest around 30 weeks is the magical sweet spot.

Embrace Your Pregnant Belly

At around 30 weeks into your incredible journey of pregnancy, you're in that golden phase where your baby bump is just the right size – proudly showing off your soon-to-arrive newborn. This is the time when you're glowing with that unique radiance that only pregnancy can bring. Capturing that beautiful glow in photographs is what I live for as a maternity photographer.

Comfort and Confidence

By the time you hit the 30-week mark, you're in a sweet spot of comfort and confidence. You've likely bypassed some of the early pregnancy discomforts, and you're not yet weighed down by the late-pregnancy tiredness. This means you can move around with ease, try different poses, and truly enjoy the photoshoot experience. And let me tell you, genuine joy and comfort always shine through in the final images.

Planning For The Unpredictable

Pregnancy is a miraculous journey, but it's not without its twists and turns. Booking your maternity session at 30 weeks offers a buffer against unexpected changes that might arise in the final stretch of your pregnancy. Whether it's changes in your health or adjustments to your due date, this timing ensures we have flexibility to adapt while still capturing the essence of this momentous time.

So When Should I Book?

When it comes to planning your maternity photoshoot, timing is key. Get in touch with me as soon as you want, the earlier the better. I have some mamas reach out right after they get that positive pregnancy test. Then together we will select a date that is close to the 30 week mark.

Trusting the Expertise

Now, you might be wondering, "Why 30 weeks?" Well, as a maternity photographer who was also a NICU and Labor & Delivery nurse, I've seen firsthand how this timing works like a charm. It's that sweet spot where you're visibly pregnant but still radiating that fresh energy. Plus, I'm here to guide you through every step – from suggesting poses that flatter your bump to using lighting that accentuates your beauty. Trust my expertise to ensure your photos are not just pictures but cherished memories.

From one mom-to-be to another, capturing the beauty of pregnancy is a gift you'll treasure forever. Choosing the right time for your maternity photoshoot is a decision that can shape the entire experience, and that's why I recommend around 30 weeks as the perfect moment. Embrace your glow, celebrate your journey, and let's create stunning photographs that tell the story of this incredible chapter in your life. Can't wait to capture your radiance!

Three Reasons Why You Should Have Maternity Photos Taken | Seattle Maternity Photographer

Maternity photography is a somewhat new thing. In fact, I don't even remember it being that popular when I was pregnant with my 11 and 8 year olds. 

I want to be completely honest, many women don't feel their best while they are pregnant. Sure, it can be a magical, meaningful, transformative time. But that doesn't mean it you have to love it.

A lot of women have hesitations about being captured while pregnant. When their body isn't at all in the sate it is usually in.  And many have a TON of hesitations about being the center of attention during a photo shoot during such a time.  

I want to share with you three reasons why I KNOW you should have maternity photos taken. By me, by one of my friends, by anyone. 

1. Your body is doing magnificent work. Your body is growing a human. Your heart is literally beating for two. You have such a powerful body that it can sustain life for both you and your  unborn child. You NEED photos of your body when it is doing such a sacred job. 

2. Your family dynamic is about to change. Weather this is your fist baby. Weather you have a fur baby. Weather you have 5 kids and this is your 6th. This baby will quite literally change EVERYTHING. It is very special to capture what your family looks like right now before it all changes. Sure, the change is for the better, but what you are right now is special and should be captured. 

3. You will forget what it's like to be pregnant. My friends, my kids are 11, 8, and 4. I have about 2 photos of me pregnant. Sometimes I rack my brain trying to remember what it felt like to carry my three babies inside my body. Even if you don't love being pregnant, you will want to remember what it felt like and photos will help take you back. 

Bonus number 4. 

You deserve to have photos where you look like the queen, goddess that you are. Period. And any maternity photographer will make you feel that way. ME especially. 

So don't hesitate to have those maternity photos taken. You won't regret it. 

P.S. This Daddy purchased a maternity and newborn package for his wife for her fist mothers day! Pretty much melted my heart.