Maternity Photos

When Adam and I found out we were pregnant, it came as a massive shock to us. Don’t get me wrong, we were trying to have a baby. However, by the time we finally conceived, we had endured multiple difficulties and set-backs along the way. These misfortunes had made the idea of having a baby near impossible.

Last year, I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). This is a hormonal disorder, affecting as many as one in 10 women, and causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Symptoms of this disorder include irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, and inconsistencies with weight. PCOS is also highly linked to infertility, and while there is no cure for this condition, it was something that I had to learn to accept and live with – understanding that pregnancy may be impossible for my husband and me. We were fortunate, however, to be blessed with a talented and optimistic doctor. This type of encouragement and positivity gave us the motivation needed to continue on with our journey towards a happy ending.

When I found out I was indeed pregnant, I was excited and scared. Also, I had an overall feeling of needing to cherish as many of the wonderful moments of my pregnancy as I possibly could. As with any first child, there are many things to consider, let alone pondering the unknowns that could arise from my aforementioned health situation. I knew from that instant that I wanted to use the art of photography as a way to document the precious experiences of my pregnancy so that I could live without the regret of “what ifs” and “should haves.”

We were blessed to have two photography sessions. The first was with the talented Johanna Bateman of Johanna Bateman Photography. The other, which Adam had given me as a “push present,” was with Willow Harville of Willow Dyln. Both women are equally talented, with their own unique style, different from one another. I was blessed to have the first photo shoot with my husband, and the other session all to myself.

However you capture your pregnancy, whether it be through progressive personal photos or by the means of professional photographers, they are some of the most important times that you can never get back. I encourage you to use your own unique style to celebrate and document this momentous and wonderful time of your life.

Photo Provided by Willow Dyln, Robe by Block Shop Textiles