Dreamy winter Maymont maternity portraits 

Winter is often a quiet time of the year for photographers, at least here in Virginia. The weather can be somewhat unpredictable. You never know if it will be cold or warm, rainy or sunny, but sometimes, the starts align and the late afternoon light is just extra magic. I’m not sure if it’s the way the light shines through the naked brown trees or if it’s the fact that after weeks of early sunsets and chilly days, seeing a golden glowy sunset is extra special. Either way, such was the case when I met up with Holly and Colin for their Maymont maternity portraits. 

It was a sunny day and not too cold for January. We had the perfect backdrop in the Tuscan gardens at Maymont in downtown Richmond. A favorite location of mine for maternity portraits. 

Holly’s gray dress was perfect with the marble columns. The wrap sweater design was so flattering to her baby bump and the color reflected the golden light that surrounded us as the sun went down. 

We had fun going from backdrop to backdrop on the hunt for the good light. I love working with couples expecting their first child because the portraits are so calm. It’s a great opportunity for me to take a step back, breathe and let the creativity flow. Don’t get me wrong, I also love the craziness that ensues with lots of little children running around, but this is always a refreshing creative outlet for me that I cherish. 

My medium format camera was in the shop for repairs, so I brought along my 35mm camera to snap some film portraits. I thought they came out so dreamy. 

I loved this part – I said “put your hand on your belly” a common prompt for mamas during maternity portraits, but this time Collin put his hand on HIS belly! The laughs that ensued from both mom and dad were contagious, I don’t think I’ve laughed like that during a session before! 

We moved down to the Japanese garden to take advantage of the many features available there. Colin was so sweet to help his bride across the pond on these little stepping stones. A little more adventurous for maternity portraits, but I was here for it! 

I can’t wait to see Holly and Colin again this spring to photograph their little one!! 

Jacqueline Aimee Portraits offers Richmond Maternity Photography for clients looking for timeless maternity portraits. See her latest work on Instagram!

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