A Maternity Session at The Salt River in Arizona

I don’t typically photograph maternity sessions, but when it comes to past wedding clients and close friends, I love the opportunity to document such a special chapter in their lives. This session was particularly close to my heart because Dana is one of my best friends. She and Connor are expecting their first baby, a little girl, next month!

Dana and Connor just recently moved back to Dana’s hometown in Arizona after Connor’s nearly 10 years in the military. They chose The Salt River as the backdrop for their maternity photos, a location that Dana and I fell in love with when we were scouting for our retreat company last year. My approach to this session was similar to the way I capture all of my couples: blending intimate, documentary-style moments with some editorial posing for those timeless, composed shots. I wanted these photos to feel both natural and elevated, capturing the beauty of this season for Dana and Connor.

Shooting in hybrid, using both digital and 35mm film, I was able to capture the raw emotion and beauty in two unique ways. Film adds that touch of nostalgia, and in a session like this, it was the perfect complement to the quiet, meaningful moments we shared by the river.

It was an honor to photograph this beautiful journey for my closest friend. Dana and Connor, I can’t wait to meet your little girl and see you embrace this new chapter of your lives as parents!