Some sessions just feel extra special—and this one with the Struve family was absolutely one of them. We kept things simple in my natural-light studio in the small town of Folsom, CA and as a result, the images were full of warmth, laughter, and that sweet, in-between season of waiting for baby.
A Laid-Back Studio Vibe
From the second they stepped into the studio, the vibe was easygoing and relaxed. They came in wearing white tops and light denim—nothing fancy, just comfortable and classic. That thoughtful styling choice allowed their personalities and connection to take center stage, which is always my favorite part of photographing families.
Mama’s Natural Glow
As soon as we started shooting, it was clear that Mom was glowing—truly. She had this calm, grounded presence and a quiet joy that came through in every frame. Whether she was gently cradling her belly, sharing a smile with her husband, or watching their daughter twirl across the studio floor, every moment felt genuine and full of love.
Let’s talk about big sis! She brought so much joyful energy to the shoot in the best way possible. She bounced between hugging mama’s belly, making heart shapes with Dad, and adding a burst of personality to every frame. It’s always those in-between moments—the ones you don’t plan—that end up meaning the most.
Slowing Down for Solo Portraits
After we wrapped up the family portion of the shoot, we shifted gears into something a little slower and more intimate. Mama changed into a simple white tank and jeans, and we let the light do all the heavy lifting. With no props and no fuss, the focus was entirely on her connection to this new life. The way the light fell across her belly, the softness in her posture, the strength in her eyes—it was quiet but powerful.
A Soft, Timeless Touch
Next, she wrapped herself in a long piece of white lace, and the tone of the session softened even more. These shots felt like a visual love letter to motherhood. They weren’t overly styled or posed—they were just real. Honest. And deeply timeless.
To wrap things up, we added a fun, editorial twist. She threw on a cream blazer, and the light coming in through the studio windows created the perfect contrast. These final images felt confident, modern, and grounded in a way that perfectly captured this season of life.
Why I Love Studio Work
All in all, this session was a reminder of why I love studio work so much. It’s clean and minimal, which creates space for emotion, connection, and personality to really shine. There are no distractions—just you, your people, and your story. And honestly, that’s where the beauty lives.
Ready to Book Your Maternity Session?
If you’re looking for a maternity photographer in Folsom who keeps things relaxed, natural, and meaningful—and still delivers beautiful images you’ll actually want to print—reach out any time. Whether you’re dreaming of cozy studio vibes, an outdoor sunset session, or something more personal in your home, I’d love to help you celebrate this chapter.
Choosing a photographer is more personal than most people realize. You’re not just hiring someone to tell you to smile and press a button—you’re inviting them into your story. The real one. The one where you sneak a kiss in your kitchen as an engaged couple, or say “I do” with shaking hands, or welcome a brand new human into your home while running on love and very little sleep.
You’re trusting me to read the room. To coax a grin out of a napless toddler or make a camera-shy partner forget there’s even a lens nearby. You’re handing me the quiet, fleeting, wildly important moments—and I don’t take that lightly.
So let’s do it. Let’s bottle up the feeling of this season and hang it on your walls where you can see it every day. The real stuff. The kind you’ll never want to forget.
create magic.
Let's
Sacramento california family and couples photographer