Pregnancy is such a wild mix of emotions, isn’t it? One minute you’re glowing (whatever that means), and the next you’re wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again. I get it. I’ve lived it. And I’ve heard so many women say things like: “I’d rather do newborn photos,” or “I just don’t feel like myself right now.” If you feel this way, you’re not alone.

I want to gently offer another perspective – not from a place of pressure, but from love. Because here’s the thing: I never had maternity photos taken with either of my kids. And I regret that deeply.

I know the hesitation. I had it too.

When I was pregnant, maternity photography just wasn’t as common. But even if it had been, I probably would have brushed it off. I didn’t feel “camera-ready” or beautiful during that time. Back then, I thought I’d just take a few casual photos and that would be enough.

Now, looking back, I wish I had more than a handful of blurry phone pics. Pregnant photos of me don’t exist – at least not in a way that captures what that chapter really looked and felt like. That part hurts a little.

I hear similar things from clients sometimes. Mamas who hesitate, not because they don’t care, but because they’re navigating so much. Stretch marks, swollen ankles, unfamiliar curves – it’s easy to disconnect from your reflection. But what you’re doing? Carrying life? It’s magic. And you deserve to be seen in that magic.

What I want you to know about maternity photography

If you’re on the fence about whether maternity photos are “worth it,” here are a few things I want to gently remind you:

1. You don’t have to feel like a goddess to be photographed like one.

It’s okay if you’re in the “I don’t recognize my body” phase. That’s real. That’s valid. What maternity photography can do, though, is shift how you see yourself – even just a little. Sometimes that looks like getting dressed up in something flowy and flattering. Sometimes it looks like staying cozy in your favorite loungewear at home.

I’ve seen stunning sessions in oversized sweats on the family couch. And I’ve seen mamas absolutely light up in glam dresses and lashes. Both are beautiful. Why? Because they reflect who you are, not who you think you’re supposed to be.

2. You get to define what “beautiful” means for this season.

You don’t have to run through an open field at sunset in a boho gown (unless that speaks to you). Maybe being curled up on the couch with your partner and the dog feels more like home. Great. Let’s photograph that. This isn’t about pretending. It’s about presence.

I always remind my clients: there’s no one way to show up to a session. There’s no pose you have to master. Just be you. That’s more than enough.

3. I’ll hype you up the entire way 🤍

I’m a girls’ girl through and through. Whether it’s a bump, a baby, or chasing your toddler across a field during a family session – I’ve got your back. During maternity sessions, I’m constantly hyping you up. Not because I’m trying to sell you confidence, but because I truly see the strength and softness you’re carrying. Sometimes we all just need a little reminder of that.

Why this matters more than you think

Maternity photos are about more than a baby bump. They’re about honoring how you got here, in this moment, between who you’ve been and who you are becoming.

These photos can be a quiet celebration, a soft “I see you” wrapped in light and love. They’re a way of writing your story down gently, before the next chapter begins.

Even if you’re unsure, it’s okay to take up space in front of the lens. You’re creating life. You deserve to be remembered this way.

Ready when you are 🤍

Maternity photography isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. Whether you want soft and cozy, bold and artistic, or somewhere in between – I’ll meet you there, camera in hand, heart wide open.

If you’re considering a maternity session in the Spokane area but aren’t sure where to begin, I’m here to help you feel calm, supported, and seen every step of the way. Visit jadeaverill.com to start the conversation or view my recent work.

No pressure. Just possibilities. And maybe a little magic, too.

-Jade Averill

Your favorite Spokane Maternity Photographer