Emma Godfrey

Early autumn maternity shoot | Lavaux vineyards & Lac Léman

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Maternity photos as the colours change

I’m a big fan of the seasons, and I think Switzerland is one of the best places to enjoy them. Autumn and spring are my favourites with the landscape changing almost every day. This early autumn maternity shoot took place in the Lavaux vineyards just as the vines were beginning to turn from green to yellow. In only a few weeks the rows would be golden against the lake and mountains. Autumn seems like the perfect moment for a maternity shoot; after all, starting a family is like standing on the edge of an enormous change to everything you have known. What made it even more special was going back with Tiffany and Nicolas. Only a couple of years ago we were shooting their engagement photos here.

THE JOY OF FOLLOWING A FAMILY

Since starting my photography business in 2011, one of the unexpected joys has been to follow many families through the key moments in their lives. From the moment they start as a young couple in love planning the wedding of their dreams, to the big day with its powerful emotions. From the smile that comes to me when I receive an email saying they are pregnant, to meeting their little one and watching him or her grow up, becoming an older sibling. There is simple happiness in seeing how the world turns, how we are the same and uniquely so.

Going back to the same locations allows me to mirror previous images but also to use the place in a different way to say how the people in it have changed. Tiffany stood out beautifully in her pink top, accentuating her bump in a carefree way. Essential for these maternity photos was that they just be a photo shoot of the couple, rather than overtly about maternity posing. I aimed to combine their naturalness in front of the camera with elements of the story of preparing for baby. I was helped by the couple of meaningful props that Tiffany brought along, with Ponyo providing continuity between her maternity and newborn photo shoots.

PLANNING YOUR MATERNITY & NEWBORN SHOOTS

As well as getting in touch with me early on, Tiffany had several locations in mind which we were able to chat about in advance. Having plenty of time meant that we could reschedule in case of bad weather or health problems. This is very important towards the end of your pregnancy as we want to capture you glowing. Knowing the expected due date is also vital for planning and blocking out potential dates for the newborn session. I always try to be as flexible as possible to make the experience as stress-free as possible. Tiffany’s baby was due over Christmas, which meant keeping time around the holidays available to make sure we could get pictures within the first couple of weeks. All this planning means that when you call to tell me the good news, I am ready and available for your newborn photo shoot.

For maternity and baby’s first year photography in Switzerland, I offer a number of different photography collections. Choose between a personalised album, canvases, prints, and downloadable high-resolution files. If you would like to BOOK A MATERNITY PHOTO SHOOT, please get in touch for collection pricing and availability.

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