Black and White Moody Maternity Photo Session

Capture the small, intimate all-consuming and precious moments

When Jess reached out to me about a maternity session that she envisioned as smoky, moody, and entirely in black and white, I immediately felt a spark of excitement. The unique concept held so much promise, and I knew this would turn into something truly epic. For those familiar with my work, you know my passion for black and white photography runs deep. My journey began with black and white film long before the digital age took over the photography landscape. I often reminisce about the countless hours spent in the darkroom at university, developing film and witnessing images slowly come to life. There’s something so ethereal about that process—watching the world transform on paper, revealing shadows and light in ways that colour sometimes can't emulate.

Black and white photos are forever, they’re vintage, timeless…

I work with several studios in the Calgary area, and one of my favourites is The Gallery Studio in the Southeast. It’s a large space with multiple backdrops to use and various props but… the bonus is the floor-to-ceiling windows and the industrial vibe. There is nothing else quite like it in the Calgary area and it was the perfect backdrop for this type of session.

During our session, I aimed to create an atmosphere where Jess could feel comfortable and radiant, allowing her personality to shine through. We played with shadows and soft light, embracing the moody aesthetic she desired. I made sure to capture the details—the curve of her belly, the glow in her eyes, the gentle embrace of her hands—sealing in emotions and memories that would last a lifetime.

Maternity photos are incredibly special. While many expectant mothers may not feel glamorous during pregnancy, capturing these fleeting moments is crucial. Each session is an opportunity to freeze time, creating lasting memories one can reflect on with fondness. I often remind my clients that they won’t regret being photographed during this time in their lives. They’ll look back on these images as a celebration of the journey they embarked on, the love story that led to the creation of their family, and the anticipation of welcoming a new life.

At the end of the day, it’s moments like these that remind me why I love photography so much. It’s about documenting love, connection, and the beauty of life’s milestones. Explore a few of my favourite photos from this session, as they’re a true testament to the magic that happens when creativity meets passion.