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Why should you have Maternity Photos taken?

When I was pregnant, the thought of being in front of the camera made me want to vomit. I felt so big I was bursting everywhere. None of my clothes fit right. It was uncomfortable and depressing. I wished I could be one of those women who only grew in their belly. I grew everywhere. All of me got bigger. I vividly remember walking by a store in the mall and seeing my reflection in the store window. I stopped in my tracks as a little shriek of terror escaped my lips. I couldn't believe I had gotten that big. That was only my first pregnancy. You should have seen my by my fourth.

Thankfully, my husband, friends, and other family members did sneak some photos of me while I was pregnant. I reluctantly put them into my photo albums, and now years later, I have to say I actually like them. I stop and look at them longer than any other photos of me. Why? Because they make me feel good about myself. Yes, those images of my huge bulging belly make me feel good. I am removed enough from the pain of the pregnancy to just see myself, and guess what? I didn't look as horrible as I thought I did. Not even close. I wasn't as big as I imagined in my own mind. I look at those photos and feel tremendous gratitude that I could give birth to 4 healthy beautiful babies. There is nothing in life I wanted more than to be a mother, and I was able to have that. I am incredibly blessed.

My message to all expectant moms out there is this: LOVE that amazing body of yours. The fact that you can bear children is a miracle, and trust me, there are countless women out there who pray for that ability every day with no success. Your children will want to see what you looked like. They will pour over those images and marvel that they were once in there. YOU will pour over those images and marvel that they once fit in there. Don't be hard on yourself.  Don't compare yourself to other women. Don't beat yourself up about stretch marks, veins, or bulging belly buttons. Those are trivial. You are a treasure worth documenting, if not for yourself, then for your children.

This is a recent maternity session I did at the beach. This couple was such a pleasure to photograph. This was actually our second time meeting. The first time we attempted a photo session I lost all of my photography equipment to a rogue wave that swept me up and knocked me down. Luckily I have the best clients who are so understanding. I will never forget their kindness and compassion.

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Twelve Years Old

This girl is just excited about life. She's happy to go anywhere, meet anyone, and just smile. She She still snuggles close to me when we have the chance, and loves to talk my ear off. She has such enthusiasm for life! I admire that so much.

She turned 12 recently. Her teen years are fast approaching - too fast. I'm not ready to let go of my little girl. I used to think all those moms who whined and complained about their kids growing up too fast were lying, but it really is hard to let go. It's hard to move on to a new stage when you're perfectly happy where you are. No matter how old she is, I love watching her grow. I love all of her, and I'm so happy to be her mom.

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The Magic Number of 4

Four Generations of beautiful girls came together to celebrate Mother's Day. I loved that they wanted to celebrate them being all together. I love the concept of families coming together. I love that they will have these pictures forever. This sweet little baby will be able to look back and see the mothers of her past. How priceless will it be for her when she's a mother herself?

Thousand Oaks Photographer

This family of 4 was nominated by a close friend to wind a complimentary photo session. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed getting to know them. These parents were so kind and loving to their children. They stayed late and played with them for a long time. I could see why their friend took the time to nominate them to be photographed.

Thousand Oaks Photographer
Thousand Oaks Photographer

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Families are Forever

There are amazing people everywhere, and right here in Ventura County we have some of the finest. This family is one of them. When I showed Cynthia these images she was teary eyed and said, "I just loves them so much." You are a wonderful mother Cynthia. You and your husband are raising such wonderful children who will follow in your footsteps and make the world a better place every day.

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Together in Strength

Sweethearts for many years, they are happy together, but far away from their hometowns in Texas. They have been through a lot at their young age, including health problems more difficult than many people will ever face in their lives. I can't help but admire their courage and strength.

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