Doris’ Story & the Beauty of Capturing the Before
Maternity photography in Vancouver is more than just capturing a beautiful bump—it’s about honoring the in-between. That fleeting stretch of time when you’re not quite who you were… and not yet who you’re about to become.
As both a photographer and a mom, I’ve come to realize this is one of the most quietly powerful moments in a woman’s life. You’re carrying life. You’re dreaming big, nesting, wondering, hoping—maybe even panicking a little. And yet, there’s a glow. Not just on your skin, but in your presence.
Every mother walks into my studio with a different energy. Some are bursting with excitement, others are tenderly reserved. Some come alone for a quiet, reflective session. Others bring partners, toddlers, or even their own mothers—three generations wrapped in one frame. And all of them are here for the same reason: to remember this chapter.
Because years from now, when your baby is no longer a baby, you’ll want to look back and feel that moment again—the anticipation, the awe, the quiet strength you didn’t even know you had.
And that’s where the magic of maternity photography really lives.
🌸 Maternity Photography Is More Than Just a Bump
Let’s be honest—pregnancy isn’t always easy. Some days you feel like a glowing goddess… other days, like a sleepy watermelon with feet. But underneath all of that, something truly incredible is happening. And that’s exactly why I believe maternity photography should go far beyond the bump.
When I photograph expecting mothers, I’m not just framing a belly—I’m capturing a whole transformation. The shift in your posture, the softness in your expression, the way your hands instinctively cradle the life growing inside you. It’s subtle, but powerful. And deeply human.
Pregnancy brings out a mix of everything—joy, nerves, surrender, pride. Your identity stretches right alongside your body. The woman who once walked into a room as someone’s daughter, sister, or partner now carries something more. A new role. A deeper purpose.
🖼️ This is who I was, before I met you.
That’s what these images say, without needing any words. They hold onto the version of you that existed before the diapers, the lullabies, the sleepless nights. The version who wondered what their baby’s face might look like… and hoped they’d be a little bit like you.
Maternity photography, especially here in Vancouver where we’re surrounded by natural beauty and light, gives us a chance to freeze that emotion—before life shifts again. And that’s why it matters. Because even if you don’t realize it now, this version of you is worth remembering.
👩👦👦 Doris and Her Boys: A Growing Family’s Quiet Joy
When Doris walked into my studio, she wasn’t a first-time mom full of uncertainty—she was a seasoned, glowing, unexpectedly expecting mother of two. And the joy? It was written all over her face.
She brought her two boys with her that day, and right away, I could tell this wasn’t just about capturing her pregnancy—it was about capturing their bond as a family before it grew by one more heart. Her boys were lively, proud, and clearly excited about becoming big brothers. Watching them gently touch her belly, ask funny questions, and sneak little hugs in between shots—those were the moments we lived for.
There’s something uniquely beautiful about photographing a mother who’s already walked this path—and still feels the wonder of it. With Doris, we weren’t just preserving how she looked during her third pregnancy; we were preserving how her boys looked at her with awe, how her smile changed when she talked about the new baby, and how connected the entire family felt in that moment.
This is why I always encourage expecting moms—bring your people. Whether it’s your partner, your other children, or just someone who makes you laugh through the swollen ankles and cravings, these connections add meaning to every frame.
And in Doris’ case, it gave us a gallery full of moments her whole family will cherish forever.
📅 Why Month Seven is the Sweet Spot for Maternity Photos
Timing matters in maternity photography—and the seventh month? That’s the golden window.
By this stage, most moms-to-be are clearly showing, but not yet feeling the physical strain that often comes in the final stretch. There’s a certain glow that tends to show up right around then—cheeks are flushed, bellies are beautifully round, and that deep, anticipatory joy starts to become real.
That’s exactly why Doris chose to schedule her session at the seven-month mark through our Belly to Baby package. It gave us the perfect balance: she felt great, looked radiant, and had enough energy to enjoy the process with her two boys bouncing around the studio.
Here’s what makes the seventh month so ideal:
- 🌼 Your belly has that perfect roundness that photographs beautifully.
- 😌 You’re usually more comfortable than in the final few weeks.
- 📆 It allows some buffer time in case baby decides to come early.
- 📸 You’re still mobile enough to enjoy both standing and seated poses, indoors or out.
📝 Tip for new moms: Book your maternity session early—even in your second trimester—so you can lock in a spot around that 28–32 week sweet zone.
With Doris, we were able to capture not just how she looked, but how she felt—and that’s what makes a photo session truly timeless. When she came back later with her newborn for the second part of her package, we could already see how much changed… and how much stayed beautifully the same.
📸 Inside the Studio: Comfort, Confidence, and Connection
Here’s the truth: stepping in front of the camera during pregnancy takes courage. Your body is changing daily, your emotions are on a rollercoaster, and let’s be real—some days, just finding a top that fits feels like a win.
That’s why our studio is built with one thing in mind—comfort that leads to confidence.
Before I even pick up the camera, we make sure you feel completely at ease. The space is quiet, private, and filled with natural light that flatters every angle. We’ve stocked the studio with a curated collection of maternity gowns and wraps in soft, flowing fabrics and timeless colours. Whether you want something dreamy and feminine or bold and modern, we’ll help you choose something that makes you feel like you—only elevated.
And if you’re feeling nervous about how you’ll look on camera? Don’t be. That’s my job. I gently guide you through poses that highlight your beauty without ever feeling stiff or unnatural. We talk, we laugh, and somewhere in the middle of all that—we get photos that capture exactly who you are in this moment.
I’ve worked with moms who came in feeling unsure, only to leave saying, “I didn’t expect to love these as much as I do.”
That’s the goal. To create a session that feels less like a photo shoot and more like a little celebration—of you, of your strength, of the beautiful story you’re growing inside.
💞 From Bump to Baby: Why “Belly to Baby” is a Client Favorite
Some stories are too beautiful to tell in just one chapter—and that’s exactly why we created the Belly to Baby package.
It’s one of the most-loved options at our studio, and for good reason. This package includes two thoughtfully timed sessions: one during your pregnancy (usually around 28–32 weeks), and one after your baby arrives—capturing the full arc of your journey into motherhood.
When Doris booked her Belly to Baby, she didn’t just want maternity portraits—she wanted something that would carry over into the next chapter. And when she returned with her newborn in her arms, it was like watching a story come full circle. Her boys were back, this time with their baby sibling. And the glow on her face? It hadn’t faded—it had deepened.
Here’s what makes this package extra special:
- 🕊️ Emotional continuity – You’re documenting not just how you looked, but how you felt across two transformational moments.
- 📷 Visual storytelling – Your baby will one day see who you were before they were born—and that’s priceless.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family involvement – We welcome siblings and partners in both sessions to reflect your complete family bond.
- 🗓️ Stress-free planning – You secure both dates in advance, so once baby arrives, you already have a spot saved.
For many parents, these two sessions become the heart of their first family album. They’re a gentle reminder that yes, it all went by so fast—but look how much love lived in every frame.
So if you’re expecting and wondering whether to book just maternity or newborn… honestly? Why choose, when you can have both?
🗺️ Serving Expecting Moms Across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland
While our cozy studio is based in Port Moody, we regularly welcome clients from across the Greater Vancouver area—and yes, it’s worth the drive. When families are searching for maternity photography in Vancouver, they’re not just looking for someone with a camera. They’re looking for someone who understands how to make them feel confident, beautiful, and celebrated during one of the most intimate seasons of life.
Whether you’re in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, Richmond, or New Westminster, we’ve had the honour of photographing families from every corner of the Lower Mainland. Many of our clients come from outside the city because they’re looking for a studio that doesn’t feel rushed or overly commercial—but rather, personalized, intentional, and gentle.
📍 Travel Tip: We’re less than a 30-minute drive from most central Vancouver neighbourhoods, and there’s free parking right out front (yes, even on weekends!).
We also understand that pregnancy brings its own schedule, energy levels, and unexpected turns. That’s why we keep our booking process flexible and easy. From first inquiry to final gallery, you’ll feel cared for at every step.
So if you’re scrolling and wondering where to go for maternity photos that feel as beautiful as they look—come see us in Port Moody. Your story is welcome here.
✨ Your Maternity Story Deserves to Be Remembered
Here’s the thing: you won’t always remember how your back ached, or how many pillows it took to finally fall asleep. But you will remember how it felt when that tiny kick surprised you in the middle of a quiet morning. You’ll remember the anticipation. The wonder. The way your whole world was changing—before you even held your baby in your arms.
That’s what maternity photography is really about.
At Artin Photography, I don’t just take pictures—I help you hold onto this moment, so years from now, when your baby asks what it was like before they arrived, you’ll have something beautiful to show them. Something honest. Something glowing.
📷 “You were here. You were loved. And I was already becoming your mom.”
If you’ve been thinking about doing a session, but keep putting it off—maybe waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect outfit—don’t wait too long. The window is short, and trust me, you’ll never regret freezing time just a little.
Whether you’re booking a one-time maternity session or going all in with the Belly to Baby package, I’d love to walk this creative journey with you.
📞 Ready to plan your maternity session? Click here to get in touch or call me directly at (778) 899-0537.
💫 Let’s tell your story—before baby arrives.
📊 Why More Moms Are Choosing Maternity Photography
More than ever, expecting moms are realizing that this moment deserves more than just a mirror selfie.
According to recent surveys by major photography platforms like The Knot and PEPPA, maternity photography bookings have increased over 30% in the last five years, especially among second- and third-time moms who say, “This time, I want to document it right.”
Why the shift?
- 💬 Authentic storytelling is trending. Families are craving real, emotional images over posed, generic portraits.
- 📸 Social sharing meets sentimental value. Moms want to capture and share their stories—but also preserve them offline in albums or framed keepsakes.
- 🤰 Confidence is growing. More women are embracing their pregnancy bodies, celebrating every curve, and seeing themselves as strong and radiant—not just “tired and swollen.”
If you’re wondering whether it’s “too late” or “too much”… it’s neither. This isn’t about trends. It’s about memory. And you deserve to be in the frame.
Quick FAQ for Vancouver Maternity Photography
Still have questions? You’re not alone. Here are a few answers that might help:
📅 When should I book my maternity session?
Ideally between 28–32 weeks. Earlier is okay if you’re showing sooner, and we can adjust if needed.
📷 What if I’m not confident in front of the camera?
That’s totally normal. My job is to guide you gently, help you feel beautiful, and create a relaxed space where you can simply be present. Many of my clients come in nervous and leave glowing.
👨👩👧 Can I include my partner or other children?
Absolutely! Some of the most meaningful images come from capturing the bond between a growing family. You’re welcome to bring your spouse, kids, or even a grandparent.
👗 What should I wear?
We provide a selection of flattering, comfortable maternity gowns and wraps. But if you have a special dress or heirloom item, feel free to bring it—we’ll incorporate it into the session.
🏞️ Do you offer outdoor sessions?
Yes! We offer outdoor, indoor, or combo packages. If you’re dreaming of golden light in the Vancouver hills or lush greenery in Port Moody, we’ll help you find the perfect spot.
Have more questions? I’d love to hear from you.
Reach out here or call me at (778) 899-0537—no pressure, just a friendly chat to see what fits your story.