One of my favourite things about photographing maternity sessions over the 12 years has been watching women grow in confidence as they embrace the incredible changes their bodies are going through.

Pregnancy isn't always what we imagine it will be. You might feel bloated, exhausted, uncomfortable, or simply not like yourself. I know that feeling all too well. I imagined I'd feel like a glowing earth goddess throughout pregnancy, but the reality was very different.

So many women tell me that their maternity photography session became an unexpected pause in the whirlwind of preparing for a baby. An hour to slow down, breathe, reconnect with their body, and acknowledge the extraordinary journey they are on. Then, when they receive their photos, I hear the same thing again and again. They see themselves differently. With a little more kindness, a little less criticism, and a deeper appreciation for the incredible work their body has been doing. They begin to see themselves the way I saw them all along.

Pregnancy is such a fleeting chapter. Those beautiful curves, the quiet anticipation, the connection with the little life growing inside you—it all changes so quickly. Taking the time to capture this season means you can look back on this time with absolute wonder of what your body was able to achieve.

Ready to book? Email Martine at hello@martinepayne.com to chat about creating the perfect session for you.