We Stepped into the Studio for Jessica Magary’s Third Maternity Fashion Photo Session.

This was the first time I’ve used a studio for maternity sessions. It certainly won’t be my last.

Wow. Just. Wow. I’ve said time and time again that working with Jessica Magary always brings my photo game to the next level. Well, this maternity session definitely proves that.

The first two session were held outdoors as the weather was much nicer. This time, though, we were in a bit of a cold, cloudy spell so we decided to bring it indoors. This brought a whole different spin as we would be much closer physically to each other which would result in more personal, intimate images.

One thing that never changed is how we tailored the session. As she is a well-known model, we always tended to spin our sessions towards a fashion-based session as opposed to the more traditional maternity-style sessions. Our goal was always to show that pregnant women can still have style.

We started out using available window light with its soft, luminous glow. It really just pairs well with delicate poses, flowing outfits, and a general mood of serenity. But, as always when using available light, you are at the mercy of ever-changing conditions. In this case the light cloud cover got heavier and heavier resulting in less light coming into the space.

No bueno.

Luckily I was using the back of my white studio backdrop as a reflector to bounce light back onto Jessica’s shadow side. It was also fortuitous that I still had my studio lights available from a previous session. So, once I saw what was going on with the light, it was a quick and easy transition to a studio set up.

Jess and I had a quick confab about it, came up with a game plan, and ran with it.

And boy did she run with it.

She stepped into the studio setting exuding an air of confidence and grace. She effortlessly showcased her radiant glow and innate elegance, creating moments of sheer enchantment. With each pop from the strobes, Jess effortlessly transformed into a vision of maternal glamour, her poise and elegance captivating every frame.

Using the timeless white backdrop really added to the elegance of the session. It made Jessica the undisputed star of the session with nothing else to vie for the viewer’s attention. I really love what it brings to the table in terms of possibilities and will definitely be using it more.

After the strobes were turned off, we were left with a collection of photographs that transcended time and space. Each image, a testament to the enduring beauty of Jessica’s journey into motherhood, would serve as a cherished reminder of this special moment in time for years to come.

Jess stated that this was her last pregnancy. I simply cannot think of a better way to cap off our maternity fashion journey together.

Mark Knopp is a photographer with over 40 years of experience behind a camera and teaching photography. He is based in Yorktown and covers Hampton Roads, Richmond and beyond. Contact him at mknopp1(at)cox.net to book your photo session or for photography/modeling lessons.