Destiny and Gemal are expecting a baby girl in just a few weeks, and I was so excited to capture their family maternity session at Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park! I first met the two of them during their son’s in-home newborn session, and capturing these memories of their last weeks as a family of three was extra special. It’s always an honor when my clients come back to me again and again—especially when my sweet newborns become big siblings!
Choosing a Location for your Columbia, SC Maternity Session
Because Destiny was in the final few weeks of her pregnancy when we met up for their session, I wanted to make sure she felt comfortable and cared for more than anything! We looked for a location that wouldn’t require a lot of walking and we could stay in the shade as much as possible. Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park was the perfect fit! It’s always a great location for photos because there are so many different backdrops in one place. An added bonus is that there are public restrooms available, which is helpful for sessions with little ones. Thankfully, it was a cool summer morning for us (which is rare here in Columbia!), but we took lots of breaks for rest and water and kept everything at Destiny’s pace.
Summer Maternity Session Tips
Summer sessions here in “famously hot” Columbia can be challenging with our scorching heat and brutal humidity. That’s why I always recommend scheduling summer sessions as early in the morning as possible, or opting for an indoor session, to try to beat the heat! My goal is to make sure that my families and their little ones stay as comfortable as possible during their summer sessions; here are a few tips that I share with clients as they prepare:
- Schedule your session as early in the morning as possible! The sunrise golden hour is always worth the early wakeup. 😉
- Make sure everyone is well-hydrated before your session, and bring water bottles with cold water with you.
- Choose lightweight fabrics when you’re planning everyone’s outfits.
- Plan something fun to help everyone cool down afterward—like a trip to the splash pad, the neighborhood pool, or even a stop for ice cream!
Destiny and Gemal, it was an honor to document these memories for your sweet family. I still can’t believe your little guy is about to be a big brother! I’m so excited to meet your newest addition, and I’m looking forward to your in-home newborn session once she makes her debut!
Are you preparing to welcome your first little one into your family? I’d love to come alongside you during this season of life! Reach out and say hello, and we’ll get started planning a session document all the memories of this season of anticipation!
