Embracing Maternity Leave and Trusting the Process | Calgary Photographer

This blog post feels a little different from my usual ones. As I approach the end of my pregnancy, I am spending a lot of time thinking about maternity leave. 

I’m about to step into an unknown chapter of my life. And I've found myself reflecting on so much more than just preparing for a baby. I've been thinking about seasons of change, letting go of control, and trusting that things will work out the way they're supposed to.

These photos, taken by the incredibly talented Teresa Renee Photography, ended up being the perfect visualization of this season of my life for me.

But, as is often the case, the session almost didn’t go the way we planned! 

The day of these photos, it snowed.

In true Alberta fashion, spring decided to throw us a curveball. If you've ever worried about the weather before your photo session, you're definitely not alone. I hear it from clients all the time.

But instead of stressing, we leaned into it.

We started inside a greenhouse surrounded by all the greenery. It felt so appropriate… to celebrate the start of new life, surrounded by life. And the timing couldn't have been better. It was the weekend after Mother's Day, which normally would have meant a busy greenhouse packed with shoppers. Instead, the snow kept most people away, and we practically had the place to ourselves.

When Plans Change, Sometimes They Get Better

One thing I've learned through photography is that some of the best moments happen when you stop fighting the circumstances.

The greenhouse gave us a beautiful, cozy start to the session. I wore a soft floral dress that felt equally comfortable (IMPORTANT when you’re this pregnant!!) and beautiful. Later, we headed outside for a completely different look with my Jeep, wearing a black fitted outfit and my favorite oversized green jacket.

And then the sun came out. (YAY!) 

After snow earlier in the day, we ended up with the most beautiful light for the outdoor portion of the session. It was one of those moments that felt like a little reminder that not everything needs to go according to plan.

Maternity Leave and Letting Go

As I prepare for this next chapter, I think that's the lesson I'm taking with me.

There are so many things I can't control right now, but there are a few things I can choose:

• Trust the process

• Stay present in the moment

• Let go of perfection

• Embrace the unexpected

• Focus on what matters most

• 
  

As a business owner, I am used to being firmly in the driver's seat. Directing next steps and making strategic decisions to grow my business. But this season is teaching me it’s okay to let go for a bit. Let life unfold. Learn who I am as a mother. 

Even the Jeep felt symbolic. It's been my dream vehicle since we moved to Calgary, but we recently sold it to make room for car seats and all the adventures that come with becoming parents.

Some chapters close, so new ones can begin.

A New Season Ahead

As I head into Maternity Leave, I'm feeling grateful for these photos, this season, and all the reminders that things have a way of coming together exactly when they're meant to.

To anyone planning a photo session and worrying about the forecast, consider this your reminder to trust it. Sometimes the snow falls, the sun comes out anyway, and the photos end up being even better than you imagined. And sometimes that's exactly how life works too.

Signing off as I get ready to meet this baby! 🫶🏻