There’s something so special about documenting a family during a season of growth—especially when that season is spring and a new baby is on the way. This maternity session with Kelly, her husband, and their two children was one of my favorites this year, and I’m so excited to share more of the story behind their beautiful New Hartford maternity photos in Connecticut.
Starting with the Vision: A Dress Consultation That Sparked Excitement
Before the session even began, Kelly came to my studio for a dress consultation. This is something I offer all of my maternity and family clients because it allows us to connect in person, talk through your vision, and build a wardrobe that feels cohesive, timeless, and you.
At first, Kelly and I pulled together a color palette that technically “worked,” but neither of us felt excited about it. So I asked her a question I often ask when something doesn’t quite feel right: “Do you want to start over?” We did, and it was the best decision! Within minutes, we had selected three dresses and built a palette around them that we both loved. It’s always a joy when clients trust me in that creative process—we ended up with a look that was soft, seasonal, and perfect for the location.
Choosing the Perfect Location: Their Forever Home
When it came to deciding where to take these family portraits in New Hartford, Connecticut, Kelly mentioned the idea of using their home. I loved that idea immediately. What better place to document a growing family than in the yard where their children play, where they’ll welcome their new baby, and where so many memories are made?
On the day of the session, I arrived early to scout out the light and choose the best spots in their yard. I always arrive with a plan, but also with flexibility—especially when using a location that I haven’t photographed before. That’s where experience matters. Even if a photographer hasn’t shot in a specific spot, knowing how to find great light makes all the difference.
A Picture-Perfect Spring Evening
Kelly had her hair and makeup professionally done by my go-to artist, which is included in all of my full maternity sessions. When I arrived, she looked stunning and was ready to go—relaxed, glowing, and confident.
Her children were so excited to show me around their yard. We explored together, played a little, and made our way through the session with ease. I started with full family portraits, then captured sweet shots of just Kelly and her husband, and wrapped up with solo maternity portraits of Kelly when the golden hour light was at its best. Her husband brought the kids in for the night, which gave us a peaceful few minutes to finish the session quietly and intentionally.
Why I Love At-Home Sessions for Maternity Portraits
Doing family portraits in New Hartford, Connecticut at a client’s home always feels incredibly meaningful. When you look back at these images years from now, you won’t just remember what you looked like—you’ll remember what life felt like. You’ll remember your children running barefoot through the grass, the way the sunlight filtered through the trees in your yard, and how it felt to stand on your front lawn with your hand on your growing belly.
That emotional connection makes at-home sessions so powerful.
What to Consider When Choosing a Location for Your Family Session
Not sure where to do your family or maternity session? Here are a few helpful things to think about:
Is your photographer familiar with the location?
If not, ask if they’re comfortable working with new spaces and using natural light in creative ways. Experience makes all the difference here.
Does the location hold sentimental value?
If it’s your forever home, a favorite trail, or the place you got engaged—those layers of meaning add emotional depth to your portraits.
Are you open to discovering a new place?
I’ve had clients fall in love with a location we chose for photos and return to it year after year as a family tradition.
There’s no “right” answer when it comes to choosing a location, but there is a right answer for you. If there’s a space that feels like home or tells part of your family’s story, let your photographer know!
Honoring Growth and Connection Through Portraits
Maternity sessions are about so much more than a bump photo. They’re about honoring the season your family is in—the wild, beautiful, everyday moments you’re living right now.
This spring session with Kelly was a perfect example of that. We laughed, we played, we soaked in the golden light of a spring evening. And when baby number three arrives, this family will already have a beautiful record of this sweet chapter.
If you’re dreaming of your own maternity session or planning family portraits in New Hartford, Connecticut, I’d love to chat. Whether it’s in your backyard or somewhere brand new, your story deserves to be documented with care, creativity, and heart.
Choosing Sharon As Your CT Maternity Photographer
Sharon Leger is a family and newborn photographer with a private studio in Canton, Connecticut. As a former teacher, Sharon prides herself on connecting with her clients of all ages. Sharon creates a stress-free photography experience for busy moms. Sharon’s studio is in Canton, Connecticut and serves the Farmington Valley, Hartford County and Litchfield County.
What makes your maternity session with Sharon Leger Photography unique? Sharon has a large selection of maternity gowns that are available to borrow from the Client Closet. Once you have booked your CT maternity session, you are invited to come for a complimentary dress consultation. There, you can meet Sharon and discuss the vision for your session. The gowns from the Client Closet are custom and made specifically for maternity sessions. You are welcome to borrow as many gowns as you like. This will add a lot of variety to your final maternity portrait gallery.
To learn more about Sharon Leger Photography, explore the website or follow Sharon on Instagram or Facebook. Please send inquiries through the website only. The website includes all relevant pricing and booking information.
