As my business continues to grow year after year, so do the moments I get to share with the people who’ve been with me since the early days. Jake first reached out to me years ago for a snowy Chicago engagement session. Since then, I’ve had the absolute privilege of photographing nearly every major milestone that’s followed: Kendal’s first pregnancy, baby Brooks’ newborn session, and now this sweet maternity session as they prepare to welcome baby number two. Watching their story unfold has been such a joy—and this time, I got to capture Brooks stepping into his new role as soon-to-be big brother. Seeing how much fun he has with Dad and how he cares for his momma, I can already tell he’s going to be the BEST! I love when the whole family joins in together to capture this stage, so I’m excited to share a few of my favorite lifestyle maternity session ideas with you.

A Picnic-Perfect Setting

When Kendal mentioned she was leaning toward a picnic for this maternity session, I didn’t even hesitate—yes, please. She always comes to sessions with the most thoughtful ideas and an open mind for doing something a little out of the ordinary. That mix makes for sessions that feel like real life, but elevated—beautifully planned yet full of genuine moments.

So, we packed up a few simple (and snackable) props: a cozy blanket, a small charcuterie spread, fresh lavender, and a perfectly ripe peach for Brooks—who, naturally, took his role as “official taste tester” very seriously. I’m not sure anything says summer childhood quite like watermelon slices and a peach juice–covered toddler grin.

It was breezy, but light that afternoon was golden and warm. Between Kendal’s dress blowing in the wind, Jake’s easy laughter, and Brooks darting between them with sticky hands, it felt like watching a little story unfold in real time. There was nothing forced or overly posed about it—just a family being together in a season that’s about to change again. And this was the most serene way to ease into it.

The Beauty of Familiar Faces

I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: there’s something so special about photographing families over time. You start to see the subtle shifts—their comfort in front of the camera, their rhythms together, their inside jokes. For the Carrows, it’s watching Kendal’s calm and grace grow with each chapter, seeing Jake’s steady presence alongside her, and witnessing how Brooks has gone from swaddled newborn to energetic, curious, and oh, so sweet big brother-to-be. 

Every session with returning families feels like catching up with old friends, with my camera in hand. As a photographer, it’s a reminder of why this work matters so much; it’s not just about the photos themselves, but about the legacy they’re building together. And I take my job of documenting that with deep care, intentionality, and authenticity.

Lifestyle Maternity Session Ideas (that Older Siblings Will Love)

If you’re expecting, first of all, congratulations! And if you’re ready to get your maternity session on the books, I can’t recommend a lifestyle approach like this one enough. In my last post, I talked about the perks of a studio maternity session. But if you’re due when the weather is at its best and you’ve got another little one in tow, like precious Brooks, here are a few ideas for a fun and relaxed session al fresco!

1. The Family Picnic

You don’t need a Pinterest board’s worth of props—just a blanket, a few favorite snacks, and a backdrop that makes you feel at ease. Maybe that’s your backyard, a nearby park, or even your favorite spot by the lake. The more personal it feels, the more authentic your photos will be.

2. A Morning at Home

Capture your family exactly as you are—bare feet, coffee mugs, and a little chaos included. These sessions are especially lovely for second (or third!) pregnancies, when big siblings are part of the story. It’s less about “perfect” and more about documenting this chapter of real life, so bring out the Duplos, and let’s have some fun!

3. A Stroll Through the City

For couples or families who love a more urban feel, consider wandering through your Chicago neighborhood or revisiting a meaningful place—like where you first met, or your go-to coffee shop. The city adds energy and texture that feels dynamic without needing much direction.

4. Bring a Simple Theme or Activity

Kendal’s picnic idea worked so well because it gave Brooks something to do. Having an activity—whether that’s baking cookies, picking flowers, or even fishing—creates natural movement and interaction. Kids stay engaged, parents relax, and before you know it, you’re laughing instead of posing.

5. Embrace the Season You’re In

Pregnancy is fleeting, yes, but so is the season around it. If it’s spring, bring wildflowers. If it’s fall, lean into the cozy layers and golden light. Even a winter maternity session (remember Jake and Kendal’s snowy engagement?) can feel completely magical in its own right. It adds some context to your story.

A Little Humor Goes a Long Way

Maternity sessions can sound glamorous (and look so easy and breezy on socials), but in reality, there’s usually a snack bag, a few toddler negotiations, and at least one outfit change that doesn’t go as planned. That’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. A sense of humor goes a long way in helping everyone relax and have fun. If your toddler refuses to share the fruit or insists on photobombing every shot, that’s part of the story. And years from now, you’ll be so glad you have those photos to look back on.

Looking Ahead

As for the Carrows, their next big chapter is just around the corner. Their baby girl will arrive in January, and I already can’t wait to see how much Brooks has grown—and how sweet he’ll be with his new sister. In the meantime, I’m savoring the sticky peach smiles, the quiet glances, and the anticipation of what’s next. Because in the end, those are the photos that tell the truest form of family.