Vancouver Island Maternity and Newborn Photographer | Capturing Authentic Family Moments
- windgypsyphotograp
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
This is the story of a beautiful family I had the honor of photographing as they welcomed their second son into the world.
Their maternity photography session at Goldstream Provincial Park, Vancouver Island, B.C. was nothing short of magical. It was a perfect morning where the sun and clouds danced together, creating a soft light. The bonus, it was early enough that the park was still waking up with visitors, which created a calm and peaceful setting for their photos.
When I first met the family, their son was wearing the softest, fluffy leopard-print jacket. I smiled and asked if he happened to have an extra one for me. He giggled shyly and said no, his eyes full of mischief. Linden’s energy brought so much joy to the session, as he kept things moving, light, and full of laughter. This was the family’s first professional photoshoot, and I felt truly honored to be the one capturing these precious moments before their second son arrived.
The newborn session was an in-home photo shoot in Mill Bay, B.C. I was looking forward to seeing the family again and meeting their newborn. Their home in Mill Bay was beautiful. Surrounded by a few really old apple trees and tall grass that glowed in the spring light. The house and yard has so much character, that it felt like it held a thousand stories.
I love in-home family photography because it allows me to capture real connection. The laughter, the chaos, and the calm, all in the place where your family’s story truly unfolds. These sessions are about authenticity, not perfection. I get to be that fly on the wall, capturing moments that are natural and un-staged.
Walking into their home, it felt inviting and safe, comfortingly full of love. Linden was in his room getting ready, listening to stories from his stereo while playing Lego. Andrew was getting ready while Becky was in the baby’s room, nursing Julian. The space was cozy, full of warm wooden tones that glowed when the light streamed in. She sat in an old-fashioned chair by the window cradling Julian, the morning light wrapping them both in a soft golden light.
When Julian was finished feeding, Becky changed his diaper and then, to my surprise, she placed him on the potty. I was amazed! You can do that at that age? I had never seen it before. It’s called Elimination Communication, a practice that’s been around for decades. Before disposable diapers, potty training often started between one and four months old instead of years later. Though it takes more time and attention, it creates less waste and strengthens the bond between the parent and baby through close observation and communication.
I was so inspired by how Becky and Andrew were raising their boys, connected, patient, aware, and full of love. It humbled me as to how much there is to learn in parenting.
I left feeling incredibly grateful to have been welcomed into their home and trusted to capture such intimate, honest moments. Sessions like this remind me why I love documentary family photography as they reveal life as it truly is: full of tenderness, story, love, and light. There’s something incredibly special about watching a family’s story unfold, from waiting for their little one’s arrival to welcoming them home. These sessions also remind me that photography isn’t just about the images; it’s about the connection, presence, and love. Being a Vancouver Island maternity and newborn photographer is rewarding in ways I could have never imagined.
"Amber took our maternity and newborn photos for us and we couldn't be more pleased with the experience. We've never had professional photographs before but Amber put our whole family at ease which is reflected in the photographs she took of us. She is friendly and gently guides you through the photo session so nothing feels or looks staged or forced. She was excellent with our active 4 year old and had great suggestions for positioning our newborn. Amber communicated promptly and clearly, and provided our photos quicker than we expected. Our whole family highly recommends her!" ~Becky M.
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