A Windy Evening Maternity Session | Jamie + Ryan on Gasparilla Island

As a Gasparilla Island photographer, one of my favorite parts of this job is getting to capture couples as they prepare to welcome a new life into the world. Jamie and Ryan’s maternity session on beautiful Gasparilla Island was one of those unforgettable evenings that perfectly reflects what real life looks like—unpredictable, windy, full of laughter, and incredibly meaningful.

When we arrived on location, it quickly became clear that Mother Nature had her own plans. The wind was strong—strong enough that we had to pivot our plans more than once, including taking part of the session in an unexpected spot: a nearby parking lot! But here’s the magic of it all—Jamie and Ryan never missed a beat. They embraced every challenge with grace and good humor, just like I know they’ll embrace the wild and wonderful journey of parenthood.

From windswept hair to spontaneous location changes, this session was a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected moments lead to the most beautiful photos. And on Gasparilla Island, even a parking lot can glow in the golden hour.

Jamie looked absolutely radiant in her maternity gown, and Ryan’s gentle, steady support brought a calm balance to the wind and movement around them. Together, they brought an energy to this shoot that was filled with anticipation, love, and a beautiful sense of partnership. It’s these candid, real moments that I live to capture as a Boca Grande photographer.

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Tips for Expecting Parents Planning a Maternity Session

If you’re preparing for your own maternity photos, here are a few tips to help make your session as relaxed, meaningful, and fun as Jamie and Ryan’s:

1. Embrace the Unexpected
Weather, wind, and toddlers—some things are just out of our control. Trust that beautiful moments can happen anywhere, even in the most unplanned places. Your flexibility can lead to truly unforgettable, authentic images.

2. Timing Matters
The ideal window for maternity photos is between 28 and 34 weeks. This is when your bump is beautifully round, but you’re still comfortable enough to move around easily and enjoy the experience.

3. What to Wear
Flowy dresses like Jamie’s work wonders on the beach, especially in the breeze—they add motion, elegance, and a dreamy feel to your photos. Consider choosing soft, solid colors or subtle patterns that won’t compete with the landscape or your natural connection as a couple.

4. Bring the Essentials
Pack a small bag with water, touch-up makeup, comfortable shoes for walking to different locations, and maybe a hairbrush or clips—especially if the wind decides to join us! Some parents opt to bring a handful of fun props, like a favorite outfit for the baby or some ultrasound photos.

5. Make It Your Own
Your maternity session is about you. Whether that means a romantic beach at sunset, a casual stroll downtown, or a cozy moment at home—choose a setting that reflects your personality and the story you want to tell.

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Whether you’re celebrating your first pregnancy or your third, maternity sessions like this one are a way to freeze time and honor the journey you’re on. Every couple’s story is unique, and I’m so grateful to be invited in to help tell it—wind, parking lots, and all.

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Looking for a Gasparilla Island/Boca Grande Photographer?

If you’re expecting and want to capture this fleeting chapter of life with meaningful, natural images, I’d love to be part of your story. Whether you’re envisioning a breezy beach session on Gasparilla Island or a cozy in-home newborn shoot, I’m here to help you create images you’ll treasure forever.

Contact me today to schedule your maternity or newborn session in Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island, or the surrounding area. Let’s document your story—wind and all.