Flowers in Bloom

The beauty of a woman when she is pregnant reminds me of flowers in bloom.  They are beautiful as a bud and like a flower in bloom she becomes more beautiful than before.   This is the third time I have photographed this beautiful woman over the years and I have gotten to know her and the things that make her feel beautiful.  I knew she loved flowers and all the wonderful colors they come in.  It seemed perfect to wrap her in cheese cloth and lay her in a bed of flowers (inspired by my most favorite artist, Kirsty Mitchell).  I wish I had counted how many flowers I had in all those bags, but I was working very quickly so my mommy-to-be wouldn't pass out on me.  The green gown was a purchase I made in Dallas at a vintage shop and the headpiece I picked up at Michaels and just stuck the flowers in the twigs.Twelve years ago I started photographing pregnant women.  This was my favorite part of photography ... over families, weddings, children, and documentaries.  I enjoyed the peace and softness of the moment, sharing the feeling with these ladies as they started down a new journey of motherhood and making them feel beautiful.

"I Loved You From The Start"

I loved you from the very start…You stole my breath, embraced my heart.Our life together has just begun,You’re part of me, my little one.As mother with child, each day I knewMy mind would be filled with thoughts of you.I’m daydreaming of the things we’ll share,Like late-night bottles and teddy bears.Like first steps and skinned knees,Like bedtime stories and ABC’s.I’m thinking of things you’ll want to know,Like how birds fly and flowers grow.I’ve thought of lessons I’ll need to share,Like standing tall and playing fair.When I first see your precious face,I’ll pray your life be touched with grace.I’ll thank the angels from above,And promise you unending love.Each night I’ll lay you down to sleep,I’ll gently kiss your head and cheek.I’ll count your little fingers and toes,I’ll memorize your eyes and nose.I will linger at your nursery door,Awed each day that I love you more.Through misty eyes, I’ll dim the light,And whisper, “I love you” every night.As mother with child our journey’s begun,My heart’s yours forever, little one.I loved you from the very start…You stole my breath, embraced my heart.

Author: Unknown

Thank you to my hair and makeup artists and to my summer intern, Tiana, for all your help and support. Thank you Victoria for giving me the freedom to photograph you as I saw you, a flower in bloom.LoveLoveLove.  Lana