Being a photographer isn’t something that I do, it’s part of who I am. It sound cheesy but this never feels like a job to me, it comes so easy and natural to me — not in a boastful or I think I am a perfect photographer kind of way, but in an I love what I do so much that it doesn’t at all feel like work kind of way. Seriously y’all, I LOVE what I do here at Ashley Dorton Photography and I am so thankful for all of you that allow me to continue to do what I do! I was asked shortly before this session to come join in and take some pictures for Stephanie and Chad with a fellow (super talented!) photographer friend, Ashley Shy Photography! This shoot was a lot of fun and I’m super excited to share more on it here.
Most days when it comes to photography I am consumed with gratitude because I know I have been so blessed with what feels like endless amounts of support from the most incredible clients. I LOVE to prepare my photography equipment and head out for a session, I get excited and anxious for it every.single.time! Most every day as a photographer I feel completely at peace and full of joy (of course I am human and there are those not-so-great days as well, mostly from the hustle and bustle of every day life catching up, lack of sleep or other factors that seep into my photography world just because, well, that’s life), but then there are those days that you just feel that extra spark — like, the session seriously couldn’t have been more perfect. The weather, the clients, the venue, the outfits, the images… it just happens so smoothly and wonderfully. Stephanie and Chad’s maternity shoot turned out to be one of those sessions for me!
First, Stephanie is abso-freaking-lutely glowing and completely rocks that bump! Not to mention, their personalities and the vibes of the entire group of us there made this session so fun and effortless. The sun set just right for the session and, hello, the waterfront backdrop! Basically, pinch me! I feel so humbled and grateful to have been able to help capture this session!
Maternity photography holds an extra special place in my photographer heart because I know pregnancy can be a challenge for a lot of women. Some women grow beautifully and feel confident the entire time and other women (also grow beautifully!) but really struggle with the changes happening to their body. Y’all, there are… like… a lot of changes that happen to your body when you carry a baby (or babies) inside. Many that are not as obvious as maybe a few extra pounds or a touch of swelling in their face or feet. Things like discomfort, thinning hair, other things I won’t mention here… that can really make a woman struggle with their confidence.
There are few things more fulfilling than being able to provide images to a momma that is carrying life inside. It is my hope that all of the growing, beautiful, rockstar mommas in front of my camera feel as beautiful as they are and that, even if just in the slightest way, I can help them feel confident and fierce, despite however they may feel during their pregnancy. <3 Moms, you are amazing and incredible and selfless people! Cheers to you and all that your bodies are capable of!
Xoxo- Ashley
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