Bradyn & Josh's maternity session at country lane christmas tree farm
This session already felt special before we even arrived. My dad and I pulled up in my white 1972 El Camino on the way to the shoot, still coming off a car show high from right before the photoshoot. I have photographed Bradyn and Josh before, so we already had some comfort built in. When they arrived, they joked about needing a minute to warm back up to being in front of the camera, but it did not take long at all. They slipped right back into their natural rhythm.
Country Lane Christmas Tree Farm was the perfect backdrop for a cozy fall maternity session. The weather was warm, the light was soft, and the owners of the farm made the entire experience even better.. Shout out Jonathan and Michelle Lane! This was my first time on their property, and Michelle pointed out all the tucked-away spots she recommends for photos. She was kind, welcoming, and genuinely excited that we were shooting there. It really felt like a photographer’s playground.
For the shoot, Bradyn wore a tan dress and Josh wore a brown sweater with jeans and gold jewelry. Later, they changed into white shirts and jeans for a clean, timeless second look. They started out a little shy, which is normal for any couple, but they warmed up quickly and their comfort showed in the photos. They brought ultrasound pictures, which always add a personal touch, but most of the props around us were already part of the farm’s beautiful setup.
One of the sweetest parts of the evening was catching up with them and hearing how life has been since they got engaged. They are easygoing, kind, and genuinely fun to photograph. The session felt relaxed and natural, like spending time with friends rather than directing a formal shoot.
Michelle's husband stepped outside, saw the El Camino, and immediately had an idea. He said it would look cool to throw a Christmas tree in the back. I told him to go for it. He and my dad loaded one in, and it ended up giving us some of my favorite photos from the entire evening.
Some of my favorite shots came from the unexpected combinations. Josh had driven his work truck to the session, and the owner let us pull it out into the field. We put the El Camino on top of the flatbed truck to give the picture a little more story! The truck is apart of Josh's towing company and I was so happy to be able to get these pictures for him. You could tell he was proud of it, and those photos captured a piece of who they are right now. Blink an eye and the next thing you know, the baby will be all grown up driving her dad's tow truck!
This session had everything I love about maternity photography. Warm light, genuine connection, a beautiful location, and small surprises that made the photos extra meaningful. It was a cozy fall evening with two people getting ready to step into a new season of life together.