From Boudoir Babe to Mama Bear: Your Journey with Brooklyn Boudoir

Today, I wanna share a client story that seriously gets me. It's a story about self-love, major life changes, and the magic of motherhood photography. Grab a coffee (or a glass of wine, no judgment!), because this is gonna be real, raw, and seriously inspiring!

Owning Your Confidence Before Baby Bumps

This radiant woman walked into my Brooklyn studio a while back, ready to rock a new chapter. She craved a session that screamed confidence and, let's be honest, a little bit of "wowza”. Boudoir photography was the perfect fit!

We created a shoot with all the bells and whistles – think luxurious fabrics, soft lighting, and playful poses that helped her see herself in a whole new light. The final pics? Breathtaking. A visual proof of her inner and outer beauty.

From Boudoir to Bumpin'

Fast forward a year or so, and guess who walks back through the Brooklyn Boudoir door? That’s right, there she was, with a beautiful surprise – she was pregnant! This time, it was all about capturing the magic of motherhood.

We designed a maternity shoot that oozed warmth and pure joy. We used flowy gowns that draped perfectly over her baby bump, a constant reminder of the miracle growing inside. Soft, natural light filled the studio, creating a perfect environment for her blossoming form. The result? Images of pure love and the excitement of meeting her little one.

The Bond Between Mama & Me

And then, the grand finale! She returned once again, this time with the most precious addition to her life – her baby.

This motherhood photography session was all about capturing the pure, raw connection between a mama and her child. We used natural textures to create a cozy, intimate space. In some shots, she cradled her baby close, skin-to-skin, gazing at her with eyes full of love that only a mother can possess. In others, we captured those fleeting, unforgettable moments – tiny fingers wrapped around Mama's!

Celebrate Your Amazing Journey

Her story is a powerful reminder that boudoir photography isn't just about celebrating your body before motherhood. It's about celebrating YOU at every stage of your amazing journey.

Whether you're a single woman rocking your confidence, a soon-to-be mom glowing with maternity bliss, or a new mama cherishing the bond with your baby, there's a boudoir or motherhood photography session waiting to capture your unique story.

Your Story Deserves to be Told

Feeling inspired? I would be honored to capture your story at Brooklyn Boudoir Photography. I offer a range of boudoir and motherhood photography packages designed to fit your needs and budget, and more importantly, to celebrate the incredible woman you are.

Shoot me an email today, and let's chat about your vision! We can brainstorm ideas, explore different locations and themes, and create a session that reflects YOU, celebrates your journey, and leaves you with breathtaking images that you'll treasure forever.

Remember, you are beautiful at every stage, and Brooklyn Boudoir Photography is here to help you capture that magic. Let's create something unforgettable together!

Boudoir for Moms-to-Be: Own Your Bump, Mama!

Hey mamas! Stephanie from Brooklyn Boudoir Photography here, and guess what? You're freaking awesome. Creating life? Check. Glowing like a goddess? Double check. But listen, between the excitement and the pizza cravings, self-doubt can be a jerk. It whispers insecurities about your changing body, making you question how you look. But mama, here's the truth: you are strong, you are beautiful, and you are worthy of celebrating every stage of pregnancy.

Boudoir for Moms-to-Be? It's Like a Party for You!

Boudoir isn't just fancy lingerie (though hey, go for it!). It's a celebration of YOU. It's capturing the fierce mama you're becoming, your body doing this incredible thing. Forget the airbrushed models and societal expectations of what pregnancy "should" look like. This is about YOUR amazing, pregnant self. Embrace the round belly and the fuller figure – it's all part of the beautiful transformation you're going through.

Stretch Marks? More Like Beauty Marks!

Pregnancy changes your body. Hello, stretch marks! They're a badge of honor, a reminder of the miracle you're creating. Boudoir lets you see those changes with hearty eyes. It's about loving your body for what it's doing, a total power move. Society might try to tell you those marks are flaws, but here's the secret: they're part of your unique story. Boudoir photography helps you see them as a symbol of your strength and resilience.

Confidence Boost Before Baby Boom? Sign Me Up!

Motherhood is wild. It's love, laughter, and maybe forgetting where you put your phone (again). But feeling confident in your own skin? That's a superpower for all the mom stuff. Boudoir is a way to rock that confidence before your little one arrives. Owning what you see in the camera? That feeling stays with you, making you a mama who embraces motherhood with self-love and fierceness.

This is a Self-Care Spa Day!

At Brooklyn Boudoir Photography, we know stepping in front of the camera can be scary. But listen, our studio is your chill zone. We create a comfy space where you can relax, get pampered with hair and makeup by our talented artists, and maybe even have a laugh or two with our friendly team! Think fluffy robes, bubbly drinks (non-alcoholic of course!), and music that sets the mood – it's a self-care spa day designed to make you feel beautiful and empowered.

This isn't your average photo shoot, mama. This is an experience! We want you to feel pampered and relaxed from the moment you walk through the door. Our stylists will help you choose wardrobe options that flatter your beautiful curves, and our hair and makeup artists will make you feel camera-ready and glamorous. Plus, with bubbly drinks and upbeat music, the whole session is designed to be fun and stress-free.

Memories for Mama

These boudoir photos aren't just pretty pictures, they're powerful reminders. Years from now, you'll look back and see the strong, confident, radiant mama you were when your incredible journey began. These motherhood photos become a visual story of the amazing transformation your body went through to bring life into the world.

Ready to Celebrate You with a Boudoir Session? Let's Do This!

You're a freaking rockstar, mama. Let Brooklyn Boudoir Photography capture this special time. We know these nine months fly by in a whirlwind of emotions and preparations. That's why we offer a comfortable, supportive environment to create boudoir photos that celebrate the amazing woman you are.

Here's the best part: a boudoir session is an investment in you. It's a chance to step outside the daily routine and reconnect with your inner strength and beauty. It's about creating timeless keepsakes that document this incredible chapter in your life.

So ditch the hesitation, mama! Hit us up for a free consultation, and let's chat about creating boudoir photos that are as unique and beautiful as you are. We can't wait to meet you and celebrate YOU!

From Casual to Glamorous: Maternity Photography Outfit Options for Every Style

As a soon-to-be mom, one of the most exciting moments during pregnancy is the maternity photo session. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of your pregnancy and create memories that will last a lifetime. However, one of the most important aspects of a maternity photoshoot is choosing the right outfit. It can be overwhelming to decide what to wear, but fear not! I’m here to share some maternity photography outfit options for every style, whether you prefer casual or glamorous looks.

Keep It Simple with a White Dress

It's a classic and timeless piece that never goes out of style. And when it comes to maternity photography, a white dress is an absolute must-have in your wardrobe.

The versatility of a white dress is unmatched. You can style it in so many different ways to achieve the look you want for your photoshoot. If you're going for a bohemian vibe, a flowy maxi dress is the way to go. Look for a dress with delicate lace detailing, ruffles, or crochet to add some texture to your outfit. Pair it with a pair of strappy sandals or wedges and add a flower crown for a touch of whimsy. You'll look like a boho goddess in no time!

If you want to show off your curves, a fitted midi dress is the perfect option. Look for a dress that hugs your body in all the right places and accentuates your baby bump. It's a great way to showcase your beautiful pregnancy glow! You can dress it up with some statement jewelry or keep it simple with some dainty pieces.

Go Bold with a Bright Color

if you're feeling bold and adventurous, incorporating a bright pop of color into your maternity photoshoot outfit is an absolute must! Don't be afraid to stand out and show off your vibrant personality. A bright color can add so much fun and excitement to your photos and make them truly unforgettable.

Consider going for a solid-colored dress in a bold color like red, yellow, or blue. Not only will it make you feel confident and powerful, but it will also make you stand out in your photos. Or if you're feeling a bit more playful, try mixing and matching a patterned top with a solid-colored skirt. Just be sure to avoid anything too busy or distracting that might take the focus away from your baby bump.

Embrace Your Casual Side with Maternity Jeans and a Tee

Dressing up for your maternity photoshoot doesn't have to mean wearing a fancy dress. Believe it or not, maternity jeans and a simple tee can look just as stunning as a fancy dress. Plus, you'll feel comfortable and confident in an outfit that you're already used to wearing.

Accessories are key when it comes to dressing up a casual outfit. A statement necklace or bold earrings can make your outfit pop and add some glamour to your photos. Don't be afraid to play around with different accessories to find the perfect look for you.

Channel Your Inner Bohemian with a Flowy Maxi Dress

Regarding bohemian style, you're going to absolutely adore the flowy maxi dress for your maternity photoshoot! This style is all about comfort and freedom.

To channel that boho vibe, look for maxi dresses with patterns like florals or paisleys. The more intricate and colorful the pattern, the better! And don't forget to pair your dress with some comfortable sandals or boots to complete the look.

To take your boho style to the next level, add a floppy hat or statement jewelry. A statement piece of jewelry like a chunky necklace or oversized earrings can really tie the whole look together.

Glam It Up with a Sequin Dress

Who doesn't love a little bit of glamour and sparkle? A sequin dress is a perfect way to elevate your maternity photoshoot to the next level of elegance and sophistication. And the best part? You don't even need to go for a bright and bold color to make a statement. A neutral color like gold, silver, or champagne is all you need to let those sequins do the talking!

To let your sequin dress shine, keep the rest of the outfit simple with minimal jewelry and accessories. Let the dress be the star of the show and keep everything else understated. Trust me, with a sequin dress, you'll stand out in your photos like a true star!

Don’t Forget About Comfort with a Maxi Skirt and Top

Not only is it super comfortable, but it's also incredibly stylish and versatile! A flowy maxi skirt in a solid color or pattern is the perfect way to show off your baby bump while also keeping you comfortable throughout your shoot. Pair it with a simple top that complements the color or pattern of the skirt, and you'll have a gorgeous outfit that's perfect for any setting.

You can easily mix and match the pieces to create different looks! Wear the maxi skirt with a different top, or pair the top with a different skirt. The possibilities are endless!

And there you have it, my fellow mamas-to-be! There are so many amazing outfit options to choose from when it comes to maternity photography. From casual to glamorous, there's a style for every taste and preference!

But let's not forget the most important thing - you should always choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. After all, the main goal of these photoshoots is to capture the beauty of your pregnancy and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So don't be afraid to have fun with your outfit! Whether you choose a flowy maxi dress, a sequin dress, a casual tee and jeans, or a bohemian-inspired outfit, make sure it's something that represents you and your style.

At the end of the day, these photos are a celebration of your pregnancy and the incredible journey you're embarking on. So let your personality shine through and have a blast during your maternity photoshoot!

Maternity Boudoir – Why It’s Important to Celebrate Your Pregnant Body

Hello mamas-to-be! I'm Stephanie, an award-winning professional boudoir photographer based right here in the heart of Brooklyn. Today I want to share why celebrating your pregnant body through a maternity boudoir is an experience every mom should have the chance to enjoy.

Why Maternity Boudoir?

Pregnancy is a time of profound transformation, and your body is performing nothing short of a miracle. You're growing a tiny human inside you, and that deserves to be celebrated! A maternity boudoir session isn't just about creating stunning photographs; it's about empowering you, showcasing the incredible changes your body is going through, and boosting your confidence during this life-changing journey.

In the warm, inviting atmosphere of my Brooklyn Boudoir studio, we focus on highlighting your natural beauty and the unique radiance that pregnancy brings. Maternity boudoir sessions are a blend of artistry and self-love, allowing you to connect with your body in a way you may have never thought possible. Trust me, the experience of capturing this moment in time is one you'll cherish forever.

Embracing Your Confidence

One of the most remarkable things about maternity boudoir is the boost of confidence it provides. Many expectant mothers struggle with body image issues during pregnancy, as their bodies undergo significant changes. Maternity boudoir is a powerful antidote to those insecurities. As your photographer, I work closely with you to ensure you feel comfortable and empowered throughout the session.

You'll be amazed at the strength, beauty, and sensuality you exude as an expectant mother. It's an experience to witness the transformation from vulnerability to confidence in the span of a single photoshoot. The images we create together serve as a visual reminder of your strength, beauty, and the love you hold for your unborn child.

Capturing the Glow

Maternity boudoir is about creating art that tells a story. Whether you choose to be draped in flowing fabrics, capture the intimacy of your baby bump with your partner, or go for a more sensual solo session, Maternity boudoir photography is a personalized experience tailored to your vision and comfort level.

As a professional boudoir photographer, I understand the nuances of working with pregnant women. I know how to capture your essence, highlight your curves, and make you feel like the radiant goddess you are. The end result is a collection of breathtaking images that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime. These photos go beyond the idea that they are meant to be for you; they're actually a legacy of love for your child, the beginning of your story together from now on.

Maternity Boudoir as a Unique Gift

Imagine the look on your child's face when they see the stunning maternity boudoir photos of their expectant mom. It's a priceless gift you'll be passing down through generations, showing them the love and strength that surrounded their arrival.

Moreover, maternity boudoir makes for a meaningful gift to your partner. It's a celebration of the love you share, and seeing you in this empowering light can strengthen your connection during this unique time in your lives. It's a beautiful way to bond and create lasting memories together as you eagerly anticipate the arrival of your little one.

The Brooklyn Boudoir Experience: Tailored for You

At Brooklyn Boudoir, we pride ourselves on creating a safe, comfortable, and empowering environment for our clients. Your maternity boudoir session is all about you—your vision, your comfort, your uniqueness. We offer a variety of packages and customization options to ensure your experience aligns perfectly with your desires and preferences.

So, to all the beautiful, expecting mothers out there, I encourage you to take this incredible experience with me. Embrace your pregnant body, celebrate your strength, and create breathtaking maternity boudoir photos that will forever remind you of this remarkable chapter in your life. Don't let these precious moments slip away undocumented. Contact Brooklyn Boudoir today, and let's capture the beauty of your pregnancy together. Trust me; you won't regret it!

What Motherhood has Taught Me | Lessons from a New Mom | New York City Motherhood Stories

This blog post is a little different than the usual, but trust me that it is on theme.

Like many other New York Women, having children was never at the forefront of my mind. I always imagined being an old lady and having had children in my lifetime, I just never felt the urge to do it, pretty much ever. When I turned 36 and my husband turned 40, we made the rational decision to try, not because we were ready but more as a “it’s now or never” kind of thing.

To my surprise, I got pregnant pretty much right away and was completely freaked out. I had just gotten Brooklyn Boudoir off the ground, wasn’t ready to stop traveling/going out to eat/living that New York life that I loved. Moreover, I had a sneaky feeling that I wasn’t really cut out to be a mom.

The day Stella was born I woke up not feeling well, but not having ANY idea that I was in labor. It was 3 weeks before my due date and I didn't feel any contractions so I sent my husband to work literally telling him, "𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐'𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺." 🤦‍♀️ Stella was born 6 hours later. I called my mom to bring me soup at 8am (this should have been a tip-off that something wasn’t right but I guess I was in serious denial about the whole thing). By the time my mom arrived, my water had broken and it was clear I was in labor. In the car on the way to the hospital my contractions were already 3 minutes apart! Meanwhile, my husband, who had just arrived at his film gig in Westchester had to borrow someone’s car and turn back around to meet us at the hospital. He made it for the birth with about an hour to spare.

I am proud to say that I didn’t have an epidural or any kind of drugs with either of my pregnancies. People look at me with confused horror when I say that. Especially after having done it once, the most common question, “Why would you do that again???” My honest answer: I’ve never been into elective meds, and the idea of a needle in my spine freaks me out. But beyond that, I consider myself tough, and am proud of that (My family is Spartan, what can I say?) ;) After doing it once I knew it was something that while no “fun,” that my body was completely capable of doing it, and I am really proud of that. Not everyone has the opportunity to give birth naturally, so why wouldn’t I at least try to?

Soon after Stella was born a rare complication occurred, the kind of thing that women died from in the old days. In retrospect, it was a good thing I didn’t have an epidural because I could feel that something was very very wrong. The energy of the room changed completely and I literally thought to myself that I was about to be a woman who dies in childbirth. Scary stuff. But between me being in touch with body and my INCREDIBLE OB Dr. Jennifer Butt (her real name, the comedy is not lost on me), all was resolved, and according to my husband, I became the people's hero of Lenox Hill Hospital. 🤣

So this is all a long story to say: I'm not as thin as I used to be, nor as strong in the core or glutes or biceps. But what I learned that day was that my body is AMAZING. I have never felt so proud of myself or so grateful for my body, and have been able to hold on to those feelings since. Sure, some days I wish I were as fit as I was at 21, or 28, or 35. Instead of mourning the loss of my pre-kids body or obsessively trying to get back there, I instead regret any time I spent not loving and flaunting my body a little bit more back then. But I AM glad I have photos of myself from those days, and I certainly wish I hadn't wasted my energy stressing over the way I looked.

Now, when my daughter tells me she loves laying on my tummy because it's so soft, I don't take it as an insult. All she sees in me is comfort and love, and who am I to tell her otherwise.

Kate Winslet has said she never heard the women if her life talk about loving their bodies, so she consciously talks about that with her daughters now. It stuck with me, and I try to do the same. How we look is really the least interesting thing about us, but when we do talk about it, I’m sure to tell Stella her how her legs are STRONG, how food in her belly helps her grow, how I love my soft belly because she grew in there, how each part of our bodies are important for the job that they do. It's not easy - I stress over how to impress upon my girls that they don't need to be "perfect"- that they are enough just as they are. But if I can do it for myself, and I can help other women do it via their photoshoots, I have to believe I can help them be confident in their skin, which is the best gift I can give them. ❤

2019 Year in Review | Photography for the Modern New York Woman

Photo Credit by Marcia Coronado

2019 was a year for the books. It’s hard to believe how much I crammed into one year, and can’t believe it’s already new year’s eve! It truly was the Best Ever Year of Brooklyn Boudoir, and I couldn't have done it without each and every one of you who follows along regularly and trusts me with their boudoir experiences.

Here’s a short review of the year!

PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

Some of my favorite images (that clients have given me permission to share) from this past year:

AND OF COURSE, MY OWN MATERNITY SHOOT WITH THE FABULOUS LOLA MELANI

INSTAGRAM TOP 9

It dawns on my that 3 of these images weren’t taken by me! Top 2 by Lola Melani from my own maternity shoot, and middle right by my bestie / LA wing woman / behind the scenes genius Ashley Glacel.

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

With a surprise(ish) pregnany this year, I wasn’t able to travel as much as I would have liked, but I did make it to LA twice for my west coast contingency, and to Paris with my mom and daughter for my 40th birthday (four months pregnant). So far for 2020 I’m working on dates for my next LA trip (sometimes mid-winter), a trip to Austin for a friend’s wedding and to be photogarphed by my mentor Kara Marie, and a big family trip to Greece to celebrate my mom’s next milestone birthday.

Photo by @Paris_pics_

WHAT'S NEXT?!

I’ve never been much of a New Year’s Resolution girl. I pretty much try to be my best self ALL of the time and don’t care to beat myself up over a lapsed resolution. HOWEVER, I do have lots of ideas and plans for myself both personally and professionally and my goal is to achieve at least some of them this year.

In 2020 I plan to...

*HOST MORE PAST CLIENT EVENTS

Last year I hosted 2 events for past clients only - shooting fine art nudes and also fresh faced portraits. I love re-connecting with women I’ve worked with before and giving past clients the opportunity to refresh their images in a more bite-sized and cost effective way. Each time we shoot together the results get better and better, so be on the lookout for these opportunities via Instagram and my newsletter (which you can sign up for on the sidebar to the right if you haven’t already —->) Sorry ladies, these events are for return clients only - first timers really need the whole experience before diving into mini sessions.

*GET PUBLISHED

i have a lot to say about Beauty and Boudoir photography and I’m ready to start spreading the work. Last year I was interviewed for a film about working mothers and I was recently interviewed for a newpapser piece on the subject. Now I’m working on my own pieces that I hope to have published onlne and/or in print.

*TRAVEL as much as I can. 

Traveling has always been such a big part of my life and something that always brings me great joy. I am so grateful to have traveled as much as I did before I had kids, but I still feel that itch to do more — there are still so many places I’d love to see! Luckily my little one is great on planes so I want to get more adventurous with our travels both for business and pleasure.

*HAVE MY OWN BOUDOIR SHOOT

Every year I try to be photographed by another photographer - I find this really important, particularly as a boudoir photographer. In 2019 it took the form of a maternity shoot but in 2020, before I turn 41, I plan to be photographed by my mentor, Kara Marie, who is arguably the best boudoir photographer in the business right now, and I.CAN’T.WAIT.

*PUT MYSELF OUT THERE MORE 

Guys, I’m all about straight up instagram but the other social media platforms are just not my thing (I’m still waiting for someone to explain snapchat to me, sorry if that makes me sound like a grandma). I love making connections with my clients and realize I can start that process even earlier by getting on Instastories and showing my face a little more. I’m going to need some help with this one so feel free to keep me accountable!

*OFFER MORE MENTORSHIPS 

I had some incredible mentees last year and just love sharing MY love of boudoir photography with others. My mentorships are a very thorough and customized experience that covers business coaching as well as photography techniques. If you are a fellow photographer looking to step up your game, give me a holla and let’s chat!

*CONTINUE TO EDUCATE THE $%&@! OUT OF MYSELF. 

I have always loved being a student — and a good one at that. I really love to learn and have studied with some of the best boudoir photographers out there, and I plan to continue to study photography for as long as I'm shooting. I want to enhance my technical craft, and continue to push my creativity to keep my work fresh and improving it every year.  This year I’ll be focusing not only on photography but also on retouching.

*GIVE EVEN MORE TO MY CLIENTS. I'm always looking for new ways to make my clients feel extra special. From customizing a location just for them, to following up with them years down the road to congratulate them on new life events....client relationships are really important to me. That's not just something I say. So, in 2020 I'll be continuing to fine tune the client experience even more to give them alllll the warm and fuzzies.  

*HAVE MORE DATE NIGHTS WITH THE HUBS. Being a working mom is hard, and in an effort to take better care of myself, my clients, my kid and my business, my husband tends to get the boot. Something’s got to give of course, but I miss the days when we would go on weekly dates. However busy life got, we always used to go out on Fridays and often did something unusual around the city. Weekly dates aren’t really feasible right now (the cost of a babysitter doubles the cost of the night!) BUT I have to believe that a monthly date will be good for both our relationship and my psyche.

FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, TRULY, GENUINELY, THANK YOU. Thank you for reading through this long and winding blog post, thank you for reading all/ANY of my blog posts. Thank you for every sweet comment, every word of encouragement, every Instagram "like". Thank you for trusting me with your boudoir experience. Thank you for being friendly and my friends. Thank you for all of your continued support of making my passion a career. I love you all and cannot wait for ANOTHER Best Year Ever in 2020.  I am so grateful for the abundance of business, blessings, and beauties that surrounded me in 2019. 

xoxo, Stephanie

An Incredible Pregnancy Photoshoot | New York Maternity Boudoir

Women are incredible, gorgeous beings whose bodies do miraculous things. The most miraculous and gorgeously stunning of those is during your pregnancy.

Sure, not EVERYONE loves being pregnant. For my first pregnancy I felt beautful, womanly, like a superhero who could take over the world. The second time? Not so much… swollen feet, sciatica, exaustion… and just generally blah.

Nonetheless, being pregnant is a unique time of your life — every pregnancy is different and worth documenting. You will never be in that body again, for better or worse.

But why maternity boudoir?

The reason is two-fold: I have been finding that while many pregnant mamas do think that it's important for them to capture this special time in their lives, as their body is changing and growing and shifting while helping mold their tiny new baby into being -- BUT -- many also don't feel picture worthy in this time, and certainly not sexy in their new bodies.

Intent and passionate about changing their perspective towards a more fulfilling and empowered one, I wanted these reluctant mamas to see and believe what I (and many others) see and believe: that as their body changes, grows, curves, glows, it’s absolutely stunning. A maternity boudoir session will not only have these mamas thinking in a more positive way about themselves in this body, but also remember their maternity overall in a much more positive way.

And it turns out to be true… after photographing many maternity boudoir sessions with women who initially felt completely unsure in their new pregnant body, and unsure of their sexiness in this time, what they have found is that, hands down, there is no better way to become confident and feel incredibly sexy in their pregnant body than by taking maternity boudoir photos!

The other important thing to remember about your pregnancy is that there are no do overs. You can't recreate those photos. So, I urge you mammas....TAKE THE PHOTOS. Hire a photographer you love and document the crap out of your growing bump. Whether it be maternity boudoir, a beauty session, or a family portrait session.

Then there's Miss C. She and I had plans to photograph her first pregnancy, when alas, she went into labor early the day before our shoot! So when she was pregnant for the second time we knew we HAD to work together and schedule our shoot early!

She knew that she would cherish these photos forever, and I’m so proud to have documented them for her. The session couldn't have gone more effortless, she couldn't have been any more stunning, and the final product most definitely could not be beat. I ADORE THESE PHOTOS AND THE WOMAN IN THEM! 

In her own words: 

What an amazing, wonderfully empowering experience. I knew my session would be special but it was so much more... I felt so celebrated!!! Stephanie's spirit and effortless coaching made me comfortable every minute and I had an absolute blast! I am so happy that she captured this moment in my life but now feel like I don't want to wait for another "official" moment for my next boudoir session...

Her smile, her infectious energy, her grace… seriously S.T.U.N.N.I.N.G.

I urge you, mammas, get in front of the camera. If you find the right photographer (*clears throat*), you will not regret it. But if you hide from the camera like I did, you probably will. 

xoxo, Stephanie

Maternity shoots are best planned between 28 - 34 weeks. Ready to plan for yours? Contact me and let’s chat!

30 Weeks Pregnant | My Maternity Shoot with Lola Melani | NYC Photographer

I am a firm believer in existing in photos, printing your photos and having your photograph taken by a professional. Even though I AM a professional photographer - and one who loves to take self portraits at that - I STILL find it really valuable to be in front of someone else’s camera from time to time. You get to capture yourself in a different way than you normally do, see yourself through someone else’s eyes, become ART … the benefits are endless really. While I love the self portraits I take, there’s nothing like having your photo taken by someone else.

While I took many self portraits during my first pregnancy, nearly no one has seen them. Truth be told I haven’t even edited many of them, and I surely don’t look at them often. So when I had the opportunity to be photographed by the incredible photographer Lola Melani, I jumped at the chance! Lola’s style is classic, elegant, fashion-y and truly sublime. I absolutely loved the experience of being in front of her lens, following her lead, giving up control (soooo hard for a control freak like myself) and let myself be pampered and directed. Lola and her team made me feel beautiful, badass, and like a goddess. And THAT is what a professional photoshoot can do for you, beyond the incredible images you will receive in the end. It’s the experience above all.

I couldn’t be happier to have these images of myself during what is likely the last time I will be pregnant. I plan on printing and framing a few and hanging them on the wall, because THAT is the best way to showcase this beautiful artwork.

So THANK YOU Lola, Vlada and Eva for capturing my pregnancy so beautifully, for the most fun day, and the experience of being photographed by one of the greats.

xoxo, Stephanie

Maternity shoots are best done between 28 and 33 weeks so plan ahead and contact me to set yours up!

What to Wear for Your Portrait Session - Maternity Edition! | Brooklyn Maternity Photographer

I recently blogged about no-stress boudoir wardrobe that you likely already have in your closet. But what if you’re pregnant and, well, not much in your closet actually FITS you right now?? There are still plenty of classic and classy options for your maternity portrait session, and you STILL won’t have to spend an arm and a leg.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

This is my number one rule in ALL kinds of shoots. These photographs are of YOU not your wardrobe really and I don’t want to distract from your natural beauty, or create something trendy that you are embarrassed by 10 years from now. So in my mind, classic & simple is best. Overall, opt for solids over patterns and neutrals over bright colors - think black, white, grey, creme, navy and dark red. This helps keep the focus on you, your belly and your connection to the camera. I have a few simple stapes in my kit including a beautiful white lace gown (which looks beautiful on every body type)

MAKE IT PERSONAL

All that said, many women opt to bring a beautiful silk robe form their wedding day or honeymoon, or her husband’s button down shirt as one of their wardrobe options. A snetimanetal item can add meaning and variety to your photoshoot. Often times this type of wardrobe will “breaks the rules” with brighter colors and patterns but in this case, it’s the meaning behind the piece that matters most. So if you love it, bring it!

SHOW OFF YOUR BUMP

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There was a time when women wanted to hide their bumps under tent-like clothes and baby doll lingerie, but that’s not why you’re having your maternity portrait taken, is it? If you don’t feel comfortable showing off your bare tummy, consider form fitting pieces that hug your curves. I love a simple, stretchy tube dress for this and have a black one in my studio that amazingly fits so many women. It’s sleek, form fitting and timeless. Bodysuits are also a favorite of mine, or (if your regular bodysuits no longer fit) a black bathing suit or even a tight black turtlenects worn with a simple undie give the same idea. This look can be completely covered up and fashiony while still featuring your bump beautifully.

SWATHS OF FABRIC

If you’ve been looking through instagram for inspiration you’ve no doubt seen images ot women with long flowy fabric flying up in the background. It makes an epic and artistic photos and was something I was setting out to learn when I mentored with the master of the fabric toss, Lola Melani this past summer. i have collected and a few large swaths of silk and chiffon for this dramatic and iconic look, which is particularly magical with a growing bump.

GO BARE

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The “Demi Moore” was scandalous at the time but now is a classic for good reason! It’s intimate choice, natural and my personal favorite. There are so many different ways to be nude but also covered up in your photos. Your body never goes out of style. (Bonus that it requires the least amount of prep work or planning!) We can take this even further by applying some body paint to your bump - it’s edgy and artistic and when else in your life might you do something like that!?

Whatever you decide to wear, a maternity shoot is a beautiful way to memorialize this time in your life and something you will always be happy you did. The ideal time to have your maternity portrait taken is between 28 - 34 weeks so be sure to plan in advance and book during that “sweet spot.”

xoxo, Stephanie

Expecting? Let’s capture your pregnancy in a classic and classy way — contact me to learn more!

NonTraditional Bridal Boudoir | Client Spotlight | Brooklyn Boudoir Photographer

Bridal Boudoir has been a growing trend over the past few years. I LOVE photographing a soon-to-be bride (and love it even more when she decides to keep her images for herself as opposed to her groom… it happens often!) While I love photographing a beautiful, gauzy veil, you need not dress all in white for your bridal boudoir session!

Ms A, here, was such a lovely client to work with. She intended to gift her finance with her boudoir album but didn’t feel the need to overdo the “bridal” theme. She rocked a black jumpsuit, which is personally one of my favorite looks, and her insanely gorgeous wedding shoes — I mean, check those babies out! FIERCE. And fierce is exactly how her images came out. Like most women, she was nervous, but trusting, and she rocked her photoshoot. I was super excited to share the finished product with her and hear about how her groom loved his gift.

I loved the experience!! I felt comfortable and Stephanie checked on me often. The photos look insanely amazing and even though some poses felt weird, they look phenomenal. — Ms. A

Thank you, Ms A for trusting me with the process, for your kind words during and afterwards.

Ready for YOUR non-traditional bridal boudoir shoot? It’s never too early to start planning! Send me a note and let’s get you on the calendar!

xoxo, Stephanie