A Spring Hibernia County Park Maternity Session | Bailey’s Baby Bump | May 8, 2025
A dream is a wish your heart makes—one of several tattoos peeking out from beneath Bailey’s black maternity gown. This one in particular made me smile. A fitting quote as she grows her heart’s wish inside her belly. At 37 weeks, she is mere days away from meeting her sweet babe. Despite the size of her almost-full-term belly, Bailey had no trouble hiking to the location for her maternity session at Hibernia County Park in Coatesville, PA—a halfway point for us to meet—to capture the most stunning view of the lake from its dam.
Even though she would have loved for Brian to be there for the shoot, due to his travel across the country for work, her demanding schedule as a NICU nurse, and my limited availability, she decided to take one of the few open dates on my calendar that was closest to her due date. She may have had to come without him, but she was not alone…
As always, I arrived early to scout the location, even though I had been there several times. There was a new path to the lake that I might have overlooked if I hadn’t. So, I was glad I did. I developed the perfect plan to work with the sun’s arc over the glistening silver lake, knowing it would inevitably tuck behind the thick clouds that were on their way. Rain was forecast for later that evening. After scouting, I settled on a picnic table near the lake, setting each camera down with a thunk as I waited for Bailey.
When her car pulled into the parking lot, I dismissed it as hers, having noted two people inside instead of the one I had expected. Two girls got out and began walking somewhat in my direction. Noticing them looking around as if they were searching for someone, I squinted for a closer look. They were in casual clothes, like people ready to enjoy the beautiful day at the lake, but as they came into focus, I saw an impossible-to-miss baby bump filling out the T-shirt of the girl on the left. What were the chances? It had to be her.
I waved tentatively, and when they waved back, I grabbed my cameras and leaped from my perch on the table, walking with a bouncing step to greet them. As I neared, my gaze quickly shifted back and forth between the two girls, who had uncanny similarities in their features. The only difference? The swell in Bailey’s belly. “Sisters?” I tentatively asked. They laughed, glancing towards each other. “Yes! We’re twins!” I hugged them both and immediately felt at ease in their presence. I quickly learned that they are both nurses. I often wonder if nurses have an innate ability to calm people or if it is something they learn along the way. For some reason, many of my clients are nurses, and I love them! After Bailey explained the three outfits and extra styling items she brought, I laid out the plan for which outfit to put on first. Once she was dressed, we were off!
Time always flies during photo shoots for me. Even after a decade of experience, often in the same locations, each shoot remains unique and has its own personality and life force. I believe that’s why I love portrait photography so much. One moment, I greet my clients, and before I know it, the sun has set, and we say goodbye, a new connection formed.
As I drove out of the parking lot on Thursday, I knew I had captured something special. I smiled and sang the entire way home, excited to start processing the images the next morning and begin sharing. I hope you enjoy this small sample of photos from Bailey’s Hibernia County Park maternity shoot in Coatesville, PA. Scroll down to see, and please let me know what you think in the comments!
Bailey, it's an honor to document this special time in your life. You are the picture of a glowing woman with child, and it’s clear you will be an amazing Momma. Enjoy every moment of the next few months of your life as it transforms in the most beautiful ways. I can’t wait to see pictures of your little bundle of joy! And because I know how hard it is to wait, your inbox will have a surprise later today. So, don’t forget to check!
Xx- Megan
