A Spring Maternity Session in Missoula, Montana- Shannin + Luke

There are some sessions that stay with you long after you pack up your camera—and this maternity session with Shannin and Luke in Missoula, Montana, is definitely one of them. I first met Shannin and Luke several years ago through church and when Shannin reached out to let me know they were expecting their first baby—a little girl—I was beyond excited. It’s such an honor to be trusted to document these major milestones, and even more special when it’s for people you know. We planned for both maternity and newborn photos, and we just managed to sneak in their maternity session a few days before their daughter made her big debut!

---

Missoula showed up for us with the most beautiful spring day. The mountains were lush and green and the sun gave us that perfect warm glow that every photographer dreams about. There’s something about Montana in the spring—everything feels fresh and alive, and that same energy was so present during this session. It felt like the perfect backdrop for the start of this new chapter in Shannin and Luke’s life.

We met up in one of my favorite local spots just outside Missoula, where there’s room to walk and play, stunning mountain views, and wide open spaces that feel peaceful and timeless. Shannin looked absolutely radiant, and Luke couldn’t stop smiling at her. There’s a deep love and calm between the two of them that comes through so effortlessly in their photos.

---

One of my favorite parts of maternity sessions is helping my clients feel not just comfortable, but confident and beautiful in front of the camera. For her session, Shannin wore three dresses from my client closet—a curated collection of dresses and accessories I offer to all my maternity, motherhood, and family clients.

The client closet is designed to take the stress out of figuring out what to wear, especially during pregnancy when it can be hard to find something that feels just right. I’ve carefully selected pieces that photograph beautifully, flatter a variety of body types, and fit the natural, timeless style I aim to capture in every session.

Shannin chose three different looks from the closet, each bringing something special to the session: one romantic and flowy, one soft and neutral, and one a bit bolder in color to contrast with the green landscape. The wardrobe changes gave the session a beautiful visual variety, and I love how the dresses moved with her as she walked through the tall grass or stood quietly with Luke, hands gently cradling her bump.

---

Maternity photography is one of my favorite parts of this work. There’s something sacred about capturing this brief and beautiful time before a baby arrives—when life is about to change in the biggest way, but everything still feels full of anticipation and quiet wonder.

For Shannin and Luke, you could feel that anticipation in every frame. The way they looked at each other. The gentle way Luke would help Shannin step through uneven ground. The little laughs between poses. These moments are what I always hope to preserve in maternity sessions—not just a record of what you looked like during pregnancy, but a reflection of the love, connection, and story that’s already unfolding.

---

If you’re expecting, especially in a place as naturally beautiful as Missoula, maternity photos are such a meaningful way to document this chapter of your life. It’s easy to think you’ll remember all the details—that little curve of your belly, the way your partner looked at you, the excitement and nerves that come with waiting—but those memories can fade faster than you expect once your baby is in your arms.

Photography lets you hold on to that moment. And my job as your photographer is to make the process simple and enjoyable, whether that means guiding you into flattering poses, styling you with my client closet, or simply being a calm presence in front of the camera.

---

Looking back on this maternity session with Shannin and Luke, I’m filled with gratitude. Grateful for the light. Grateful for the laughter. Grateful that we squeezed it in just in time. But most of all, grateful to walk alongside this couple as they step into parenthood.

Their newborn session is coming soon, and I already know it’s going to be just as special.

If you’re in Missoula or the surrounding area and looking for a maternity photographer who will help you feel beautiful, seen, and celebrated during your pregnancy, I’d love to connect. My maternity sessions include access to the full client closet, personalized location guidance, and plenty of space for you to be yourselves.

Whether you’re a few months along or nearing the finish line, let’s make time to honor this chapter. Because your story deserves to be remembered, beautifully.