maternity
fine art
Preparing for motherhood is a whirlwind of activity - you have been consumed with ticking things off 'the list', carefully planning everything for your little one's arrival.
Amidst the preparations, your pregnancy journey has been chronicled by little more than intermittent bathroom mirror selfies. A journey which, before long will be little more than a distant memory.
There's no ignoring it, time does not stand still, and there is a longing to create a tangible reminder of your body in this beautiful yet fleeting form. You want something more than the flowing dress on the beach though - you seek something intimate, timeless and created just for you.
available in: ballina, nsw
all about
studio photography
If 'studio photography' makes you think of santa photos at the mall or those oh-so-(not)-flattering annual school photos I am here to change that! The key to photography is lighting - photography literally translates to 'drawing with light' and my studio sessions are all about this. Sculpted silhouettes, soft lighting for an intimate feel, and dramatic chiaroscuro contrasts for a timeless and sophisticated look.
It is through this deliberate orchestration of light and shadow that your timeless, artistic portraits take shape.
my WORK IS BEST DESCRIBED AS
elevated.
artistic.
timeless.
My approach to fine art maternity portraits is to strip back all other narratives to focus on just one - your beautiful blossoming body. Simplistic styling coupled with a black and white aesthetic allows for the story of your pregnancy to be focused on without the distraction of colour or other detracting elements.
if
YOU'RE LOOKING FOR:
beautiful maternity portraits
Understated and elegant - you will walk away with stunning fine art maternity portraits. These are heirloom images to cherish for lifetimes.
A safe space to celebrate your body
Set in a private home studio, here, you can freely embrace and celebrate your body, knowing that you're in a supportive and respectful space.
a collaborative experience
Every woman is unique, and so too should be her photos. That's why I invest time in getting to know you and your style, ensuring that our collaboration results in images that authentically represent you.
I FELT COMFORTABLE WITH HOLLY AND THAT SHE REALLY TO WHAT I WAS AFTER
listened
— emily
the process
THE PLANNING
THE EXPERIENCE
THE ARTWORK
Focus is on preparing for your session. Through a facetime or phone meeting we will discuss your wardrobe, styling, comfort and preferences. Together we will design the perfect photoshoot experience tailored just for YOU.
It's time to create! Set in a private home studio, we'll begin by finalising your wardrobe and I will guide you through different poses for stunning shots. We'll explore several different looks for a beautiful collection of images to choose from.
Following your session you will receive a link to preview your images and select your favourite ones for editing. We'll schedule a call to go over these together and note any specific retouching requirements. From here your images will be transformed into stunning works of art.
why work with
Holly
My unique take on maternity photography invites you to step away from the ordinary and create something that stands out from the crowd.
Your privacy will always be respected, and I will never share your images without permission.
You deserve to enjoy your photos in tangible forms. That's why along with your digital images for social media I offer heirloom albums, wall art, and prints so you can revisit this precious moment every day.
I only accept 3 to 4 bookings per month to allow for a personalised approach and to ensure your images are retouched with my undivided attention.
HOLLY CAPTURED MATERNITY PHOTOS WE'LL FOR A LIFETIME.
beautiful
treasure
— LAURA
HOLLY CAPTURED MATERNITY PHOTOS WE'LL FOR A
LIFETIME.
HERE'S THE THING...
You may not exactly be feeling 'photoshoot ready'. I get it - I have been there - you're feeling softer than usual, your feet and back hurt, sleeping has been rough and you're not feeling like one of those influencers on the 'gram who just make pregnancy look effortless! But you know what, soon this will all be a distant memory - you'll be entering a new chapter of your life - complete with mid-night feedings and nappy changing - and what will you have left to remember it by?
there's no returning to this moment, no reruns
So what if before the beautiful chaos of motherhood took over you took the time to commemorate your body for the amazing vessel it is?
INVESTMENT
Fine Art Maternity packages start from $750 with tailored collections or custom package options available to suit all tastes and budgets.
Choose from pre-tailored collections or curate your own. Digital images, print collections, handmade wall art and bespoke heirloom albums are all available. For a full price list with all image and product offerings please contact me.
Frequently asked questions
what do i wear? do i need to be naked?
You can wear as much or as little as you're comfortable in. To create an implied nude look the majority of clients will choose to wear skin coloured underwear which is then removed in the post-production editing process. For more coverage you can wear your favourite lingerie set, or for a relaxed look consider a sports crop and jeans. Your boundaries will always be respected and we will discuss styling and wardrobe in detail at time of your visions meeting.
how far into my pregnancy is ideal for maternity photos?
I recommend between 32 and 37 weeks.
do you provide dresses / fabrics?
Yes, I have a truly stunning selection of robes and fabrics you may choose from.
where are you based?
Maternity portrait sessions are held in my home based studio located in Ballina, NSW.
do i need to know how to pose?
You can relax knowing your photoshoot is fully guided. I will use my knowledge of lighting and angles to highlight your beautiful blooming belly and bring out the best of you.
HOW LONG UNTIL I RECEIVE MY IMAGES?
You will receive a private online viewing gallery 48 hours following your session to choose your favourite images for retouching. These will then take up to 3 weeks to be ready depending on the number of images selected. Wall art and prints may take approximately 4 weeks to arrive once the order is placed.
can my partner be in some of the photos?
Absolutely! Your partner is more than welcome to join in if you would like images with them also.
how far in advance should i book?
I only accept 3 to 4 bookings per month to allow for a personalised approach and ensure your images are retouched with my undivided attention. While I sometimes can accomodate last minute requests I recommend booking 6 to 8 weeks in advance,
I really like the idea of having my body captured but i'm a bit shy of my stretch marks - can you remove them?
I want you to feel beautiful and relaxed during your photoshoot as well as treasure your final images. The level of retouching I offer is completely tailored to you and your preferences. If you want to be captured organically and raw i'm all for this - similarly if you are experiencing blemishes, stretch marks and weight gain and would prefer these removed / contoured; professional retouching is included in your session. My editing approach is detailed to ensure high end, realistic results - no fake, plastic looking photos or filters here.
ready to get started?
LET'S CREATE
Something Beautiful
Celebrate your body for the amazing vessel it is! Sessions available in Ballina, NSW.
© Holly McLean 2024
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Underwater Portrait and Maternity Photographer for Byron Bay's Northern Rivers and Sydney's Northern Beaches
Underwater + Materntiy Photography for Byron Bay's Northern Rivers and Sydney's Northern Beaches