There are few things I love more than watching people’s lives unfold through my lens. Dani & Tyler have been coming back to me since their engagement session—and this cozy Studio Ivy maternity session might be my favorite one yet. They’ve gone from a couple in love to a family of three (soon to be four). Getting to document each chapter has been the best kind of full circle.

We’ve photographed their engagement, their wedding, and their first maternity session. I get to see them every fall for mini sessions, too. It’s the kind of relationship I treasure—built on ease, trust, and a shared desire to capture the real stuff.

(Click here to see their wedding photos.)

Why The Studio Ivy is Perfect for Families with Littles

Outdoor sessions are beautiful, but when tiny humans are involved, things can get chaotic fast. The Studio Ivy gave us a calm, controlled environment with soft natural light and zero distractions. Basically, toddler-proof without feeling sterile.

Iris had the freedom to move, snack, snuggle, and play. No wind. No dirt. No unpredictable passersby. Just space to be herself while we captured it all.

Spotlighting Motherhood In This Season

This session wasn’t just about celebrating baby number two. Dani told me she really wanted to focus on her connection with Iris. Not just because it’s rare to get good photos with a toddler—but because these are the final weeks where it’s just the two of them.

She wanted to soak in this season of motherhood. To hold onto the way Iris looks at her, leans into her, wraps those little arms around her neck. She wanted memories that would live longer than this fleeting moment. It was less about poses and more about presence—and we carved out plenty of space for just that.

The Magic Of Photographing Families Over Time

At this point, Dani and Tyler feel like old friends. That kind of history changes the energy. We skip the warm-up and head straight for the good stuff. They already know how I work. I already know how they move together.

As their family has grown, so has our trust. That ease always shows up in the photos. These are the kind of connections that make this job feel like more than a job.

Getting to document Iris as she grows—and now this next little one before they arrive—is such a gift. I’ll never stop being grateful for that.

If You’re Looking For Your Forever Photographer

Whether you’re engaged, expecting, or just want to freeze time for a minute—I’d love to be part of your story.