Agritopia Maternity Session – Gilbert, AZ
Some love stories are a joy to capture at every stage and Nate and Allison’s journey is one I hold especially dear. I first photographed this sweet couple on November 2, 2019, their beautiful wedding day. It feels like just yesterday they were exchanging vows, and now here we are, a little over a year later, celebrating another incredible milestone. Through the years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing them during different chapters of their lives – each time witnessing their love grow deeper and stronger. Now, as they eagerly await the arrival of a baby boy, the excitement and happiness in their eyes is simply contagious.
The Perfect Setting: Agritopia Farms
For this special maternity session, we wanted a location as warm and inviting as Nate and Allison themselves. Agritopia Farms in Gilbert, AZ turned out to be the perfect backdrop. This charming urban farm is known for its picturesque scenery and lush greenery, a little oasis that makes you feel like you’ve stepped out of the desert and into a secret garden. Everywhere you look, there are fruit trees and vine-covered arbors creating a charming atmosphere of rustic romance. We scheduled the shoot for late afternoon, and the dreamy lighting at that time of day was pure magic. Sunlight peeked through the rows of citrus and peach trees, filtering in as golden beams and creating natural arches of light over the pathways. The whole scene had such romantic vibes – from the whisper of leaves in the breeze to the glowy haze of sunset – it truly felt like a page out of a fairytale. It was easy to see why Agritopia Farms was the ideal spot for Nate and Allison’s maternity photos: it offered privacy, beauty, and a peaceful vibe that let their love take center stage.
Love, Laughter, and Dreamy Light in the Orchard
As we strolled through the orchard, Nate and Allison’s joy was palpable. They walked hand-in-hand beneath the canopy of trees, often stealing little glances at each other that made them both smile. At one point, Nate gently placed his hand on Allison’s baby bump and whispered something that sent them into laughter – a genuine, unscripted moment that I was thrilled to capture. Those candid bursts of laughter and the quiet, tender moments in between are what made this session so special. Surrounded by rows of green trees and bathed in that soft, golden light, every image felt straight out of a dream. The natural arches of branches overhead framed them like a living cathedral, and I could see the anticipation and love they share shining through in every shot. There’s one photo in particular where Nate is brushing a kiss on Allison’s forehead while cradling her belly, and the look of contentment on her face is pure magic. These two have such a comforting ease with each other that photographing them never feels posed – it feels like watching two best friends very much in love, enjoying a beautiful afternoon together.
Styling the Session: Something Blue
Allison’s styling for the session couldn’t have been more perfect. She wore a beautiful light blue dress that flowed gracefully around her, catching the breeze as she moved. The soft blue tone not only looked stunning against the green backdrop of the farm, but it was also a subtle nod to their baby boy on the way. The dress’s delicate fabric and gentle hue added an extra touch of sweetness and serenity to the photos. Standing beside her, Nate kept his look classic and comfortable – and the way he gazed at his wife throughout the shoot was absolutely heart-melting. There were moments when Allison would laugh, tilting her head back with joy, and you can just tell how Nate’s eyes light up seeing her happiness. We also took a few intimate shots of just Allison, glowing in motherhood, gently resting her hands on her belly. In every frame, her smile radiated pure excitement and love. The combination of their wardrobe choices, the golden orchard light, and the genuine emotions they shared made each photo feel effortlessly romantic and authentic. It’s these little details – the swoosh of a dress, a shared laugh, a tender touch – that tell the bigger story of this beautiful time in their lives.
Cherishing This Milestone Together
Documenting milestones like this reminds me why I love photography so much. Being part of Nate and Allison’s journey from “I do” to “we’re having a baby!” has been an absolute honor. There’s something profoundly beautiful about capturing a couple on the cusp of parenthood – the mix of excitement, wonder, and even a few nerves, all wrapped up in love. Years from now, when they flip through these photos, I hope they’ll be transported back to this moment: walking through sunlit orchards, holding each other close, and dreaming about the little boy who was soon to join their family.
Nate and Allison, thank you for allowing me to freeze these precious moments in time. Your love for each other shines brighter every time I photograph you, and this maternity session was no exception. I am so happy for you both as you enter this new chapter as parents. Congratulations, and I can’t wait to meet your sweet baby boy! 🥰 Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and many more beautiful milestones to come.
