Golden Hour Maternity Session with a Very Special Family

This family holds a special place in my heart. I first met them a couple years ago for another golden hour maternity session. We roamed the hills in San Mateo and captured some beautiful images…even though little lady (who was around 2 then) was a bit shy and reserved.

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Right around then is when I opened my studio in Burlingame. Soon after their sweet baby girl, Makenna, was born. She was the very first baby in my new studio! She was the tiniest baby I’d ever photographed, just under 5 pounds. But she was the sweetest little baby and we captured some adorable photos. Makenna would later develop some health issues. She fought bravely but sadly pass away several months later.

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When I heard the news that the family was expecting another little miracle I was so thrilled and excited for them! Their “rainbow” baby (baby following a loss) was on its way. We decided on these gorgeous rolling hills for their session and to do it at “golden hour”. There really is nothing else like golden hour lighting! Big sis had grown and come out of her shell since I’d last seen her. This time she was all smiles and giggles the whole session.

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Mom wanted to incorporate a couple meaningful items to represent Makenna in the photos. Since Makenna’s passing, her family has seen several rainbows reflected in their pictures. Big sis held a rainbow-dyed bunny tail bouquet with Makenna’s name on it and Mom brought a special butterfly that was gifted to her by the hospital when Makenna passed.

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It was the perfect evening for a photoshoot- not too hot, not too cold, not too windy. The time flew by and we captured some amazing photos. When we were all done and parted ways, I got a message from Mom saying that they heard Makenna’s song on the radio just after leaving the session. What are the chances?? She was there with us that night- watching over her family and sibling to be :)

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