There's something special about photographing an announcement session for your best friend since fifth grade. When she and her husband asked me to capture their announcement of their next chapter in life, (a baby girl, due in November!), I knew it had to be sentimental and fun. Their vision: strawberry ice cream cones, Cash the lab, and Grandmama's House to represent the sweet new addition on the way.
The Location: Downtown Washington, Georgia
We spent the session in two places that mean a lot to this family: the charming streets of downtown Washington, Georgia, and her grandparents' home, where generations of her family have gathered. Washington's historic storefronts, brick sidewalks, and shady tree-lined streets gave us the perfect small-town backdrop, while the grandparents' yard added a layer of meaning you just can't recreate in a studio. Photographing a family's story in the places that hold their history is one of my favorite parts of announcement and maternity sessions. Stories make it personal, and personal makes it timeless.
The Details That Made It Personal
Strawberry ice cream to represent their baby girl! A sweet, simple prop idea that was fun and unique (even as it melted fast in the Georgia summer heat!)
Ultrasound photos woven throughout the session, held by mom, dad, and even their sweet chocolate lab, Cash
Speaking of Cash, we all decided that he could easily be a dog model after this session. Eyes towards the camera at almost all times? Are we kidding?
Golden-hour light in the final shots at the grandparents' property, giving the whole gallery a warm, glowing feel that matches the joy of the day
Why I Love Announcement Sessions
Pregnancy announcement sessions are all about capturing anticipation. There's nothing like that giddy, can't-wait-to-tell-everyone energy. Unlike a full maternity session, announcement sessions tend to be quick, playful, and prop-driven, which makes them a great fit for couples who want something shareable and joyful to post or send to family. If you're local to Athens, Watkinsville, or anywhere really, and thinking about how to share your own exciting news, I'd love to help you find a creative way to do it — whether that's ice cream, a favorite local spot, or something entirely your own.
Planning your own pregnancy announcement or maternity session in the Athens, Georgia area? Click the button below! I'd love to hear your story and help capture it.
