Sunflower Field Maternity Session | Poolesville, Maryland | Tina + Joey

When Tina reached out about having a sunflower field maternity session at McKee Besher's Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville, Maryland, my heart could barely contain itself. Sunflower sessions are incredibly beautiful, and I knew Tina and Joey would be over the moon with the results. They're both in the Coast Guard and are first-time parents. They told me parenthood feels daunting, but the thing they fear the most is messing up their kid. I can relate to that feeling, as I'm sure many parents do. I really appreciated their genuine response and openness with me. Within a few minutes, I felt like I was chatting with old friends.

Dozens of people wearing masks walked on the property. Thankfully, there was plenty of room for social distancing. The sun occasionally snuck behind some clouds, but it shone perfectly on the sunflowers that early August day. Tina and Joey both seemed so excited about their maternity session and were more than willing to try the fun poses I suggested. Towards the end of the session, the clouds thickened. We were worried it would rain, but thankfully, it didn't!

The sunflowers were blooming beautifully. We originally planned this session for mid-July, but the flowers didn't bloom as early as we anticipated. The day we were there, they were bright and yellow as can be. I arrived early to scout the location, as I always do, and used that time to capture some gorgeous photos of individual sunflowers that really stood out. Later during the session as I chatted with Tina and Joey about their little one's nursery, they told me they were considering adding a sunflower theme to the room. I have a feeling these portraits will look great hung up in the nursery. ;)

Dear Tina and Joey,

I am so excited for you as you begin this new journey in life together - parenthood! It's the most beautiful, exciting, terrifying, exhilarating, and amazing thing you'll ever experience. I look forward to seeing you both again and capturing more milestones in your life! Until then, enjoy every kick, cramp, and craving. I can't wait to meet your little one!

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