Gosh, this beach maternity session shot on all film is just about as dreamy as it gets! To make it even more special, I got to document this beautiful Mama’s bump one more time before baby’s due date. Don’t miss their maternity session at Hampton park, too!

I met Mom and Dad just before sunset during “golden hour” at one of my favorite beaches near Charleston, SC.

The plan was to shoot the entire session on film- something I don’t too too often. My favorite film stock (Fuji400h) was being discontinued so I used this session as a chance to practice using another type of film to ensure I can still achieve the colors I want! I’d say I’m pretty darn happy with the results!!

I find there is such a beautiful softness to film. It’s classic and has the most beautiful grain that really helps bring out the emotion. Both parents admitted they are notoriously awkward in front of a camera. But, I promise everyone says the same thing! And I honestly didn’t see awkwardness at all. I just saw a whole lot of love and excitement for baby.

Beach Maternity Session on Film | Charleston, South Carolina

The thing is, this photography business is so personal to me. I want to connect with you and get to know your family because I think it makes such a big difference in the outcome of your photos.

So when this Mama reached out and I learned this would be their rainbow baby, I knew I had to make this session happen. Having been through loss myself, I know just how important my role is in documenting this milestone for families.

On the path to the beach we chatted about all the Boy mom things, prepping a nursery, and their recent baby shower. Their excitement for baby was contagious. This moment was something very special that they had prepared their hearts for and longed for after loss.

As I photographed Mama among the dunes, Dad filmed a little behind the scenes video. They planned to use add it to a short film documenting the pregnancy which I thought was so sweet! This beach maternity session was the last box to check on their pre-baby to do list!

To read more from both myself and this beautiful Mama about the session, head to The Fount Collective where I have the honor of having it published!

Mom’s dress provided by the Client Wardrobe. 

Images shot on Kodak Portra 400 film, with both Pentax 645nii and Canon EOS3. Film scanned by Photovision.

Caitlyn Motycka is a nationally published Family, Maternity and Newborn Photographer based out of Charleston, SC. Service areas include Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, James Island, Folly Beach, and surrounding areas.

If you’re interested in a maternity photoshoot in Charleston and want to schedule a session, contact me here! Let’s take some pretty pictures together!