Author: melaniegrace

  • Maternity Shoot | Wild, barefoot and free

    Maternity Shoot | Wild, barefoot and free

    Man and woman stand in sand dunes, man has hands on wife's pregnant stomach maternity shoot

    Babymoon

    I’m so blessed to live in this stunning place and be able to call Cornwall my home so it comes as no surprise to me how many people holiday here. It’s especially a fantastic place for a Babymoon. No flying anywhere but so many beautiful places to visit and the stunning sandy beaches and rolling coastline. What better way to mark this time than to book a Maternity Shoot during your stay?

    The photos from this gorgeous maternity shoot with Ania and Mathieu were shot on the golden sandy beaches of Holywell Bay amongst the grass tufted dunes. This is absolutely one of my favourite beaches to shoot on, the light is stunning and it’s a fantastic place to explore whilst you are visiting.  Incidentally it’s also one of the backdrops for the BAFTA-winning TV series Poldark, there you go – my claim to fame!

    holywell bay Sand dunes
    Woman has arm around mans neck as he holds her pregnant stomach with sand dunes behind  maternity shoot
    close up shot of mans hand on his wife's pregnant stomach  maternity shoot
    woman stands holding prenant stomach and closes her eyes. On the beach  maternity shoot
    close up of woman wrapping her arms around herself with pregnant stomach  maternity shoot
    man and woman stand smiling at each other  maternity shoot
    black and white of woman smiling at man
    close up shot of womans hand on husbands arm
    man and woman share a joke standing in the sand dunes  maternity shoot

    Two become Three

    When two are about to become three it’s good to celebrate your relationship and where it all began. Soon there might not be time for stolen kisses on the beach. For a little while at least.  Ania and Mathieu definitely managed to sneak in a few whilst looking all kinds of incredible at their maternity session in the Sunday sun. I could stay in this warm dreamy romantic light forever.

    My maternity sessions can be a solo celebration of you and your bump or we can get your partner and any other children involved (and fur babies) Timing wise it is best to book after your 20 week scan. To make the best of your bump sessions should take place between around 32 and 36 weeks.

    I know of so many women who regret not capturing their pregnancy and the beauty of their baby bump. I don’t want you to ever look back and wish you’d had more photographs taken.

    I’ll capture you in a soft, romantic and laid back way. Your best, most relaxed version of yourself. Before you world and your heart expand exponentially.

    holywell bay maternity shoot
    close up shot of man and woman with foreheads together. woman holds mans face in her hands
    pregnant womans belly orange dress  maternity shoot
    pregnant woman smiles at the camera whilst holding stomach on the beach  maternity shoot
    black and white shot of woman's hair blowing in the wind
    woman walks towards man on the shore with shoulder covered by a blanket  maternity shoot
    man holds woman's pregnant belly on the beach  maternity shoot
    man and woman share a kiss
    man bends down with ear to pregnant wife's stomach. On the beach  maternity shoot
    woman leans in for a cuddle with husband
    close up of mans hand on wife's stomach maternity

    But what will I wear?!

    If you’re not sure what to wear don’t hesitate to ask me about my stunning studio wardrobe with dresses to flatter a wide range of sizes. Either that or we can show some skin! I love raw and natural images and will always follow your lead.

    I offer a discounted rate when combining my Maternity and Newborn Session together. So please make sure you enquire about that when you get in touch.

  • Natural Family photoshoot | Magical Motherhood

    Natural Family photoshoot | Magical Motherhood

    Mother sits in rattan armchair nursing her baby whilst toddler sits at her feet  Natural Family photoshoot

    Motherhood

    What makes my heart soar? A natural family photoshoot of a beautiful Mother and her babies. 

    What a gorgeous session I had with Sophia, Juniper and Luna at home in their stunning home in Torquay. This is what it is all about for me. Those simple moments juggling two little ones. 

    Sometimes we get in our heads a little about our photoshoots, how to style them, where to travel to that will have the best light. But honestly there is something really quite beautiful a stripped back, raw and beautiful shoot capturing you in your own element at home. 

    A quiet magic in photographs like these of Sophia playing with Juniper and her toys, breastfeeding Luna, cuddling on the sofa. Every day moments of motherhood that we don’t often manage to capture. 

    Mother sits in rattan armchair holding a cup of tea and looking down at her toddler Natural Family photoshoot
    toddler kisses baby who is lying on green velvet sofa Natural Family photoshoot
    mother bends down and talks to toddler sat beside big windows
    Close up shot of mother kissing toddlers cheek
    Mother kneels down in front of window and smiles at playing toddler
    Mother sits down and smiles at toddler in her lap
    Mother holds new baby and breathes her in natural family photoshoot
    close up of mother holding baby who smiles into camera natural family photoshoot
    Mother holds baby whilst toddler has arm around baby
    mother kneels down holding baby whilst toddler looks on natural family photoshoot
    Mother holding baby whilst toddler cuddles the baby natural family photoshoot

    Travelling with you on your journey

    I love to be in the presence of other creatives and soak up their creative energy. It’s especially lovely to be invited into their homes. I photographed Sophia previously during her pregnancy. Such a stunning session on the beach.

    It was lovely to see her again. I’ve spoken about what an earth-mama she is and I felt it once again entering her house. Are you into plants? I walked into Sophia’s house and got instant plant envy. The light in the house and the  stunning greens of the plants against beautiful white walls was just so lovely to photograph.  Most definitely a treat for me! I’m always truly honoured to be asked by other photographers to photograph them. I think it really must be the highest form of flattery.

    baby sucking thumb lying on sofa inbetween cushions
    close up portrait of baby yawning
    mother nurses baby whilst sitting on rattan rocking chair natural family photoshoot
    shot of side of mothers face as she looks down at nursing newborn
    mother nurses newborn whilst toddler kisses her head natural family photoshoot
    Mother kisses toddlers cheek and holds her on the sofa
    toddler cuddles into mother on the sofa natural family photoshoot
    mother has back to camera and baby peeks over her shoulder natural family photoshoot

    Capturing you in a natural family photoshoot

    I made use of those wonderful windows and also just sat back to watch this stunning family at play. Capturing raw and candid images of your family is really what I am all about, this newborn session was just as much about the relationships of each family member and how they interact as much as it is about welcoming and documenting all the baby newness. 

    If you would like book a discovery call to discuss your newborn session then please get in touch. I can’t wait to meet you!

  • Baby Photography Cornwall | Water Baby

    Baby Photography Cornwall | Water Baby

    Close up shot of Mum holding newborn baby Baby Photography Cornwall

    In-home Session

    For their baby photography Cornwall based couple Mel and Pete booked me for an in-home session. Based in Newquay we had a delightful little shoot for their first baby, the perfect little Jasper. 

    Things to do if you’re visiting

    Mel and Pete have a super busy life running Cornwall Wave Runner Safaris and making insanely delicious pizza at Jasper’s Kitchen, their cute little pizza pop-up. This family are truly living their best life in Cornwall. 

    Mel and Pete are amongst such great company when it comes to things to do in Cornwall. From jet skiing to powerboat rides, and even abseiling and surf school. So if you are down for a little extra adventure during your holiday, then don’t hesitate to book me.

    If you don’t live here and are visiting but still want a more indoors shoot then take a look at some of the beautiful homes available on Airbnb. Shooting at your holiday house is totally a possibility and can make for some stunning images!

    Shot of mirror and sea themed wall hanging in nursery
    Baby sleeps in cot in nursery Baby Photography Cornwall
    Lifestyle shelves with cute nursery theme Baby Photography Cornwall
    Close up shot of baby details Baby Photography Cornwall
    baby sleeping in white cot Baby Photography Cornwall
    baby in cot in nursery
    Mum holding baby in nursery Baby Photography Cornwall
    new mother kisses baby on head standing by window Baby Photography Cornwall

    Baby Photography

    Back to beautiful babies – I was delighted during this session as Mel and Pete are just the nicest people. They had the most beautiful ocean themed nursery which isn’t too surprising given their love for the sea. In fact Pete was already planning when he would be getting Jasper in the sea. Looking forward to seeing this future water baby grow that is for sure.

    Jasper was so calm and adorable, I have said it before but I love these beautiful, gentle shoots in your home, welcoming your new addition to the family. I’m always so honoured to be invited into the sacred newborn bubble to share an hour or so with you to capture super cute moments together as a family. 

    These are the days of your lives friends, please please document them!

    Mother holds baby in arms on armchair in nursery Baby Photography Cornwall
    close up of baby holding mums finger Baby Photography Cornwall
    Dad kisses baby on forehead in baby nursery Baby Photography Cornwall
    Baby gazes up at camera in newborn session Baby Photography Cornwall
    black and white image of dad gazing down at baby Baby Photography Cornwall
    Couple gaze down at baby sitting on bed in Baby Photography Cornwall
    Baby lies on dads knees in bedroom Baby Photography Cornwall
    little baby feet
    New Mum bottle feeds baby
    black and white image of mum of parents looking at each other whilst newborn baby
    Dad kisses baby in newborn session Baby Photography Cornwall
    Baby yawning Baby Photography Cornwall


    Book your Baby Photography

    If you are on the hunt for baby photography Cornwall and Devon based then I’m so happy you’ve found me. I serve both those areas in capturing these special moments for your family, These images are your heirlooms, the things you will look back on for years to come. I’m so honoured to have the job of delivering them to you.

    Are you having a baby? Get in touch to talk to me about the many benefits of Maternity and Newborn Sessions. 

  • Family Lifestyle Photography | Up with the Birds

    Family Lifestyle Photography | Up with the Birds

    Family swing son in sand dunes Family Lifestyle Photography

    Sunrise Session

    Ohh how this April Sunrise family lifestyle photography session fed my soul, it was so so wonderful to be back shooting you beautiful people. 

    As a family photographer I found lockdown especially tough so this shoot in Holywell bay – my favourite beach, was an absolutely wonderful way to kick start the season. With epic sand dunes and gorgeous at sunrise or sunset I highly recommend this location. I adore shooting here. On this day, The sunrise did not disappoint!

    Family look over bridge at holywell bay Family Lifestyle Photography
    Dad holds son as both but heads together smiling Family Lifestyle Photography
    Little boy smiles into camera sat in sand dunes
    Mother puts head to sons forehead and smiles during Family Lifestyle Photography session
    Family walk through dunes in gorgeous light suring lifetsyle family photography session
    Mum carries son on beach through the sand dunes laughing
    Family Lifestyle Photography
    Mum and dad swing boy on beach
    mum and dad swing son in the sand dunes
    Mother holds sons hand as they walk down sand dunes at the beach

    Family lifestyle photography during your holidays

    The beautiful Cook Family were doing a mini-tour of Cornwall and Devon in their Motorhome. I really enjoyed following them and snapping whilst they were exploring the beach and playing in the sea. It’s always fab do do a session before anyone else is awake. 

    I thought it would feel strange being back speaking to people in real life but it just felt right. I love what I do and I love being able to capture these memories for you.

    family cuddles on the beach and mum smiles into camera Family Lifestyle Photography
    Dad holds young son and share a kiss on the beach
    family walk away from camera in sandunes holywell bay
    family smile at camera with sea in the background at holywell bay Family Lifestyle Photography
    family play with the feet in the sand at holywell bay
    close up shot of feet in sand Family Lifestyle Photography
    Family play in the water sunrise shoot
    Dad helps son skim stones on beach Family Lifestyle Photography
    Man and woman stand holding each other smiling on the beach

    An excuse to connect

    Life is so so busy sometime I think we can get through a day without really connecting with each other. Do you find that in your house? We definitely do here. How often do you get to enjoy that real unplugged, quality time with each other? 

    A family session is a perfect excuse for you to connect with one another wholeheartedly and without distraction. An opportunity for you to be fully present and in the moment together. Shared experiences like this not only create new memories that are a little bit special but they are a beautiful way of candidly capturing your family in their element. Walk away with photographs of the moments you shared together. Photographs that truly feel like you.

    close up of family cuddling on the beach
    family laugh on the beach sunrise session holywell bay
    family walk on the beach by the sea Family Lifestyle Photography

    Book now

    For your own family lifestyle photography family please do get in touch. We will go over everything that you would like for the shoot, I help with styling tips and even have some extra special outfits in my studio wardrobe if you want the perfect dress.

  • Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon | In bloom

    Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon | In bloom

    Beautiful blooming Motherhood shoots to gorgeous newborn snuggles. I love watching your family grow as I capture you on your journey.

    Sophie and I connected on instagram and through mutual friends, naturally I was so happy for her and Matt when they announced her pregnancy if anyone deserves this, it is Sophie. They almost instantly booked me as their Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon and I couldn’t wait to capture them.

    We had an amazing maternity session at Whitsand bay in November and I’m sure you agree, what an absolute goddess she is! Sophie was 33 weeks in these images and she was truly in bloom. There is something magical about a baby bump.

    Pregnant Woman sits in sand dunes and smiles at camera Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    Looking out to sea Whitsand bay
    Shadows fall on  close up shot of pregnant belly Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon woman kneels in sand dunes and looks out to sea
    Pregnant woman sways in the sand dunes in white dress


    Back for Newborn cuddles

    It was a pleasure to connect back with Sophie and Matt and their gorgeous dog Lottie at their home in Ivybridge, Devon to welcome Baby Billy to the world. There is nothing like being welcomed into someone’s space in those precious still days of endless nappies. Oh the milky snuggles and blurry days of a newborn.

    Even though many of us talk so wistfully about those days, they can be incredibly isolating and hard for new parents. Sophie was determined to breastfeed Billy, determined to “get it right”. I’m so in awe of her and Mothers like her for their perseverance. What warriors! 

    Couple sit with dog on sofa gazing down at newborn
    New mother gazes down at baby on their sofa at home Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    Mother sits with newborn whilst dog lies next to them on sofa Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    close up shot of dog on sofa
    New dad smiles down at baby on bed Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    Family lie together on bed with newborn Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    close up of mums hand holding baby's hand Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    Dad and newborn look at camera on bed Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    shot of newborn snuggling into mum Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon

    Breastfeeding – for those who choose to (or are able to) –  is such a hugely emotive part of the motherhood journey. It can be exhausting, painful, difficult but oh so rewarding. And such a bonding experience. 

    As my social media followers will know, I am a huge advocate for taking time out, for being in the present, and for capturing those moments with your babies. My maternal sessions are all about the raw connection, the neverending love between you and your child and to celebrate motherhood in all its forms. 

    There is no shame in how a baby is fed, having that time with your little one – whether it’s feeding them via breast or bottle – is such a bonding experience – but there is still so much hidden shame and fear around breastfeeding and I love helping Mums celebrate their journey. Whether they feed for one week or one year. Whether they combi-feed or exclusively breastfeed. It’s a fleeting time and one that is so precious. 

    World Breastfeeding Week is a time for Mums. To help them navigate the often emotional journey of breastfeeding. To provide them with much needed support and guidance. In light of that, I wanted to share Sophie’s story with you all. It’s raw, honest, and emotional. It’s such an important part of her parenting journey and one I am honoured to have documented.

    Sophie shared with me in her own words her breastfeeding experience during lockdown mark II.

    Words By Sophie

    Seven months of breastfeeding.

    Sleep deprivation, hours of cluster feeding, the struggles, and all that pain!

    “I dreaded every feed in those early months because it hurt so much. I watched late-night YouTube videos over and over, desperately trying to figure out ‘pain-free latching’. Wondered why something that always looked so natural wasn’t coming naturally to me. The countless Zoom calls with lactation specialists always ended in tears because I felt like a failure. And all because the Covid pandemic meant zero face to face support. No ‘latch on’ groups to meet other breastfeeding Mums.

    In all honesty, I found the first few months so daunting and, while we remained in a national lockdown, incredibly lonely. Although, the days snuggled at home meant I was more determined than ever to keep going. It’s been just him and I in the middle of the night, in the silence, sharing my body night after night. It’s been the best thing ever but also incredibly demanding. Breastfeeding really is a journey, a beautiful journey. I’ll miss the closeness so much when we finally stop. But I won’t miss the doubt that comes with it and the learning to ignore the comments and questions from others. No, I won’t miss that.

    It’s the moments of pure peace when they’re fast asleep in the warmth of your arms and nothing in the world matters. It’s so emotional and exhausting all at the same time. But oh so rewarding. It’s all day. (And night!) Again and again. But it’s the most determined I’ve ever been, and I couldn’t be prouder of him and me. Because one day it will all be gone, and I’ll wonder how I could’ve resented even a single moment of it.”

    new mother breastfeeding Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    baby asleep in mothers lap Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon
    new mother breathes in newborn
    mother sits in armchair by the window gazing at newborn

    Sophie, and Mother’s like you. You are amazing humans.

    It’s so so important to capture these special times and I’m delighted to be able to do this for you. If you are expecting a baby looking for a Maternity and Newborn Photographer Devon and Cornwall based then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

    newborn looks directly at camera
  • Maternity Photography Cornwall | Winter Sun

    Maternity Photography Cornwall | Winter Sun

    Couple hold hands whilst walking along the sand dunes West Pentire Maternity Photography Cornwall

    Making new memories

    I love when you request places to shoot that have been special to you. This beautiful Maternity shoot for instance was a special location for Carly and Paul because of childhood memories of camping at West Pentire. 

    The winter weather was beautiful, that bright sunlight dipping through the moody clouds. Perfectly matching the emotive storytelling in the images, because that is what photography ultimately is, telling your story. For Maternity Photography Cornwall based this shoot was such a beautiful one.

    Couple hold hands whilst walking along the sand West Pentire Maternity Photography Cornwall
    Close up of man holding partners belly Maternity Photography Cornwall
    Couple hold hands strolling along the beach
    black and white image of couple standing face to face smiling at each other Maternity Photography Cornwall
    woman stands looking at the camera cupping her pregnant belly

    Natural and Candid

    I could deeply feel the love that Carly and Paul shared. The anticipation for the arrival of their precious baby truly made my heart have little flutters. Sometimes you know when a couple just “fit”. They were truly a pleasure to photograph during this gorgeously lit evening. 

    I adore how this shoot just feels like one of those evening strolls that you set out on to soak up the sun and feel the peace before your bubble of two become three, before a new little soul turns your world upside down and inside out.

    couple sit and look out to sea
    Couple holding hands walking along the sand dunes
    Couple sit looking out to sea
    couple sit holding hands smiling at each other Maternity Photography Cornwall
    black and white image of couple smiling at the camera whilst holding hands

    Why have a Maternity Shoot?

    I sometimes have people ask what the point of a Maternity Shoot is when you will be having your photographs taken during a newborn session? Well I truly believe that this space before the baby comes is a truly pivotal time in your relationship. You are two, you have shared so many ups and downs but just together. This is the last time it will be just you for some time. It’s a time to celebrate, a time to commemorate, a time to remember. Also for Mothers it is such a huge change for you. Your bodies are no longer wholly yours and your beautiful bump is something to be in awe of.

    If you are in need of more inspiration before you book me and for more Maternity Photography Cornwall and Devon based work head over and follow my instagram.

  • Searching for “Newborn Photography near me”? Let this be your inspiration

    Searching for “Newborn Photography near me”? Let this be your inspiration

    Mother lays on bed with newborn baby and kisses it's hand Newborn Photography near me

    Home is wherever I’m with you

    It was a total joy to be back with Natalie and co. after their at home Maternity Shoot to welcome beautiful Rainbow baby Charlie for their newborn photography. The house was looking totally adorable ready for Christmas. So naturally we got some cute shots of the family around the Christmas tree. 


    I always love see a family journey from Bump to birth and this was no different. The moody dark winter light was just perfect to show this winter newborn session.

    In spite of him looking so peaceful, little Charlie gave his family a scare from a rocky birth. So these images are all the more precious knowing he is safe and well. Meaning Natalie can look back on this blurry time and gaze at her little newborn frozen in time.

    Lola was obviously adoring being an older Sister to little Charlie and Joe was just so sweet around his new little Brother.

    new mother holds newborn baby and sits on bed gazing down at the baby
    mother and father sit on sofa looking at newborn baby Newborn Photography near me
    little girl kisses new baby sibling
    family sit together with newborn baby Newborn Photography near me
    two older siblings cuddle their newborn sibling Newborn Photography near me
    close up shot of new born baby holding older siblings fingers
    from above, family lying on bed surrounding new baby
    Mother snuggles little boy Newborn Photography near me
    siblings surround newborn siblings crib Newborn Photography near me
    baby hold hand of older brother, close up shot of hands
    family sit on chesterfield sofa whilst dad holds newborn baby
    little girl hands off her dads shoulders whilst he sits on sofa
    new parents gaze down at their newborn baby who is snuggled into dads chest
    mother holds newborn baby close
    newborn baby sleeps in crib Newborn Photography near me

    Book your Newborn Photography

    I love snuggly baby sessions. The reminder of my own babies and how much I needed them near me in those first few months. What an incredible bond, it seems like just a few years ago. Enjoy all the snuggles and make sure you take as many pictures as they get very big very quickly!

    So, in a nutshell If you’re based in Cornwall or Devon and find yourself searching “newborn photography near me” then your search is over. I am happily able to travel to you.

    There are so many benefits to an in home baby photoshoot with your little one. Especially in capturing relaxed memories of this special time of where you are now. How precious to look back on.

     I’ll gladly go through it with you in one of my discovery calls.

    Don’t hesitate as 2022 in quickly booking up, get in touch now.


  • Barefoot & Wandering | Creativity & Motherhood

    Barefoot & Wandering | Creativity & Motherhood

    Cornwall Maternity Photographer

    Holywell Bay near Newquay is one of the most beautiful places for a maternity session or any photography session for that matter. It was the perfect location for this shoot with Sophia from Barefoot & Wandering. She exudes the most wonderful earth mother vibes. If anyone was made to be a mama, it’s her, and I was honoured to capture some wonderful memories of her second pregnancy. Working with fellow creatives if my most favourite thing; I love learning about their creative journey’s and how they balance them alongside the rollercoaster that is motherhood. I hope you enjoy reading it too. 

    1. COULD YOU DESCRIBE THIS SEASON OF YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW?

    I would say that this has been a slow season, very focused on my family & motherhood. I am currently 7 months pregnant, and although I feel so much of the creative energy that comes with growing new life and having lots of ideas and projects on the go, I have also been enjoying the slow pace of life this year has brought about.

    My mantra at the moment is that everything happens precisely as it’s supposed to happen – even if that is slower than expected!

    pregnant woman in white dress

    2. HOW DID YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY BEGIN?

    My mum is an artist and always encouraged me to be creative. She passed on the idea that it’s possible to make or create anything and not be defined by one practice. She also taught me to love travel. Some of my earliest memories are of long trips around Europe and America with her taking photos or painting along the way. She inspired me to pick up a camera at a young age, and I have loved photography and travel ever since.

    holding baby bump

    3. YOU HAVE SEVERAL DIFFERENT CREATIVE MEDIUMS; WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY FOCUSING ON? 

    I am currently launching Nourish & Bloom, a supportive space for mothers offering maternity and motherhood photo sessions, mama blessings, yoga, postpartum support and nourishing gift boxes. This has been such a labour of love and has given me a space to combine all of my different passions whilst helping women through this incredibly beautiful and challenging time.

    I especially love the photography sessions. I have worked in many different areas of photography. However, the motherhood and pregnancy side is still quite new, and I feel so honoured every time someone trusts me to capture them! It’s really beautiful and exciting.

    4. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST STRUGGLE IN YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY?

    Focusing on one thing has always been an issue for me! I get easily distracted and excited to try new things. I always thought that I needed to find my niche, but at the moment, I am really enjoying finding ways to incorporate all of my different passions in one space.

    pregnant woman with pampas grass

    5. WHAT OR WHO INSPIRES YOUR CREATIVITY?

    Becoming a mother has been a huge inspiration for a lot of the work that I am doing now. I am always really inspired by the strong and passionate women around me, both in real life and through spaces like Instagram.

    But if I need to reset or find some space to think, I always head to the ocean. It is definitely my happy place and where I feel most alive and inspired.

    6. DO YOU HAVE ANY CREATIVE PRACTICES?

    Not specifically, but I try to be creative every day, whether that is through my work, creating with my daughter or just cooking a delicious meal.

    baby bump with pampas grass

    7. HOW DO YOU JUGGLE MOTHERHOOD AND CREATIVITY WITHOUT BURNING OUT?

    Oof, that’s a tough one. I don’t think I always do a very good job, and often life will get in the way of my own creative practices. Thankfully I have a lot of family and support around me, so I am able to create time to work and for myself, and that has been so important.

    8. WHAT WOULD YOUR WORDS OF WISDOM BE TO SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT ON THEIR CREATIVE JOURNEY?

    Find what it is that makes you excited and do that! And don’t be afraid to try lots of different things. Find people that inspire you and connect with them. And get out into nature as much as you can.

    We don’t all fit into neat little boxes, we are free to be and create whatever we want, and while that is sometimes overwhelming, it is also really exciting!

    Are you searching for a Maternity Photographer in Devon or Cornwall?

    My mothers and families are so unique but share the same laid back energy; they value memories, time and experiences. The people in their lives are what’s most important to them; they want to create real moments to look back on one day, rather than perfectly posed photographs. 

    This is natural maternity photography for wild souls who want to ignore tradition and capture this huge life-changing journey in a way that feels authentic to them. As a photographer, my purpose is to capture the story of you in an honest and heartfelt way. 

    I care deeply about creating meaningful connections with every person who invites me to be a part of their journey. Your experience should be as personal, genuine, and unique as you are.

    Want to know more? Connect with me here.

    Hello@melaniegrace.co.uk

  • Raw and True | Natural Baby Photography Devon

    Raw and True | Natural Baby Photography Devon

    Mother pats baby on back whilst sitting in a chair by the window Natural baby photography devon

    Natural Baby Photography

    Oh what an honour it was to spend time with new Mother Amelia and 1 Month old Baby Pepper for this natural baby photography Devon based shoot. If you have been around new babies you know that these first few weeks are raw, powerful and emotional, long and tiring. A beautiful blur of learning, newness and a total blessing.

    At 1 month, Baby Pepper was beautifully alert and already had such a special bond with her Mama. A reminder that our sessions do not have to be the first few newborn weeks. So If the thought of a photoshoot feels too much in the beginning, I absolutely offer baby photoshoots past the newborn stage too.

    Baby smiles into camera whilst in mothers arms Natural baby photography devon
    Mother and baby lie on bed whilst mother tickles its tummy Natural Baby Photography Devon
    close up ute little baby toes
    Mother holds baby in arms on bed and shushes it Natural baby photography devon

    In home shoots

    Amelia’s beautiful beach home in Kingsbridge Devon had the most stunning sea views and light. Not only did we make the most of snuggly shots in the bedroom but we also took a lovely little walk in the sunshine. Allowing me to capture some timeless images that I know Amelia will cherish for life. I was in awe of this pair of beautiful souls and it was such a pleasure to hold space with them in their home.

    Also who else is here for that incredible window shot? 

    Mother holds baby whilst standing against a huge stained glass window Natural baby photography devon
    Baby in nappy gazes up at mother whilst its cheek is being stroked Natural Baby Photography Devon
    Mother nurses baby whilst sat up on bed with white linen Natural baby photography devon
    close up shot of a baby sleeping peacefully

    Walks by the ocean

    Whether in home or out in nature, we can capture perfect natural moments of you and your precious baby. This session is a perfect example of the best of both worlds.

    Mother holding baby in the beautiful sunlight by the sea
    Shot of the sea and foam on a pebbled beach
    Mother with long brown hair holds up tiny baby and smiles by the sea
    close up shot of mothers hands holding a little baby.
    mother cradles baby in her arms by the sea on a pebbled beach Natural Baby Photography Devon

    Capture Memories

    To me, this beautiful and natural baby photography Devon session depicts those slow days with your first born. You have nowhere to go and can spend hours feeding, staring and snuggling. Capturing these intimate moments is what I am all about.

    The first few months of a baby, whether difficult or not are always such a blur. I can guarantee you will look back and wonder how you got through it all. It is so precious to be able to take the time to photograph your family during this time. They are little but for a blink of an eye.

    I urge you to take the time to document your family and your tiny little miracles, give your future self the gift of tangible memories. 

    Have you read my journal post what to expect on a newborn shoot? You can find it here.

  • Family Photographer Devon | Dreamy Wild Horses session

    Family Photographer Devon | Dreamy Wild Horses session

    The back of Mum and Little boy as they call a wild horse to them during Family Photographer Devon Session

    Ah September sessions, I love those first signs of autumn. The subtly changing colours and the bite in the air. Signs of cosy blanketed evenings and early Sunsets. Perfect for getting in a photoshoot before bedtime! 

    This shoot with Blanche, Dean and Otto was beyond magical. As far as a family photographer Devon based goes, this was a true dream. What more could I need than a sunset on Dartmoor, stunning light, wild ponies and a beautiful family?! 

    I find it incredible by the way that Ponies have lived on Dartmoor since prehistoric times. In spite of this they actually have owners and are rounded up once a year. A little local fact for you.

    black and white shot of the backs of the heads of mum and little boy sharing cuddle
    Two Wild horses on Dartmoor National Park
    Family shot of Dad holding little boy whilst mum leans in and both look at camera during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Woman leans into camera with arms up wearing orange spell and gypsy dress during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Mum and son share a kiss as Mum holds him during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Stunning moody sunset sky with hints of pink cloud during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Mum stroking wild horse whilst little boy looks on during Family Photographer Devon Session
    hand stroking muzzle of wild horse

    Continuing your story

    This was the second time that I’ve shot Blanche and Otto, as I photographed Otto as a baby during one of my first sessions after I moved back to Cornwall. So lovely to look back on and two years on and It gave me all the feels to see how much he’d grown. Times flies and I know that Blanche is so glad to have these photographs to serve as special memories. 

    Mum swings little boy in front of wild grasses
    Little blonde boy smiles into camera with beautiful light highlighting him during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Little boy snuggling into Mums arms during Family Photographer Devon Session
    little hand holding on to mums arm
    Mum and son near beautifully lit wild grasses during Family Photographer Devon Session

    Family Photographer Devon

    Recording your family laughing and loving in the moment is something I am passionate about. It makes my heart flutter capturing those candid interactions and moments that make up your family’s stories. I especially love when you share your creative vision with me for your photographs.

    Your session is yours. When you book with me, we’ll chat about your vision. This is your opportunity to create that moment you’ve dreamed about. Maybe it’s a barefoot and wild session on the beach and waist deep in the sea. Perhaps ethereal pregnancy dreams and a lazy morning cuddled up in bed with your babies. Or even, like Blanche, Dean and Otto – a sunset and wild horses.

    Dad holds son over shoulder and boy leans back with a smile during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Dad holds son up during Family Photographer Devon Session
    close up of Little boy holding Dads fingers during Family Photographer Devon Session
    black and white images of mum and Dad swinging son during Family Photographer Devon Session
    mum and Dad swinging son during Family Photographer Devon Session during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Mum holds son up with beautiful scenery of Dartmoor National Park behind during Family Photographer Devon Session
    Back of couple and child looking off into moody skies sunset

    Send me a message HERE and tell me your session dreams, and we’ll make it happen. The best thing is you’ll have photos of these moments to keep forever. 

    Woman wears orange dress and twirls in a circle

    Blanche wears the Buttercup dress, available in the studio wardrobe.


MELANIE GRACE
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