Golden Hour Maternity Session at John Rudy Park | York PA Maternity Photographer

The First Baby.

You can always tell when it’s a first.

There’s this mix of excitement and “wait… are we really about to be someone’s parents?” It’s quiet, it’s big, and it feels different than any other season.

All of the unknown things going through your mind. No amount of books, videos, chats with friends and family will prepare you for what is coming. It is the most scary and astounding journey to go through! Buckle up!! And enjoy the ride.

As a York PA maternity photographer, I get to witness this season over and over again — and it never feels small.

---

Momma found me because a friend tagged me in her photos — which, by the way, I never take lightly. When you tag me and share your experience, that’s how small businesses grow. And I’m SO stinking grateful for it!!! Google is great, socials and newsletters are cool but word of mouth?? That is the best thing EVER!!

For this session we met at John Rudy Park in York during golden hour, which is honestly one of my favorite places to shoot maternity sessions.

Not because it’s trendy.
Not because it’s flashy.

But because I know it. Like it’s my own backyard.

---

Why John Rudy Park Is Perfect for a York PA Maternity Photographer

I’ve photographed here enough times to know EXACTLY where the light hits best.

I know:
• where the sun drops behind the trees
• which spots stay soft instead of harsh
• how to use the open fields without blowing out the background
• how to avoid the heavy foot traffic

When you are with someone who knows the land like I do your entire experience changes. I am scouted John Rudy Park during every season, every time of day and every kind of weather.

The great thing is that you don’t have to think about where to stand or how to turn your body. You won’t have to worry about squinting or ugly dark shadows.

I’ve already figured that part out. You can feel confident knowing that you will be well taken care of and end up with the most beautiful images!

All you have to do is show up and be ready for some fun.

---

Maternity Sessions Aren’t About Perfect Posing

You won’t find dramatic wind machines or gowns flying 20 feet behind you with me. Those dresses are very beautiful but I always shoot for connection.

The way daddy instinctively rests his hand on momma’s belly.
The way she leans into him without even thinking about it.
The small smiles that say, “This is really happening.”

Those are the things that matter! Not the big dresses that take away the focus if the incredible journey your body is going through and the love between you and your partner.

Because one day their baby will look at these photos and see who their parents were before they arrived.

That’s powerful!!!

---

When to Book Your Maternity Session

The sweet spot is usually between 28–34 weeks. I was a house at 34 weeks so I probably would have gone earlier!!! But for those momma’s who are just the little basketball may want to wait a little longer until they are showing more.

Always think about your comfort level! John Rudy is pretty flat so hills are not something we have to stress about! Another plus for pregnant mommy’s.

---

If you’re looking for a York PA maternity photographer who knows how to use light intentionally, I’d love to help you plan your session. Many of my maternity clients come back for their newborn session. So we can chat about that, too!