Intimate, Natural Maternity Photography
Pregnancy is emotional. Pregnancy is life-changing.
I'm Christina Hernandez, a Bay Area maternity photographer with more than 30 years behind the camera, including 15 years as a staff photojournalist at the San Francisco Chronicle. I photograph maternity sessions across Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, Oakland, Berkeley, Piedmont, San Francisco and Palo Alto. I also photograph families in St. Louis and the Metro East.
My job is to capture the genuine, pure, unfiltered moments of your journey with you and your loved ones. No studio poses, only candid, in-the-moment portraits.
Motherhood begins now
It's true the moment your baby is born your world changes. But let's not forget the wonders of pregnancy. No one will ever get to experience what it's like carrying your child but you. Even with swollen feet, a sore back, and mind-boggling cravings at all hours of the day, you're a superhero. You deserve to be celebrated. Most of my clients book their maternity session between 28 and 34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully round but you're still comfortable.
Get ready for the greatest adventure of your life.
Your family is growing, so why not mark this milestone with maternity photos? Partners, older siblings and even the family dog are always welcome. This is the start of life into parenthood, and trust me, nothing compares to it. It's just one of many milestones to come, and I hope to join you for the rest, from your newborn session to family portraits as your little one grows.
"I loved every moment of taking my maternity pictures with Christina. And that is saying a lot when you are 8-months pregnant! She made everything so easy, carefree and joyous. She led us to the best locations, helped me prepare outfits and guided us through poses.We truly felt like we were celebrating the last days before our family changed forever. I can not thank you enough Christina! I will cherish these photos forever!!!" - Elaine
The Process
1. Let’s Chat
We’ll find a time to talk through your maternity portrait photo session and decide on all the details: a date, time, and location for your photoshoot. Feel free to ask me any questions about the process, rates, wardrobe choices, or what to expect.
2. Sign on the Dotted Line
After reviewing my packages and prices, if you’re ready to move forward I’ll send you an electronic booking agreement contract to sign. Once that’s signed I’m officially your maternity photographer! Keep in mind that a Booking Fee is due when we schedule your photo session to lock in your spot.
3. Today’s The Day
On the day of your maternity photo session, we’ll meet at the designated location for a 60-minute session. Don’t worry about posing or looking perfect for the camera. I want this experience to be a fun, relaxed, and totally YOU moment.
4. Enjoy Your Maternity Photo Gallery
Your maternity portrait gallery will be live 10-14 days after your photo session. You can view your photos online and I can suggest the right prints, wall art, albums, and other keepsakes to choose to display your photos. All images and keepsakes are sold separately from the booking fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I schedule my maternity photos?
Most clients book between 28 and 34 weeks, when your bump is round and you're still comfortable moving around. If you're expecting twins or want to be extra safe, aim for 26 to 30 weeks. Reach out early in your pregnancy to reserve a date.
Where do you photograph maternity sessions?
In the Bay Area, favorite spots include Filoli in Woodside, Tilden Regional Park, Crissy Field and Baker Beach in San Francisco, and the oak-covered hills of Lamorinda and Walnut Creek. In St. Louis, I love the Missouri Botanical Garden, the Jewel Box in Forest Park, Tower Grove Park and Laumeier Sculpture Park. On the Illinois side, Willoughby Heritage Farm in Collinsville and the Watershed Nature Center in Edwardsville are lovely too. In-home sessions are beautiful anywhere, especially if you're preparing the nursery.
Can my partner and kids be in the photos?
Absolutely. Partners, older siblings and family pets are always welcome. Some of my favorite maternity images are the playful, in-between moments with the whole family.
What should I wear for maternity photos?
Choose something that makes you feel beautiful and lets you move. Flowing dresses, soft knits and fitted pieces that show your bump all photograph well. Once you book, I'll send a style guide and I'm happy to look at your options before the session.
How long is a session, and when will I see my photos?
Sessions run about 45 minutes. You'll receive a gallery of 30 to 40 edited images within two weeks.
How much does a maternity session cost?
Maternity sessions start at $175_. Prints, albums and wall art are available separately.
Can I book my maternity and newborn sessions together?
Yes, and many clients do. Booking both lets us plan your newborn session around your due date. Ask me about it when you get in touch.
Do you also photograph in St. Louis?
Yes. I split my year between the Bay Area and St. Louis, so I photograph maternity sessions across the St. Louis metro, including Clayton, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Chesterfield and St. Charles. On the Illinois side, I work in O'Fallon, Shiloh, Belleville, Edwardsville and Collinsville. See my St. Louis maternity sessions for more.
Little One is On the Way!
Before your bundle of joy arrives, let’s celebrate your journey into the world of motherhood. Take this time to honor your body and the life you’re carrying.
Yes, Please!
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