I am absolutely in awe of this mama.

These moments were a few days after their sweet Bubba was due, and just a few days before she was born into this world. 

The week I moved down to Ōtautahi (Christchurch) Louise asked if I would take photos of her and Talman, in this special season of their life. The only thing was, Louise was already past her due date, so there was a risk that we wouldn't be able to take the photos if baby arrived before the shoot.
We let life decide and played it by ear. On the afternoon of our shoot, sweet Bubba was still safely inside, so we were good to go. 
I’m so glad we risked it.

These photos are witness to the strength and softness embodied by this woman as she carried and nourished a whole new life, a whole new human, within her. 

I still can’t get over how Louise’s whole being glowed, and how joy and energy were so alive within her –
We explored the hills of Te Onepoto / Taylors Mistake in Christchurch, and I don't know if I’ve ever seen anyone more alive than Louise was. Laughing almost constantly, up for anything and everything, and moving as energetically as if it were easy.

I was the most beautiful thing, seeing someone living in complete fullness of their existence.

I’m so excited to shoot more Maternity down here in Ōtautahi. Capturing one of the undeniably biggest phenomena there is, and being so inspired by how strong and beautiful and incredible women are.