When I first discovered The Beloved Journal, I was instantly drawn to it. A publication devoted to motherhood, every issue felt thoughtfully curated—the editor's eye, the quiet beauty, and the collection of stories all resonated deeply with me.

Being featured still feels surreal.

I'd submitted my work three or four times before, always hoping for a "yes." So when I received the email saying not only had my work been selected, but eight images were chosen and I was invited to write a small piece to accompany them, I was beyond words.

Here's a little behind the scenes from both motherhood and family sessions, one that quietly shaped the way I see photography today:

Zoe & Otto

I had been hoping for a sunny day that day.

It was still early in my photography journey, and I worried that without beautiful light, the photographs wouldn't feel the way I imagined. The house wasn't filled with perfect sunshine, but as the Mama simply played with her little one, those worries quietly disappeared. Their connection was enough.

Later, the sun peeked through, and we stepped outside to dance, play, and soak in its warmth.

That session taught me something I'll always carry with me: beautiful photographs aren't made by perfect light: they're made by love, presence, and the moments we choose to hold onto xx