From Belly to Baby: Why I Love Photographing the Full Story
January 21, 2026
From Belly to Baby: Why I Love Photographing the Full Story
There’s something incredibly special about watching a family’s story unfold.
One minute, we’re documenting the quiet anticipation of pregnancy. Hands resting on a growing belly. Soft movements. That season where everything feels hopeful, heavy, and exciting all at once.
And then… that baby is here.
As a Chico maternity and newborn photographer, being trusted to photograph both chapters is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do. It’s not just about beautiful photos. It’s about continuity, connection, and preserving the full story- from waiting to holding.
Why Photographing Both Maternity and Newborn Photos Matters
Pregnancy and the newborn stage are deeply connected. One flows directly into the other, yet they feel completely different when you’re living them.
Maternity photos capture:
- The anticipation
- The quiet moments before everything changes
- The version of you who is still waiting to meet your baby
Newborn photos capture:
- The realization that your baby is finally here
- Tiny details you didn’t even know you’d miss
- The beginning of your life as a family
When both sessions are photographed by the same Chico photographer, the story feels cohesive. The style is consistent. The emotion carries through. And the images naturally belong together.
The Beauty of a Consistent Style From Belly to Baby
One of the biggest advantages of booking both sessions with the same photographer is visual continuity.
Your maternity images and newborn portraits:
- Flow seamlessly together
- Share the same soft, timeless aesthetic
- Feel intentional when displayed in your home
As a Chico newborn photographer, my approach is neutral, calm, and timeless. I focus on simple styling and gentle posing so the emotion and connection are always the priority. When maternity and newborn sessions are photographed with the same vision, the result is artwork that feels complete- not pieced together.
What a Belly to Baby Experience Looks Like
For my Chico-area clients, the belly to baby experience is designed to feel calm, supported, and fully guided from start to finish.
Maternity Session
Maternity sessions typically take place between 28–34 weeks, when your belly is beautifully defined and you’re still comfortable enough to move and pose with ease.
These sessions are relaxed and intentional. You don’t need modeling experience or perfect timing- just a willingness to slow down and be present in this season.
Newborn Session
Newborn sessions usually take place within the first few weeks after birth, when babies are still very sleepy and curled.
As a Chico newborn photographer, sessions are baby-led, unhurried, and designed around feeding, soothing, and comfort. Parents are never rushed, and every detail is handled for you.
Why Parents Love Documenting the Full Story
So many parents tell me the same thing after completing both sessions:
“I’m so glad we did both.”
The images tell a deeper story together than they ever could alone. They show not just what your baby looked like- but how it felt to be waiting for them, and how it felt to finally hold them.
Years from now, these images won’t just be photographs. They’ll be reminders of:
- How strong you were
- How much love existed before your baby even arrived
- How quickly everything changed
Serving Chico Families With a Full-Service Experience
As a Chico maternity and newborn photographer, I offer a full-service experience that goes far beyond the session itself.
From planning and styling to professional artwork design, every step is handled with intention so your images don’t live on a hard drive- they live in your home.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding to your family, documenting the full story from belly to baby creates a legacy you’ll never regret investing in.
Ready to Document Your Belly to Baby Story?
If you’re searching for a Chico maternity photographer or Chico newborn photographer who values timeless imagery, calm experiences, and meaningful artwork, I would love to connect with you.
These seasons are fleeting. Your memories don’t have to be.
Reach out to begin planning your belly to baby experience today.
Megan Escheman Photography serves families throughout the Greater Sacramento area and beyond. Megan is known for creating timeless, heirloom-quality artwork and a personalized experience from start to finish. She specializes in newborn, cake smash, senior, and family portraits that capture the moments you’ll want to hold onto forever.
Ready to turn your memories into something you can cherish for a lifetime?
Stay inspired!
Join the journey on Instagram and show some love on Facebook!
Some Fan Favorites
Contact Megan
I photograph every portrait session personally.
I provide you with the individual attention that you and your family need to create a timeless masterpiece to cherish forever. You will not feel rushed, or pushed through a “system.” I treat every client like they are my family. Each portrait experience is customized and planned just for you! I’m just an email, phone call, or text message away, answering questions and giving suggestions along the way.
Click the button below to reach out to your Yuba City Photographer.
I'd love to meet you!
When you walk away from our session I want you to feel like you just made a new friend, someone who you can trust to capture and create memories that will last a lifetime!
