A Maternity Session on Broad Street in Philadelphia
Broad Street has a rhythm to it.
The traffic hums. The city breathes. Architecture rises around you with that unmistakable Philadelphia presence. And in the middle of all that movement, we photographed something incredibly still — motherhood.
This maternity session unfolded right in the heart of Philadelphia. An expectant mother stood confidently against the urban backdrop, her two young children wrapped around her in the most natural way. The contrast between the city’s energy and the quiet anticipation of new life created something unforgettable.
What I love about photographing maternity sessions in Philadelphia is the contrast. The softness of motherhood against strong architecture. Flowing gowns against structured stone. Movement against stillness.
Her children brought laughter and spontaneity to the session. They weren’t posed stiffly. They moved. They hugged her. They leaned into her belly with curiosity and excitement.
Including siblings during a maternity portrait session creates something deeper than a single image of a baby bump.
It tells the full story.
Pregnancy is not just about the mother — it’s about the shift in the entire family dynamic. Children stepping into new roles. Excitement mixed with uncertainty. Anticipation woven into everyday moments.
Broad Street provided the perfect setting for this kind of session. The location feels timeless and distinctly Philadelphia without overwhelming the connection between family members.
Great portrait of mom on Broad Street.
One more for the mix!
Why Include Your Children in a Maternity Session?
1. It documents the transition.
Your children won’t remember this exact season clearly — but these photographs will allow them to see the way they stood beside you before their sibling arrived.
2. It builds connection early.
There is something powerful about watching siblings place their hands on a growing belly. It creates belonging before the baby even arrives.
Sisters being sisters.
Maternity photography has always been close to my heart. It’s a season where women often feel the most uncertain in their own bodies — and yet it is one of the most transformative and powerful times in life.
The goal is never perfection.
It’s presence.
It’s helping women feel beautiful in a season that feels physically overwhelming.
If you’re considering a maternity portrait session in Philadelphia or South Jersey, you can learn more about my maternity and family portrait experience here.
Childhood shifts quickly. Families grow quietly. And city streets keep moving.
But these moments — the in-between seasons — are worth preserving.
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
Serving Philadelphia, Mainline, Northern Delaware, and all of Southern New Jersey.
