Celebrating Strength and Grace: Katie Purdy’s 2021 Maternity Shoot
n 2021, I had the incredible honor of working with Katie Purdy, better known as @theoutdoorswoman on Instagram, during one of the most magical and transformative chapters of her life. Katie is not only an inspiring mountain biker and adventurer but also a beacon of empowerment for women who embrace the great outdoors. Her maternity session was an unforgettable blend of rugged outdoor adventure and timeless studio glamour, showcasing her duality as both a fearless athlete and a glowing mother-to-be.
From carving through mountain biking trails to radiating elegance in a studio, Katie’s maternity shoot was a celebration of her strength, grace, and individuality. Here’s a glimpse into our journey together and how we captured her story through photography.
The Vision: Adventure Meets Elegance
When Katie reached out to collaborate on her maternity photos, we both knew this shoot had to reflect her authentic self. Katie’s life revolves around the outdoors, and her mountain biking adventures are a core part of her identity. At the same time, we wanted to capture the soft, feminine beauty of her pregnancy. The result was a two-part session that blended the rugged charm of an outdoor mountain biking adventure with the polished elegance of a studio glamour shoot.
Each session was thoughtfully planned to highlight different facets of Katie’s personality and journey into motherhood. Here’s how it all unfolded:
The Mountain Biking Adventure
Finding the Perfect Trail
Katie’s love for mountain biking made it clear that we needed a trail that would highlight the freedom and exhilaration she feels while riding. After scouting locations, we chose a breathtaking trail nestled in the foothills, offering sweeping views of the mountains and plenty of dynamic terrain for action shots. The location’s natural beauty provided the perfect backdrop to emphasize Katie’s adventurous spirit and the joy she finds in outdoor exploration.
Katie Purdy at 36 weeks pregnant. Showing how pregnancy isn’t a set back to lifestyle.
Gearing Up for the Shoot
Katie arrived with her trusty mountain bike, dressed in vibrant, bold colors that popped against the earthy tones of the trail. Her gear was not just functional but also symbolic of her personality—fearless, vibrant, and full of life. Despite being in her second trimester, Katie navigated the trail with ease, proving that pregnancy doesn’t have to mean slowing down.
Capturing the Moments
We focused on capturing a mix of action and candid moments that told the story of Katie’s connection with nature and her resilience as an athlete. From close-ups of her gripping the handlebars with determination to wide shots of her coasting down a sunlit trail, every image radiated energy and strength. One of my favorite shots from the session features Katie silhouetted against a golden sunset, her rounded belly a beautiful contrast to the rugged landscape.
These photos were more than just portraits; they were a testament to Katie’s belief that motherhood is an extension of her adventurous spirit, not a limitation.
The Studio Glamour Session
Designing a Luxurious Setting
For the second part of our collaboration, we shifted gears and headed into the studio to capture Katie’s softer, more elegant side. The goal was to create a collection of images that celebrated her femininity and the miracle of life she was nurturing. We designed the shoot with soft lighting, luxurious fabrics, and timeless styling to create an atmosphere of understated elegance.
Styling the Shoot
Katie wore a selection of gowns that draped beautifully over her growing belly, highlighting her pregnancy glow. Each outfit was chosen to complement her natural beauty while adding a touch of glamour. From a flowing silk dress in a soft blush tone to a form-fitting black gown that exuded sophistication, every look was carefully curated to showcase her radiance.
Capturing the Essence of Motherhood
In the studio, we focused on intimate, emotive portraits that highlighted the connection between Katie and her unborn child. Close-ups of her hands cradling her belly, soft smiles that lit up the room, and side profiles that celebrated her silhouette—these moments were about cherishing the quiet beauty of this special time in her life.
One particularly moving shot features Katie seated against a simple backdrop, her gaze serene yet strong. The image captures the essence of motherhood: a blend of grace, vulnerability, and unshakable strength.
Behind the Scenes: Working with Katie
One of the most rewarding aspects of this shoot was Katie’s unwavering authenticity. Whether she was kicking up dust on the trail or posing under studio lights, her confidence and joy were infectious. Her adventurous spirit shone through in every frame, making it easy to capture images that felt genuine and powerful.
Katie also shared her excitement about becoming a mother during our time together. Hearing her talk about how she wanted to inspire her child to embrace the outdoors and live fearlessly added a deeply personal layer to the shoot. It was clear that she saw motherhood as an opportunity to pass on her values and passion for adventure.
Behind the scenes at Katie’s mountain bike maternity shoot.
The Impact: Empowerment Through Photography
This maternity shoot was more than just a collection of beautiful photos; it was an empowering experience for Katie and a reminder that motherhood doesn’t mean losing your identity. Through these images, we were able to celebrate Katie’s individuality, her love for adventure, and the incredible journey she was embarking on.
For other mothers-to-be, Katie’s story is an inspiring example of how maternity photography can be a powerful tool for self-expression. Whether you’re an athlete, an artist, or someone who loves the quiet beauty of nature, your maternity session should reflect who you are and what makes your journey unique.
Tips for Your Own Maternity Shoot
If Katie’s maternity session resonates with you, here are some tips to help you plan your own:
Choose a Location That Reflects You: Whether it’s a mountain trail, a serene beach, or a chic studio, pick a setting that feels authentic to your personality.
Incorporate Your Passions: Just like Katie included her love for mountain biking, think about ways to showcase your hobbies or interests in your photos.
Don’t Be Afraid to Mix Styles: Combining outdoor adventure with studio elegance added depth to Katie’s session. Consider exploring multiple themes to capture different facets of your journey.
Trust Your Photographer: Working with a photographer who understands your vision is key. Share your ideas and let them guide you to create images that truly resonate.
Embrace the Moment: Pregnancy is a fleeting but beautiful time. Relax, have fun, and let your personality shine through.
Final Thoughts
Working with Katie Purdy was an absolute privilege. Her maternity shoot stands as a testament to the beauty of embracing who you are and celebrating every chapter of your life. Whether on the trails or in the studio, Katie’s strength, grace, and authenticity shone brightly, creating a collection of images that will be cherished for years to come.
If you’re inspired by Katie’s story and are ready to create your own unforgettable maternity session, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Let’s capture your unique journey and celebrate the incredible woman you are.
To see more of Katie’s adventures, follow her on Instagram at @theoutdoorswoman. And if you’re ready to plan your own maternity shoot, reach out today—I can’t wait to work with you!