From One to Two: Documenting Stella Walsh’s Journey Through Motherhood
There are stories that unfold slowly—quietly, powerfully, and with reverence. Stella Walsh’s maternity photography journey is one of those stories. I had the honor of working with her across two very different seasons of motherhood: once during her first pregnancy, and again as she prepared to welcome her second child.
Stella during her first pregnancy shoot at Colorado Maternity.
Each session was different. Intimate and quiet the first time—just her and her husband in the studio. And later, more expansive and joy-filled, with their toddler alongside them as a growing family.
But the heart of Stella’s story stayed the same: tenderness, strength, and the miracle of becoming.
“There’s something sacred about maternity photos—the quiet strength, the anticipation, the beauty of a body growing life… When I look at them, I see not just a belly, but a beginning.” – Stella Walsh
First Pregnancy: A Studio Session of Stillness and Connection
During Stella’s first pregnancy, we kept things simple. She came into the studio with her husband, both of them grounded in the quiet anticipation of first-time parenthood. There was no rush. No expectations. Just an hour of presence, warmth, and stillness.
We used soft studio lighting, minimal styling, and just enough direction to capture the authenticity of their connection. Stella wore a simple slip dress and later, a delicate draped wrap—timeless, effortless, and beautifully raw.
“These images captured more than just a moment in time. They held the tenderness, the transformation, and the deep love that already exists for someone we haven’t even met yet.”
That’s the power of maternity photography when done well. It doesn’t just document the belly—it honors the becoming.
A Second Pregnancy and a Growing Family
The second time around, Stella returned to the studio with more life, more love, and more movement—literally. This time, we photographed her with her toddler in tow, now preparing to become a big sibling.
There was a natural shift in tone. Instead of quiet anticipation, there was playful chaos, laughter, and hugs. But the same emotional thread was there too: that reverence for motherhood, and the intentionality Stella brought to both experiences.
“A reminder of how wild and miraculous it is to become a mother—for the first time and again for the second time.”
We made space for both sides of her journey: the calm and the playful, the softness and the strength. From snuggles with her child to serene solo portraits, the images from this session reflect how motherhood expands, reshapes, and deepens with every chapter.
Stepping Into Radiance: The Gold Lace Session
Between those two personal milestones, Stella also modeled for one of my conceptual studio sets: the gold lace series. This shoot was about radiance—both literal and symbolic. Draped in shimmering lace and surrounded by warm studio lighting, Stella embodied the regal, empowered aesthetic of the session while still bringing her grounded, earthy energy to every frame.
It was an artistic departure from her own maternity portraits, but equally moving. The gold lace wasn’t just a costume—it became a visual metaphor for the sacredness and strength she so naturally exudes.
What It’s Like to Work with Stella
Working with Stella feels like collaborating with someone who understands that maternity photography isn’t just about images—it’s about intention. She brings presence into the room. She slows things down. And as a photographer, that allows me to notice and capture what she called “the in-between moments.”
“Working with Ethan made the experience feel effortless and grounding. He has a way of noticing the in-between moments; the soft looks, the stillness, the laughter—and turning them into something timeless.”
That’s exactly what we aim for at Colorado Maternity Photography. Whether you’re a first-time mom or showing up for your third pregnancy, these sessions are about more than poses or styling. They’re about honoring who you are in this exact season.
Choosing the Right Denver Maternity Photographer for Every Chapter
Stella’s story is a reminder that maternity photography is not one-size-fits-all. Your second pregnancy may feel wildly different from your first. Or you may want to switch up your look, your energy, or even who you include in the shoot.
Here’s what to consider if you’re searching for a maternity photographer in Denver for this next chapter:
Look for Emotional Range
Choose a photographer who can hold space for stillness and joy. You want someone who knows how to work with toddlers and silence—and can pivot when needed.
Don’t Skip the Second Pregnancy
Just like Stella, many second-time moms hesitate. Life feels busier. But you deserve to document this moment, especially with the added layer of siblings, growth, and the expanded love you’ve built.
Second pregnancies are worth documenting with as much glamour and joy as the first.
Consider Studio for Privacy and Control
Studio sessions offer consistent lighting, temperature, and space for real connection—especially if you’re bringing a toddler along. It creates room to breathe.
SEO Tip: If you’re searching online, try terms like maternity photographer studio Denver, second pregnancy maternity photos, or family maternity photo sessions Denver to find specialized options.
Every Session Should Reflect You
Whether it’s an intimate couple’s shoot, a dynamic family session, or an artistic editorial set like the gold lace series, your maternity session should reflect you—not just what you think you’re “supposed” to do.
Pregnancy is a fashion statement.
What made Stella’s journey so meaningful was her ability to show up as she truly was in each season. Calm. Joyful. Playful. Glowing. Present.
“When I look at these photos, I don’t just see a bump—I see love. Transformation. The beginning of something wild and beautiful.”
Ready to Begin (or Continue) Your Maternity Story
Whether you’re newly pregnant, planning your second shoot, or simply curious about what’s possible, I’d love to work with you. Let’s create something you’ll look back on with pride—not just because you looked beautiful, but because you felt seen.