Pregnancy is one of the most transformative times in a woman’s life. The days can feel long—aching feet, sleepless nights, endless to-do lists — but ask any mother and she’ll tell you: it all goes by in the blink of an eye. That’s why so many families in East Tennessee are choosing to pause and document this fleeting season with a professional maternity photographer in Knoxville, TN.
Hi, I’m Hayley Howard, and I specialize in capturing motherhood in its most radiant, raw, and real form. Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, your journey deserves to be preserved in a way that feels intentional, beautiful, and authentically you.
Let’s talk about why a maternity session is more than just pretty pictures—and why choosing the right photographer can make all the difference.
If you’re currently expecting, chances are you’ve already heard it a dozen times: “Enjoy it while it lasts.” It might feel cliché, but it’s true. One moment you’re feeling those first fluttering kicks, and the next you’re holding your baby in your arms.
Pregnancy is a whirlwind of physical changes, emotional milestones, and growing anticipation. Amidst the doctor’s appointments, nursery planning, and baby showers, it’s easy to forget to pause — to just be in the moment.
That’s the gift of maternity photography. It allows you to honor the here and now — to reflect on everything your body is doing, everything your heart is preparing for, and everything your life is becoming.
You may wonder: is a maternity session really necessary? Should I wait for newborn photos instead? The truth is, while those tiny toes and sleepy snuggles are precious, maternity photos serve a completely different purpose — and they matter just as much.
Here are just a few reasons why documenting your pregnancy is so important:
Your body is doing something miraculous. Pregnancy is powerful and sacred, and yet many women struggle to feel beautiful during it. A maternity session is your opportunity to reconnect with your strength, beauty, and femininity. It’s not about perfection — it’s about honoring the changes and the journey.
One day, your child will look back at these photos and see the love and anticipation on your face. They’ll know how deeply they were wanted and cherished before they even arrived. These images become part of your family’s legacy.
Maternity sessions aren’t just about mama — your partner, older kids, or even the family dog can be a part of this milestone. Capturing these connections helps tell the full story of the growing family your baby is about to join.
There’s something grounding about stepping away from the busyness and being fully present in your pregnancy. A maternity session creates intentional space to reflect on what this moment means to you. It’s a chance to breathe, connect, and feel it all.
Now that you know why maternity photography matters, let’s talk about how to choose the right person to document it. Not all photographers are the same, and this is a deeply personal experience — you deserve someone who truly gets it.
As a Knoxville maternity photographer, I approach every session with a blend of artistry, warmth, and emotional intuition. My goal is to make you feel at ease in front of the camera, confident in your skin, and celebrated exactly as you are.
There are a few reasons why families across East Tennessee choose to work with me for their maternity portraits:
With years of experience capturing all stages of motherhood — I understand how to pose and guide you in ways that feel natural and flattering. My work is tailored to celebrate the feminine form without ever feeling stiff or staged.
Every session is personalized. We’ll talk about your vision, your style, and what this season of life means to you. I offer styling guidance, location suggestions, and can even help coordinate hair and makeup if needed. You’ll never feel like “just another client.”
I know how emotional pregnancy can be. That’s why I show up to every session with calm energy, patience, and encouragement. My job isn’t just to take photos — it’s to help you feel empowered in front of the lens and truly seen for the mother you’re becoming.
My photography style is natural, romantic, and true to life. I focus on natural light and gentle editing that lets your beauty shine without over-processing. These are the kind of images you’ll still treasure 20 years from now.
Additional Resource: What Timeless Photography Means to Me
The best time for a maternity session is between 28 and 34 weeks. At this stage, your belly has a beautiful, round shape, but you’re still (hopefully!) comfortable enough to move around. Booking earlier in your second trimester ensures availability — especially during peak seasons.
Whether you envision a golden-hour field session, a cozy studio vibe, or an intimate in-home shoot, we’ll create a session that aligns with your style and tells your story.
From the moment you inquire, I’m here to make the process simple and stress-free. Here’s what it typically looks like:
If you’re searching for a maternity photographer in Knoxville, TN, I would be honored to help you document this life-changing season. Your journey into motherhood deserves to be remembered in a way that feels honest, elegant, and uniquely you.
Don’t let this time pass you by without taking a moment to honor it. Let’s create something beautiful together — images that your child will look back on with awe, and that you’ll hold close for the rest of your life.
Additional Resources: