A Magical Maternity Photoshoot Amidst Devon's Haldon Forest at Sunset
Anticipation was building for months as my client, Kelly, requested something different from the usual Devon beach shoot. This time, the change of pace was set in the enchanting woodlands of Devon's Haldon Forest during golden hour. The opportunity to create unique and memorable maternity photography was too enticing to pass up, and I was determined to ensure everything was perfect for this shoot.
The Charm of Woodland Photography
Shooting in a forest presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While the lush greenery and towering trees create a stunning backdrop, the dense canopy can sometimes hinder the quality of light. In woodland settings, achieving the desired depth and contrast can be a bit tricky, especially during maternity photography.
Unlike open landscapes like beaches or fields where natural light can linger, woodlands tend to swallow the sunlight faster. As a photographer, I've learned the importance of careful planning in such scenarios. For this shoot, I made sure to bring along my trusty reflector to bounce those precious last rays of sunlight onto Kelly, as we made good use of the filtered and speckled rays, deep in Haldon Forest.
The Magic of Golden Hour
One of the biggest factors that can make or break a woodland photoshoot is the lighting. Nature's spotlight, the golden hour, is the most sought-after time for photographers. It's the period shortly before sunset or after sunrise when the sun casts a warm, diffused glow that bathes everything in a soft, enchanting light.
For our maternity photo shoot, we decided to wait for the golden hour. We rearranged our plans a couple of times to ensure we captured the full magic of this fleeting moment. And it was totally worth it!
The Beauty of Last Night's Sunset
As the golden hour descended upon the woodland, the transformation was breathtaking. The soft, warm hues of the setting sun filtered through the trees, casting long, gentle shadows. The forest seemed to come alive with a beautiful glow that enveloped Kelly.
We waited patiently for last night's stunning sunset, and I couldn't be happier that we did. The photos we captured during that golden hour were nothing short of magical. They conveyed the beauty of pregnancy in a natural and captivating way, with the forest as the perfect backdrop.
This woodland maternity photo shoot in Devon's Haldon Forest was a testament to the power of planning and patience. Embracing the challenges posed by a woodland setting, we harnessed the magical quality of golden hour lighting to create photos that will be cherished forever.
As a photographer based near Exeter, I'm always excited to explore new locations and concepts, and this shoot was a perfect example of how stepping outside of your normal can lead to stunning results. Thank you, Kelly, for your patience and for indulging my obsession with light! The memories we created in this beautiful Devon forest, during that sunset, will be treasured for a lifetime.
